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Summary of significant accounting policies Summary of significant accounting policies (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Glencore beneficial ownership 41.80%us-gaap_MinorityInterestOwnershipPercentageByNoncontrollingOwners  
Glencore economic ownership 46.50%cenx_EconomicOwnershipPercentageByRelatedParty  
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable $ 1,000us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivable $ 734us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivable