Because temperatures during iron and steel production can reach 1700 °C, the refractory lining of several plant systems (blast furnaces, converters, ladles, etc.) must be able to withstand the harshest of conditions. High-tech refractory materials with extreme strength and high heat resistance are used by voestalpine to provide high levels of stability during the wear-intensive production of iron and steel. The refractory material purchased worldwide by voestalpine Meka-Tec includes finished products such as rock and bulk materials and other refractories used in magnesite bricks that are produced in the company-owned brick-making plant. All materials that withstand temperatures of at least 1000 °C for long periods of time are classified as refractory materials.