Brown fused alumina
Chinese export prices for brown fused alumina (BFA) have risen consistently in 2011 so far, indicating rising global demand for abrasive materials.
Traders told IM that Chinese BFA prices are increasing by as much as $10/tonne for prices (0-25mm lumps), with prices for F8-220 grit FOB in the range $750-800/tonne.
Coming as another signal of the improved market conditions for abrasives globally, imports of fused alumina into the USA increased by 165% in 2010 according to latest statistics released by the US Geological Survey (USGS).
Non-metallurgical alumina prices are also likely to be affected by a new series of price indices, including Metal Bulletin’s Alumina Index.
As a consultant told IM, if the index approach is adopted by more companies, the alumina spot price is expected to continue climbing - potentially leading to a situation where smelter grade alumina is more expensive than non-met alumina....