Alcoa invests R$9 million to upgrade Poços de Caldas plant with new compressors

Alcoa has announced plans to modernise its Poços de Caldas (MG) plant from August to December this year, focusing on enhancing operational excellence and energy efficiency. The investment will involve replacing two ageing Ingersoll-Rand compressors, which have been used since 1975, with five new, state-of-the-art Gardner models.

This upgrade will bring numerous benefits, including a daily reduction of 8,360 kWh in electricity consumption. It will also improve air quality by reducing humidity, extending equipment lifespan, and decreasing noise levels through cabin-mounted devices. Additionally, the project is expected to save approximately 240 m³ of water per day, cut R$25,000 annually in chemical product consumption, and lower health risks.

“The implementation of this project is an important milestone for Alcoa. The investment reinforces our commitment to responsible operations, as well as providing tangible benefits in efficiency, safety and cost reduction for our operations,” said Rodrigo Giannotti, Refinery and Bauxite Residue Area Manager at Alcoa Poços de Caldas.