In the processing of metals, a substantial quantity of waste heat is generated, which comes from both the heat sources utilized for the phase change as well as exothermic reactions occurring during the process.

The reaction Zn + 1/2 O2 = ZnO -350 kJ / mol is an example, where the energy released is more than twice that required to evaporate Zn.

The proposed approach of waste heat recovery implies a technological decrease in waste output at key phases of the manufacturing process, in addition to energy savings.