During China Glass 2026, Uniglass announced a new OEM partnership with Xtend Blowers Finland Oy to supply high-performance carbon fiber impellers for its tempering lines. The collaboration reflects a shared focus on advancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in glass processing technologies.
Xtend Blowers Finland Oy, known for its expertise in composite impeller design, will provide lightweight, high-strength carbon fiber solutions tailored for Uniglass systems. Under the agreement, these impellers will be available as an option across Uniglass tempering lines, offering customers a practical upgrade to traditional steel components.
Carbon fiber impellers bring several key advantages. Their reduced weight lowers the rotating mass, resulting in smoother operation and improved reliability. This also decreases mechanical stress on blower systems, enhancing overall line safety and reducing the risk of component failure. Additionally, the advanced design supports faster response to speed changes, making it particularly suitable for demanding production cycles.
Energy efficiency is another major benefit. By optimizing airflow and reducing inertia, carbon fiber impellers contribute to lower energy consumption during the cooling process, an increasingly important factor for manufacturers aiming to meet sustainability targets.
“Our customers can now more easily support their sustainability goals through reduced energy use and safer, more efficient production,” said Pyry Ollonqvist, General Manager at Uniglass.
Jani Korpimäki, CTO at Xtend Blowers Finland Oy, added that while the shift to carbon fiber is not new, it is rapidly becoming the preferred choice due to its clear performance and lifecycle advantages.
Source: Uniglass with additional information added by Glass Balkan