Spectro Alloys, a secondary aluminum foundry based in Rosemount, Minnesota, has successfully completed the construction of a major 90,000-square-foot expansion. The $71 million project, which broke ground in March 2024, is designed to meet the growing demand for recycled aluminum products, particularly aluminum billet used in extrusions. The expanded facility is expected to boost Spectro Alloys’ recycling capacity by nearly 120 million pounds annually.

Expansion to Meet Demand for Sustainable Aluminum

The new addition enables Spectro Alloys to produce aluminum billet from postconsumer scrap, a critical raw material for manufacturers involved in a variety of industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction. Aluminum billet is used in the production of products like railings, window and door trim, as well as structural components for cars, boats, airplanes, and trailers.

Luke Palen, President of Spectro Alloys, highlighted the importance of this expansion, noting that it will significantly improve recycling rates in Minnesota and meet the growing demand for sustainable materials. The project was driven by consumer interest in sustainable products, the need for green building standards, and the economic benefits of using recycled aluminum.

Job Creation and Environmental Impact

The completion of phase one of the expansion will create approximately 50 new jobs in the region. The new facility is poised to enhance Spectro Alloys’ environmental performance and further contribute to the circular economy, an increasingly important sector in global manufacturing. The ramp-up to full production is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026.

The project was designed and built by Opus, an integrated real estate development, design, and construction company headquartered in Minneapolis. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the partnership, praising the quality of work and the ability to meet tight deadlines, ensuring the project was delivered on time and within budget.