REEL International, based in France, acquired two businesses serving the primary aluminum industry, including Metso Outotec’s worldwide aluminum business and GE Steam Power’s aluminum air quality control systems (AQCS) technology portfolio.
REEL has been operating in the aluminum business sector for the past 20 years, serving every major aluminum producer in the world. These two transactions continue REEL International’s expansion in the aluminum industry. The company already operates four businesses complementary to the acquired business’ aluminum activities, including NKM Noell Special Cranes, REEL Alesa, REEL COH, and REEL Möller.
Anode and Casthouse
Metso Outotec’s aluminum business serves aluminum smelters globally, and has a leading position in the production of anodes required in the aluminum smelting process. The business is primarily based in Germany, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, with additional presence in China, India and Australia.
With the acquisition of this business, REEL will be able to manufacturer green anode plant, anode rodshop, and casting equipment, and other related services to its portfolio and expand its international presence.
“REEL International is an excellent new home for our aluminum technologies and experts,” noted Jari Ålgars, president, Metal Business Area, Metso Outotec Oyj. “I am confident that the addition of Metso Outotec’s aluminum expertise to REEL’s leading offering will benefit aluminum producers globally in the form of new innovations, solutions, and services.”
According to REEL, the transaction enables it to strengthen its offering of primary aluminum technologies and improve how it serves customers. “We will now focus on integrating the teams and forming a new strategy to leverage the best of both parties for the benefit of our customers,” said Cedric Schmuck, division director, Aluminium, REEL International. “I see great potential for us to play a role in the improvement of environmental footprint and reduction of emissions of the global aluminum industry.”
Air Quality Control
GE Steam Power is a technology leader in emission control technologies, serving primary aluminum smelters. By acquiring the aluminum AQCS technology portfolio and related business acquired from GE Steam Power in Norway, REEL is able to expand its product range to include technologies developed under the ownerships of FLAKT, ABB and ALSTOM Environment.
The transaction includes a technology portfolio with numerous references and long-lasting customer relationships, as well as intellectual property composed mostly of patents, know-how, and tools for new units and services. Among the technologies acquired are potline gas treatment centers (GTCs) and bake oven fume treatment centres (FTCs), including the implementation of specific heat exchangers and compact GTC/FTC design.