An In-Depth Analysis of Automotive Aluminum Recycling in the Year 2010

The use of aluminum in automotive applications is growing. The 1991 calendar year automobiles used over 190 pounds per vehicle. The growth for aluminum applications is expected to be significant over the next ten years. Expected changes in end use and alloy mix pose challenges to the recycling system. These challenges need consideration by both the automotive and aluminum industries. This paper discusses these challenges and presents detailed analysis of the weight and chemistry aspects of automotive aluminum recycling. It also demonstrates a feasible and efficient recycling system in which post-consumer scrap is consumed in new production.