Orbite starts construction of alumina plant in Quebec
26 June 2012Canada-based Orbite Aluminae Inc. has started construction for the conversion of its high-purity alumina (HPA) plant in Cap-Chat in the Gaspe region.
Since 2009, the Cap-Chat plant has been used as a pilot facility to develop the patented Orbite technology for the manufacturing of smelter grade alumina for aluminum plants. The pilot plant is undergoing conversion to a high-purity alumina production plant, with a capacity of three tonnes per day.
The conversion needs an investment of $26 to $30 million after refundable tax credits, which are subject to approval from government tax authorities. The patented technology developed by Orbite will not only enable smelter grade alumina to be produced without producing red mud, but will also lower overall greenhouse gas emissions and optimize the commercialization of all of the by-products generated through metallurgical extraction from aluminous clay deposits in Quebec.
The work will be completed before the end of 2012, with commercial production slated to begin in early 2013.
