Speira have announced that they are investing around 6.4 million euros in a new "transparent" melting furnace. The unit, known internally as “Furnace 6”, replaces the oldest model in the plant, which dates back to the 1970s.

With a melting capacity of 60 tons per batch, the new furnace enables an increase in aluminium production of 7,500 tons per year. The use of an electromagnetic stirrer and burner technology has improved energy efficiency by 15 percent and significantly reduced CO2 emissions.

“This new furnace is of great importance to us. It increases the performance and output of the foundry in Hamburg and helps us to optimise the metal flows and recycling options at Speira,” explains Alexander Dörsel, Head of the Specialties business unit at Speira.

The oven is the company's first fully “transparent” oven. Sensor and camera technology provide real-time insights into all furnace processes.