Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd’s extrusion plant in China has reportedly started supplying aluminium battery casings and car bumpers to vehicle manufacturers in the mainland.
The news came after Tan Sri Koon Poh Keong, Press Metal’s chief executive officer, announced it officially. He also announced that Press Metal’s extrusion plant in Nilai, a city located in Seremban District, Malaysia, completed the construction of a 30,000-tonne photovoltaic components extrusion line, which will exclusively manufacture solar panel frames and mounting extrusions to support solar power sector.
The move into manufacturing extrusions for the solar power sector reflects Press Metal’s focus on sustainability. Press Metal’s commitment to sustainability is also represented by its ASI certifications for all its manufacturing plants
Tan Sri Koon Poh Keong also said that Press Metal is investing in its value-added product segment by developing new casing lines for A356 ingots and wire rods. This move aligns with the increasing demand for aluminium from green industries like the EV, solar, and energy transmission sectors. A major shift to manufacturing EVs and solar is primarily noticeable in Asia, driving potential demand for local and regional sources of aluminium and other inputs.
Press Metal’s extrusion plants in Malaysia and Foshan have a combined annual capacity of 230,000 tonnes per annum. The extruded products manufactured at the plants are destined for the construction, automotive, and electronics and electrical industries.
As highlighted in AL Circle's comprehensive industry report on "The World of Aluminium Extrusions - Industry Forecast to 2030", China's aluminium extrusion capacity as of 2023 is about 31.07 million tonnes, accounting for 64 per cent of the world.
