Lost amidst time. Kokerei Hansa stands as a powerful reminder of Dortmund’s industrial might. This architectural and industrial monument whispers stories of a bygone era. It is located in Dortmund-Huckarde.
Built between 1927 and 1928, Kokerei Hansa emerged as a large-scale coking plant. This was part of rationalization efforts. It replaced smaller, outdated coking plants. These plants belonged to the Hansa, Westhausen, and Germania mines in Dortmund’s northwest.
At its peak, Kokerei Hansa employed up to 1100 people. It was a central hub of activity. The plant produced approximately 5400 tons of coke daily. This came from 7000 tons of coal mixture. The coke primarily served the Union and later Phoenix steelworks.
Raw gas, a byproduct of coke production, underwent purification. A portion of this gas was directed to the Union and Phoenix steelworks. In return, the steelworks provided blast furnace gas to the coking plant. This exchange happened through prominent pipelines, about 2 meters in diameter.
The remaining coke oven gas was compressed. It was purified using a high-pressure process. Then it was fed into the Ruhrgas AG’s long-distance gas network.
Kokerei Hansa ceased operations on December 15, 1992. Production had already stopped in two batteries in 1986. The newer Kaiserstuhl coking plant replaced its capacities.
Since 1995, the Kokerei Hansa monument has been under the care of the Industrial Heritage Preservation and Historical Culture Foundation. Most parts of the plant gained protected status in 1998. Kokerei Hansa is a listed building. It is part of the Route of Industrial Heritage.
Today you can explore the grounds. Knowledgeable guides, often former employees, lead tours. They offer insights into the plant’s history and technology.
The historic compressor hall stands out. It houses five DEMAG gas piston compressors. The hall now hosts art exhibitions. The former gas freezer plant is now home to ButterRaum and SchwarzGold. These establishments combine industrial history with modern design. They offer regional specialties.
Kokerei Hansa is more than just a monument. It is a vibrant space. It blends history, culture, and nature. The site hosts concerts, exhibitions, and major events. The unique industrial setting creates a special ambiance.
The Hansa coking plant is a landmark. It showcases the Ruhr area’s industrial transformation. Kokerei Hansa is a testament to the past. It is a venue for the future.