Industry Day is celebrated on May 25, a tribute to one of the foundations of the Brazilian economy. In this scenario, the aluminum industry stands out for its versatility and relevance for the development of an entire production chain that generates thousands of jobs in Brazil alone. This metal is present in everyone's daily life, as it is used in several segments, such as civil construction, the automotive industry, health and energy. Hydro has a vertical aluminum chain and its assets are integrated, adding value from bauxite mining to the production of finished aluminum products. According to data from the Brazilian Aluminum Association (Abal), aluminum moved BRL 83 billion in 2019.

“Aluminum is the metal of the present and the future. Its versatility allows the development of applications for all segments. We are proud to be part of an industry so important to society. Hydro is an industrial leader that builds business and partnerships for a more sustainable future. We develop industries that make a difference for people and society ”, says Carlos Neves, Hydro's Bauxite & Alumina Operations Director.

As a fully integrated aluminum company in Brazil, from mining to refining and delivering customized solutions for the market, Hydro has a clear vision of its responsibility to fulfill its commitment to be a "good neighbor" and contribute to the development of surrounding communities. The company generates about 15 thousand direct and indirect jobs for Pará. Hydro also contributes by developing local suppliers. The more qualified they are, they are able to develop new businesses, generating more wealth and jobs in the state.

Aluminum applications in several segments
Because it is a durable metal, very resistant to weather and corrosion and environmentally friendly, aluminum is stamped in civil construction. It is extremely malleable, which makes it a material chosen for the construction of fixed structures, such as buildings and houses, but also temporary, such as field hospitals. When combined with other materials it provides thermal insulation, or provides greater natural lighting, reducing energy consumption.

Aluminum foils are great allies in the pharmaceutical market. They are used to make blisters - those pill packs that we are used to. Aluminum is chosen because its characteristics prevent oxidation and guarantee impermeability, in addition to resistance to corrosion, factors that maintain the active principle of medicines. Aluminum compounds are also used in vaccines to make them more efficient.

Sustainable and efficient
Aluminum can be recycled infinitely, which makes it the most sustainable metal for society. Due to its characteristics, it is widely used in the electric sector, in transmission lines, underground and overhead. It is the only metal to offer the union between good electrical conduction and light mechanical resistance. With this there is a greater capacity for energy transmission without loss of its physical properties. These same characteristics of aluminum also make it a perfect material for the manufacture of telecommunication cables.

Due to its high heat conduction, aluminum is a great ally in energy savings in the preparation of hot and cold foods. Aluminum containers resist temperature variations, from freezing to the extreme temperatures used for cooking. Combined with other materials, aluminum is also an excellent insulator, due to its barrier function, since it prevents the entry of microorganisms, air and light, helping to preserve food, increasing its useful life.