Successful test: hydrogen in aluminium production

Norway's Hydro Group says it has produced the world's first batch of recycled aluminium using hydrogen on an industrial scale. The successful test at Hydro's extrusion plant in Navarra, Spain, is an important step towards carbon-free aluminium production.

The test was carried out in collaboration with the French group Fives, which contributed to safe and effective operation by designing and supplying key components and controls.

We are excited to be conducting this test and it demonstrates Hydro’s commitment to decarbonization. By removing the carbon emissions from the energy source, we will be able to produce carbon-free aluminium from recycling post-consumer scrap.

Paul Warton, Executive Vice President for Hydro Extrusions

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Analysis of the test results

The test provides new insights into the fuel switch from natural gas to hydrogen and its impact on metal quality. Hydrogen does not behave like natural gas and burns at a different temperature. The test will investigate how these differences affect the aluminium smelting process and quality. The results may also be relevant for the use of hydrogen in primary aluminium foundries and in other high-temperature processes such as the production of glass or cement.

Hydro and Fives are currently analysing the test results, with a final report expected in the autumn. Hydro intends to continue building hydrogen fuel conversion capacity to become the leading industrial green hydrogen conversion solutions provider.

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