Nalco banks on long-term raw material security for alumina, aluminium ops

Coal mining to take off in 2020, Pottangi bauxite mine to go on stream in 2023

State run producer National Aluminium Company (Nalco) is betting on long-term raw material security to extend the longevity of its alumina refining and aluminium smelting operations.

Nalco aims to put on stream its second bauxite mining lease of Pottangi in 2023. This captive mine will feed its fifth stream of alumina refinery at Damanjodi currently under expansion. The Pottangi mining lease along with the Panchpatmalli mines having balance deposits of around 160 million tonnes (mt) would offer ample bauxite to ensure the refinery operations for the next 25 to 30 years. Aside from bauxite, Nalco aims to begin mining from