Shapes

Quenching is the process of rapidly cooling down aluminium profiles in order to keep as much solution in the solution as possible. But did you know that water and air quenching can lead to very different strength, shape, and cost outcomes for your design?

In the middle of Oslo you’ll find VIA Vika – a golden marble highlighted by its enhanced window façades developed by WICONA, made using recycled aluminium. VIA Vika is the first building in all northern and eastern Europe equipped with a closed cavity façade, resulting in lower maintenance, and excellent heat- and sound isolation. In addition, the constant flushing of the cavity with dry air creates an almost clean room environment - preventing any visible condensation, humidity or soiling. The project has a scope of over 2000 façade units in the total construction. Architects: SHL - Schmidt Hammer Lassen Photos: Andrius Gudelis

Did you know that lightweighting can be worth up to €12 per kilogram saved? A lighter EV means better handling, faster acceleration, and improved crash performance, all while cutting costs for both manufacturers and drivers. Read the full story by Stig Tjotta, Vice President of Technology Development in Norsk Hydro 👇

Trikåfabriken in Stockholm blends traditional brickwork with modern metals and glass to create an elegant and functional design. The combination of a glass façade and thin aluminium profiles by WICONA makes one of the floors appear almost as "floating" in the air. The architects at Tengbom created a structure that harmonizes old and new materials without compromising design. 📸Felix Gerlach

Discover the story behind the Billet Chair by John Tree, showcased as part of the 100R exhibition at Milan Design Week and London Design Festival this year. Full story in comments.

Did you know that cement manufacturing is responsible for 5-8% of global emissions? Discover how the research project DARE2C is using aluminium to tackle the construction industry’s mind-boggling CO2 emissions. Read the full story by Grete Hjetland, Project Manager & Chief Engineer in Norsk Hydro 👇

Anodizing: an electrochemical process which converts the surface of the metal into a long-lasting, high performance aluminium oxide finish.

Interested in learning the secret to excellent aluminium machining? From understanding alloys to chip breakage, Freddy Leijon, Product Developer at Gränges Europe shares his quick guide on the machinability of aluminium. Read the full story 👇

Automotive excellence requires exceptional materials. S-grade aluminium alloys are designed to meet the highest OEM requirements across the board. With more than 75 percent recycled content, S-grade alloys are capable of delivering superior energy absorption, design flexibility and cost efficiency. Read the full story by Alexis Skubich, Innovation & Technology Director in Norsk Hydro 👇

Electric vehicles (EVs) tend to use more aluminium than traditional fossil fuel-powered cars. Could this be the key to fixing the EV's bad reputation? Read the full story written by Piotr Chmielewski 👇