Basic precious and other non-ferrous metal manufacturing services

cpc code 88602, 'Basic precious and other non-ferrous metal manufacturing services', encompasses a critical industry that plays a vital role in the broader economy. This industry is responsible for the production and processing of a wide range of precious and non-ferrous metals, including gold, silver, platinum, and various alloys. These materials are essential for a diverse array of applications, from jewelry and electronics to industrial and medical equipment, making this industry a cornerstone of modern economic development.

The primary production techniques used in this industry involve a combination of smelting, refining, and casting processes. Smelting is the initial step, where raw ores are heated to high temperatures to extract the pure metal. Refining then follows, where the extracted metals are further purified and processed to meet specific quality and purity standards. Finally, the refined metals are cast into various shapes and forms, such as ingots, bars, or sheets, ready for use in downstream industries.

The key inputs required for this industry include a steady supply of precious and non-ferrous metal ores, as well as specialized equipment and machinery for the smelting, refining, and casting processes. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce, with expertise in metallurgy, engineering, and production management, to ensure the efficient and high-quality manufacturing of these critical materials.

The primary outputs of this industry are the various forms of precious and non-ferrous metals, such as 88101 Gold, 88102 Silver, 88103 Platinum, and a range of non-ferrous alloys. These outputs are then consumed by a wide array of industries, including 87101 Jewelry and related articles, 84201 Electronic components, and 86301 Medical and dental instruments and supplies.