However, despite the proven harmful effects of this substance, the regulatory process is proceeding at different speeds, influenced by the availability of alternatives that are considered technically and economically viable. The result? A patchwork of different deadlines and transition periods that, while aiming to phase out lead gradually and definitively, risk unnecessarily prolonging the transition, when it should be faster and more decisive.
EUROPE IS BANishing LEAd: A CRITICAL MOMENT FOR THE ALUMINIUM INDUSTRY
In this context, Eural Gnutti – a world leader in the production of drawn bars in aluminium alloys for machining and one of the major suppliers of extruded bars and profiles – is setting the countdown to zero and accelerating the transition with solutions that are already lead-free today and comply with the regulations under development. This approach not only shortens adaptation times, but also positions the company favourably with respect to upcoming regulatory challenges.
Specifically, Directive 2000/53/EC (ELV) focuses on the automotive sector and prohibits the use of lead in end-of-life vehicles, except for some critical components for which certain exemptions have been granted. These have been extended but are being phased out, with an expected expiry date of the end of 2027. The REACH regulation, which regulates the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals, classifies lead as a substance of very high concern and high toxicity above 0.1% (SVHC list). It requires notification and authorisation procedures and imposes stricter restrictions on the use and trade of lead in metal alloys. Further assessments are currently being carried out for a definitive ban in certain sectors. The RoHS Directive, on the other hand, restricts the use of lead in electrical and electronic equipment and only provides for exemptions for specific applications. Specifically, the amendments to Annex III of Directive 2011/65/EU concern exemptions for the use of lead as an alloying element in aluminium with progressive expiry dates. However, the exemption for lead-containing aluminium alloys for machining will expire at the end of 2026.
‘Our LEAD-FREE alloys fit perfectly into a regulatory framework that aims to limit the lead content in alloys, as lead is considered an eco-toxic element,’ explains Giorgio Di Betta, Sales Director of Eural Gnutti. ‘This was confirmed by the European Commission's Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/197 of 19 October 2023, which was published on 5 January 2024. This regulation introduced significant changes to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 with regard to the harmonised classification and labelling of certain environmentally toxic substances, including lead.’ He continues: ‘Since the 1990s, Eural Gnutti has invested heavily in research and development in anticipation of and in support of this epochal change – a decisive step for the sustainable future of the industry.’ In conclusion, he emphasises: ‘At the same time, we consider it essential that competitiveness in the international market is guaranteed under fair conditions for all market participants. It is our wish that appropriate measures be taken to ensure a uniform level of compliance and to avoid inequalities with non-EU countries that continue to market products that do not comply with the applicable regulations.’
RETHINKING MACHINABILITY: WHY LEAD-FREE ALLOYS ARE THE FUTURE
Although the use of lead in industry is steadily declining, it has historically played a key role in both ferrous and non-ferrous alloys to optimise machinability. Through its specific distribution within the alloy, lead improves chip formation and reduces friction between the metal and the tool. However, Eural Gnutti's forward-thinking strategy has proven that it is possible to develop new, lead-free alloys that are both technically and economically viable and offer the same high-performance characteristics. This innovation ensures outstanding machinability and increases the productivity of machine tools by enabling shorter cycle times – with positive effects on production costs and the quality of the finished components.
In detail, the LEAD FREE project marked a significant step forward for the company, leading to the development of three state-of-the-art alloys, some of which are made from recycled aluminium. The first, 6026LF, paved the way for this new generation of materials. It was followed by alloy 2033, which was specially developed as a replacement for highly machinable alloys in the 2000 series, and the latest and most innovative variant, 2077.
EURAL's alloy 6026LF LEAD FREE represented a milestone in the industry, combining excellent mechanical properties with exceptional chip formation, while offering high machinability and versatility. It is particularly appreciated in the automotive industry, especially in braking systems and applications that require high strength and excellent surface quality – even after hard anodising. In addition, the chemical composition of the alloy is suitable for contact with food, as proven by numerous scientific studies.
EURAL's 2033 LEAD FREE alloy has been developed to offer excellent performance when machined on high-speed automatic lathes, in particular by forming extremely fine chips. Thanks to its superior mechanical properties and its ability to withstand higher pressures than 2011, 2033 is particularly suitable for applications in highly specialised industries, including the automotive, electrical and electronics industries, the stamping sector and the manufacture of screws, bolts and threaded parts – even with low wall thicknesses. Optimum machinability and fast production times are essential here.
Finally, EURAL's 2077 LEAD FREE is an innovation in the field of high-strength alloys, as it is the only one that ensures both high mechanical properties and excellent chip formation. Combining high strength with exceptional machinability, 2077 offers itself as an alternative to certain steel grades and cast irons. Chip formation, comparable to 2011 and 2033 alloys, enables extremely high productivity levels, tighter tolerances, improved surface roughness and longer tool life – an ideal alloy for the most demanding applications.
‘Implementing the principles of the circular economy is an integral part of Eural Gnutti's strategy, which positions itself as a green transition enabler – with the ability to accelerate the transition to a more responsible industry. Our LEAD-FREE alloys are part of a broader plan that combines technological excellence with reducing environmental impact and using resources efficiently,’ explains Paola Gnutti, President of Eural Gnutti, adding: ’In this sense, aluminium recycling is central to this vision and shows that innovation, sustainability and competitiveness can go hand in hand – without compromise.’
Eural Gnutti – www.eural.com
Eural Gnutti was founded in Rovato in 1968 and specialises in the production of semi-finished aluminium alloys. The company is a world leader in the production of drawn rods and one of the largest European manufacturers of extruded rods and profiles.
Its rods are widely used in the mechanical engineering industry and in the automotive, aerospace, medical technology, electrical engineering, electronics and defence sectors. The profiles – which are provided with specific heat treatments – are used in particular in the automotive, pneumatic, actuator technology and hydraulic industries, as well as for the production of heat sinks.
With a total area of 355,000 m², of which 70,000 m² is covered, spread across the two production sites of Pontevico and Rovato, Eural Gnutti employs 416 people. In 2023, the company generated a turnover of 310 million euros – a figure that is continuously growing, thanks in part to its strategic direct presence in the USA and Germany through its wholly-owned subsidiaries Eural USA Inc. and Eural Deutschland GmbH.
Source: lbdi.it
