Norwegian aluminum producer Hydro has signed a letter of intent with Midwest Energy and Communications (MEC) to build a new secondary aluminum smelter in Cassopolis, Michigan.
According to the company’s statement on Jul 1, Hydro will set up a 120,000mt recycling unit focusing on producing secondary extrusion ingots for structural components for the automotive industry. Hydro says that this plan will entail an investment of around $120mn, subject to final design and market conditions.
The plant will produce the Hydro Circal extrusion ingot, made of 75pc secondary scrap such as old cast and old sheet aluminum. It is set to commence business in 2023 and employ around 70 workers directly. MEC’s Smart Park will host the facility and rail transport will be used to lower the plant’s energy footprint.