The glass industry is facing huge challenges. One of the most important topics is the energy balance of the glass production process. Aspects like insulation concepts for the furnace, regenerator efficiency, increased use of cullet and the latest technologies such as batch preheating are increasingly in focus. They also challenge refractory producers because they influence refractory selection and performance. In addition to these energy-related topics, further subjects like alternative raw materials and alternative fuels may influence refractory behaviour. Another important aspect for refractory producers is an increasingly challenging raw materials situation. In this article the author discusses a series of glass furnace-related topics that influence refractory performance and selection.
