The Museum of Industry in the East Flemish city of Ghent has a new exhibition entitled "Ferro non Ferro". Products made from metal are things that we see, touch and in many cases use every day.
The exhibition comprises many remarkable items and scores of interesting and extraordinary stories about raw materials, metal workers and companies involved in the metal industry. Those that wish to can even try their hand at working in the metal workshop.
The title "Ferro non Ferro" refers to metals that may or may not contain iron. The Museum of Industry chose also chose this name as it is befitting of an exhibition that tackles a heavy-weight theme in a light-hearted way. The objects and machinery on display come not only from the museum's collection, but also from 40 other Belgian collections.
In the picture above, for example, you can see a metal mold for the iconic Coca-Cola bottle. Volvo Ghent's first welding robot and some three-tonne weights have also been hoisted into the museum.
There are also plenty of fascinating facts, images and stories, about raw materials, about metal workers and the precision work there do and lots more. The museum was enlisted the help of on numerous companies that are currently active in the metal industry, including steel giant ArcelorMittal that has a factory in Ghent.
For those who prefer to do something with their hands, there are also the metal workshops. "From bending to tapping or measuring, there is a lot to be learned," the Museum of Industry’s Ann Van Nieuwenhuyse told VRT News. She added that "Every Sunday morning, enthusiastic craftsmen will also be at work. They will set the metalworking machines in motion and talk about their careers in the metal industry."