The main aluminium producers are China, Russia and the USA, and its major consumers are also the USA, China and Europe. The main deposits of bauxite ore are located in Australia, Brazil, Guinea, China, India and Jamaica.
Aluminium is suitable for application in a number of industries, and thanks to its properties, its usage continues to expand and extend.
Transport industry
Aluminium is used in: cars, light trucks, truck trailers, trains, aircraft, ships, yachts and ferryboats.
Main advantages of aluminium relevant to the transport industry:
- lightweight material,
- durability,
- resistance to corrosion,higher fuel efficiency,
- fewer emissions due to low material weight.
Construction industry
Products in which aluminium is applied: windows, frames, door jambs. roofing and wall panels, structural frames and window blinds.
Main advantages of aluminium relevant to the construction industry:
- lightweight material,
- durability,
- resistance to corrosion,
- reflection of light and heat radiation,
- attractive appearance.
Packaging industry
The largest production volume is that for food and beverage packaging, followed by the production of foils for household use.
Main advantages of aluminium relevant to the packaging industry:
- light weight reduces transport costs,
- non-toxic,
- recyclability,
- excellent surface for the printing of graphics.
Electrical industry
Aluminium is used in electric conductors in electrical engineering.
Main advantages of aluminium relevant to the electrical industry:
- lightweight material,
- resistance to corrosion,
- high conductivity,
- recyclability.
Key data:
- Annual consumption of aluminium in Europe: 8 million tons.
- Annual production in Europe: 4.1 million tons.
- Annual recycling of waste aluminium in Europe: 3.7 million tons.
- Annual import of aluminium in Europe: 2.5 million tons.
- Per capita consumption of aluminium in Europe: more than 24 kilograms (2005).
- Global growth of aluminium consumption: more than 5 percent a year.