Glaston: Key takeaways from glasstec 2024

Author: Riku Färm | Glaston

Source: glastory.net

Held in late October, glasstec 2024 buzzed with energy, robotic solutions and serious discussions. Based on what we saw and heard at the event, we can outline a pretty clear picture of the current climate and direction of the entire industry. Here’s a quick roundup of the key topics and trends that stood out this year.

Robotics is on the rise

Automation was one of the hot topics at this year’s event. This reflects the industry’s ongoing digital transformation and the shift toward Industry 4.0. Automation is revolutionizing production lines with advancements in the integration of robotics, artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Robotic solutions for tempering line loading systems increased noticeably since glasstec two years ago. While each solution had its own approach, the one that stood out focused on what makes sense from the tempering process point of view, rather than offering only robotization.

In addition, the market is increasingly interested in full factory solutions that align with Industry 4.0 standards. Focus is shifting from isolated automation implementations to comprehensive, interconnected systems that span entire production processes. Hence, solutions like Autopilot attracted significant attention for their ability to further optimize operations, reduce manual intervention and enable data-driven decision-making across the production line.

This makes sense. The industry is clearly eager to explore new ways to streamline production and enhance efficiency. Companies want to understand – and reduce – the actual cost per unit produced. The greater focus on automation is also a response to workforce challenges, such as shortages of skilled labor and the need to improve workplace safety.

Another key topic – energy-efficiency

While automation and costs dominated discussion for most, many visitors were equally interested in reducing energy consumption and emissions.  

This comes as no surprise. Energy efficiency remains at the top of everyone’s agenda as the glass industry continues to align with global sustainability goals and growing regulatory pressures.

With this, glass processors are prioritizing technologies capable of reducing energy consumption. This includes more efficient furnaces and heat recovery systems, along with innovations in lighter glass production.

Automation plays a role here, too. For instance, some of the most recent solutions for automated loading and unloading are based on intelligent batch optimization. This not only ensures improved production quality, safety and efficiency, but also minimizes energy use.

Overall, this year’s discussions leaned noticeably more heavily on automation and energy efficiency than in the past.

What else is trending right now?

The increasing integration of measurement devices into the manufacturing process was another noticeable development. These devices are becoming essential for enhancing quality control and enabling real-time adjustments. This trend underscores the industry’s commitment to leveraging data to drive efficiency, reduce waste and ensure consistent product quality.

Tailored automation solutions also drew attention. Full factory systems address end-to-end optimization, but customized, scalable automation strategies are also in demand for their ability to effectively tackle specific operational challenges.

Lastly, glass weight reduction continues to be a concern. Glaston’s thin insulating glass TPS^® line and the thin triple insulating glass units it produces clearly stood out among the innovations on display. In essence, these units have the same overall thickness as standard double units but deliver the insulation performance of a triple unit. This cutting-edge solution sparked plenty of interest, underscoring the growing demand for energy-efficient windows.

Serious conversations, actual projects

This year, discussions went beyond gathering information about what’s new or available and then hoping something might come out of it in the future. Quite a lot of visitors arrived with actual projects in mind.

Interestingly, many – whether from Southeast Europe or other parts of the world – shared similar challenges, proving that certain issues are common across the industry.

Many said they expect the market to pick up in about a year and they want to prepare, ensuring their technology is ready when that happens.

Investments in new capabilities

While capacity has traditionally been the priority, particularly in tempering, the industry is now shifting toward investing in enhanced capabilities. Increased use of Low-E glass, TPS^® insulating glass units and thinner glass is driving demand for more precise, repeatable production processes and improved quality control. As a result, businesses are more often looking into upgrading their capabilities to meet these demands.

Higher profits are within reach for everyone

One more thing is clear. There’s always a way to boost profits for big and smaller player alike. This doesn’t require investing in a EUR 30 million factory to achieve this. Scalable solutions are making advanced technologies accessible with a smaller investment for existing factories . Plus, choosing solutions that can be easily adapted without significant downtime ensures a smoother transition to new technologies while at the same time keeping operations competitive as market demands evolve.

However, glass processors must first define their future needs by analyzing emerging trends and customer demands. Market-leading machinery manufacturers can help their customers address these needs and stay future-ready.

The industry keeps moving

Although we initially anticipated this year’s glasstec to be a bit quieter, given the global sentiment, those low expectations were easily shattered.  

A key takeaway from glasstec 2024 is that nothing has stopped. The industry is humming, with activity in full swing. It feels like there’s no time to slow down! Everyone has plans, and technology is needed to bring those about.