THE Materials Processing Institute (MPI) has installed a piece of art to show its commitment to its social and ethical mission.

“Liquid Fire” was commissioned by the institute and created by Hartlepool-based artist Stuart Langley.

Having spent time at the institute and seen its furnace in action, Stuart created a piece of art which acknowledges the only steel furnace left on Teesside and augments the sense of magic associated with both neon and the on-site electric arc melting facilities. The work “Liquid Fire” refers to the pouring of molten alloy mixtures and is the term used to describe the spread of coloured light from early neon signs.

Chris McDonald, chief executive of MPI, said: “This commission is a demonstration of our commitment as a community here at the institute, to our local community.”