Alcoa and VSMPO-AVISMA Corp. signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate in the design and production of innovative light-alloy die forgings and extrusions for the commercial transportation market.

Alcoa and VSMPO-AVISMA Corp. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cooperate in the design and production of innovative light-alloy die forgings and extrusions for the commercial transportation market, including solutions for lightweight railcar production. One result of the MoU may be the development of wide (up to 27.5 inches) and long (up to 85 feet) extrusions made of advanced aluminum alloys designed for passenger and freight cars, including next-generation high-speed rail for the Russian market. These aluminum products will increase the energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of railcars through light-weighting.

Alcoa and VSMPO-AVISMA will form working teams to coordinate the execution of projects resulting from this MoU, which does not signal the establishment of a joint venture, partnership or any other formal business entity between the parties. According to Alcoa, the collaboration will allow the companies to leverage their existing product portfolios and research in a mutually beneficial manner.