EGA Leichtmetall Recycling Expansion Signals a Bigger Bet on European Secondary Aluminium

EGA, Recycling Plant

EGA Leichtmetall recycling expansion will lift the Hanover site into a new scale tier. The project will multiply capacity and deepen access to post-consumer aluminium scrap. EGA Leichtmetall recycling expansion also reflects a strategic shift toward recycling-led growth. Therefore, EGA positions itself closer to end markets and circular supply chains.

The Hanover facility currently melts and casts about 30,000 tonnes per year. The new plan adds 110,000 tonnes per year of scrap sorting capacity. It also adds 153,000 tonnes per year of melting and casting capacity. As a result, the plant can upgrade feedstock flexibility and expand secondary aluminium output.

X-ray and laser sorting targets higher-quality recycled aluminium

Advanced scrap sorting matters when recyclers chase tighter chemistry limits. X-ray and laser systems can separate alloys with higher precision. However, post-consumer aluminium scrap arrives with mixed grades and contaminants. Therefore, better sorting protects metal yields and finished product consistency.

The expansion aims to produce high-quality aluminium from post-consumer streams. That capability can support automotive, packaging, and general engineering customers. Meanwhile, EU policy pressure continues to favor recycled content and lower embedded carbon. As a result, premium secondary metal can win share over primary in selected applications.

EGA’s global recycling footprint expands alongside US growth plans

This move fits EGA’s acquisitive strategy in foreign markets. EGA acquired Leichtmetall last year as an entry point into European recycling. Meanwhile, EGA also increased its exposure to US secondary aluminium after buying into Spectro Alloys. Therefore, EGA can balance regional scrap markets and customer demand cycles.

EGA has already announced expansions at Spectro Alloys to lift total capacity above 200,000 tonnes per year. The group also signaled long-term interest in US primary capacity and broader upstream options. However, recycling assets deliver faster carbon and market proximity benefits. As a result, projects like Hanover can become the core growth engine through 2028.

The Metalnomist Commentary

EGA is building a two-speed aluminium strategy that pairs scale with circularity. However, execution will hinge on scrap sourcing and product qualification with demanding customers. The winners will be the recyclers who convert mixed scrap into consistent alloys at industrial scale.