Imperial Smelting Process (ISP) is a technology for simultaneous tapping of Zinc and Lead in a single unit called the shaft furnace. A competing method for producing Zinc is the Zinc electrolysis. The ISP process is based on lower priced raw materials which are not suitable for electrolyses. The basic fuel used in the process is blast furnace coke.
At present, HCM S.A. is the only smelter in Europe using the ISP technology for metal production. Is it more advantageous in today’s world than the electrolytic process operated by competitors? How will it influence the future of the company?

HCM S.A. is a manufacturer of excellent quality Special High Grade Zinc (SHG) and also GOB Zinc with a small addition of Lead. Major homes for these metals include the construction and automotive industries. HCM S.A. plays an important role in Zinc manufacturing and its competition in Poland does not pose any threat to its position – there is only one other producer supplying the same products. Is it then correct to believe that the Polish industry would be bound for collapse without HCM S.A.?

Lead salts and oxides are poisons accumulating within human organisms. Then why is Lead produced and what is it used for?
Lead is necessary in numerous industries. It has applications in ammunition manufacturing, medicine, roentgen radiation proof screens. The major consumers of Lead are battery manufacturers.
Where does this controversial metal come from?

Silver is recovered from Zinc and Lead bearing raw materials rich in this element. Its uses are mainly the jewellery but also photography and electronics, where Silver is known for its high electric conductivity.
Dla Huty srebro jest szczególnie ważne, ponieważ choć zakład skupia się głównie na produkcji cynku i ołowiu, z uwagi na wysokie ceny metali szlachetnych, generuje ono w ciągu roku znaczne przychody dla Spółki.

Everything around us influences our life. The environment should be clean and free from pollution. Concern for the environment should be a common objective for all of those who use it.
What measures have been taken by HCM S.A. to proud itself as a friend to the environment? How much time will the nature need to “forgive” the harm caused by the plant operations?