Unwrought aluminium

cpc code 41431 covers the industry of unwrought aluminium production. Aluminium is a lightweight, durable, and highly versatile metal that is essential for a wide range of industries, from construction and transportation to packaging and electronics. As a key component in the global supply chain, the unwrought aluminium industry plays a crucial role in supporting economic growth and development worldwide.

The production of unwrought aluminium typically involves the electrolytic reduction of alumina (aluminium oxide) in a process known as the Hall-Héroult process. This process involves the use of a molten cryolite bath, where the alumina is dissolved and then reduced to pure aluminium metal through the application of an electric current. The resulting molten aluminium is then cast into ingots, billets, or other shapes for further processing or distribution.

The main inputs required for the unwrought aluminium industry include bauxite, the primary raw material for alumina production, as well as electricity, which is a significant energy source for the electrolytic reduction process. Additionally, the industry relies on specialized equipment and machinery, such as electrolytic cells, casting furnaces, and rolling mills, to efficiently transform the raw materials into the desired aluminium products.

The primary output of the unwrought aluminium industry is, of course, aluminium metal in various forms, such as ingots, billets, and slabs. These outputs are then consumed by a wide range of downstream industries, including 41432 Aluminium bars, rods and profiles, 41433 Aluminium plates, sheets and strip, and 41434 Aluminium foil, among others. The versatility of aluminium makes it a crucial material for industries like construction, transportation, packaging, and electronics.