• R. Grill, W. Simader
  Plansee Metall GmbH, Reutte
• W.C. Feuring, B. Spaniol
  W.C. Heraeus GmbH, Materials Technology Dept., Hanau

Sheet material made of high-purity Niobium (Nb-RRR) is the key component for future linear accelerators based on the superconducting radio-frequency technology. To be prepared for large production scale quantities, which are demanded for the upcoming projects like XFEL and ILC respectively, W.C. Heraeus (D) and Plansee SE (A) joined there competencies in the field of Nb-RRR. In 2007 the qualification procedure as material supplier for the XFEL project could be successfully finished and a complete product and technology package for products made of Nb-RRR was established. Based on the combination of the high expertise and long-term experience in electron beam melting of different Nb-RRR qualities; the knowledge and availability of various processing technologies for manufacturing of semi-finished and ready to assemble components; and the unique analytical capabilities for advanced quality control along the process chain customized product solutions can be realized for the accelerator industry. Beside a general overview about the production capabilities a strategy for installation of a Quality-Assurance-Management system for large production scale quantities are presented.