Rusal starts producing raw material for catalysts and VOGA fire retardants at Achinsk Alumina Refinery

Rusal, the world’s second-largest aluminium producer by primary output, has reportedly developed and inaugurated the production of raw materials for catalysts at the Achinsk Alumina Refinery (RUSAL Achinsk), besides the production of VOGA fire retardants.

The project has involved an investment of more than RUB 800 million, taking the site's capacity to 5,000 tonnes per year. It has also created 50 additional jobs.

Rusal Engineering and Technology Centre (Rusal ETC) specialists have invented a unique technology that enables the production of powder products for various purposes on the same equipment. The technology passed all necessary tests and proved claimed specifications, resulting in environmentally friendly production.

The construction of RUSAL Achinsk was completed in two years. It reached its design capacity in 2022.

VOGA fire retardant is a white powder with a particle size of about 2 microns. Due to its physical and chemical properties, it emits moisture when heated and extinguishes fire, suppressing the emission of toxic smoke. Its application is wide, such as producing non-flammable cable insulation for general purposes, making paint products, and in shipbuilding, aviation and automotive industries.

Catalysts from the new aluminium hydrate are used in the petrochemical and oil refining industries. It is a necessary element used to produce artificial rubber for car tires. Earlier, Rusal would not produce these products but only imported from Europe.

The global consumption of aluminium hydrate and VOGA is growing 4-5 per cent in a year, exceeding 800,000 tonnes per annum at present. The production of VOGA and catalysts at Rusal will help the company supply the products to Russian consumers and compete in the international market.