The Italian Glass Industry (In Italian)

A short review is given of glass manufacturing data in Italy (flat, hollow, technical, hand-made), with special reference to the energy consumption in the different sectors and in the different production stages. Statistical data are also reported for glass furnaces (pot and tank), sizes and outputs. The different types of continuous tank furnaces are described in terms of energy balances, production limits and parameters influencing different combustion conditions, furnace heat losses, etc. Energy balances are also discussed for discontinuous hand-made glass furnaces and for electric furnaces. Air preheating systems and regenerators are mentioned, together with performance conditions in metallic heat exchangers.