After pyrometallurgical smeltering followed by an electrolytic refining process, the copper is ready for further use in its purest form, as a so-called cathode.

These cathodes, having a copper content of over 99.99 %, are first melted down in a carefully monitored process and then cast continuously as an endless bar. Depending on the requirements, alloying elements are added to adjust the desired chemical composition. Once it has reached the desired length, the shape is cut off by a flying saw and moves on to the inspection and quality assurance process.

Our production facilities are specially designed to allow us to produce continuous cast shapes weighing up to 30 t each, which maximises the efficiency of the subsequent processing steps carried out by our customers.

Each of the shapes manufactured undergoes intensive testing by an independent department. All the relevant parameters of the production process are monitored with the help of computers, documented and used for the detailed assessment of the products’ quality.  

Independently of this, smelting samples are taken and sample sections are cut from the shapes, which are then used for destructive testing: properties such as electrical conductivity, surface, quality of the microstructure, tensile strength, chemical composition and recrystallisation behaviour are determined and compared with fixed target values.  

Beyond this, the cast surface is carefully inspected from all sides. Only if the shape meets the defined criteria in every respect is it released for dispatch. Our integrated QM system is certified in accordance with DIN ISO 9001 ff and is being further optimised all the time.