
Solving Corrosion at Tomago Aluminium
Who are Tomago:
Tomago Aluminium, Australia’s largest aluminium smelter, has been operating 24/7 since 1983, producing 590,000 tonnes of aluminium annually (37% of Australia’s primary aluminium output.) A joint venture between Rio Tinto, CSR, and Hydro Aluminium, Tomago contributes $2.2 billion to the Australian economy each year, with $800 million spent locally.
With over 1,000 staff and 200 contractors, Tomago plays a crucial role in the regional economy, while also ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its workforce.
As a leader in the production of aluminium, an increasingly sustainable and versatile material, Tomago helps meet global demand across industries like automotive, aerospace, and construction.

The Challenge: Battling Corrosion in a Demanding Environment
Operating in an environment where heat and humidity are constant companions, Tomago Aluminium faced a significant challenge: corrosion. The combination of high temperatures and moisture levels created an ideal breeding ground for corrosion, threatening the integrity of their equipment and infrastructure.
This not only posed risks to operational efficiency but also had potential safety implications. Addressing this issue was critical to maintaining their production standards and ensuring the longevity of their facilities.
The Solution: Customised, Corrosion-Resistant Ventilation
Airocle stepped up to the challenge by customising the 4 Series vents to fit Tomago’s existing frame. This meant they didn’t have to replace every vent, just the ones that were beyond repair.
We even developed a special colour, now known as “Tomago Blue,” and added an advanced protective layer to help slow down corrosion from the chemicals.
The best part? We didn’t just deliver the solution, we made sure Tomago’s team knew how to handle it. Our installation crew provided in-depth, hands-on training so their staff could confidently install and maintain the vents themselves.
Now, with a custom design built just for them and a trained team ready to go, Tomago is set for the long haul.

The Result: Enhanced Durability and Operational Efficiency
The implementation of the customised ventilation system led to significant improvements for Tomago Aluminium:
- Reduced Corrosion: The corrosion-resistant vents effectively mitigated the previously rampant corrosion issues, preserving the integrity of equipment and infrastructure.
- Improved Air Quality: Enhanced ventilation contributed to better air quality within the facility, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for the workforce.
- Operational Efficiency: With the reduction in corrosion-related downtimes and maintenance, Tomago Aluminium experienced smoother operations and increased productivity.
This collaboration not only resolved a critical challenge but also reinforced Tomago Aluminium’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency in their operations.
Facing Similar Challenges?
If your facility is grappling with issues like corrosion, poor air quality, or inefficient ventilation, Airocle is here to help. Contact us today to discover how our customised solutions can transform your operations and safeguard your infrastructure.