Aluminum is rightly characterized as the “green” metal, satisfying both technological and ecological requirements. Aluminum recycling contributes to sustainable development and environmental protection through energy saving and limiting the waste of raw materials. The preservation of the value of the metal, along with the infinite recycling ability of aluminum, are extremely attractive features that enhance the ecological profile of aluminum. The fact that the metal retains the same quality after recycling is emphasized today. An effort is being made – through information – to prevail the term aluminum utilization instead of aluminum consumption, so that the public becomes familiar with the concepts of collection – separation and recycling.
Recycling aluminum is the most important means for energy saving and reducing emissions. Specifically, recycling aluminum saves 95% of the energy needed for its production from raw materials. The primary production of 1 kilogram of aluminum, through the electrolysis of alumina from bauxite, requires 14 KWH of energy, while recycling the same amount from scrap requires only 5% of the energy of the electrolysis method. At the same time, recycling 1 ton of aluminum leads to savings:
- 4 tons of bauxite
- 500 kilos of soda
- 100 kilos of limestone
- 700 kilos of oil
- 25 kilos of cryolite
- 35 kilograms of aluminum fluoride.
At METECO we have been contributing to the recycling of aluminum since 1977, contributing to the protection of the environment and the development of the local economy. We have invested significantly in systems and technologies for the collection, temporary storage and processing of aluminum for its proper preparation for the casting stage and its return to the market stream as secondary raw materials for the metal industry.
