Aurubis Lünen Launches High-Purity Oxygen Plant in North Rhine-Westphalia

Key highlights
  • Aurubis invested €40 million in a new air separation unit at its Lünen site.
  • The unit produces nearly 100% pure oxygen and nitrogen for metallurgical processes.
  • On-site production cuts 3,000 truck runs and reduces CO2 emissions by 8,500 t annually.
  • Messer collaborated with Aurubis on planning and building the unit.

Investment and Collaboration

Aurubis AG has commissioned a new air separation unit (ASU) at its Lünen recycling site, investing around €40 million. The project was developed in collaboration with Messer, a specialist in industrial gases.

Production Efficiency

The ASU enhances production efficiency by generating nearly 100% pure oxygen and nitrogen on-site. These gases are crucial for various metallurgical processes, including copper production furnaces and filter systems.

Environmental Impact

On-site gas production eliminates the need for regular liquid oxygen deliveries, reducing truck runs by up to 3,000 annually. This change helps prevent up to 8,500 tons of CO2 emissions each year.

Strategic Importance

The Lünen site, already a key player in Europe's multimetal recycling network, gains additional strength with this development. The ASU supports the site's role in the circular economy and ensures a secure supply of strategic metals for industry in Germany and Europe.

Source: Aurubis

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