Messer and Aurubis launch advanced air separation plant in Lünen, boosting efficiency, supply security, and sustainable metal recycling operations.
Messer, a globally recognized leader in industrial, medical, electronic, and specialty gases, has partnered with Aurubis AG to successfully bring a new air gases production facility into operation. The plant is located at Aurubis’ recycling complex in Lünen, Germany, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to efficient and sustainable industrial operations. Aurubis is widely regarded as one of the leading global providers of non-ferrous metals and a major player in copper recycling.
The newly commissioned air separation unit (ASU) represents a significant technological advancement. Designed with modern engineering capabilities, the facility can generate up to 210 tons of oxygen and 16 tons of nitrogen per day. These gases play a critical role in the metallurgical processes carried out at the Lünen site. Oxygen is extensively used throughout copper production, including in key units such as smelting furnaces, converters, mixed tin furnaces, anode furnaces, and various auxiliary systems. Nitrogen, on the other hand, is essential for process stability, being utilized for purging operations and within filtration systems across the production chain.
Virginia Esly, Chief Operating Officer Europe at Messer Group, emphasized the strength of the long-standing collaboration between the two companies. She noted that their partnership has always been guided by shared priorities such as sustainability, supply reliability, and operational efficiency. By producing industrial gases directly at the point of use, Messer enhances production efficiency while helping Aurubis maintain a competitive edge. Esly also highlighted Messer’s strong European footprint, with operations spanning 25 countries and more than 100 plants, all dedicated to delivering innovative and efficient gas solutions to a wide range of industries.
From Aurubis’ perspective, the commissioning of the ASU is a strategic milestone. Inge Hofkens, COO Multimetal Recycling at Aurubis, described the plant as a vital component for ensuring the long-term viability of the Lünen recycling site. The facility not only strengthens supply security but also improves operational efficiency and contributes meaningfully to environmental protection efforts. The Lünen plant plays a central role in Aurubis’ global smelting network, enabling the recovery and supply of critical metals derived from recycled materials to various industries worldwide.
Industrial gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, and argon are indispensable to modern industry, much like electricity and water. They form the backbone of numerous industrial processes and are used across diverse sectors including metallurgy, chemicals, healthcare, food production, and electronics. In advanced industries such as semiconductors, these gases are essential for maintaining precision and quality in manufacturing.
The commissioning of this new facility underscores the growing importance of integrated, on-site gas production solutions in achieving sustainability, efficiency, and industrial resilience. It also highlights how strategic partnerships between companies like Messer and Aurubis can drive innovation while supporting the transition toward more environmentally responsible production systems.
