After a cold repair process of three months and an investment of around 25 million euros, the new float presents high-end technologies that will enhance the plant's productivity and its environmental impact in addition to improving the performance of the existing product ranges produced in Cuneo.
The opening ceremony was attended by the AGC Group President and CEO, Takuya Shimamura, the Regional President - Building & Industrial Glass Europe, Philippe Bastien, representatives of the local authorities and the press.
A modernised and “greener” plant
During the summer, renovation work was carried out on the Cuneo plant using the most innovative design techniques. The upgraded float line will significantly increase the plant capacity, reducing energy consumption by 25%, with a corresponding positive impact on its performance and product quality.
Lower energy consumption also means a remarkable reduction in atmospheric emissions, with 50% less CO (carbon monoxide), 14% less CO2 (carbon dioxide) and 30% less NOx (nitrogen oxides).
Improved product ranges
The Cuneo site manufactures a wide range of products in various thicknesses, from 3 to 25 millimetres. Besides clear float, the site now also produces the renewed Planibel Linea Azzurra range, a float glass made solely in this plant. Available in thicknesses from 8 to 25 mm, this special glass has a slightly bluish tint.
It is made from nickel-free materials without any inclusions, yielding a unique product that is easy to cut and process. It is therefore particularly suitable for large glazed surfaces and the most refined furniture creations.
In addition to these float products, the plant manufactures SMART solar control glazings as well as Planibel Clearsight, AGC’s anti-reflective glass, thanks to its four high-tech processing lines.
Restored competitiveness
“AGC Flat Glass Italia and its Cuneo plant are one of the outstanding features of the Group that I have the honour to lead. I am glad to be here today to celebrate this important goal achieved by the Italian management. This operation will increase our competitiveness on the market. Such a development will allow us to reach two aims: supporting our leadership with high-performance products and contributing to a sustainable future," says Takuya Shimamura, AGC Group's President and CEO.
“Increased capacity, extended range of products, greater energy efficiency and better environmental performance turn this refurbishment into a rebirth for Cuneo’s furnace.
For the whole plant, that importantly means restored competitiveness on the way to long term sustainability,” adds Philippe Bastien, Regional President - Building & Industrial Glass Europe.