From intelligent tempering furnaces and high-speed cutting tables to automated IG lines, CNC centres and specialist lamination systems, the latest machinery is transforming how glass is manufactured.

1. High-Speed Cutting and Material Optimisation

Modern cutting tables are designed to maximise sheet utilisation while maintaining extremely high positional and cutting accuracy. Advanced systems combine automatic optimisation, electronic cutting-pressure control, automatic breakout and robotic handling.

Bottero’s 363 EVO, for example, reaches a maximum cutting-bridge speed of 160 m/min, with carriage speeds up to 200 m/min. It processes standard glass from 2–19 mm, with options up to 25 mm, and the Jumbo configuration can handle sheets up to 6,100 × 3,355 mm. The next development is connecting cutting directly with storage and production planning, reducing both waste and manual handling.

2. Intelligent Tempering Furnaces

Tempering furnaces are becoming increasingly intelligent. Instead of relying entirely on operators to determine heating and cooling parameters, new systems use AI-assisted batch optimisation, automatic loading, convection control, infrared scanning and online quality monitoring.

Glaston’s AI Batch Optimizer and robotised loading technology are designed to improve furnace-bed utilisation while reducing idle time and energy consumption. Its Online Stress Calculation (OSC) provides information about surface stress and mid-pane tension, while technologies such as automatic infrared scanning and online glass-quality control extend monitoring beyond the furnace itself.

3. Automated Insulating-Glass Lines

Modern IG production lines increasingly combine glass positioning, spacer application, pressing, gas filling, sealing, inspection and sorting into one automated workflow.

LiSEC’s ARS-TBX/Y/Z automatic breakout system can reach 240 sheets per hour, while its automated systems connect cutting, logistics and IG production. The system can also feed finished sheets to robotic unloading or sorting buffers.

Forel is another important example, particularly in automated production using thermoplastic spacers (TPS) alongside conventional rigid spacer systems. This flexibility allows processors to manufacture different IGU configurations on the same production platform.

4. CNC Glass Processing Centres

CNC technology is increasingly replacing multiple individual processing stages with multifunctional production centres.

Modern CNC machinery can combine drilling, milling, grinding, polishing, edging, countersinking and shaped processing. Automatic tool changing and intelligent vacuum handling allow manufacturers to move between different shapes and specifications with significantly less setup time. This is particularly important for architectural glass, where customised façades frequently require holes, cut-outs, notches and non-standard geometries.

5. Advanced Lamination Machinery

Lamination machinery is also moving beyond conventional heating systems. One notable development is multi-level and directed-air heating technology.

Keraglass’ new LAMIX multi-level kiln is available in sizes including 2,100 × 4,500 mm and 2,500 × 4,500 mm. It uses controlled heating and vacuum technology and can process flat and curved laminated glass. Beyond lamination, it can also be used for drying screen-printed glass and other materials and for rapid cooling. Its AIR STREAM system goes further with directed hot-air circulation that automatically reverses during the cycle, helping maintain uniform thermal distribution. It can process interlayers including EVA, PVB, SGP and PET and accommodate up to three trolleys in one chamber.

6. Ultra-Thin and Speciality Glass Processing

One of the most technically demanding developments is machinery capable of processing ultra-thin glass.

HEGLA’s Galactic TG can process glass down to approximately 0.5 mm, enabling thin glass to be used as the central pane in slim triple IG units. Specialised electromagnetic linear drives and automated handling address the greater fragility of thin material. This technology is particularly relevant as manufacturers seek lighter glazing solutions without sacrificing the thermal performance associated with triple glazing.

7. The Hidden Technology: Software, Vision and Data

The most important machinery developments may not always be visible. Machine vision, predictive maintenance, production data, digital twins, AI optimisation and MES/ERP connectivity are turning individual machines into connected production systems. A five-star machine should therefore not only produce accurately; it should measure, communicate, learn from production data and remain upgradeable.

This is also why the second-hand machinery market is becoming increasingly interesting. Equipment does not necessarily lose its industrial value simply because it is pre-owned. A well-maintained machine with modern controls, software and available upgrade paths can remain highly productive.

For companies looking to buy or sell such equipment, GlassBalkan Marketplace provides a dedicated industry platform where glass, aluminium and façade companies can advertise second-hand machinery and production equipment to a specialised professional audience.

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Belt-Driven Brilliance
Abandoning traditional roller tables, the Galactic system incorporates a continuous conveyor belt, an essential advancement for handling delicate thin glass. This feature ensures smooth, vibration-free transport across the cutting zone, minimizing microcracks and stress lines that often compromise glass quality. For manufacturers aiming to improve yield and consistency, this seemingly subtle design change marks a major leap forward.

Precision at the Core
HEGLA’s specialized cutting head is engineered to deliver perfect scoring results even at the thinnest tolerances. It adjusts dynamically to the fragility of the substrate, ensuring clean separations with minimal waste. In a field where one flaw can mean a full sheet loss, this level of control translates to serious savings and superior product integrity.

The Future, Delivered
With Galactic, HEGLA doesn’t just offer a machine, it sets a new benchmark in the glass industry. As thin glass applications expand across sectors, this innovation signals HEGLA’s commitment to leading with intelligence, engineering finesse, and industry foresight. The future of thin glass is no longer fragile, it’s Galactic.

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In the dynamic world of glass processing, efficiency, precision, and adaptability are paramount. Businesses constantly seek innovative solutions to optimize their operations, maximize storage, and streamline workflows. Enter HEGLA Rapidstore – a state-of-the-art storage and loading system designed to elevate glass management to unprecedented levels of effectiveness and flexibility.

The HEGLA Rapidstore system is engineered to address the core challenges of modern glass processing facilities. It offers the ability to manage a wide variety of glass types, ensuring maximum storage capacity while demanding minimal space. This ingenious design allows for the storage of diverse glass inventory in a space-saving and type-pure manner within movable storage racks. This not only optimizes floor space but also ensures that each glass type is readily accessible and perfectly preserved.

What truly sets Rapidstore apart is its seamless integration of intelligent automation. The system automatically transports the required glass sheets to the cutting system, precisely timed according to the cutting plan. This synchronized approach minimizes manual intervention, reduces material handling time, and significantly boosts overall production efficiency. The result is a streamlined workflow that transforms raw material management into a finely tuned logistical operation.

Designed with an eye on global demands, the HEGLA Rapidstore boasts effortless integration into existing systems, making it a versatile asset for businesses looking to upgrade their capabilities without extensive overhauls. Its intelligent shuttle system, coupled with an expanded number of storage positions, provides direct and rapid access to a greater variety of glass types. This immediate accessibility is crucial for businesses that handle diverse orders and require quick changeovers.

The HEGLA Rapidstore is more than just a storage solution; it is a strategic investment for any forward-thinking glass processing enterprise. It embodies efficiency, flexibility, and scalability, making it the ideal partner for businesses striving to optimize their operations, enhance their responsiveness, and secure a competitive edge in the ever-evolving glass industry. Embrace the future of glass management with HEGLA Rapidstore and experience a paradigm shift in productivity and operational excellence.

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With three strategic locations in Germany – Satteldorf, Beverungen, and Kretzschau – HEGLA fosters a collaborative environment, working closely with clients to develop the perfect solution for their unique transport requirements. This customer-centric approach, combined with a steadfast dedication to quality, functionality, and personalized advice, has cemented HEGLA’s reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking partner.

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The company is specialised in solutions for the laser marking, structuring and functionalisation of glass. Since 2017, HEGLA boraident has been a partner of the HEGLA Group.

According to estimates by environmental organisations, well over a billion birds worldwide die every year as a result of collisions with glass, as they are unable to recognise the transparent and reflective panes as obstacles. Using a laser printing process, HEGLA boraiden offers a solution for making windows, panes and façades visible to birds

Dr. Thomas Rainer, Head of Organisation & Development at HEGLA boraident, answers three important questions about bird protection.

Why is bird protection glass so important?
In Germany alone, up to 100 million birds die every year due to collisions with glass surfaces. The special pattern on bird protection glass is designed to protect against bird strikes. When subtly laser-printed onto the glass, it doesn’t change the aesthetic of the building, but saves birds’ lives.

What is HEGLA boraident GmbH & Co KG doing in this area?
With its bird-friend technology, Hegla boraident is sending a strong signal for bird protection. Their non-destructive laser printing makes glass visible to birds, preventing deadly collisions. Especially in urban areas, where glass façades are widespread, this reduces bird strikes and offers a sustainable solution that both preserves architecture and protects nature.

What further measures are needed to ensure bird protection in the long term?
Many countries have animal protection regulations. However, these are often weakly formulated and can’t always be applied to bird strikes. The lack of normative rules continues to make the tendering process more difficult. That’s why it’s encouraging to see architects and glass processors being proactive and valuing protective measures. In the same vein, the existing test options in Germany and abroad, which certify the effectiveness of the respective bird protection glass, remain very important.

Source: Hegla boraident with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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The deal was signed between Glaston, HEGLA and Glassworks in late 2024. In the first stage, HEGLA will supply a sorting system with harp racks to enable the automated and optimized loading and unloading of the processor’s existing FC Series tempering line and double-glazing equipment, with delivery scheduled for July 2025.

The second stage will be the delivery of a new TPS® insulating glass line from Glaston, complete with an automated loading solution.

Glassworks’ investment decision primarily focused on increasing the level of automation in its operations. “Automation is the future,” said Kimmo Kuusela, Senior VP of Sales & Service at Glaston. “Australia and New Zealand are among the most highly automated regions in the world when it comes to glass processing factories. Automation enables glass processors to reduce their costs and remakes significantly, which is crucial in optimizing business growth in the region.”

When evaluating options, Michael Gleeson, Executive Director at Glassworks, travelled to other parts of the world to see various solutions available. The combination of Glaston and HEGLA seemed best suited to meet his company’s needs.

“The machinery’s robustness, our confidence in both European brands and Glaston’s local service and spare parts support were key factors in the decision,” Gleeson said.

“This investment further improves our quality and service offering, particularly with the 7-star regulations and demand for higher performing soft-coats IGUs. It adds capacity and redundancy to our operation to ensure that we continue to be a reliable supplier to our customers,” said Michael Kruger, General Manager at Glassworks.

Another important consideration was having a single point of contact for the combined Glaston and HEGLA offerings. Since starting the exclusive partnership covering the entire Asia-Pacific region, excluding Japan, South Korea, and China, HEGLA’s sales and distribution activities in the area will draw upon the resources and network of the Glaston Group.

“We’re providing turnkey solutions by combining HEGLA’s glass logistics and handling solutions and Glaston’s glass processing capabilities for insulating glass units and tempering. It’s a perfect combination for increased automation and outstanding efficiency,” Kuusela added.

Source: Glassworks with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Using a laser makes LSG cutting faster: while heating and separating were previously the most time-consuming processes during cutting, these can be significantly accelerated with the new LSR technology. The impact on edge quality is also positive: the surrounding glass remains cold, thus preventing subsequent delamination.

In terms of the overall cutting process, the equipped ProLam LSR achieves at least 20 percent more throughput. “The thicker the film and therefore the overall composite, the more time is saved,” said HEGLA Managing Director Bernhard Hötger. “We can cut a ten-layer film in ten seconds and maintain the maximum quality of the composite edge, thanks to the gentle use of the laser.”

The laser diode heater is positioned above the glass, protecting it from dust, lucite, oil and glass splinters. While the performance of infra-red radiators is reduced due to soiling, the performance of laser diodes is maintained for a long time. Another effect results from the localised heat input: the glass only gets warm to the touch so that subsequent cuts can be made without any cooling time.

In combination with another existing or new cutting system, the output can also be significantly increased. “The combination of smart cutting distribution, glass-friendly laser technology and just one operator achieves a throughput that meets the highest demands,” explained Bernhard Hötger.

Compared to conventional heating technology, the LSR technology reduces energy consumption. The laser diode is only switched on briefly and, depending on the cutting length, is activated partially or fully.

Source: HEGLA with additional information added By GlassBalkan

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However, a new technology, Laser Separation and Cutting (LSR), is dramatically changing the game, offering significant speed improvements and enhanced edge quality.

The primary advantage of LSR lies in its ability to accelerate the heating and separating process. Utilizing a precise laser diode, the LSR system rapidly and efficiently weakens the interlayer film within the LSG, enabling a faster and cleaner separation. This eliminates the extended heating times associated with conventional methods, leading to substantial gains in overall throughput.

According to HEGLA Managing Director Bernhard Hötger, systems like the ProLam LSR equipped with laser technology achieve at least a 20% increase in throughput. Interestingly, the benefits amplify with thicker film composites. “The thicker the film and therefore the overall composite, the more time is saved,” Hötger notes. “We can cut a ten-layer film in ten seconds and maintain the maximum quality of the composite edge, thanks to the gentle use of the laser.”

Beyond speed, LSR offers a distinct advantage in edge quality. The localized heat input of the laser ensures that the surrounding glass remains cool, minimizing the risk of subsequent delamination – a common issue with traditional heating methods. The precise application of energy also contributes to a cleaner, more uniform edge finish.

Furthermore, the design of the LSR system is optimized for longevity and ease of maintenance. The laser diode heater is strategically positioned above the glass, shielding it from potential contaminants like dust, lucite, oil, and glass splinters. Unlike infrared radiators, whose performance can be significantly reduced by soiling, the performance of laser diodes remains consistent over time. This translates to reduced downtime and increased productivity.

The benefits extend beyond standalone operation. The LSR technology can be seamlessly integrated with existing or new cutting systems, further amplifying their output and efficiency. This compatibility makes it a versatile solution for a wide range of LSG cutting operations.

Finally, LSR technology offers a compelling advantage in terms of energy consumption. Compared to conventional heating methods, the laser diode is only activated briefly and modulated based on the cutting length. This targeted energy delivery significantly reduces overall energy consumption, contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective operation.

In conclusion, LSR technology represents a significant advancement in LSG cutting. Its combination of speed, precision, edge quality, and energy efficiency makes it a compelling solution for businesses looking to optimize their laminated glass processing operations and meet the ever-increasing demands of the market. The integration of smart cutting distribution, glass-friendly laser technology, and efficient operation creates a powerful solution that redefines productivity in LSG cutting.

Source: HEGLA with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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HEGLA started out as a small workshop business in Kretzschau in 1990. At that time, the HEGLA Group from Beverungen (North Rhine-Westphalia) specialised in vehicle attachments and racks for glass, windows and structural elements. The new location was added to solidify the sales and service network and improve the business’ proximity to customers in the region. Over the decades, the factory continuously developed further and today the company’s product portfolio includes fully automated warehouses for large-scale panes and long-length storage systems for long goods.

Since 2020, the vacuum lifters for glass produced in Kretzschau have been marketed under the HEGLA name. To meet growing demand, the sales team was reinforced and the devices were completely updated.

HEGLA invested in the future of the location again in 2020, when the production area was expanded. The new capacity is being used to develop and produce the company’s own products.

In 2025, the company will once again strive to attract visitors and converse with customers old and new at numerous international trade fairs. Vitrum in Milan, WindoorEx in Saudi Arabia and others are already on the agenda.

The HEGLA Group was founded in Beverungen (North Rhine-Westphalia) in 1976 and in addition to Kretzschau, has a third production site in Satteldorf (Baden-Württemberg). Alongside glass handling, storage and logistics solutions, and its vehicle construction division, the HEGLA Group specialises in machines and systems for glass processing. Worldwide, the HEGLA Group has more than 800 employees, including 50 apprentices. The HEGLA Group includes the subsidiaries HEGLA boraident head-quartered in Halle (Saale), which supplies laser applications, and the Bochum-based HEGLA-HANIC, a software specialist covering all the software needs of the glass industry.

Source: HEGLA Maschinenbau with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Source: HEGLA GmbH & Co. KG  with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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