The StrikoMelter super-power helping Albert Weber on its journey to “Emission Zero”.
ALBERT WEBER manufactures complex components for the global automotive industry. It’s also on a mission to only produce castings for emission-free applications, in a climate-neutral environment, by 2040. So having a melting furnace with “the power of eternal youth when it comes to energy efficiency” is a massive help. Read on to find out more!
Twenty years of trusted melting performance.
WEBER RODING produces over 2 million aluminum components for the automotive industry every year. These castings require dimensional accuracy as well as excellent mechanical properties. Something you only get with high quality melt – a task it has entrusted to StrikoMelter for over 20 years.
“Our StrikoMelter has always delivered great results, helping us keep quality high and energy consumption low for over two decades”, said Johannes BAUER, Head of Maintenance and Processing at WEBER RODING.“ But after this amount of time, you inevitably need to think about replacement or so, we assumed. Now we know there are exceptions to the rule!”
Equipment modernization: why replace when you can rejuvenate!
StrikoWestofen’ s team of expert engineers conducted a thorough on-site inspection, analyzing StrikoMelter’ s performance against current and future production needs. Rather than having to replace their furnace, the team at Roding were delighted to learn that they could keep their faithful companion, and according to the implemented modernization options achieve ‘good as new’ performance and dramatic energy savings.
“The StrikoWestofen team confirmed we should expect to see energy consumption drop by at least 10%, giving us a clear KPI for the upgrade work”, said Johannes. “We agreed to the recommendations made, and Striko’ s team set to work. It was that simple.”
Upgrade Options: Sustainable Melting Solutions
The StrikoMelter was upgraded for greater sustainability and efficiency. Its refractory lining was replaced, and special steel plates were added to the furnace shaft to prevent damage—extending refractory life by up to 30%. A laser scanner now optimizes charging cycles based on fill levels, improving energy efficiency.
A hot gas baffle with automated closure was also installed to retain heat and reduce energy loss, especially during cleaning and free melting.
Proven Performance, Impressive SavingsAfter modernization, the StrikoMelter exceeded all KPIs, achieving a 15% reduction in energy consumption.
Johannes shared: “Avoiding equipment replacement saves time, resources, and supports our carbon-neutral goals. The upgraded StrikoMelter delivers lasting energy efficiency, quality, and uptime—like a furnace with eternal youth. We’re thrilled with the results.”
