Flat glass industry – GlassBalkan

Glass Prices Stabilize Amidst Rising Metal Costs: A Look at the March PPI

GlassBalkan — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:47:11 +0000

The latest Producer Price Index (PPI) data released by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics offers a mixed bag of news for the construction and manufacturing sectors.

While glass and glass product manufacturing prices remained unchanged in March, bringing a halt to two consecutive months of price increases, the impact of newly implemented aluminum and steel tariffs is already being felt acutely in related industries.

The PPI, a crucial economic indicator measuring wholesale price changes, revealed a 2.7% year-over-year increase in glass and glass product manufacturing costs compared to March 2024. This represents a slight moderation from February’s 3.1% year-over-year comparison. The stability is certainly welcome news for the glass industry, particularly as it navigates a complex global market influenced by fluctuating tariffs and shifting trade policies.

Looking at specific glass and glazing materials:

Flat Glass: Prices remained unchanged in March, following a slight increase in February. The year-over-year increase stands at 1.4%.
Flat Glass Manufacturing: A marginal increase of 0.1% in March is a positive sign, providing a break from more significant increases experienced earlier in the year. The year-over-year increase is 3.5%.

However, the picture is far less rosy for companies relying on aluminum and steel. The White House’s 25% tariff on imported aluminum and steel is already having a substantial impact.

Ornamental and Architectural Metalwork: These products experienced a significant surge, with prices jumping 11.2% in March alone, and a staggering 21% increase compared to March 2024.
Metal Windows: After months of price stability, metal window prices increased by 2.1% in March.
Metal Doors and Frames: Prices for these items also saw an increase of 1% in March.

The overall PPI unexpectedly dropped by 0.4% in March, defying analysts’ forecasts of a 0.2% gain. Economists speculate that this decline may be partially attributable to businesses absorbing the costs associated with smaller tariffs implemented earlier in March.

The implications of these trends are significant. While the stable pricing in the glass industry offers a degree of predictability, the escalating costs of aluminum and steel, driven by tariffs, are likely to create upward pressure on overall construction costs and potentially impact project timelines. The full impact of the tariffs is anticipated to be more pronounced in April’s PPI data.

Companies across the construction and manufacturing sectors should closely monitor these developments and proactively explore strategies to mitigate the potential impact of rising metal prices. This may include renegotiating contracts, seeking alternative materials, or implementing efficiency measures to offset increased costs. As global trade policies continue to evolve, adaptability and strategic planning will be crucial for navigating the fluctuating landscape of material pricing.

Source: USGlass with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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DECARBONIZATION OF FLAT GLASS MANUFACTURING

GlassBalkan — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 10:18:11 +0000

On 12 February 2025, AGC and Saint-Gobain officially inaugurated the Volta production line in the presence of local authorities, stakeholders and representatives of both companies.

Volta, at the AGC Barevka plant in Teplice, is a breakthrough pilot project aiming to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions and support the transition to sustainable flat glass production. The pilot furnace uses an innovative glass production technology that has never been used in the world before. This is an exceptionally large R&D investment of both companies, which was financially supported by the European Union’s Innovation Fund.

The Volta R&D project, supported by the EU Innovation Fund, includes the reconstruction of the production line in Dubí. The line will be 50% electrified and 50% fired by a combination of oxygen and gas, allowing for a significant reduction in direct carbon emissions. The new technology also focuses on circularity as the Volta hybrid melting furnace will operate at a higher ratio of recycled materials, much higher than the industry standards.

The Volta project, a cooperation between AGC and Saint-Gobain, combines the technical know-how and innovative approaches of both companies. The two companies share the ambition to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and contribute to a faster transition towards clean technologies.

For AGC Barevka, with a tradition dating back to 1912, the investment not only enables the modernisation of technology but also contributes to further employment and ensures the future production of patterned glass in Dubí (Czech Republic).

Yoshinori Hirai, President & CEO of AGC: “The new hybrid line for the production of patterned glass in Dubí will not only significantly reduce CO₂ emissions but will also increase the energy efficiency of our production. The Volta Project is a major step on our journey towards carbon neutrality and demonstrates our commitment to innovation and sustainability.”

Further details on the Volta project’s webpage

*** *** ***

The “Volta” R&D project is funded by the Innovation Fund of the European Union*.

(*) Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Source: AGC Glass Europe with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Forel Strengthens European Presence with New North Europe Subsidiary in Germany

GlassBalkan — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:23:11 +0000

Forel announced the opening of a new subsidiary, Forel North Europe, located in Mönchengladbach, Germany.

Operational since February 1st, this branch represents a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy within the European market.

The new team will be led by Stéphane Soudais, a professional with over 20 years of experience in the flat glass industry. Stéphane brings extensive expertise and a proactive approach to implementing new production processes and team development.

Forel North Europe will serve as a reference point for the Central European and Scandinavian regions. Its mission is to actively support customers in developing their businesses and to strengthen the Forel brand presence within this highly competitive market.

The strategic location in Mönchengladbach, near Düsseldorf, was chosen for its easily accessible central location.

“The opening of Forel North Europe marks a crucial moment for our company,” said Stéphane Soudais, Branch Manager. “Germany and its neighbouring countries represent a very important market for us, and the presence of a subsidiary in the area will allow us to be even closer to our customers, fully understand their needs, and offer them customized solutions. I am convinced that this new venture will bring great opportunities for growth and enhancement for the Forel brand and its partners.”

Source: Forel with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Schiatti Angelo to Showcase Innovations at GlassBuild America 2024

GlassBalkan — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:27:19 +0000

Schiatti Angelo is excited to announce its participation in GlassBuild America 2024, taking place from September 30 to October 2 in Dallas, Texas, USA.

Visitors are invited to join us at booth 53022, where our dedicated team will be on hand to showcase our cutting-edge machinery, including the featured FPS15RS: a state-of-the-art 9-spindle straight grinding machine designed specifically for flat-edge processing.

Introducing the FPS15RS

The FPS15RS is tailored for a variety of applications, making it particularly adept at processing mirrors, bathroom shelves, laminated glass, tables, and steps. A significant upgrade with this model is the reduced minimum workable size, which now allows for processing pieces as small as 30 millimeters, down from the previous minimum of 50 millimeters. This enhancement opens new possibilities for efficiency and versatility in glass processing.

Streamlined Production with Automatic Vertical Grinding

In addition to the FPS15RS, Schiatti Angelo will also highlight the benefits of our modular automatic vertical grinding line. This innovative solution is designed to optimize the entire glass sheet processing workflow. The FPS15RS integrates with other machines to perform a series of tasks independently, including:

– Vertical grinding of all four glass sides
– Cerium oxide polishing
– Automated sheet rotation

This seamless integration allows for a highly efficient production line that minimizes manual intervention, freeing operators to focus on supervisory roles while the machines handle the heavy lifting.

Advantages of a Modular Automatic Line

The modular nature of Schiatti’s machines provides numerous advantages:

– Increased Production Efficiency: By connecting our automatic machines, production throughput can be significantly enhanced, ensuring timely completion of workloads.
– Reduction of Downtime: Automated processes minimize the need for human intervention, which can often lead to delays or interruptions.
– Enhanced Precision and Reduced Human Error: With machines working in tandem, the risk of error is diminished, resulting in higher-quality output.
– Energy Savings: Streamlined operations contribute to overall energy efficiency, aligning with sustainable manufacturing practices.

Moreover, Schiatti machines are designed to be smart and interconnected, allowing for data sharing that accelerates and self-calibrates machining processes. This capability not only improves production speed but also enhances the accuracy of the final product.

Commitment to Optimization, Precision, and Sustainability

Schiatti Angelo is committed to providing cutting-edge solutions that emphasize greater customization and flexibility in glass processing. Our focus on innovation aims to boost production performance while minimizing downtime, errors, and waste. As we prepare for GlassBuild America 2024, we look forward to demonstrating how our technologies can transform the glass manufacturing landscape.

Surce:Schiatti Angelo with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Explanatory paper on Microplastics and Interleavants in the flat glass sector

GlassBalkan — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 13:06:13 +0000

Glass for Europe has released an explanatory paper to provide clarity to all stakeholders in the flat glass industry regarding the use of interleaving polymer powders.

The European Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055, which came into effect in October 2023, aims to ban the sale of products containing synthetic polymer microplastics. However, this ban does not apply to products intended for use at industrial sites and specific applications.

Given the confusion around this regulation, Glass for Europe has issued this explanatory paper to clarify that the use of interleaving polymer powders in the flat glass sector is allowed, as they are used exclusively at industrial sites. However, suppliers and users of these interleavants are subject to certain obligations under the EC Regulation. Glass manufacturers who are members of Glass for Europe are already working with upstream suppliers and downstream users to ensure full compliance.

Furthermore, Glass for Europe and its members are committed to sustainable practices, which includes the substitution of microplastic interleavant technology once an appropriate substitute has been technically approved and is ready for widespread implementation.

The use of interleavings in the flat glass sector and the REACH restriction on microplastics.

The European Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/2055 restricts synthetic polymer microparticles intentionally added to mixtures. Its purpose is to ban the sale of mixtures containing synthetic polymer microplastics, but it does not apply to products intended for industrial use or specific applications.

The polymer powders used as interleavants in the flat glass sector fall under the regulation but are exempt from the restriction as they are used exclusively at industrial sites and are removed by washing machines. However, suppliers and users must comply with a set of obligations, mostly relating to information across the value chain and reporting to authorities.

Glass for Europe and its members are committed to sustainable practices and are working with suppliers to identify possible alternatives, test candidate substitutes, and implement viable ones as quickly as possible.

Source:glassforeurope with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Elevating Sustainability: Glass for Europe’s 2024-2029 Manifesto Advocates Incentives for Old Glazing Recycling

GlassBalkan — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:08:31 +0000

A Call for Sustainable Change: Glass for Europe’s Manifesto Urges Policymakers to Incentivize Recycling in the Flat Glass Industry

In a compelling conclusion to Glass for Europe’s five-part manifesto, titled ‘A Mandate to Focus on Enabling Sustainable Transformation,’ the latest video underscores the urgency for policymakers to prioritize the recycling of old glazing. Europe’s flat glass manufacturers are at the forefront of advocating for sustainable practices, urging policymakers to align their priorities with the industry’s commitment to recycling. The video introduces key conditions for establishing a closed-loop recycling system, presenting a strategic approach to save raw materials and reduce carbon emissions in the glass production process.

While flat glass manufacturers express eagerness to incorporate more recycled glass into their manufacturing processes, substantial barriers persist. The manifesto’s final video, featuring insights from Joana Arreguy (Saint-Gobain), Christian Quenett (NSG), and Iva Ganev (Glass for Europe), outlines policy measures at the European level. These measures aim to facilitate the effective return of old and broken flat glass to manufacturers’ furnaces, aligning with ongoing industry efforts. Despite the challenges, the video emphasizes that increased recycling is a potent tool to curtail raw material usage and diminish the sector’s CO₂ emissions. However, the next level of progress depends on the establishment of a supportive policy framework.

With an estimated 1.5 million tonnes of waste glass generated annually in the EU, including old windows, facades, and internal partitions, the need for proper recycling becomes apparent. Unfortunately, due to inadequate sorting during renovation and demolition, flat glass often gets mixed with other materials, hindering recyclability. The manifesto proposes specific recycling targets for individual construction materials, ensuring proper dismantling, sorting, and collection of glass. Simultaneously, the EU is called upon to set harmonized by-product criteria, streamlining the transport of waste glass to furnaces.

While the volume of flat glass for recycling may seem modest compared to other construction materials, policymakers are presented with a unique opportunity to foster circularity with limited support measures. By doing so, they can significantly contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions in the flat glass industry.

This concluding video serves as the pinnacle of Glass for Europe’s comprehensive manifesto, providing a foundation for discussions with European officials and civil society. Titled ‘A Mandate to Focus on Enabling Sustainable Transformation,’ these videos aim to shape European policies over the next five years.

Source: Glass for Europe with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Forel Showcases Cutting-Edge Glass Industry Innovations at Gulf Glass 2023 in Dubai

GlassBalkan — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:38:43 +0000

Forel, a leading name in the flat glass industry, took center stage at Gulf Glass 2023 in Dubai, presenting its latest innovations and technologies.

The recently concluded Gulf Glass 2023 in Dubai proved to be a resounding success for Forel, the forefront innovator in the flat glass industry. This international event, part of The Big 5 – the Middle East’s prominent construction industry showcase, gathered over 250 exhibitors from 25 countries and attracted a staggering 20,000 visitors. As one of the most prestigious exhibitions in windows, doors, facades, and glass products, Gulf Glass solidified Forel’s global presence.

Sergio Cosano, Forel’s Export Area Manager, played a pivotal role in representing the company at Gulf Glass 2023. Concurrently, he actively participated in the COP28 World Meeting, addressing critical issues such as climate change and the glass industry’s role in fostering a low-carbon economy. Cosano expressed, “At Gulf Glass 2023, we highlighted how our cutting-edge technologies can elevate glass manufacturing processes, promoting efficiency and higher environmental standards.”

The significance of Gulf Glass extends beyond regional borders, attracting clients from Africa, Europe, and various corners of the globe. The event, integral to The Big 5, positions itself as a vital meeting point for professionals and industry-leading brands within the construction sector. “Forel is ready to contribute to improving environmental impact through advanced technologies,” added Cosano, reflecting on Forel’s participation in two global events in the same city and period.

Forel extends its gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of Gulf Glass Dubai 2023. The company looks forward to fostering collaborations established during the event and continuing to drive innovation in the flat glass industry. Anticipation is high for the 2024 edition, promising further advancements and groundbreaking technologies.

Source: Forel with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Europe’s First Flat Glass Carbon Capture Trial Commences at Pilkington UK

GlassBalkan — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:58:39 +0000

Pioneering Carbon Capture Trial Marks a Milestone for European Flat Glass Industry

In a groundbreaking initiative, C-Capture, specialists in carbon dioxide removal technology, have initiated a carbon capture trial at the Pilkington UK glass manufacturing site in St Helens, UK. This trial represents the first-ever demonstration of carbon capture technology on an industrial flat glass furnace in Europe. Aligned with the national project ‘XLR8 CCS – Accelerating the Deployment of a Low-Cost Carbon Capture Solution for Hard-to-Abate Industries,’ the endeavor aims to showcase the viability of a low-cost carbon capture solution for challenging-to-decarbonize industries, contributing to the race for net-zero emissions.

The trial, focused initially on glass production, is a pivotal component of the XLR8 CCS project, validating C-Capture’s carbon capture technology’s efficacy in removing carbon dioxide from flue gas emissions. Subsequent carbon capture trials are planned for the cement and energy-from-waste industries. With a £1.7 million funding injection from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero’s £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, the project seeks to accelerate the deployment of next-generation Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) technology in the UK, fostering innovation and sustainability.

Private sector contributions supplement the project with a total investment of £2.7 million. C-Capture’s solvent-based technology will undergo compatibility assessments through five additional carbon capture trials slated for 2024. These trials, conducted at sites owned by project partners Glass Futures, Heidelberg Materials, and Energy Works Hull, in collaboration with consulting and engineering firm Wood, involve the installation and operation of Carbon Capture Solvent Compatibility Units (CCSCUs) designed by C-Capture and Wood.

The success of the XLR8 CCS project positions C-Capture and its partners for the future deployment of commercial-scale carbon capture facilities across the glass, cement, and energy-from-waste industries by 2030. This ambitious endeavor has the potential to capture millions of tonnes of CO2 annually, contributing significantly to the collective goal of mitigating climate change.

Paul Skinner, Global R&D Portfolio Manager at NSG Group, expressed excitement, stating, “To have demonstrated at our Pilkington UK operation that carbon capture is indeed possible is a very exciting development and a key milestone in our decarbonization technology journey, aiming towards our target of carbon-neutral glass manufacture. It’s been great to collaborate with the C-Capture and Glass Futures team in getting to this point, and we look forward to the further valuable learning we will gain from the rest of the XLR8 CCS project.”

Dr. Masimba Toperesu, R&D Projects Lead at Glass Futures, emphasized the significance of this European first for the glass industry, marking a monumental step toward implementing technology that will aid not only the glass sector but also partners in various industries to comprehend and implement CCUS. Through live demonstrations on industrial sites, the project aims to drive the decarbonization of these essential industries.

Source: GlassBalkan

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President Von der Leyen Sheds Light on the Flat Glass Industry’s Future

GlassBalkan — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 20:08:54 +0000

Empowering Progress: EU Green Deal Summit Highlights Flat Glass Industry’s Role

In a momentous address at the EU Green Deal Summit on September 26, European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen underscored the paramount importance of the flat glass industry in realizing a climate-neutral Europe. The President specifically praised the glass production sector of Czechia, acknowledging it as a national pride and an invaluable industrial asset for Europe.

Driving Innovation: The Volta Project

President Von der Leyen highlighted the Volta project, an innovative endeavor aimed at revolutionizing glass production. Through this initiative, existing flat-glass furnaces are being electrified, resulting in a remarkable reduction of emissions by over 75%. This strategic investment aligns with the EU’s commitment to cleaner glass production, ensuring the European flat-glass industry remains competitive in the evolving landscape of the clean economy.

Glass for Europe’s Endeavors

The commendation of the flat glass industry’s efforts and the EU’s support for the Volta project signify a positive trajectory. However, achieving a competitive European flat glass industry in a climate-neutral Europe demands continuous EU initiatives and supportive policies. Glass for Europe, steadfast in its commitment, will focus on key areas such as the availability of clean energy sources, development of recycling infrastructures, and building renovations. These facets are crucial elements that Glass for Europe will advocate for, in line with the vision of ‘Flat glass in a climate-neutral economy by 2050.’

A Grateful Acknowledgment

Glass for Europe extends its heartfelt gratitude to President Von der Leyen for her encouraging words. These sentiments affirm the relevance and significance of Europe’s flat glass industry as the continent progresses towards a climate-neutral economy. The industry’s pivotal role continues to shape the future of a sustainable Europe, driving progress and innovation on a global scale.

Source: Glass for Europe with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Unlocking the Potential: Hydrogen Trials Revolutionize Decarbonization in the Glass Industry

GlassBalkan — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 10:49:28 +0000

Harnessing the Power of Hydrogen: Revolutionizing the Flat Glass Industry

The journey towards a sustainable and greener future continues, and the flat glass industry is actively embracing innovative solutions to reduce its carbon footprint. In a highly informative video, we delve into the challenges faced by the industry and explore groundbreaking initiatives that are reshaping its landscape.

Increased Glass Recycling: The Closed-Loop Model (flat2flat)

One of the key pillars of sustainable glass production is increased recycling through a closed-loop model, known as flat2flat. This model aims to create a circular economy where glass waste is efficiently collected, processed, and transformed into new glass products. By implementing this approach, the industry minimizes waste and conserves valuable resources.

Utilizing Renewable Electricity: Powering the Glass Production

Transitioning to renewable electricity is a fundamental step in reducing the environmental impact of glass manufacturing. By sourcing energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power, glass producers can significantly lower their carbon emissions. This shift not only contributes to a cleaner energy mix but also sets the stage for a more sustainable future.

Integration of Hydrogen: A Clean Energy Source for Glass Furnaces

The integration of hydrogen as a clean energy source marks a significant milestone in decarbonizing the flat glass industry. Saint-Gobain, in collaboration with Air Products, embarked on a pioneering large-scale hydrogen test at their production plant in Herzogenrath, Germany. The trial aimed to assess the viability of using hydrogen as a fuel for glass furnaces instead of traditional natural gas.

During the trial, thirty percent of the furnace’s total energy consumption was successfully replaced by pure hydrogen/air combustion. This achievement highlights the potential of hydrogen as a clean and efficient alternative, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with glass production.

Air Products: Enabling a Sustainable Transition

As a leading provider of industrial gases, Air Products played a crucial role in supporting the hydrogen trial at Saint-Gobain’s facility. They supplied the necessary hydrogen and ensured a seamless gas supply from the trailer to the plant, facilitating the successful integration of hydrogen as a fuel source.

Join the Movement Towards a Greener Glass Industry

The video showcases the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices and the ongoing efforts to drive meaningful change. By embracing glass recycling, renewable electricity, and the integration of hydrogen, the flat glass industry is making remarkable strides towards decarbonization and a more sustainable future.

Watch the video to gain valuable insights into the transformative journey of the glass industry and how it is reshaping its operations to build a greener world. Together, let’s support this important endeavor and pave the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

Source: Saint-Gobain/Air Products with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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