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Public Relations Aktuelles Archiv Archiv 2010 Large Investment in Research Infrastructure
Public Relations Aktuelles Archiv Archiv 2010 Large Investment in Research Infrastructure | Large Investment in Research Infrastructure |
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With the introduction of a state-of-the-art converter facility, the Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy at the Montanuniversitaet Leoben takes an important step towards the development of new recycling processes on a grander laboratory scale. This investment once more emphasizes the intensive cooperation the Montanuniversitaet has with industry on a national as well as international level. The new ‘TBRC (Top Blown Rotary Converter)’ is an innovative, and above all, a very adaptable aggregate which is gaining more and more importance particularly in the field of metal recycling. Typical operational areas are the copper and lead industry as well as the production of precious metals. The analysis of the different metalliferous rest materials in terms of their usability requires the application of such facilities in order to put the results and knowledge gained into industry practise. The converter (TBRC) is located at the Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy, and is unique in its flexibility as well as its size and allows extensive research in the area of the recycling of metalliferous rest materials. Research co-operations up 1.6 to 1.8 million euros yearly During a festive ceremony, the new experimental facility was officially inaugurated and put into operation. In his greeting words, Prof. Helmut Antrekowitsch stressed the importance of the continuous development and expansion of infrastructure. "The Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy alone receives between 1.6 and 1.8 million euros yearly from research co-operations with the industry, about 250,000 euros of these profits are immediately reinvested in new test facilities“, Antrekowitsch said. Besides the industry, the constant support by the rectorate is the most important base for the excellent development of the Chair of Nonferrous Metallurgy as one of the organisation units who generates most of the third-party funding at the Montanuniversitaet Leoben, Antrekowitsch further explained. Finances and location The significance of the continuous expansion of the R&D activities was also emphasized by Vice Rector Hubert Biedermann and the mayor of the city of Leoben, Matthias Konrad. "In times of declining financial support by the government, these so-called third-party funds are an essential component of the university budget“, Biedermann said. The mayor further referred to the enormous significance of the Montanuniversitaet for the city of Leoben as an attractive location for business and science. Further information: Univ. Prof. Helmut Antrekowitsch Tel.: +43 3842 402 5200 E-Mail: helmut.antrekowitsch@unileoben.ac.at  (from left to right) Vice Rector Hubert Biedermann, Univ.Prof. Helmut Antrekowitsch, Leoben's mayor Dr. Matthias Konrad in front of the new converter facility |