Processing Automation

Revolutionizing glass processing with automation


In the glass processing industry, automation is the future.
Here are three ways how Glaston Processing Automation is changing the game.

1.

IMPROVED LABOR EFFICIENCY AND WORKPLACE SAFETY

  • Simplified operation with minimal operator involvement
  • Smart, user-friendly process intelligence
  • Future-proofed processes with Glaston’s innovations and services

2.

INCREASED CONSISTENCY AND ENERGY SAVINGS

  • Reliable and repeatable batch throughput
  • Optimized process steps throughout the operation flow
  • Energy-efficient loading and unloading

3.

HIGHEST QUALITY, CAPACITY OR BOTH

  • Optimized glass quality and consistency
  • Increased efficiency, performance and production output
  • Maximized flexibility to align with your process goals

Innovative automation solutions that match your needs


Glaston Processing Automation is the answer to the glass processing industry’s global call for more automated and intelligent operations. Combining mechanical automation with process intelligence ensures that each step in your glass processing is not only automated but also done in the most optimal way – always.

The reason we started to develop Processing Automation is because we understand how difficult it is to find, train and retain personnel for routine glass processing jobs. By automating certain processes, your operators can be freed up for more appealing and higher value-added tasks.

Would Processing Automation benefit you? Take this quick quiz to figure it out!

Inside-out automation for world-class glass quality


We began our journey with automation from the inside out – starting with our extensive knowledge of the core processes that gives us the best capability to automate glass production lines. This is what we believe to be the secret of world-class glass quality production.

Building on Glaston’s proven process know-how and expertise, Glaston Processing Automation employs state-of-the-art technologies to enhance end product quality and increase capacity, energy efficiency and operator safety.

SERIAL PRODUCTION


One of the most typical applications of automation in glass processing is for large serial production lines that are typically used to manufacture tempered products like furniture, appliances and standard-sized shower doors or windows. Automation is ideal for the production of limited size variations and small to medium glass sizes.

Glaston factory automation

MIXED PRODUCTION


Automation can also bring significant benefits to mixed production or standalone equipment to handle varying glass types and sizes. Our batch-building optimization automation is available for any processor with widely fluctuating production needs. Robotized loading can optimize batch loads efficiently, working with a wide range of glass thicknesses and sizes. Potentially, automation can cover up to 70–90% of the tasks in mixed production, allowing the remaining special oversized glasses to be handled manually.

SOLUTIONS

Glaston Autopilot

Glaston Autopilot, our flagship product designed to automate glass tempering machines, is a prime example of how we’re reshaping glass tempering with intelligent automation. Autopilot reduces the need for operator input by offering process control without parameters. It automatically sets all necessary parameters based on the placement of the glass sheet on the line, enabling the operator to simply monitor the process.

Batch building instructor for efficient loading of flat tempering furnace

  • More efficient loading – higher capacity and energy savings
  • Tempering process in the core – best quality of end products
  • Process flow known in advance – improved benefits with production control

System description

  • Based on the requirements of tempering process, operator is guided how to locate the glasses on the loading table
  • Glass information is collected via connection to a production control software and glass pane locations in racks informed
  • Can be installed in connection to any Glaston or Tamglass furnace
Glaston processing automation

Fully automatic loading system from A- or L-type glass racks or conveyor

  • Automatic loading from glass racks with robot – obvious benefits with labor and quality
  • Batch creation with Glaston Batch Master – maximum efficiency and energy savings
  • Connection to the production control software – further benefits with production control

System description

  • Arm robot with servo driven vacuum gripper for different glass sizes
  • Dedicated glass rack positions in reach of the robot
  • Batch building created by Glaston Batch Master
  • Can be installed to any Glaston or Tamglass furnace
  • Full delivery with connections and safety features