Melting Processes

French-based Stein Heurtey recently developed and patented a new melting process for lead crystal and soda-lime glass that will result in significant operational changes in glass factories. The firm claims that this new process, called Helix Melt offers these remarkable advantages: Faster melting with high glass quality; quick colour change; lower melting temperatures; lower consumption; lower NOx level; smaller melting surface. A prototype furnace has been undergoing tests in a French glass factory since the first quarter of 2001, with successful and promising results. According to Stein Heurtey, further applications and developments are anticipated in the fields of container glass, tableware and flat glass.