| Cover Page Cover Page | Jan. 14, 2020 |
| Cover Page [Abstract] | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000811596 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 14, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | KAISER ALUMINUM CORPORATION |
| City Area Code | 949 |
| Local Phone Number | 614-1740 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-09447 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-3030279 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 27422 Portola Parkway, |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 200 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Foothill Ranch, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92610-2831 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Trading Symbol | KALU |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
