Dr. Rolf Degel, Johannes Joubert, Timm Lux, Dr. Andreas Filzwieser, Dipl.-Ing. Stefan Wallner
Non-ferrous metals move the world. All modern industrial sectors will not exist without the presence of
these valuable materials. Non-ferrous metals are essential for the functionality of any modern articles of
the daily use such as smart phones, tablets and computers. During the past years almost all metal prices
are under pressure and therefore competitive solutions are becoming most important to keep the market
position stable. Such situations also bear opportunities for companies in the non-ferrous metals business.
SMS and Mettop founded a joint venture – PolyMet Solutions GmbH – which serve producers in the
non-ferrous metals industry with the target to develop new innovative and especially profitable solutions
for the metals producing industry [1]. It mainly includes the primary pyrometallurgical process route,
where metals are processed out of ore/concentrates. Under the secondary route mainly metals out of
secondary metal sources are processed. With the Joint Venture between Mettop and SMS engineer
complete process routes including the overall design of refractory concepts in 3D, refractory supply,
engineering, equipment supply and commissioning of the plant starting from the raw materials and
smelting metallurgy, through shaping and up to the finishing. The SMS group is specialized in executing
challenging projects whereas Mettop supplies innovative components such as a new safe cooling
system (ILTEC Technology), new electrolysis and intelligent vessel cooling concepts.
When required by our customers, SMS can also offer support in project financing. With this set up,
a large variety of services and supplies starting from small feasibility studies up to complete turnkey
solutions for sub-units as well as for green field and brown field plants can be offered and executed.