The float glass industry has experienced global growth, which has consistently resulted in the construction of approximately three new furnaces per year. Currently, several glass companies operate more than 20 float furnaces each, which places considerable demand on their capital for furnace repairs and growth. Therefore, extending the life of these furnaces while maintaining production efficiency is a priority for all major float glass manufacturers. BOC's convective glass melting (CGM) technology offers a unique method to extend the life of a furnace for several years while maintaining or increasing yield. This paper compares conventional zero boost technology with the application of CGM to a float furnace. A case study will review a float glass melter with significant regenerator failure and review technical/financial considerations.
