The 20th AICE 2025 SMM Aluminum Industry Conference and Expo concluded successfully, packed with valuable insights!

Apr 18, 2025 20:06

Source:SMM

On April 18, the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Aluminum Industry Expo, hosted by SMM Information & Technology Co., Ltd., SMM Metal Trading Center, and Shandong Aisi Information Technology Co., Ltd., and co-organized by Zhongyifeng Jinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. and Lezhi County Qianrun Investment Service Co., Ltd., successfully concluded at the Suzhou International Expo Center in Jiangsu! The summit included multiple forums such as the Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum, Aluminum Casting Technology Forum, Aluminum Die Casting Industry Development Forum, Supply and Demand Exchange - Domestic and International Aluminum Scrap Supply and Demand Forum, Aluminum Plate/Sheet and Strip Industry Development Forum, Main Forum, Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainable Development Forum, Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum, and Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum. As the annual pinnacle event of the global aluminum industry, this conference, with the strategic focus of "Global Vision, Industry Insights, Green Future," gathered over a hundred international authoritative experts, academic giants, leading entrepreneurs, and government representatives to build a high ground of ideas with insightful discussions. The conference focused on core issues such as aluminum market trend analysis, price trend forecasts, supply-demand pattern analysis, business opportunity matching, and cutting-edge technology exchange, conducting multi-dimensional in-depth discussions to anchor the direction for industry development. Participants directly addressed industry pain points, exploring paths for industrial innovation around key propositions such as green and low-carbon transformation and intelligent upgrading, unlocking new paradigms for clean and sustainable development. Through innovation-driven and cross-border thinking collisions, consensus was consolidated, resources were integrated, and active responses to global climate change and environmental governance challenges were made. This conference established a high-end dialogue and resource integration platform, empowering industrial upgrading with wisdom and injecting vigorous momentum into the high-quality development of the global aluminum industry, jointly drawing a new blueprint for the industry's future. In addition, SMM meticulously prepared roundtable interview sessions in multiple forums, inviting numerous industry celebrities and corporate executives to engage in intense intellectual collisions around hot topics such as the green transformation of the aluminum industry - the development and outlook of the low-carbon aluminum market, internal and external challenges - exploring new paths for aluminum plate/sheet and strip enterprises in the fog, roundtable interview: discussing new models of integrated die-casting cooperation from a supply chain perspective, China's aluminum industry from a global perspective, analysis of factors affecting aluminum prices in 2025 and market forecasts for H2, building a global green aluminum ecosystem chain (ESG aluminum prices, CBAM), and the market business model and overseas investment opportunities of global secondary aluminum. This conference was packed with valuable content, so please revisit it. Click to rewatch the summit video. Click to view summit photos. View the text report of this summit. Opening speech of the conference. Speech by SMM CEO Logan Lu. Click to view speech details. Speech by ASI CEO Fiona Solomon. Click to view speech details. Award ceremony. 2025 SMM Top 20 Chinese Aluminum Scrap Supplier Enterprises. Click to view award details. 2025 SMM Top 20 Chinese Aluminum Alloy Ingot Trader Enterprises. Click to view award details. 2025 SMM Evergreen Medal Award. Click to view award details. Soaring Wings • National Backbone 2025 SMM Chinese Aluminum Industry Meritorious Figures Rising Star Award. Click to view award details. Soaring Wings • National Backbone 2025 SMM Chinese Aluminum Industry Meritorious Figures Cornerstone Award. Click to view award details. Soaring Wings • National Backbone 2025 SMM Chinese Aluminum Industry Meritorious Figures Taishan Award. Click to view award details. Soaring Wings • National Backbone 2025 SMM Chinese Aluminum Industry Meritorious Figures Lifetime Achievement Award. Click to view award details. Guest speeches. April 16. Guest speeches. Alumina and Aluminum Raw Materials Forum. Speech topic: Introduction to Metro Mining, Potential Impact of Indonesia's New Alumina Production on China's Alumina. Speaker: Ding Long, General Manager of Asia Market Department, Metro Mining Limited, Australia. Speech topic: Global Alumina Market 2024 Price Review and 2025 Trends. Speaker: Guo Mingxin, Senior Bauxite Analyst, SMM. Overview of Alumina Price Trends from 2024 to 2025. From 2024 to 2025, global alumina prices experienced a rare market trend, with prices surging sharply before plummeting rapidly. Due to declining alumina production in Australia and limited ore supply in China, global alumina supply tightened, driving prices up. Stimulated by high prices, alumina production, resumption, and new production activities were highly active, leading to increased operating capacity and a significant shift to oversupply, resulting in a sharp decline in alumina prices. SMM Analysis: In 2024, China's alumina prices rose from 3,154 yuan/mt to a peak of 5,769 yuan/mt, an increase of 83%. In 2024, FOB prices for alumina in Western Australia rose from $347/mt to a peak of $810/mt, an increase of 133%. By the end of 2024, the spot alumina market had shifted to a clear oversupply, with prices plummeting. As of April 15, China's alumina prices had fallen to 2,870 yuan/mt, a drop of over 50%, while Western Australia's alumina prices pulled back to $330/mt, a 59% decline from $810/mt. Overview of Global Alumina Supply and Demand. Although alumina was in a surplus of 1.79 million mt for the entire year of 2024, the different supply-demand situations at various times during the year created conditions for significant price fluctuations. From Q1 to Q3 2024, global alumina supply remained tight, with aluminum smelters' raw material inventories declining, pushing alumina prices higher. High profits stimulated alumina production, and by Q4 2024, the market had rapidly shifted to a significant oversupply, with a strong bearish sentiment leading to a sharp decline in alumina prices. SMM Analysis: On the demand side, China's aluminum operating capacity continued to increase in 2024, with annual production up 1.61 million mt YoY; overseas aluminum operating capacity varied by region, but overall operating capacity increased, with annual production up 400,000 mt YoY. On the supply side, China's alumina production increased by 3.88 million mt YoY in 2024; overseas alumina production increased by only 9,900 mt YoY. In 2024, global alumina demand increased by approximately 3.87 million mt, while supply increased by 3.89 million mt, resulting in a slight expansion of the global alumina surplus by 20,000 mt. However, different supply-demand patterns emerged at various times during the year, with supply remaining tight from Q1 to Q3. Overview of China's Alumina Supply and Demand. Starting from Q2 2024, imported alumina supply significantly decreased, leading to a continuous seven-month tight supply situation in China's monthly alumina balance. The decline in aluminum smelters' alumina raw material inventories laid the foundation for the sharp rise in alumina prices. SMM Analysis: On the demand side, new aluminum production capacities were commissioned in Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang in 2024; as the dry season approached, power supply in the southwest was better than expected, and power rationing did not recur; as Q4 approached, some aluminum smelters had winter stockpiling needs for alumina. These factors combined to create strong alumina demand. On the supply side, due to declining domestic bauxite supply, slower-than-expected resumption of production, and difficulties in temporary supplementation of imported bauxite supply, alumina capacity utilization in Shanxi and Henan was constrained, with operating rates significantly lower than in other provinces during the same period. Under these circumstances, alumina production was limited, making it difficult for the alumina market to shift to oversupply. In terms of imports and exports, alumina production in Australia declined in 2024, shifting the overseas alumina market from oversupply to a tight balance, with prices rising sharply, leading to the closure of China's alumina import window. Starting from Q2 2024, China maintained a net export position for alumina, with net exports of 370,000 mt in 2024. China's alumina price increases far exceeded cost increases, expanding profit margins. From August to early December 2024, alumina prices surged by nearly 2,000 yuan, with alumina profits expanding to over 2,500 yuan/mt by the end of 2024. High profits stimulated alumina production, and with the easing of bauxite supply constraints, China's alumina operating capacity increased significantly. Under high profits, alumina refineries became more accepting of high-priced bauxite. Encouraged by high ore prices, imported bauxite supply increased, gradually easing and eventually eliminating bauxite supply constraints. Meanwhile, driven by substantial profits, alumina production, resumption, expansion, and new project construction activities increased. From the end of 2024 to early 2025, China's alumina operating capacity peaked at over 90 million mt/year. High operating capacity continued through March 2025, with alumina operating capacity up 8.93 million mt/year YoY in March. Concentrated new project commissioning may further exacerbate China's alumina oversupply. High alumina prices in 2024 also stimulated the commissioning of new alumina projects. In 2025, China is expected to commission 13.4 million mt of new alumina capacity, potentially increasing China's alumina production by nearly 5%. With demand growth lagging behind supply growth, alumina is expected to remain in oversupply. In 2025, China's aluminum operating capacity is expected to further increase, but constrained by the compliance capacity ceiling, monthly operating capacity is expected to fluctuate around a 2% YoY increase, lower than the growth in alumina supply. China's alumina market is expected to remain in oversupply throughout 2025. However, alumina prices fell from a high of 5,769 yuan/mt to 2,870 yuan/mt, a cumulative decline of 2,899 yuan/mt, a drop of over 50%, pushing large-scale alumina production into a loss-making state. Under the pressure of losses, the alumina surplus is expected to narrow. Under the pressure of losses, China's alumina operating capacity is expected to fluctuate around demand. In H1 2025, the alumina market is expected to be in severe oversupply, with alumina operating capacity facing widespread losses. As of April 14, except for alumina production using domestic bauxite from Guizhou and Guangxi, which remained slightly profitable, alumina production entered a state of overall losses. Under the pressure of losses, alumina operating capacity (especially high-cost alumina production) is expected to face strong expectations of production cuts. In this context, alumina operating capacity is expected to fluctuate around aluminum production demand. According to SMM estimates, in 2026, China's aluminum production is expected to reach 44.68 million mt, with alumina demand expected to be around 86 million mt. Considering some alumina export demand, China's alumina surplus in 2026 is expected to be within 1 million mt. Cost side: With optimistic expectations for increased imported bauxite supply, ore prices are expected to pull back to around $70/mt. In 2025, the core of bauxite supply growth remains in Guinea. In Q1 2025, Guinea's bauxite shipments were at a three-year high, with a 37% YoY increase compared to Q1 2024. Considering the impact of the rainy season, based on Q1 2025 shipments, Guinea's bauxite shipments for 2025 are expected to reach 186 million wmt, an increase of 40 million wmt compared to 2024, shifting China's bauxite market to a relatively loose supply situation. In 2025, the bauxite market is expected to be in a surplus of approximately 12.38 million mt, with bauxite prices expected to pull back to around $70-75/mt. In 2026, the release of production from commissioned projects and new project commissioning are expected to further increase China's imported bauxite supply, with China's bauxite market expected to shift to oversupply, with prices expected to fluctuate around $70/mt. Cost side: With pessimistic expectations for increased imported bauxite supply, the bauxite market in 2025 may remain in a tight balance. Guinea accounts for nearly half of China's total bauxite supply, but Guinea's bauxite supply is subject to numerous uncertainties, such as the rainy season, strikes, and government decrees. Under pessimistic expectations, Guinea's bauxite shipment increase is expected to be around 25 million wmt, with the bauxite market expected to be in a surplus of approximately 5.4 million mt.Considering the stocking demand for new projects, bauxite is expected to maintain a tight balance throughout 2025, gradually shifting to a surplus by 2026. Under these circumstances, bauxite prices are anticipated to remain relatively firm, with Guinea ore prices projected to drop to a minimum of $75-80/mt in 2025, further declining to around $70/mt by 2026. SMM: The supply growth of alumina is expected to outpace demand growth, with both domestic and international alumina prices likely to face pressure under a surplus scenario. Presentation Topic: How the Aluminum Industry Can Achieve Energy Savings and Carbon Reduction Through Technological Innovation. Guest Speaker: Liang Xuemin, Distinguished Professor at Zhengzhou University, Leader of Aluminum Metallurgy Discipline, and Executive Director. Presentation Topic: How New Energy Enterprises Can Drive Green Electricity and Low-Carbon Transformation. Guest Speaker: Yi Kang, Director of Industrial and Commercial ESS Solutions, Integrated Energy Business Unit, CRRC Zhuzhou Institute Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Comprehensive Energy-Saving Solutions for Fluid Delivery Systems in the Aluminum Industry. Guest Speaker: Zhao Pengju, Sales Director, Shanghai Ruichen Environmental Technology Co., Ltd. 1. Current Status of Fluid Delivery Systems in the Aluminum Industry. 2. Analysis of Pain Points in Fluid Delivery Systems in the Aluminum Industry. 3. Industry Challenges and Solution Requirements. Roundtable Discussion: Green Transformation in the Aluminum Industry—Development and Outlook of the Low-Carbon Aluminum Market. Moderator: Wang Yanchen, General Manager of SMM London Office. Panelists: Sun Yi, Deputy Chief Engineer, Shenyang Aluminum & Magnesium Engineering & Research Institute Co., Ltd.; Shi Xiaoliang, Chairman, Xizhaofeng Aluminum & Power Co., Ltd.; Meng Jie, Senior Expert, Aluminum Branch of China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association; Yu Miao, Product Carbon Footprint Expert, NIO. Presentation Topic: Research on Aluminum Price Changes in 2025 Under Green Transformation. Guest Speaker: Lin Jinyu, Aluminum Industry Researcher, SPIC Aluminum International Trade Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Optimization of Domestic Prebaked Anode Supply Structure and Demand Growth Forecast. Guest Speaker: Wang Wanting, Market Analyst, Sunstone Development Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Graphitized Cathode Technology and Market Development Trends. Guest Speaker: Wang Zhaoyang, General Manager, Luoyang Wanji Carbon Co., Ltd. Applications, Processes, and Standards of Aluminum Cathodes. Aluminum Cathodes: High-Graphite Cathode Blocks, Fully Graphitized Cathode Blocks. Classification of Aluminum Cathode Blocks: Semi-Graphite Cathodes: Made from high-temperature electrically calcined anthracite as the aggregate and medium or high-temperature pitch as the adhesive. This product has poor conductivity, weak corrosion resistance, and a short cell life (around 1,000 days), making it unsuitable for current industrial policies and market demands, and it has been phased out. High-Graphite Cathodes: Made from high-temperature electrically calcined anthracite and graphite scraps as the aggregate and medium or high-temperature pitch as the adhesive. It has average conductivity, slightly better corrosion resistance, and a moderate cell life (around 1,800 days). It remains a viable option for aluminum companies focused on cost but is expected to be phased out in the near future. Graphitized Cathodes: Made from calcined petroleum coke as the aggregate and medium or high-temperature pitch as the adhesive, undergoing high-temperature graphitization treatment at 3,000°C. It offers excellent conductivity, significant power savings, and a cell life exceeding 3,500 days, gradually becoming the market mainstream. German KHD Cathode Vibration Molding Machine. Key Features: 1. Continuous vacuum extraction; 2. Low porosity of products; 3. Uniform product texture; 4. High product bulk density. Ring-Type Covered Roasting Furnace. Key Features: 1. Excellent insulation, uniform heating of products; 2. Stable internal structure; 3. High product coke value, 2-3% higher than open furnaces. Internal Heat Series Graphitization Furnace. Key Features: 1. High power-on efficiency; 2. Uniform graphitization; 3. Stable product quality. U-Type Internal Series Graphitization Furnace. Graphitization Process: By connecting cathode baked products as conductors to form a circuit, using electrical energy to heat the cathode to around 3,000°C, and utilizing thermal activation to transform thermodynamically unstable carbon atoms from a disordered layer structure to an ordered graphite crystal structure, while removing impurities such as sulfur, vanadium, iron, and silicon, resulting in high-quality graphite. Processing Unit. Key Features: 1. High processing precision; 2. Exquisite product appearance; 3. High automation and capacity; 4. Effective dust collection. It also introduced the standards for aluminum cathode blocks. The Critical Role of Aluminum Cathodes in Aluminum Electrolysis Cells. Applications of Cathode Blocks: 1. Cathode blocks are an essential component of the lining in aluminum electrolysis cells. 2. The performance of cathode blocks significantly impacts the power consumption and cell life of electrolysis cells. 3. As a container, cathode blocks must withstand corrosion from molten aluminum and electrolyte while ensuring uniform current distribution. Cathode blocks play a crucial role in electrolysis cells, often referred to as the "kidneys" of the cell. Their quality directly affects the cell's lifespan and economic efficiency, and they are vital for cell maintenance. Container Function: Cathode blocks, paste, and side blocks together form a container that holds molten aluminum and electrolyte, where processes such as heating, electrolysis, and aluminum tapping occur. Thermal Conductivity and High-Temperature Resistance: Aluminum electrolysis cells operate at temperatures above 930°C, requiring heat-resistant materials to withstand these conditions. Additionally, good thermal conductivity is needed to distribute heat evenly across the cathode, preventing significant thermal stress and deformation. Thus, cathode blocks must have high thermal shock resistance and thermal conductivity. Electrical Conductivity: Current enters the cell through steel rods at the cathode bottom, distributing relatively evenly across the cell base. After passing through molten aluminum and electrolyte, it forms a circuit with the anode, enabling electrochemical reactions and completing the electrolysis process. Cathode voltage drop is a critical parameter for cell operation. Corrosion Resistance: Cathodes must endure sodium salt erosion in molten salts and prevent the formation of Al₄C₃, requiring high stability in the carbon atom structure of the cathode lining. Graphitized Cathode Technology and Market Development Trends [SMM Aluminum Conference]. Presentation Topic: How to Achieve Sustainable Development and Enhance Corporate Competitiveness Through ASI Certification. Guest Speaker: Zhou Chu, Senior Technical Manager, Green and Low-Carbon Development Center, Zhongbiao Hexin (Beijing) Certification Co., Ltd. Current Global ASI Certification Development Status: • In 2024, a total of 220 ASI audits were completed (an 8% increase from 2023), covering 61 countries. • ASI issued 73 certification certificates, including 51 Performance Standards (PS) and 22 Chain of Custody Standards (CoC). • 62 re-certification certificates were issued, including 40 PS re-certifications and 22 CoC re-certifications. • As of January 10, 2025, a total of 181 ASI Performance Certificates have been issued globally, with 69 in China. Additionally, 73 CoC certificates have been issued, with 37 in China. 01 Industry Status: 1.1 Current Status of Aluminum Reserves and Production: By the end of 2023, global bauxite reserves were estimated to exceed 30 billion mt, most of which remain untapped. 1.2 Current Global Market Demand for Aluminum: ► Factors Influencing Global Aluminum Market Demand Over the Past Decade: 2015: Rising demand from China's infrastructure and automotive lightweighting; 2016: Declining demand in China, stricter real estate control policies; 2017: China's environmental capacity reduction policies drove aluminum prices up; 2018: US-China trade friction, tariffs hindered Chinese exports, but infrastructure and NEV demand remained stable; 2019: Global economic slowdown, manufacturing downturn, Chinese demand peaked; 2020: Rising demand in the new energy sector; 2021: Global liquidity surge, EV demand exploded; 2022: European energy crisis suppressed demand, Chinese real estate downturn; 2023: Global PV and NEV boom, Chinese old community renovation, demand recovery; 2024: PV installation, NEV penetration rate increase, old grid upgrades. In summary: The shift from "building houses and cars" to "making solar panels and EVs," with environmental policies and energy transition as core drivers, keeps Chinese demand as the global aluminum market barometer. ► Divergence in Global Aluminum Demand: It elaborated on the demand share of China, Europe, the US, Southeast Asia, and India in the global aluminum market. ► Changing Demand Structure, Emerging Sectors Rise, Traditional Sectors Transform: Emerging sectors, with PV accounting for 11.4% of global aluminum use in 2023, became the fastest-growing sector. EVs use 30%-50% more aluminum per vehicle than traditional cars, and global EV penetration reached 18% in 2024, driving transportation aluminum demand. Traditional sectors are actively transforming, with Chinese real estate building renovations supporting aluminum demand growth. In 2023, construction accounted for 25% of China's aluminum use. Additionally, aluminum can demand in the packaging industry rebounded, with global aluminum can use returning to growth in 2024. ► Future Trends and Challenges: Growth Drivers: By 2030, PV, EVs, and grid upgrades are expected to add over 7 million mt of aluminum demand (source: Rusal forecast report); China's "North Aluminum South Shift" and capacity expansion in Indonesia will reshape the global supply chain. Risk Factors: Energy cost volatility (e.g., European natural gas prices), trade friction (e.g., Rusal sanctions affecting global circulation); rising secondary aluminum share (global secondary aluminum production reached 14 million mt in 2023), but primary aluminum remains dominant. On March 11, 2025, the MIIT, NDRC, and Ministry of Natural Resources jointly issued the "High-Quality Development Implementation Plan for the Aluminum Industry (2025-2027)," aiming to promote high-quality development in the aluminum industry. Several measures align with ASI certification principles, providing strong support for companies pursuing ASI certification. ASI certification focuses on the sustainability of responsible aluminum production, procurement, and management, emphasizing best practices in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects. 02 Why ASI Certification Matters: 2.1 What is ASI Certification? Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI): A global, multi-stakeholder, non-profit organization that creates and promotes sustainability standards for responsible aluminum production, procurement, and management. ASI certification is a third-party independent verification process ensuring that the entire aluminum value chain—from mining to final products—complies with best practices in environmental, social, and governance (ESG). 2.2 ASI Certification Standards: ► ASI certification offers two voluntary standards for applicants: ASI Performance Standard (PS) and ASI Chain of Custody Standard (CoC). Performance Standard: Aims to ensure the sustainability of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects throughout the aluminum production and supply chain, covering the entire aluminum production chain from bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminum metal production, to semi-finished product manufacturing and aluminum product recycling.Chain of Custody Standard: Ensures the traceability of aluminum materials from production to the final product, ensuring that consumers purchase products sourced from responsible production processes that comply with ASI Performance Standards; voluntary certification for ASI members; responsible sourcing policies, anti-corruption, human rights due diligence, and conflict-affected and high-risk areas are cross-referenced with the Performance Standards. How to Achieve Sustainable Development and Enhance Corporate Competitiveness through ASI Certification [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Presentation Topic: Supply-Demand Imbalance, Analysis of Calcined Coke Market Trends Guest Speaker: Zuoyou Wang, General Manager of Jining Jitan Import & Export Co., Ltd. Calcined Coke Supply and Demand Situation Calcined Coke Supply and Demand Analysis ► Global Calcined Coke Capacity Global calcined coke new capacity in 2024 is about 1.54 million mt, up 2.7% YoY; Global calcined coke new capacity in 2025 is expected to be about 3.1 million mt; China's planned calcined coke new projects - total capacity of 5.275 million mt; Global calcined coke production in 2024 increased by about 1.87 million mt, up 5% YoY. ► Global Aluminum Calcined Coke Demand Aluminum calcined coke consumption in 2024 is about 30.09 million mt, up 770,000 mt YoY. ► Global Anode Material Calcined Coke Demand It elaborated on calcined coke consumption from 2023-24 and calcined coke demand forecast for 2025. ► China Graphite Electrode Calcined Coke Demand China's graphite electrode calcined coke consumption in 2024 is about 270,000 mt, up about 3.8% YoY. Summary Global calcined coke supply in 2024 is slightly surplus, with low capacity utilization rate. According to relevant institutions, China's supply surplus is about 280,000 mt; both China and overseas have new capacity, especially China; the surplus situation may intensify in 2025. With the resumption of overseas aluminum production (South America and Europe) and new capacity coming online (Southeast Asia) as well as increased aluminum production in China, global calcined coke demand in 2025 will continue to increase, but the growth will be relatively small. The growth in anode material production (especially the future growth potential of anode materials for energy storage), the proportion of artificial graphite anode materials may further increase, and the demand for calcined coke from anode materials is expected to continue to increase in 2025. In terms of graphite electrodes, with the increase in the proportion of electric furnace steelmaking, the proportion of high-power graphite electrodes (all using needle coke) will increase, leading to an increase in needle coke demand, but the demand for calcined coke may decrease. China Calcined Coke Export Situation China Calcined Coke Export Aluminum Calcined Coke Export Volume Changes 2023 & 2024 Export volume in 2024 increased by about 130,000 mt compared to 2023, The increase comes from: Indonesia, Bahrain, Russia, Australia Significant decrease: India Supply-Demand Imbalance, Analysis of Calcined Coke Market Trends [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Presentation Topic: Current Status and Import Trends of Domestic Petroleum Coke Guest Speaker: Huimin Liu, Senior Analyst of Aluminum Auxiliary Materials at SMM Petroleum Coke Index Classification Standards It elaborated on the National Petrochemical Industry Standard NB-SH-T 0527-2019 of the People's Republic of China. Where Does Petroleum Coke Come from in the Crude Oil Processing Process? Petroleum Coke Classification and Uses China Petroleum Coke Market Supply Landscape Domestic delayed coking unit capacity has been increasing year by year, with growth slowing significantly after 2023 SMM Analysis: Ø From 2020 to 2024, the compound growth rate of China's delayed coking unit capacity is about 2.6%, especially in 2022, the growth rate increased to 7.15%, the highest in five years, mainly due to the commissioning of a 6 million mt/year unit by mainstream refineries in 2022. Ø According to SMM, as of 2024, China's refinery delayed coking unit capacity is about 151 million mt/year, up 1.28% YoY, continuing the growth trend. Among them, mainstream refineries' delayed coking capacity remains stable, while two companies in Shandong added 1.9 million mt/year capacity, increasing delayed coking capacity to 71 million mt/year, accounting for 47% of the total capacity. As of now, there is no new capacity elimination in 2025, and refinery delayed coking unit capacity is transitioning smoothly. Ø In recent years, China's delayed coking unit total capacity has maintained an expansion trend, with continuous development of downstream petroleum coke enterprises and increasing domestic demand, laying a solid foundation for the expansion of refinery delayed coking capacity. Moreover, the life cycle of delayed coking units has been extended, and the pace of exit has slowed, maintaining the growth trend of domestic petroleum coke supply. China Petroleum Coke Delayed Coking Unit Capacity Distribution SMM Analysis: Ø By region: East China, South China, Northeast China, and Northwest China rank in the top four. East China and South China are close to coastal ports, facilitating the loading and unloading of crude oil tankers, enabling efficient and low-cost transportation of overseas crude oil, providing stable and sufficient raw materials for delayed coking units. Northeast China and Northwest China are important domestic crude oil production areas, with short-distance transportation of crude oil to refineries, significantly reducing transportation costs and risks, and strongly promoting the growth of local delayed coking unit capacity. Ø By province: Shandong's total delayed coking capacity is 55.09 million mt/year, ranking first, accounting for 36% of the total capacity, with concentrated capacity distribution in Dongying, Zibo, and Binzhou. SMM Analysis: Ø By group: Local refineries' total delayed coking unit capacity is 71 million mt/year, accounting for 47%, ranking first; Sinopec's total delayed coking unit capacity is 46.75 million mt/year, accounting for 31%, ranking second; PetroChina's total delayed coking unit capacity is 24.5 million mt/year, accounting for 16%, ranking third; CNOOC's total delayed coking unit capacity is 8.8 million mt/year, accounting for 6%, ranking last. Ø Local refineries' delayed coking unit capacity is mainly distributed in Shandong, Liaoning, and Zhejiang. Especially in Shandong, its capacity accounts for 65% of local refineries. The number of local refineries is large, with significant industrial cluster effects, close to crude oil import ports and domestic crude oil production areas, convenient raw material acquisition, low transportation costs, and complete industrial support. China's petroleum coke supply is mainly high-sulfur coke, especially No. 4 coke, accounting for up to 57% SMM Analysis: Ø In 2024, China's petroleum coke production has grown to over 32 million mt, up about 1% YoY. China's petroleum coke supply is mainly high-sulfur coke, especially No. 4, accounting for up to 57%, followed by medium-sulfur coke, accounting for 28%, and finally low-sulfur coke, accounting for only 7% of the total. Ø Local refineries' high-sulfur petroleum coke production accounts for 73%, with No. 4 and No. 5 coke accounting for 68% and 5%, respectively, medium-sulfur coke No. 2 and No. 3 accounting for 3% and 20%, respectively, and No. 1 accounting for only 4%. Medium and high-sulfur coke still dominate, while low-sulfur coke is relatively scarce. In 2024, the total petroleum coke imports turned to decline, and port high inventory quickly decreased SMM Analysis: Ø Since 2019, China's petroleum coke imports have surged, from 8.05 million mt in 2019 to 16.02 million mt in 2023, achieving double growth, with an increase of 99% during the period. A large amount of petroleum coke imports provided sufficient supply for port inventory. From the changes in petroleum coke port inventory in Shandong, port inventory increased significantly in H1 2023, up 108%, which is closely related to the continuous increase in imports. A large amount of imported petroleum coke flooded into ports, pushing up inventory levels. Ø In 2024, due to the continuous high level of domestic port petroleum coke inventory, traders' overseas market purchasing sentiment was moderate, and petroleum coke imports significantly tightened throughout the year, with total petroleum coke imports of 13.4 million mt, down 16% YoY. With the decline in imports, port inventory continued to destock, and Shandong's petroleum coke port inventory fell by 41% to around 1.93 million mt in 2024. Ø After entering 2025, Shandong's port petroleum coke inventory fluctuated slightly around 2 million mt. In 2024, US coke imports remained the top, with high-sulfur coke dominating the import varieties throughout the year SMM Analysis: Ø In 2024, China's petroleum coke import market showed distinct characteristics, with the US occupying a key position. In terms of import sources, the total imports from the US were 3.8614 million mt, accounting for 28.82% of total imports. Russia ranked second, with an import share of 18%, demonstrating its strong strength in the petroleum coke export field. Saudi Arabia accounted for 12%, Canada accounted for 7%, Colombia and Venezuela each accounted for 6%, and these countries together constitute important suppliers of China's petroleum coke imports. Ø In terms of import varieties, high-sulfur coke dominated throughout the year. Data from 2024 shows that high-sulfur coke accounted for 71%, medium-sulfur coke accounted for 19%, and low-sulfur coke accounted for 10%. Compared with 2023, the proportion of high-sulfur coke slightly decreased but still dominated. The proportion of medium-sulfur coke increased from 14% to 19%, and the proportion of low-sulfur coke decreased from 12% to 10%. US coke import tariffs are increasing layer by layer, costs are rising, and US coke imports are expected to decline significantly SMM Analysis: Ø Since April 2025, the US-China trade friction has become increasingly intense, and China has adjusted tariffs on imports originating from the US multiple times. As of April 11, the tariffs imposed by China on imports originating from the US increased from the initial 34% to 125%, and the execution tariff rate increased to 128%. Ø For goods that have been shipped from the place of shipment before 12:01 on April 10 and imported from 12:01 on April 10 to 24:00 on May 13, 2025, the additional tariffs will not be imposed. Ø As the world's largest petroleum coke producer, the US, with its stable supply capability and reasonable price system, has competitive petroleum coke products in the Chinese market. Based on the current landed price, the cost of US petroleum coke has increased by at least 1,100 yuan/mt, an increase of more than 20%, and the cost-effectiveness of China's imports of US petroleum coke will be greatly reduced. SMM expects US coke imports to decrease by more than 30%. In 2025, multiple factors are intertwined, and refinery operating cost difficulties are intensifying Raw material price increases and increased maintenance enterprises, domestic petroleum coke supply will shrink in 2025 SMM Analysis: Ø Based on the above background, since Q1 2025, the frequency of maintenance of domestic refinery delayed coking units has significantly increased. According to SMM statistics, as of the end of March, the number of delayed coking unit maintenance in China's refineries was 32 sets, up about 78% YoY, involving delayed coking unit capacity of 35.9 million mt, up 69% YoY. Ø Looking ahead to the whole year, it is expected that refinery delayed coking unit maintenance will increase by another 20 sets, involving capacity of about 28.8 million mt. Based on the refinery maintenance information obtained so far, mainstream refineries dominate the shutdown units in 2025, with the involved capacity accounting for about 70%. Local refineries have the largest scale of maintenance capacity throughout the year, reaching 34 million mt. The maintenance indicators of refineries are mainly high-sulfur coke, with No. 4 petroleum coke accounting for the largest proportion, reaching 54% of the total capacity. SMM: Macro fundamentals may push up the price center of petroleum coke in 2025 [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Development Forum Presentation Topic: Analysis of the Competitive Landscape and Industry Hot Topics in China's Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip and Foil Industry Guest Speaker: Ruoyu Ding, Senior Consultant of SMM Consulting Division The Rise of New Energy: Challenges and Opportunities Coexist in China's Aluminum Plate/Sheet Industry New energy development drives future aluminum plate/sheet consumption, global trade friction occurs frequently, future aluminum plate/sheet faces challenges ⇒ The rise of new energy: Challenges and opportunities coexist in the aluminum plate/sheet industry.According to statistics, the production of aluminum plate/sheet and strip in China increased from 10.3 million mt in 2017 to over 13.4 million mt in 2024. In recent years, the production of aluminum plate/sheet and strip in China has continued to rise, with a significant increase. This trend is not accidental; it reflects the vigorous development of the national economy and the strong demand for basic materials, marking a new stage of development for China's aluminum plate/sheet and strip industry. In terms of aluminum plate/sheet, the production of can lid material saw a significant increase in 2024, up 22% YoY. In terms of aluminum foil, the production of electronic foil, double zero foil, and battery foil increased significantly in 2024, up 18%, 16%, and 34% YoY, respectively. According to the SMM survey, there are currently 30 clear ongoing aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil projects nationwide, with a total designed capacity of over 6 million mt, and several projects are yet to be confirmed. By product, battery foil and aluminum plate/sheet for new energy, as well as brazing materials, are the main new expansion projects. By region, the ongoing capacity is mostly concentrated in major aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil production provinces such as Yunnan and Jiangsu. According to the SMM survey, there are currently 30 clear ongoing aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil projects nationwide, with a total designed capacity of 4.71 million mt, and several projects are yet to be confirmed. By product, battery foil and secondary aluminum plate/sheet have become the main new projects. Among the 30 projects, 13 are related to battery foil, with a total designed capacity of 1.1 million mt. Several companies have already laid out plans for secondary aluminum plate/sheet, with related projects having a total designed capacity of 1.57 million mt. By enterprise scale, the ongoing capacity is almost entirely owned by large enterprises. The concentration of capacity in the aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil industry is gradually increasing. By region, the ongoing capacity is mostly concentrated in major aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil production provinces such as Henan, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang. New aluminum plate/sheet projects are relatively concentrated in Henan, while new aluminum foil projects are relatively concentrated in Jiangsu and Zhejiang. The terminal structure continues to adjust. Driven by the plastic restriction order and lightweight policies, the proportion of aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil products used in packaging and transportation has increased. Although the profit margin may shrink in recent years, production can still grow against the trend, with representative products such as automotive sheet and battery foil. The proportion of aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil products with relatively low added value, such as industrial machinery and architectural decoration, is expected to continue to decline. The increase in the penetration rate of new energy vehicles has driven the increase in aluminum usage per vehicle and the usage of plate/sheet and foil. SMM Analysis: Competitive Landscape and Industry Hot Topics in China's Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip, and Foil Industry [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Presentation Topic: Rolling Process and Performance Challenges of Ultra-Thin Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil (≤10μm) Guest Speaker: Qian Wen, R&D Engineer, North China Aluminum New Material Technology Co., Ltd. Introduction to Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil The Importance of Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil Developing new materials is an inevitable requirement for China to transform from a manufacturing giant to a manufacturing powerhouse, and it is a fundamental measure for China to break free from the "stranglehold" of key materials and technologies. General Secretary Xi Jinping pointed out that the new materials industry is a strategic and foundational industry, as well as a key area of high-tech competition. We must strive to catch up and keep pace. This important discourse provides fundamental guidance for us to win the race in the new materials industry and points the way forward. Lithium battery aluminum foil is a key basic material for the positive electrode of lithium batteries. In the battery, aluminum foil, as a widely used positive electrode current collector material, not only serves as a carrier for the positive electrode active material but also collects the current generated by the positive electrode active material and conducts it to the external circuit, thereby realizing the process of converting chemical energy into electrical energy. Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil Has Strict Requirements Lithium battery aluminum foil is the highest quality product among all types of aluminum foil, with technical requirements that are almost苛刻, and the product is近乎完美, especially for aluminum foil used in power new energy batteries, which is basically a zero-defect product. Due to its special usage conditions, lithium battery aluminum foil has very strict requirements for various technical indicators. Development of Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil 1. Development History In 2024, China's lithium-ion battery industry continued to grow. According to the information from the lithium battery industry standard announcement enterprises and industry association estimates, the total production of lithium batteries nationwide was 1,170 GWh, up 24% YoY. The total industry output value exceeded 1.2 trillion yuan. The rapid growth of lithium-ion batteries has provided a relatively broad market space for the development of China's battery aluminum foil industry. (The right figure shows the production and growth rate of China's battery foil in recent years.) According to relevant department analysis, the domestic demand for lithium battery aluminum foil is expected to be about 600,000 mt in 2025. The lithium battery aluminum foil market in 2025 will feature "high demand growth, tight supply, and technology dominance." 2. Development Trends As lithium batteries gradually develop towards high energy density and long driving range, the market has put forward higher requirements for battery aluminum foil. High performance (high strength, high elongation) and ultra-thinness are the major trends. Introduction to Ultra-Thin Battery Aluminum Foil Ultra-Thin Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil Ultra-thin battery foil usually refers to lithium battery aluminum foil with a thickness of ≤10μm, currently mainly double-sided products, with some single-sided products. The production technology of 9-10μm ultra-thin battery aluminum foil is mature, and leading battery foil enterprises are producing stably; 8μm double-sided battery foil has achieved mass production, and a few leading battery foil enterprises can produce it, and 7μm double-sided battery foil can also be produced. The rolling of ultra-thin battery aluminum foil has strict requirements on the precision of the rolling mill (tension, speed, shape control system, etc.) and the rolling rolls (precision, stiffness, etc.), especially for thicknesses such as 8/7μm, so currently only a few leading enterprises can produce it. As downstream demand for aluminum foil thinning continues to upgrade, leading enterprises may maintain competitiveness with product and technological advantages. As battery foil manufacturers control costs and the international environment changes, the demand for ultra-thin aluminum foil continues to increase, and performance requirements are also getting higher. Current Status and Future Trends of Ultra-Thin Lithium Battery Aluminum Foil The ultra-thin battery foil market will continue to grow in the future [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Presentation Topic: Development Opportunities and Technical Requirements of Aluminum Alloy Automotive Sheet in the Context of Carbon Reduction Guest Speaker: Jingwei Zhao, China Aluminum Materials Application Research Institute Roundtable Discussion: Internal and External Challenges—Exploring New Paths for Aluminum Plate/Sheet, Strip, and Foil Enterprises in the Mist Host: Bai Zhou, Executive Vice President of SMM Discussion Guests: Wei Xin Chen, Board Secretary, Jiangsu Dingsheng New Energy Materials Co., Ltd. Zhi Gang He, Deputy General Manager, Henan Mingtai Aluminum Co., Ltd. An Le Zhang, General Manager, Luoyang Longding Aluminum Co., Ltd. Click to View Interview Details Presentation Topic: Innovation-Driven: The Impact of Smart Factory Transformation on Plate/Sheet, Strip, and Foil Enterprises Guest Speaker: Zeng Bing Fang, Deputy General Manager, Hefei Jingsong Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. Smart Logistics: The Core Engine of Smart Factories Traditional Logistics Pain Points Analysis 1. Information Silos Hinder Collaboration: Traditional aluminum plate/sheet, strip, and foil enterprises have disconnected information across various links, making production, warehousing, and transportation coordination difficult, affecting overall efficiency. Information silos lead to data lag, making it difficult for enterprises to grasp production dynamics in real time, resulting in delayed decisions and missed market opportunities. 2. Manual Dependency Leads to Low Efficiency: Handling, loading, unloading, and sorting are highly dependent on manual labor, resulting in low efficiency, high costs, and error-prone operations, restricting enterprise development. Manual operations are prone to fatigue, with high work intensity and difficulty in recruitment, leaving enterprises facing a labor shortage dilemma. 3. Crude and Disorganized Inventory Management: Lack of real-time data support leads to crude inventory management, making it difficult to control accurately, with large capital occupation. Inventory backlog or shortages occur from time to time, affecting production continuity and increasing enterprise operational risks. Smart Logistics Technology Empowerment IoT Enables Device Interconnection: IoT technology enables the interconnection of production equipment, warehousing systems, and transportation vehicles, breaking down information barriers. Real-time collection of equipment operation data, monitoring production status, and early warning of faults to ensure stable production. Big Data Optimizes Decision-Making Processes: Big data helps enterprises analyze massive production data, accurately predict demand, and optimize production plans. Adjust inventory levels based on data, reduce inventory costs, improve capital turnover, and enhance competitiveness. Artificial Intelligence Enhances Intelligence Levels: Artificial intelligence drives smart warehousing and smart scheduling, achieving automated sorting and handling, improving efficiency. Intelligent algorithms optimize logistics paths, reduce transportation time and costs, and improve logistics delivery accuracy. Case Sharing: Smart Logistics Empowers Enterprises to Improve Quality and Efficiency Its Transformation of Traditional Manufacturing: Digital Factories Light Up the Future; Case sharing on intelligent three-dimensional warehouses, intelligent warehousing management optimization resource utilization, and intelligent handling systems of aluminum processing industry-related enterprises. The Profound Impact of Smart Logistics: From Efficiency Improvement to Model Transformation Data-Driven Decision-Making Transformation 1. Real-Time Data Precise Optimization: Real-time collection and analysis of logistics data help enterprises optimize production plans, inventory management, and resource allocation. Accurately grasp market dynamics, plan ahead, reduce risks, and enhance enterprise risk resistance. 2. Intelligent Decision-Making Improves Efficiency: Data-driven decision-making makes enterprise decisions more scientific and precise, improving production efficiency and economic benefits. Adjust production strategies based on data to meet market demand and enhance enterprise market competitiveness. 3. Core Value Leads Transformation: Data-driven decision-making becomes the core competitiveness of enterprises, leading industry transformation and development. Promote enterprises to transform from traditional production models to intelligent and digital production models. Innovation-Driven: The Impact of Smart Factory Transformation on Plate/Sheet, Strip, and Foil Enterprises [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Presentation Topic: New Journey, New Breakthroughs—Gränges Asia's Innovation Path in Medium-Thickness Plates Guest Speaker: Feng Hua Gao, Senior R&D Engineer, Gränges Aluminum (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Technical Requirements and Characteristics of Medium-Thickness Plate Products Aluminum Alloy Medium-Thickness Plate—Definition and Classification Definition · GB/T 8005.1-2008 "Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy Terms Part 1 Products and Processing Treatment Processes" stipulates: Plates with a thickness >6mm are called thick plates. · Japan and Europe: Plates with a thickness ≥6mm are called thick plates. · ASTM Standard: Plates with a thickness ≥6.35mm (0.25 inch) are called thick plates. There is no term "medium-thickness plate" in the national standard, but since the thickness range of aluminum alloy thick plates is very wide, the industry refers to the practice of the steel industry and subdivides them by thickness: · Medium Plate: 6.0~25.0mm · Thick Plate: >25.0mm Classification · Heat Treatment Non-Strengthenable: 1-series/3-series/5-series, accounting for about 40%; · Heat Treatment Strengthenable: 2-series/6-series/7-series, accounting for about 60%. It also introduced the Gränges Group and Gränges Asia. The Gränges Group is a global leader in aluminum rolling and recycling. The company's net sales are 23 billion Swedish krona (excluding the Shandong plant), with a capacity of 810,000 mt/year, and it holds about 25% of the global market for rolled aluminum used in brazed heat exchangers. It also introduced the company's important position in the global market, serving four major end-user markets [other segments (including medium-thickness plates), special packaging, automotive industry, HVAC industry], the company's development history and overview, and the company's main products and application fields. Aluminum Alloy Medium-Thickness Plate Production Process Technical Difficulties of Aluminum Alloy Medium-Thickness Plate Casting Ingot: High melt quality, large specifications, crack-free casting, and excellent microstructure control. Rolling: Microstructure evolution during rolling and control of thickness deformation uniformity. Heat Treatment: Homogenization phase transformation and solution heat treatment residual phase and hardenability. Pre-Stretching: Control of pre-stretching deformation and its impact on subsequent precipitation and internal stress. Aging: Development of multi-stage aging systems and microstructure control. Aluminum Alloy Medium-Thickness Plate—Shipbuilding Aluminum Plate Opportunities: Lightweight, energy-saving, environmental protection, and corrosion resistance: Aluminum alloy thick plates, due to their low density and high strength characteristics, can effectively reduce ship weight, increase load capacity, and reduce fuel consumption and operating costs, complying with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) restrictions on ship carbon emissions and modern ship requirements for lightweight andEnergy efficiency requirements. Additionally, it possesses excellent corrosion resistance, extending the service life of the hull. Market and demand: Over 70% of the ship plate market is overseas. With the US initiating the so-called 301 investigation into China's shipbuilding industry and the transition to LNG energy, the demand for aluminum alloys in the overseas shipbuilding market is expected to grow significantly. Challenges: High performance: As the requirements for ship strength and speed increase, traditional aluminum alloys may struggle to meet performance demands, necessitating the development of new high-strength, high-corrosion-resistant alloys, such as the 5059 alloy with higher Mg content. High quality: Residual emulsion from low-temperature rolling, plate shape, lower surface scratches, and A-grade flaw detection for LNG aluminum plates. Wide specifications: Ultra-wide and ultra-thick aluminum plates for LNG. Medium-thickness aluminum alloy plates for aviation and low-altitude economy. New journey, new breakthroughs: Gränges Asia's innovation path in medium-thickness plates [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]. Supply and demand exchange: Domestic and international aluminum scrap supply and demand forum. Aluminum melting and casting technology forum. Presentation topic: Study on cracking behavior of large-scale 2024 aluminum alloy flat ingots. Guest speaker: Wang Guojun, Chief Expert and Secretary General of the Advanced Aluminum Alloy Collaborative Innovation Alliance, Chalco Group. Process optimization of 2024 large flat ingots based on numerical simulation. Background: Application of 2024 alloy in aerospace: High-strength 2xxx aluminum alloys, with advantages such as low specific gravity, high strength, good fracture toughness, and corrosion resistance, are widely used in the aerospace field. The first-generation AA2024 aluminum alloy, due to its excellent damage tolerance and high resistance to fatigue crack growth under aging conditions, remains an important material for commercial aircraft, mainly used in lightweight components of fuselages and wings. The first process of wrought aluminum alloy is direct-chill semi-continuous casting. With the increasing size of large structural components in China's aerospace industry, aluminum alloy ingots are also developing towards ultra-thick and ultra-wide dimensions. Due to the large solidification range and high cracking tendency of 2024 aluminum alloy, increasing ingot size leads to more severe cracking phenomena. Model establishment: Basic assumptions: To ensure model calculation accuracy while considering computational efficiency, the main assumptions of this model are as follows: The model ignores the influence of minor liquid surface fluctuations during casting on the DC casting solidification process, simplifying the crystallizer liquid surface to a wall. It ignores radiative heat transfer from the crystallizer liquid surface. It ignores the influence of solute segregation on the solidus and liquidus lines of the aluminum alloy melt, taking fixed values for the solidus and liquidus lines. It simplifies the heat transfer process in the primary and secondary cooling zones, using a comprehensive heat transfer coefficient to describe the heat transfer on the billet surface. It does not consider the direct impact of ingot deformation on melt flow. Control equations: It also elaborates on the material model (calculated using JMatPro-14.3 software, with the solidification model using the Scheil non-equilibrium solidification model) and boundary conditions. Model establishment: Through Chalco's digital model parametric modeling, one-click numerical simulation calculation is achieved, significantly reducing modeling time and improving work efficiency. Cracking cause analysis: Relationship between stress direction and crack direction: Cracking occurs along the direction of maximum principal stress. The main cause of cracking: Excessive thermal stress during the casting process. Optimization direction: Reduce thermal stress. Influence of casting speed: From the temperature field distribution at different casting speeds, it can be seen that due to the application of a scraper at the lower edge of the crystallizer, the ingot surface experiences a temperature rebound phenomenon. As the casting speed increases, the temperature rebound on the ingot surface increases, showing a linear trend. From the stress field distribution at different casting speeds, it can be seen that as the casting speed increases, the ingot stress decreases. Increasing the casting speed can reduce the tendency of internal cracking in the ingot. The larger the ingot specification, the slower the ingot stress changes with casting speed. Data-driven leading the development of large-scale aluminum alloy materials [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]. Presentation topic: Common knowledge of melting and casting. Guest speaker: Li Lei, General Manager of Shangli County Keyuan Metallurgical Materials Co., Ltd. Presentation topic: Thoughts on the development of melting and casting technology in the secondary aluminum industry. Guest speaker: Zhang Bolin, Professor at Nanchang University. Presentation topic: Causes and prevention of molten aluminum-water explosion accidents in semi-continuous (deep well) casting of aluminum and aluminum alloys. Guest speaker: Zhou Yingquan, Senior Engineer and Resident Expert of Suzhou Emergency Management Bureau. Presentation topic: Research and application of high-efficiency dust removal and energy-saving systems in the aluminum industry. Guest speaker: Zhejiang Lanwei Environmental Protection Technology Equipment Co., Ltd. Industry background: With the tightening of global environmental regulations and the rise of environmental awareness, traditional dust removal and environmental protection equipment for aluminum melting furnaces still face problems and challenges. Existing problems: High energy consumption and inefficient operation, inflexible equipment adjustment, untimely status monitoring, and high equipment maintenance costs. R&D team: Zhejiang Lanwei Environmental Protection Technology Equipment Co., Ltd., in collaboration with innovation teams from renowned universities such as Zhejiang University City College and Hangzhou Dianzi University, has conducted research and application breakthroughs on intelligent, high-efficiency, and energy-saving dust removal equipment for aluminum melting furnaces, achieving good application results. Research content: Technical solution: Overall solution: Research and application of high-efficiency dust removal and energy-saving systems in the aluminum industry [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]. Presentation topic: Common problems and solutions in metal liquid refining treatment in aluminum melting and casting. Guest speaker: Xue Yueteng, China Product Line Manager - Non-ferrous Metal Liquid Treatment, Vesuvius Foundry Technology (Jiangsu) Co., Ltd. Presentation topic: Safety hazards in aluminum processing and the dual prevention mechanism. Guest speaker: Ying Zhiqiang, Certified Expert of China Nonferrous Metals Think Tank, Chief Engineer and Senior Engineer of Anhui Guangsheng Meichen New Materials Technology Co., Ltd. Detailed explanation of dual prevention: Dual prevention refers to the dual prevention mechanism of safety risk classification control and hidden danger investigation and management. This mechanism is the foundation and important guarantee of enterprise safety management. The following is a detailed explanation of dual prevention: Safety risk classification control: Safety risk classification control is the first line of defense in the dual prevention mechanism. Its main contents include: Risk identification: Identify the hazardous substances and energy present at risk points, and the circumstances under which these hazardous substances and energy may cause accidents. Risk assessment and classification: Use risk assessment criteria to evaluate the identified risks, and classify the risks into different levels based on the evaluation results, such as extremely high safety risk, high safety risk, relatively high safety risk, and general safety risk (usually corresponding to red, orange, yellow, and blue labels). Risk control: Personnel at different levels control the classified risks to ensure the safety control measures at risk points are intact and effective. Hidden danger investigation and management: Hidden danger investigation and management is the second line of defense in the dual prevention mechanism. Its main contents include: Hidden danger investigation: Conduct a comprehensive investigation of the control measures at risk points to promptly identify potential hidden dangers. Hidden danger management: Timely manage the identified hidden dangers to ensure they do not evolve into accidents. Hidden danger management requires the implementation of "five implementations," namely responsibility, measures, funds, time limits, and plans. Purpose and significance of the dual prevention mechanism: The purpose of building the dual prevention mechanism is to address prominent issues in the field of safety production, emphasizing the forward shift of safety production from hidden danger investigation and management to safety risk control. This mechanism helps enterprises fully implement their main responsibility for safety production, improve the effectiveness of accident and disaster prevention, reduce the losses caused by accidents and disasters, and thus promote social stability and economic development. In addition, the dual prevention mechanism emphasizes strict control of two key points: one is risk control, insisting on key control of major risks; the other is hidden danger management, insisting on time-limited management of major hidden dangers. Through the dual prevention work mechanism, every type of risk is effectively controlled within an acceptable range, every hidden danger is managed at its formation, and every accident is eliminated in its infancy. In summary, the dual prevention mechanism is an important part of enterprise safety management. It emphasizes starting with risk identification, using risk control as a means to control risks before hidden dangers form, and ensuring enterprise safety production through hidden danger investigation and management. Main examples of aluminum processing hazards: Focus on key areas of safety prevention. Highlight safety supervision of high-risk operations such as melting furnaces, deep well casting, dust explosion, and confined space operations. Deeply analyze the jurisdiction, target efforts, overcome difficulties, and resolutely prevent and curb major and above accidents. Urge enterprises to carefully study and formulate practical hard measures for safety basic management based on their own characteristics, and strictly implement them to reduce sporadic accidents. Safety hazards in aluminum processing and the dual prevention mechanism [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]. Presentation topic: Technical challenges and solutions for lining technology of different types of secondary aluminum dual-chamber furnaces - Promoting green and efficient development of the industry. Guest speaker: Song Xuebin, Chairman and President of the Enterprise Research Institute, Jiangsu Ruifuda High-Temperature New Materials Co., Ltd. Presentation topic: Innovation and application of short-process technology in aluminum processing. Guest speaker: He Xiangwen, Chief Engineer of the Process Department, China Nonferrous Metals Processing Technology Co., Ltd. Overview of short-process technology in aluminum processing: Definition of short-process technology: Short-process technology refers to the process of directly producing the required products from molten aluminum, omitting some intermediate links in traditional processes, such as directly casting and rolling molten aluminum into thin plates, reducing energy consumption and production time. The process is characterized by short flow, low energy consumption, and high production efficiency, meeting the requirements of modern aluminum processing industry for efficiency, energy saving, and environmental protection. Advantages of short-process technology: Energy consumption reduction: In traditional aluminum processing, molten aluminum needs to be cooled and reheated multiple times, resulting in high energy consumption. Short-process technology reduces these links, directly producing products from molten aluminum, significantly reducing energy consumption. Production efficiency improvement: Omitting intermediate links shortens the production cycle, improves production efficiency, and enables faster response to market demand. Application status of short-process technology: Currently, the application of short-process technology in the aluminum processing industry is gradually increasing, especially in the production of thin plates, strips, and other products, showing obvious advantages. For example, some enterprises use short-process technology to produce automotive aluminum plates, foils, and general 1-series, 3-series, and 8-series aluminum plates, not only improving production efficiency but also reducing costs.

This discussion on short-process technology primarily focuses on the production of sheet and strip, as its production process is generally the longest, most energy-intensive, and capital-intensive in aluminum processing.

1.1 Main Short-Process Technologies in Aluminum Processing

Twin-roll casting, Micromill continuous casting and rolling, Hazelett continuous casting and rolling

1.2 Main Equipment for Short-Process Technologies

02 Innovations and Development of Twin-Roll Casting Technology

2.1 Typical Casting and Rolling Production Line

Twin-roll caster: The twin-roll solidifies molten aluminum into cast-rolled strips, with common strip thicknesses ranging from 5-12 mm (fast cast-rolled strips are 3-8 mm thick). Common alloy series include 1XXX, 3XXX, 8XXX, and some 5XXX.

2.1 Main Configurations of Casting and Rolling Production Lines

Note: The above configurations omit auxiliary facilities such as electromagnetic stirring devices, online treatment devices, dust removal systems, and furnace-side degassing units.

2.2 Main Layout Methods for Casting and Rolling Production Lines

Mirror layout of adjacent casters: Advantage: Adjacent casting lines can be managed by one team, reducing personnel requirements.

Same-direction layout of adjacent casters: Advantage: Caster components can be shared, reducing spare parts inventory.

2.3 Classification of Melting/Holding Furnaces

2.4 Innovative Technologies in Casting and Rolling Processes

►Innovations in casting rolls: The application of new casting roll materials and surface treatment technologies has improved the service life of casting rolls and the quality of cast-rolled coils. For example, casting rolls made of nanocomposite materials or copper sleeves exhibit higher thermal conductivity and wear resistance.

►Innovations in casting process control: The application of automated control systems in casting processes enables precise control over the casting process. Through sensors and computer technology, parameters such as molten aluminum temperature, composition, and casting roll speed are monitored in real time and automatically adjusted to ensure stable coil quality.

►Innovations in molten aluminum purification: Advanced purification technologies, such as electromagnetic stirring, ultrasonic treatment, and fine filtration, effectively remove impurities and gases from molten aluminum, improving the purity of cast-rolled coils and altering their grain structure. These technologies significantly enhance the mechanical properties and surface quality of cast-rolled coils.

Innovation and Application of Short-Process Technologies in Aluminum Processing [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]

Presentation Topic: Production Practices in 3003 Alloy Melting and Homogenization Processes

Guest Speaker: Jianjun Lu, Chief Engineer, Shaanxi Xincai Dingsu Technology Co., Ltd.

Aluminum Die Casting Industry Development Forum

Presentation Topic: Exploration of Integrated Die Casting Processes Under Industry-University-Research Collaboration

Guest Speaker: Jiantang Han, Project Director, Shandong Hongcan Materials Technology Co., Ltd.

I. Background

1.1 Auto Sales and Export Volume

Market Trends: The auto market is experiencing rapid growth; reduced costs and cut-throat competition in pricing; Chinese auto brands are rapidly rising, breaking the monopoly of foreign brands.

1.2 Auto Release Data

The auto industry has entered an era of rapid development and updates. In 2024, 610 new models were launched, with the following power type distribution: pure electric (226 models, 37%), internal combustion engine (204 models, 34%), plug-in hybrid (110 models, 18%), range-extended (39 models, 6%), and hybrid (31 models, 5%).

1.3 Passenger Vehicle Development Trends and Demands

Functionalization ⇒ Comfort & Lightweighting ⇒ Electrification, Intelligence, & Integration ⇒ Personalization & Customization ⇒ Short Development Cycle Demands.

1.3 Passenger Vehicle Development Cycle Demands

In the past, joint venture automakers had slow vehicle iteration speeds. For example, BBA typically underwent a mid-cycle refresh every 4 years and a major redesign every 8 years, with corresponding R&D cycles of approximately 54 months.

The new vehicle R&D process is divided into three main stages: planning, design/verification, and production, leveraging platformization. The planning stage takes 9.5 months, design/verification 14 months, and production 10.5 months, followed by a 2-month launch phase, totaling 36 months.

Agile R&D concepts have ushered in a modular and digital era for vehicle development, further shortening the development cycle.

II. Technological Innovation Under New Models

2.1 Industrial Thinking Under New Models

Technology Sharing: Integrated Casting Technology Innovation Under Industry-University-Research Collaboration [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]

Presentation Topic: Complementary Applications of Aluminum Alloy Integrated Die Casting and Magnesium Semi-Solid Die Casting

Guest Speaker: Lianjun Zhou, Senior Application Expert, Ningbo Bonded Zone Haitian Zhisheng Metal Forming Equipment Co., Ltd.

Roundtable Discussion: Exploring New Models of Integrated Die Casting Collaboration from a Supply Chain Perspective

Moderator: Shangen Zhang, Executive President, Suzhou Die Casting Association

Panelist: Huachu Liu, Metal Materials Expert, NIO

Panelist: Yuebo Zhang, Technical Vice President, CSMET Group

Panelist: Pengji Xue, Product and Project Director, Beijing Shichuang Technology Co., Ltd.

Presentation Topic: The Future Development of China's NEVs and Traditional Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles Over the Next Decade and Aluminum Usage Trends

Guest Speaker: Dongshu Cui, Secretary General, China Automobile Dealers Association Automotive Market Research Branch

Presentation Topic: Challenges and Solutions in Die Casting Processes for NEV Electric Drive Housings

Guest Speaker: Liang Peng, Lightweight Process Manager/Senior Engineer, Schaeffler (Shanghai) Trading Co., Ltd.

Roundtable Discussion: The Path to Substituting Magnesium Die Casting for Aluminum Die Casting

Moderator: Zhiyong Han, Chief Engineer, National Automotive Lightweight (Jiangsu) Automotive Technology Co., Ltd.

Panelist: Shangen Zhang, Executive President, Suzhou Die Casting Association

Panelist: Xiangzhen Zhu, Ph.D., Chief Researcher, Baowu Magnesium Technology Co., Ltd.

Panelist: Xiaoyan Zhang, Chairman, Ningbo Tianzheng Mould Co., Ltd.

Presentation Topic: Comparison and Pros and Cons of Low-Pressure Casting and High-Pressure Die Casting Processes

Guest Speaker: Wenping Zhu, Eaton Global Aluminum Casting Expert, Distinguished Expert/Director, and Senior Die Casting Engineer Certification Trainer, Eaton (China) Investment Co., Ltd.

Differences in Process Principles

Low-Pressure Casting

Pressure Range: 0.01-0.1 MPa (low pressure).

Principle: Compressed air is used to slowly press molten metal from a sealed holding furnace into the mold through a riser tube. The metal fills the cavity from top to bottom under low pressure and solidifies under pressure.

Characteristics: Smooth filling, good metal fluidity, fewer gas pores and inclusions.

High-Pressure Die Casting

Pressure Range: 10-200 MPa (extremely high pressure).

Principle: Molten metal is injected at high speed (provided by the injection cylinder) into a steel mold, rapidly filling the cavity and solidifying under high pressure.

Characteristics: Fast filling (millisecond level), suitable for complex thin-walled parts, but prone to gas entrapment.

Low-pressure casting and high-pressure die casting are two common metal casting processes, primarily used for forming non-ferrous metals such as aluminum and magnesium alloys. They differ significantly in principles, application scenarios, and product characteristics.

Comparison of Process Characteristics

Low-Pressure Casting

Advantages: High density, excellent mechanical properties, fewer gas defects, capable of producing larger parts.

Disadvantages: Long cycle time, high mold costs, unsuitable for ultra-thin-walled parts. Production costs are higher, with wall thicknesses >3.5 mm, ideally over 4 mm.

High-Pressure Die Casting

Advantages: High production efficiency (multiple parts per minute), suitable for complex thin-walled parts, high surface precision. High dimensional accuracy, minimal machining allowances.

Disadvantages: Internal gas pores are common, typically not heat-treatable (pores expand), extremely high mold costs. Wall thicknesses >2 mm are sufficient.

Low-pressure casting can design closed beams of any diameter.

Comparison and Pros and Cons of Low-Pressure Casting and High-Pressure Die Casting Processes [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]

April 17

Main Forum & Top-Tier Entrepreneurs Forum

Presentation Topic: In-Depth Analysis of China's Aluminum Processing Industry: Hot Topics and Future Development Trends

Guest Speaker: Xinda Mo, Director of Light Metals Department and Deputy Secretary General of Aluminum Branch, China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association

►Bauxite

In 2024, Guinea exported 146 million mt of bauxite, with China importing 110 million mt, accounting for 70% of total imports.

An analysis was also conducted on the average import price of bauxite and the price trends of alumina.

►Aluminum

Supply-side structural reform + large-scale transformation + green transition

►Secondary Aluminum

Secondary aluminum production continues to increase. In 2024, secondary aluminum production reached 10.55 million mt, up 8.9% YoY.

Secondary aluminum is shifting toward wrought aluminum alloy applications. With the integration of secondary aluminum and aluminum processing, it is expected that by 2025, the usage of secondary aluminum in wrought aluminum alloys will exceed 50%, transitioning to grade preservation and closed-loop recycling.

Roundtable Discussion: Dragon Soaring Across the Seas—China's Aluminum Industry in a Global Context

Moderator: Wenjun Wen, Former Vice President, China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association, and Honorary President, Shandong Aluminum Industry Association

Panelist: Zhen Jiang, General Manager of Sales Headquarters, Shandong Hongtu Industrial Co., Ltd.

Panelist: Xiyue Sang, Special Assistant to the Chairman, Sunstone Development Co., Ltd.

Panelist: Wei Li, Party Secretary, Henan Shenhuo Group Co., Ltd.

Panelist: Yu Qian, General Manager, Henan Zhongfu Industrial Co., Ltd.

Panelist: Fen Huang, Chairman, Fenan Aluminum Co., Ltd.

Click to View Interview Details

Presentation Topic: The Role and Position of Price Discovery in Industry Strategic Positioning Under the Framework of Global Reshaping

Guest Speaker: Shijun Qi, Price Discovery Economist

Two Types of Demand in the Commodity Market

In the commodity market, there are two distinct types of demand. One stems from speculative behavior in the futures market, where participants need to make precise judgments on price highs and lows, especially on price trends.

The other demand comes from commodity production, sales enterprises, and related industries, which need to forecast price trends for the next year, five years, or even ten years. Futures and spot trading can be conducted in a three-dimensional manner. Enterprises that engage in such three-dimensional trading will be better equipped to handle commodity price fluctuations, seize opportunities, and mitigate risks in complex market environments.

The Strategic Position of the Aluminum Industry in the Reshaping of the World Order

Understanding the concept of the world order in the aluminum industry requires a multi-dimensional analysis. From a price trend perspective, SHFE aluminum prices hit a low of 9,620 yuan/mt in 2015, then climbed to 16,680 yuan/mt by September 2017. In early April 2020, prices were at 11,225 yuan/mt, soaring to 24,765 yuan/mt by 2021, a 157% increase.Traditional market analysis attributes the rise in aluminum prices to the supply-demand relationship, driven by factors such as surging demand from the automotive and PV power generation industries, capacity contraction on the supply side, and tightening upstream raw material supply. However, this analysis has limitations, as it overlooks the critical variable of changes in the global landscape. **Price Discovery in the Context of Global Landscape Reshaping: Its Role and Position in Industry Strategy [SMM Aluminum Conference]** **Presentation Topic:** Planning and Development of the Aluminum Industry in Lezhi County **Guest Speaker:** Luo Yu, Member of the Standing Committee of the Lezhi County Committee and Deputy County Governor, Sichuan Province **Presentation Topic:** Exploring Growth Opportunities in the Challenging International Aluminum Market **Guest Speaker:** Inga Simonenko, Head of Marketing and Low-Carbon Solutions, RUSAL **Presentation Topic:** Technology and Data-Driven, Trade and Finance Integration: Empowering the New Ecosystem of the Aluminum Industry **Guest Speaker:** Dong Chen, Co-founder of SMM, Chairman & General Manager of SMM Metal Trading Center Co., Ltd. Changes in internal and external environments have drawn high-level attention to the management and trade circulation of bulk commodities. Advances in technology and data applications are reshaping the trade circulation models of bulk commodities. **Shanghai: Eight Key Periods in the New Ecosystem of Bulk Commodities** The SMM Trading Center connects these periods, effectively serving the industry chain. It serves every link in the industry chain. **"Ten Years of Hard Work": Steadily Building a New Spot Platform** **Business Data** **Our Mission** **Functions and Mission:** 1. **Facilitating Transactions:** Introducing a large number of high-quality traders nationwide to the non-ferrous metals industry, matching transactions, and promoting deals. 2. **Ensuring Transaction Security:** Building a highly secure trading platform and payment channels to fully guarantee transaction security. 3. **Reducing Costs and Increasing Efficiency:** Leveraging the extensive coverage and rapid dissemination of the internet to enhance transaction efficiency and reduce costs. 4. **Price Discovery:** Transaction data aids in price discovery and is incorporated into SMM's pricing. 5. **Providing Financial Services:** Recommending high-quality customers, identifying premium assets, and facilitating the flow of financial resources into the real industry chain. **Technology and Data-Driven, Trade and Finance Integration: Empowering the New Ecosystem of the Aluminum Industry [SMM Aluminum Conference]** **Roundtable Discussion: Analysis of Factors Influencing Aluminum Prices in 2025 and Market Forecast for H2** **Moderator:** Wang Yanchen, Managing Director of SMM London Office **Panelists:** Inga Simonenko, Head of Marketing and Low-Carbon Solutions, RUSAL Liang Yingzhang, Head of Asia Metals & Mining Sustainability, BloombergNEF Panthea Geramishoar, CEO, Societe des Bauxites de Dabola-Tougue Liu Xiaolei, Big Data Director, SMM **Click to View Discussion Details** **Presentation Topic: Europe's First Low-Carbon Primary Aluminum Greenfield Project in 30 Years** **Guest Speaker:** Torbjörn Sternsjö, CEO, Arctial He stated that Arctial will conduct a feasibility study on low-carbon aluminum production in 2025. The company's starting point is the attractive market conditions for establishing a greenfield aluminum business in Europe. The working approach is partnership-driven, enabling expertise and the best available technology. The study scope includes technical and financial feasibility assessments, as well as evaluations of economic, social, and environmental impacts. **Industrial Partnerships:** Collaborations with leading industrial, energy, and climate technology companies, including Rio Tinto, Mitsubishi Corporation, Fortum, ABB, Siemens, Tesi, and Vargas. The final investment decision is expected to be made in 2026-2027. The new smelter will be located in Kokkola, Finland, leveraging the region's large industrial zone, transportation and infrastructure, and industrial culture and metallurgical traditions. The smelter will have an annual capacity of 550,000 mt of low-carbon primary aluminum, utilizing Rio Tinto's AP60 reduction technology, and is planned to commence operations in 2029. **Arctial Plans to Advance Europe's First Low-Carbon Primary Aluminum Project in 30 Years in Finland [SMM Aluminum Conference]** **Roundtable Discussion: Building a Global Green Aluminum Ecosystem (ESG Aluminum Pricing, CBAM)** **Moderator:** Liu Xiaolei, Big Data Director, SMM **Panelists:** Torbjörn Sternsjö, CEO, Arctial Dong Chunming, General Manager of Shangqing Times Metals, Founder of Shangmagnesium.com, and Advisor to the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative Ron Knapp, Advisor to the Chairman's Office, China Hongqiao Group Wu Linlin, Manager of Environment, Statistics, and Standards, International Aluminium Institute (IAI) **Click to View Discussion Details** **Roundtable Discussion: Challenges and Opportunities in High-Performance Aluminum Alloys—Applications in New Energy, Aerospace, and Marine Fields Amid the Lightweighting Trend** **Moderator:** Pan Baowen, General Manager, Guangdong GoldEx Light Alloy Co., Ltd. **Panelists:** Cheng Shuai, Chairman, CSMET Group Huang Yuanchun, Second-Level Professor and Doctoral Supervisor, Central South University Cui Zaimin, Advisor, Zhongyi Fengjinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. Zhou Wenbiao, Deputy Director, Weiqiao (Suzhou) Lightweight Research Institute Co., Ltd. Zhong Jinguo, Special Researcher, Shanghai Civil-Military Integration Development Research Association **Click to View Discussion Details** **Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainable Development Forum** **Presentation Topic: Implementation of Global Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainability Standards and Progress in Building a Sustainable Aluminum Value Chain** **Guest Speaker:** Guo Qi, Assurance Manager, Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) **"SMM Responsible Metal" Release & Strategic Signing Ceremony** **Speakers:** Logan Lu, CEO, SMM Yue Qingsong, General Manager of Risk Management Solutions Center and Energy & Low-Carbon Business Unit, SGS China Lu Weihao, Sales and Marketing General Manager, Press Metal International Ltd. Lei Liquan, Vice Chairman, Kingboard Copper Foil Holdings Limited Wang Lijiao, Deputy General Manager, Henan Mingtai Aluminum Co., Ltd. Inga Simonenko, Head of Marketing and Low-Carbon Solutions, RUSAL Ning Degang, Managing Director, Yunnan Aluminium Co., Ltd. Dong Chunming, General Manager of Shangqing Times Metals, Founder of Shangmagnesium.com, and Advisor to the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative Driven by global energy transition and carbon neutrality goals, building a transparent, stable, and sustainable metal supply chain system has become a strategic imperative for the entire industry. On April 17, at the AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Conference and Aluminum Industry Expo—Aluminum Industry Chain Sustainable Development Forum, co-hosted by SMM Information & Technology Co., Ltd., SMM Metal Trading Center, and Shandong Aice Information Technology Co., Ltd., and co-organized by Zhongyi Fengjinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. and Lezhi County Qianrun Investment Service Co., Ltd., SMM and the internationally authoritative certification body SGS reached a historic cooperation, jointly launching the world's first "SMM Responsible Metal Framework." **Presentation Topic: Automotive Industry Sustainability and Related Requirements for the Aluminum Supply Chain** **Guest Speaker:** Tao Zhiyuan, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager, NIO **Presentation Topic: Press Metal International's Recycled Aluminum Brand CYCAL Roadshow** **Guest Speaker:** Luo Weijie, Marketing Manager, Press Metal International Ltd. **Presentation Topic: Impact and Opportunities of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and Due Diligence Act on the Aluminum Supply Chain** **Guest Speaker:** Yue Qingsong, General Manager of Risk Management Solutions Center and Energy & Low-Carbon Business Unit, SGS China **Presentation Topic: Interpretation of National Standards for Carbon Footprint Accounting in Primary Aluminum Production** **Guest Speaker:** Zhang Shuchao, Executive Deputy Director of the National Light Metal Quality Inspection and Testing Center and Chief Engineer of Analysis and Testing, Chalco **Relevant Background—Domestic Actions** Carbon Footprint: Selective, Alternative; Carbon Trading; Energy Use Rights; Emission Rights. **Relevant Background—Domestic Emissions** 2024: Primary Energy Consumption: 5.97 billion tce (2.62 CO2/t); Coal: 4.85 billion mt, including 110 million mt imported; Crude Oil: 750 million mt, including 536 million mt imported; Natural Gas: 430 billion m3, including 180.7 billion m3 imported; Cement Production: 1.825 billion mt; Steel Production: 1.005 billion mt; Non-Ferrous Metals Industry: Emissions Account for ~7%; Primary Aluminum: 44.005 million mt; Copper: 13.64 million mt; Magnesium: 937,000 mt; Silicon Metal: 4.975 million mt; Non-CO2 Emissions: 1.1 billion mt; Total Emissions: ? **Standard Content** **Standard Content—Relevant Basis** ISO 14064-1:2018: Specification and Guidance for Quantification and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Removals at the Organizational Level ISO 14064-2:2019: Specification and Guidance for Quantification and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Removals at the Project Level ISO 14064-3:2019: Specification and Guidance for Validation and Verification of Greenhouse Gas Statements ISO 14065:2020: Requirements for Greenhouse Gas Validation and Verification Bodies ISO 14067:2018: Greenhouse Gases—Product Carbon Footprint—Quantification Requirements and Guidelines ISO 14068-1:2023: Greenhouse Gas Management and Related Activities—Carbon Neutrality GB/T 32154 Series: Aluminum Industry: GB/T 32151.4-2024: Greenhouse Gas Emission Accounting and Reporting Requirements—Part 4: Aluminum Smelting Enterprises GB/T 24068-2024: Greenhouse Gases—Product Carbon Footprint—Quantification Requirements and Guidelines "Guidelines for Verification of Enterprise Greenhouse Gas Emission Reports (Trial)" GB/T 44905-2024 "Greenhouse Gases—Product Carbon Footprint—Quantification Methods and Requirements for Primary Aluminum" **ISO 14064:** Standards designed for carbon management at the organizational level, focusing on helping enterprises quantify, report, and verify greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Its goal is to help organizations establish a systematic carbon management framework, support the implementation of emission reduction projects, and ensure the reliability of carbon emission data.►ISO 14067: Focuses on the carbon footprint assessment of a single product, helping enterprises quantify carbon emissions at each stage of the product life cycle (from raw material procurement to use and disposal). The core of this standard is the "Product Carbon Footprint Label," which provides enterprises with a transparent and precise tool to showcase the environmental friendliness of their products.

Standard Content—Carbon Footprint

It elaborates from the perspectives of general products (intermediate products) and end-use products.

Standard Content—Aluminum Electrolysis Process

Interpretation of the National Standard for Aluminum Carbon Footprint Accounting [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]

Roundtable Discussion: ESG Construction and Sustainability Requirements for the Aluminum Supply Chain

Moderator: Yanting Yi, Vice President of SMM

Guest Speakers: Jianguo Wang, Raw Material Project Manager at Decathlon China

Yeshan Wu, Product Management Manager for Automotive Business in Asia at Novelis

Jiong Gu, Vice President—Supply Chain & Sustainability in Asia at Gränges

Yuanqiang Song, Sustainability Manager at Geely Automobile Research Institute (Ningbo) Co., Ltd.

Click to View Interview Details

April 18

Global Secondary Aluminum Industry Development Forum

Speech Topic: Innovative International Cooperation in the New Era—Jointly Promoting High-Quality Development of the Global Secondary Aluminum Industry

Guest Speaker: Wei Liu, Vice President of the Secondary Metals Branch of the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association

Speech Topic: Risk Prevention and Control Strategies for Imported Secondary Aluminum Raw Materials as Solid Waste

Guest Speaker: Bingyan Zhou, Senior Engineer at the Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences

Roundtable Discussion: Market Business Models and Overseas Investment Opportunities in the Global Secondary Aluminum Industry

Moderator: Xiaolei Liu, Big Data Director at SMM

Guest Speakers: Ting Liu, Deputy General Manager at Win-Win Metal Industry Co., Ltd.

Mingqiao Lin, Deputy Sales Director at Da Zheng Metal (Holdings) Co., Ltd.

Xingyao Wang, CEO at GLD Alloys (M) Sdn. Bhd.

Click to View Interview Details

Speech Topic: ADC12 Futures—Investment Opportunities and Risks

Guest Speaker: Rong Wang, Assistant Director and Chief Researcher at Guotai Junan Futures Research Institute

Speech Topic: Interpretation of Mexico's Secondary Metal Export Policies

Guest Speaker: Wenceslao Manzano Hernandez, President at Dimexa Holdings Pte. Ltd.

Speech Topic: 2025 China Secondary Aluminum Market Analysis and Price Assessment Methodology

Guest Speaker: Limin Zhang, Senior Analyst for Secondary Aluminum at SMM

1. Overview of the Aluminum Scrap Industry Chain

Overview of the Aluminum Scrap Industry Chain

Supply Side—Old Scrap Has Experienced Explosive Growth in Recent Years

►SMM Analysis:

• The factors influencing old aluminum scrap are numerous. Currently, the recycling of old aluminum scrap mainly comes from social scrap collected over an average of 10-20 years, involving fields such as construction, transportation, power, packaging, and durable goods. Among these, construction and transportation dominate. In recent years, as more aluminum scrap gradually enters the recycling cycle and policies like "trade-in" are introduced, old scrap has entered a phase of explosive growth.

• New aluminum scrap mainly comes from off-cuts and defective products generated during the electrolytic aluminum and downstream rolling and casting processes. Additionally, some scrap from end-use industries during usage is also high-quality aluminum scrap. This portion of scrap is primarily influenced by the current year's aluminum consumption.

Supply Side—Imports of Raw Materials Have Increased Year by Year

Since the implementation of the new standard in 2020, as traders have adapted to the new standard, aluminum scrap imports have rebounded year by year.

►SMM Analysis:

• In 2018, other aluminum scrap (760200090) was adjusted to the "Catalog of Restricted Imports of Solid Waste Usable as Raw Materials." From July 1, 2019, the import of aluminum scrap was completely banned.

• In 2020, secondary cast aluminum alloy raw materials that comply with the "Secondary Cast Aluminum Alloy Raw Materials" (GB/T 38472-2019) standard are not considered solid waste and can be freely imported.

• On October 24, 2024, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the General Administration of Customs, and four other departments issued the "Announcement on Regulating the Import Management of Secondary Copper and Copper Alloy Raw Materials, Secondary Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy Raw Materials." Secondary copper and aluminum raw materials that meet the requirements of the annex are not considered solid waste and can be freely imported. The announcement took effect on November 15, 2024. According to customs data, total imports in 2024 were 1.785 million mt, up 1.65% YoY.

• In January-February 2025, aluminum scrap imports were 323,000 mt, up 12% YoY. Driven by relaxed policies and increased demand, imports are expected to show a mild growth trend for the year, but the growth rate may be constrained by international market competition and the inversion of domestic and overseas price spreads.

Supply Side—Aluminum Scrap Import Policies Have Shifted from Regulation to Optimization

►SMM Analysis: The "Announcement on Regulating the Import Management of Secondary Copper and Copper Alloy Raw Materials, Secondary Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy Raw Materials" has removed obstacles to the import of secondary aluminum raw materials in China, providing a policy basis for legal and compliant imports. SMM expects that aluminum scrap imports in 2025 may show restorative growth. However, as domestic old and new aluminum scrap production increases, the domestic aluminum scrap supply will play a significant role, reducing reliance on overseas aluminum scrap. In addition to the increase in domestic aluminum scrap supply, overseas secondary aluminum processing capacity has also shown growth in recent years, with overseas aluminum scrap resources entering a period of high demand growth. Some overseas aluminum scrap resources are being consumed locally, and the opportunity for them to enter China is expected to decline.

Demand Side—Secondary Aluminum Alloy Demand Slows, While Plate/Sheet and Extrusion Materials Become New Engines

►SMM Analysis:

Domestic downstream demand for aluminum scrap mainly includes the production of secondary aluminum alloys, the manufacture of remelting billets for extruded aluminum profiles, and the addition of some aluminum scrap in the aluminum plate/sheet and strip industry.

In recent years, the capacity expansion in the domestic secondary aluminum industry has been significant, and aluminum scrap supply has been tight. According to SMM data, domestic secondary aluminum demand in 2024 was approximately 12.79 million mt, with an expected compound annual growth rate of 13% from 2020 to 2025.

The growth rate of aluminum scrap consumption for secondary aluminum alloy ingots has slowed, while the demand for secondary wrought alloys has increased year by year, continuing to boost the overall demand growth rate of the aluminum scrap industry. According to SMM data, in 2024, the consumption of aluminum scrap in the domestic secondary aluminum alloy industry accounted for 59% of total consumption, down 17 percentage points from 2019, while the consumption of aluminum scrap for remelting billets accounted for about 24%, up 6 percentage points from 2019, and the consumption of secondary plate/sheet increased significantly by 11 percentage points.

Policy Empowers Green Development, China's Secondary Aluminum Industry Enters a Golden Development Period

Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan, the development of China's secondary aluminum industry has entered a policy golden period, with relevant policies being intensively introduced. The national low-carbon process has accelerated, promoting the carbon peak in the nonferrous metals industry and accelerating the development of the secondary aluminum industry, while also injecting new momentum into the green and sustainable development of the aluminum industry.

It also reviewed some secondary aluminum industry promotion policies from 2021 to 2025.

2. Current Status of the Secondary Aluminum Alloy Market

The Concentration of Secondary Aluminum Alloy Industry Capacity Continues to Increase

Enterprises are mainly concentrated in east China, south China, and south-west China.

Supply Pressure Rises, Growth Rate of New Secondary Aluminum Alloy Capacity Slows

►SMM Analysis:

According to SMM statistics, in 2024, there were 28 planned and newly built secondary cast aluminum alloy projects in China, involving a capacity of 2.05 million mt. Among them, 16 projects were actually put into production, with new capacity of 1.32 million mt, and the total existing capacity in the industry reached 17.62 million mt.

In terms of the distribution of new capacity, Anhui, Sichuan, and Yunnan ranked in the top three. Anhui, due to its active development of the NEV industry, has attracted many OEMs and parts companies, leading to the establishment of new secondary aluminum plants and potentially shifting the production center in east China from Jiangsu and Zhejiang to Anhui.

Q1 2025 Sees a Surge in New Secondary Aluminum Projects, but Actual Volume is Limited

►SMM Analysis:

In Q1 2025, domestic new secondary aluminum capacity totaled 2.66 million mt, including approximately 560,000 mt of new secondary cast aluminum alloy capacity and 1.7 million mt of new secondary wrought aluminum alloy capacity, with secondary wrought aluminum products being favored. Compared to the same period last year, the number of new projects has increased, but most are in the environmental assessment or new construction phase, with limited actual new capacity. As projects are gradually completed and put into production, the supply of the secondary aluminum market is expected to continue to increase significantly.

SMM: 2025 China Secondary Aluminum Market Analysis and Price Assessment Methodology [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference]

Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Forum

Speech Topic: Analysis of the Chinese Industrial Aluminum Extrusion Market

Guest Speaker: Kexin Yao, Senior Analyst for Aluminum Products at SMM

Supply and Demand Situation of Chinese Aluminum Extrusions

Chinese aluminum extrusions have shown rapid development over the past 10 years, with lightweight extrusions for NEVs and aluminum extrusions for PV having broad future prospects. In the future, the demand for construction extrusions will decline as the real estate growth rate slows, while the demand for industrial extrusions will increase, with aluminum used in PV, automotive, machinery equipment, and durable goods sectors increasing year by year.

►SMM Analysis:

Chinese aluminum extrusions have shown rapid development over the past 10 years, and Chinese aluminum extrusions are expected to rise slightly from 2024 to 2028.

By industry, construction extrusions will slightly decrease in the future. Since 2022, the real estate industry has experienced a downturn, with many domestic real estate companies facing credit contraction from multiple creditors, frequent project delays, and declining consumer confidence in home purchases, leading to a cliff-like drop in construction extrusion production. Under the macro policy regulation of the real estate industry in recent years, downstream demand will be relatively weak. Looking ahead, SMM expects that the production of construction extrusions will show a slight downward trend, decreasing from 10.96 million mt in 2023 to 8.69 million mt in 2028.
MT, with an average annual compound growth rate of -4.5%. The future development prospects of the PV industry are promising. After 2018, with the significant increase in aluminum usage in sectors such as automotive, PV, and rail transit, many outdated capacities actively transformed into industrial extrusions, revitalizing the aluminum extrusion industry with a "second spring". From 2023 to 2028, SMM expects the production of industrial extrusions to show a significant upward trend, increasing from 9.88 million mt to 15.91 million mt, with an average annual compound growth rate of 10%. China Aluminum Extrusion Demand Analysis The overall trend of downstream demand for aluminum extrusions in China is upward. In the future, the demand for construction extrusions will decline as the growth rate of the real estate sector slows down, while the demand for industrial extrusions will increase. The aluminum usage in sectors such as PV, automotive, machinery equipment, and durable goods in industrial extrusions will increase year by year. ►SMM Analysis: In terms of construction extrusions, dragged down by the real estate sector, the next two years will still be in a process of recovery and repair. The usage of construction extrusions may continue to decline in the future. Although many construction extrusion enterprises have expanded high-value-added orders related to system doors and windows, the overall proportion is relatively small. Although there is some prospect in the segmented market, it has limited impact on the overall demand for construction extrusions. In the future, although the construction extrusion industry will clear out, a large number of small enterprises will reduce or stop production, and new capacity investments will decrease. In terms of industrial extrusions, PV extrusions and transportation extrusions are the main demand areas, while ordinary industrial demand maintains slow growth. Since the proposal of China's "carbon peak and carbon neutrality" goals, the PV industry has also entered a policy environment of strong support and long-term friendliness. In the next few years, domestic and overseas PV demand will be robust. With the urgent need for environmental protection and energy conservation, internal combustion engine vehicles need to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions to improve efficiency; new energy electric vehicles need to reduce weight and power consumption to increase driving range and enhance competitiveness. Due to the advantages of high specific strength, high weight reduction rate, and excellent anti-corrosion performance, the usage of aluminum alloy extrusions in automobiles has been increasing year by year. The demand growth rate for ordinary industrial extrusions will slow down in the next few years. Ordinary industrial extrusion products are relatively scattered, involving various fields. Among them, high-end sectors such as aerospace and military have higher requirements for alloy raw materials and extrusion processes, with certain technical barriers. There are few domestic producers, and a small amount of demand still relies on imports, resulting in a tight supply and demand situation. New energy-related demand remains the main growth driver Transformation of China's Aluminum Extrusion Enterprises Dragged down by the real estate industry, some extrusion enterprises originally focused on building materials have attempted to transform into industrial extrusions, with PV extrusions becoming the first choice. Recently, due to the slowdown in PV growth, some enterprises have adopted new CNC and extrusion equipment and engaged with end-users to attempt another transformation towards other industrial extrusions. ►SMM Analysis: Considering the downturn in the construction industry, some extrusion manufacturers have started to transform towards industrial extrusions in recent years. Due to the low technical barriers in PV extrusion production, it has become the first choice for many manufacturers. With the slowdown in the PV industry, many extrusion enterprises are facing the challenge of transforming again towards other industrial extrusions, such as automotive, ESS, and military sectors. In terms of equipment, some transforming extrusion enterprises have added CNC machining centers and industrial extrusion machines; in terms of customers, extrusion manufacturers with transformation intentions have also established connections with automakers, but becoming a supplier to automakers requires a lengthy certification process, which takes a long time. A typical enterprise such as Huajian Aluminum has expanded into the automotive extrusion market while cooperating with wind power enterprises to produce wind power component casings and operation platforms. China Aluminum Extrusion Import and Export Analysis China is a net exporter of aluminum extrusions. The overall trend of China's aluminum extrusion exports is increasing, but it is slightly affected by overseas anti-dumping policies. In 2023, China's total aluminum extrusion exports were 916,000 mt, with Vietnam, the Philippines, Israel, Australia, and Malaysia as the main export countries. 》SMM: China's Aluminum Extrusions Will Slightly Increase in the Future, New Energy-Related Demand Remains the Main Growth Driver [SMM Aluminum Industry Conference] Presentation Topic: Market Development and Future Trends of PV Frames Guest Speaker: Wei Sun, Vice President of Yongzhen Green Energy Materials Research Institute (Changzhou) Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Aluminum Processing Empowers Three-Electric Products to Promote Technological Innovation Guest Speaker: Ruiping Man, Product Research and Planning Director of Liaoning Xiangyu Aluminum Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Development History and Application of High-Strength Aluminum Alloys in Consumer Electronics Guest Speaker: Xinwen Huang, Ph.D. in Metal Materials, Haifengbo Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Introduction to High-Performance Extruded Aluminum Passive Safety Components for New Energy Vehicles Guest Speaker: Hui Zhao, Ph.D., Guangdong Haomei New Materials Co., Ltd. Presentation Topic: Application of Aluminum Matrix Composites in the Aerospace Field Guest Speaker: Lin Geng, Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Presentation Topic: Material Engineering Applications of Light Alloys in Rail Transit Vehicles Guest Speaker: Huaqiang Lin, Senior Principal Researcher, Materials Research Office, National High-Speed EMU Integration Engineering Center, CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co., Ltd. Corporate Visits Zhongyifeng Jinyi (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd. 》View Visit Details Suzhou Chuangtai Alloy Materials Co., Ltd. 》View Visit Details Highlights 》Click to View More Exciting Moments Hereby, AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Aluminum Industry Expo Concludes Successfully! See You Next Year! Thank You for Your Attention and Support to This Summit~ 》AICE 2025 SMM (20th) Aluminum Industry Conference and Aluminum Industry Expo Special Report

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