Retech Systems LLC commissioned a new vacuum arc remelting (VAR) furnace at Areva Cezus of Ugine, France. The VAR furnace is able to triple melt ingots of titanium to 910 mm (35.8 inches) and ingots of zirconium and hafnium greater than 6 metric tons. The furnace was manufactured in Europe to EU standards by Poland’s SECO/WARWICK S.A., Retech’s strategic alliance partner. The furnace is equipped with a 37-KA reverse-polarity capability for special-grade materials requiring low melt rates, advanced PLC-based melt controls, axial X-Y correction and an ultrahigh-accuracy weigh system.

The commissioning of the VAR furnace highlights a partnership between Areva Cezus, Retech and SECO/WARWICK S.A. for the supply of premium-grade reactive materials. Areva Cezus specializes in vacuum arc melting and hot forging of zirconium, hafnium and titanium using sponge and recycled scrap. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Areva NP.