This paper describes the practical experience with a batch preheating system which was developed in the early 1980s. The system is working with direct contact between the flue gas and the raw materials. Because it is laid out for the operation with high cullet content, it is suitable mainly for container glass furnaces. The emission limits mainly for dust have to be taken into account, the additional installation of a dust filter is obligatory. The impact of the batch preheating on the energy consumption and pull rate of the furnace is discussed. Due to the direct contact between the flue gas and the raw materials, the concentration of SOx, Chlorine & Fluorine in the flue gas is reduced already in the batch preheater. The batch preheater has been integrated in the flue gas system of four regenerative furnaces; one system was installed in combination with an oxy fuel furnace. The first installation was started in 1987 & three more followed between 1991-1995. Three of the systems are still operational today.
