One-stop for light metals R&D and training
Our team includes world leaders in their fields of expertise with substantial experience in aluminium and magnesium smelting, light metal alloys applications, alumina refining, major smelter site upgrades and continuous improvement initiatives. Because they encompass all relevant disciplines, the Centre's team can work on a wide range of technical issues aimed at solving business problems. The Centre specialises in the following areas:
Research and Consulting
- Aluminium smelting technology and operating standards - especially in cell control and design, energy efficiency and environmental technologies
- Management and continuous improvement systems
- Specialised fundamental research and development
- Surface science of light metals - especially for magnesium, titanium and aluminium
- Materials characterisation, performance and mechanistic studies
- Smart materials and prototyping
- Advanced process modelling, simulation and control systems
- High temperature process engineering
- Light alloy products manufacturing
- Technology transfer
The resources and equipment available at the Centre include furnaces up to 16000C and associated DC power to emulate reduction cells; monitoring equipment for potroom environmental analysis; thermal imaging; IR interferometer; specimen surface area analysis; XRF, XRD, ESEM, AFM, XPS etc.
In order to meet industry needs, LMRC is committed to increasing understanding of the basic science underpinning the sector's activities. The University of Auckland offers an accredited Postgraduate Certificate in Light Metals Reduction Technology. The Centre also provides customised industry training in order to address the fundamental science involved in industrial practice. We also host junior and senior visiting scientists and engineers who work alongside our team on specific projects.
LMRC, as part of Auckland UniServices, provides the linkage between government bodies, local light metals industries, and industry associations, all aiming to develop effective business strategies for exporting high value niche products to global markets. In 2005, the (LAM-NZ) was formed, with the LMRC taking a key role. LMRC is also a driving force behind the "Materials Accelerator" network - the core materials innovation network in New Zealand which aims to demonstrate “excellence in research application”.