Norsk reduces Alunorte capacity on pipeline maintenance

19th August 2020 By: Mariaan Webb - Creamer Media Senior Deputy Editor Online

Production at the Alunorte alumina refinery will be reduced to between 35% and 45% of its capacity, while aluminium producer Norsk Hydro completes maintenance work on a pipeline that transports bauxite to the refinery.

Maintenance had to be brought forward after sections of the pipeline from the Paragominas bauxite mine deteriorated faster than expected. Hydro initially scheduled the replacement of two sections of the pipeline for the third and fourth quarter.

Production at the Paragominas mine would been halted for two months.

To balance bauxite inventories, Alunorte’s capacity would be reduced. This would have an impact on the financial results for the third quarter, Norway-based Hydro said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Hydro is taking all necessary measures to mitigate any customer impact.”