Saint-Gobain Glass has officially commenced the cold repair phase of its patterned glass manufacturing furnace located in Barevka, Czech Republic.
This scheduled halt in operations marks the beginning of a transformative revamping process aimed at integrating a state-of-the-art furnace design that promises significant advancements in sustainability by slashing direct CO2 emissions by an impressive 75 percent.
In 2023, Saint-Gobain Glass joined forces with AGCin a collaborative development project designed to revolutionize flat glass manufacturing. By leveraging their respective complementary technologies, the two companies are working towards the creation of a technologically advanced hybrid furnace. This innovative system will serve as a benchmark for the future of glass production, being powered 50 percent by electricity and the remaining 50 percent using a sophisticated mixture of oxygen and gas.
Currently, the Barevka facility is undergoing extensive modifications to accommodate this cutting-edge technology. Most preliminary studies and procurement processes have reached completion, and the project team is diligently orchestrating the efforts of various professionals on-site to facilitate the construction of the new furnace. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the transition to the new system is as seamless as possible.
As the revamping progresses, preparations for the production start-up are already underway. The commissioning phase includes a comprehensive plan for testing all equipment and process components to guarantee a successful launch of the new furnace. Furthermore, the production team is receiving thorough training to equip them with the necessary skills to operate this groundbreaking industrial tool effectively.
Anticipated to begin operations in early 2025, this endeavor is part of the “Volta” project, which is generously supported by the Innovation Fund of the European Union. Through such initiatives, Saint-Gobain is not only aiming to enhance its production capabilities but also contributing significantly toward a more sustainable future in the glass manufacturing industry. The commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining high-performance standards exemplifies the forward-thinking approach that defines modern industrial practices.
Source: Saint-Gobain Glass with additional information added by GlassBalkan
