How its made

Established in 1958 by Pieter Paul Van Achter, Falk Culinair is now a third-generation family operated company located in Wespelaar Belgium. In 1985 Pieter’s son, Paul Van Achter, brought his expertise in industrial engineering to bear on the manufacturing. He developed and patented the technology that permanently bonds a 0.2 mm layer of austenitic stainless steel to a 2.3 mm layer of solid red copper. This bimetal process is technically known as “intercrystallisation” and was a major milestone in copper cookware development.  The Falk bimetal innovation combines the thermal conductivity of copper with the durable, functional qualities of austenitic stainless steel making it the perfect material for kitchen cookware.

Today, the same personal attention to hand–crafted detail that put them on the culinary map then, is successfully combined with modern technology. Collaboration with both manufacturing experts and professional chefs produces the most efficient cookware possible. With ergonomic handles, a flared edge, and a satin finish these cooking vessels provide incomparable durability and ease of use.

The process, of course, starts with the copper.  The bimetal is sourced and formed according to Falk’s specifications.  It is then shipped from Germany to our factory in flat sheets.  

The sheets are cut into circular blanks according to the size of vessel being made.  These blanks are deep drawn on presses with custom made dies that set the size and shape of the pan.  The deep drawing process is carefully controlled to ensure the integrity of the bimetal and to provide a smooth, defect free surface inside and out.

Falk pioneered the rounded, whisk-friendly bottom corner of the saucier pan.  Of course, many sizes and shapes are available for every type of cooking.  The vessels are then trimmed to reveal the flared lip. This provides easy, drip-free pouring. 

The finish on Falk pans is not the high gloss finish found on many copper pans. Discovering long ago that traditionally finished copper presents high maintenance to the busy chef, Falk resolved this issue by satinating both the copper and stainless steel. This produces cookware that glows with the beauty of solid copper but requires no special cleaning compounds to restore the original radiance of the copper. For busy cooks who appreciate the beauty as well as the excellent thermal attributes of copper, this low maintenance surface is a real bonus.

The handles for both our Classic and Signature pans are sand cast in Germany. We machine and finish them in our plant.  

They are then securely riveted to the vessels

Falk’s commitment to provide products that stand up to the epicurean demands of the 21st century is evident in every superbly finished piece. The traditional values and practices that have made Falk Culinair successful are as important today as they were when the first copper piece was forged. Tradition and technology comprise the core of Falk Culinair’s philosophy. Technology which has revolutionized the industry combined with time honored attention to detail. True craftsmanship is still the order of the day, with human touch as the final confirmation of quality assurance.

Falk’s pride is represented in the heirloom quality of each and every glowing piece. Solid copper cookware crafted for durability and beauty. Enduring beauty that will not only stand the test of time, but also the demands of a modern kitchen and frequent use.

Today the company is run by Jan Van Achter, the third generation of a family committed to excellence. Falk Culinair still inspects each piece by hand and eye to ensure quality. Jan affirms that, “The challenge of the new generation is to continue to manufacture the finest handcrafted cookware in the world.”

In 2016 the Falk factory was featured on Discovery Channel's How do they do it? (Season 12 Episode 14)  We've clipped it down so you can have a detailed trip through the making of our elegant wares.  Enjoy the 5 minute show!