Metro Performance Glass & LiSEC: Streamlined processes, superior products

The formation of the partnership and LiSEC products in use at Metro Performance Glass

The partnership between Metro Performance Glass and LiSEC began in the late 1990s, with the first installations dating back to around 1997. Over the years, Metro Performance Glass has continuously expanded its use of LiSEC technology, appreciating the reliability, automation and integration offered by LiSEC’s solutions. The relationship has grown stronger through regular collaboration, training and support from LiSEC teams in both Austria and Australia and LiSEC partner Glasscorp in New Zealand.

LiSEC solutions are deeply integrated into Metro Performance Glass‘s manufacturing operations, supporting every stage of the glass production process. From the moment raw glass arrives, it is stored in buffers and handled by cranes - both provided by LiSEC - ensuring safe and efficient movement of materials. The glass is then processed by LiSEC cutting tables, which are operating in both Metro’s Auckland and Christchurch plant. According to Metro Performance Glass the LiSEC cutting tables stand out for their precision and reliability, forming the foundation for further processing.

Buffer storage systems from LiSEC play a crucial role in managing the workflow, allowing glass to be temporarily held between production steps. This not only streamlines operations but also reduces manual handling, which in turn minimizes errors and remakes. The LiSEC insulating glass lines enable Metro Performance Glass to produce double and triple glazed units that meet the growing demand for energy efficient solutions, especially in colder regions like New Zealand’s South Island.

Automation is a key advantage of LiSEC’s offering. Bert Riepma (Operational Projects & Systems Manager) highlighted how LiSEC’s systems allow glass to move through the plant with minimal human intervention, improving quality and consistency. The crane system further enhances internal logistics, automating the transport of glass between different workstations. LiSEC’s technology is present in nearly every aspect of Metro Performance Glass’ operations, from cutting and buffering to edge deletion and finishing.

Software integration is another area where LiSEC stands out. Metro has connected LiSEC’s GPS.order and GPS.prod software with their own glass ordering system. This integration streamlines order management and production planning, making it easier to keep track of jobs and optimize workflows. Additional LiSEC software, such as dynopt, is used to support cutting table optimisation, while autofab provides high density automation throughout the plant. Bert Riepma (Operational Projects & Systems Manager) noted that having a unified software system reduces complexity, eliminates integration issues and provides a single point of contact for support, which makes daily operations smoother and more efficient.

Implementing LiSEC LONGLiFE upgrades

Metro Performance Glass has been proactive in extending the lifespan of its LiSEC equipment through the LONGLiFE upgrade program, which they came across during LiSEC’s Virtual Fair in 2020 on the LiSEC Campus. The need for upgrades became apparent as older machines (NT, XP, Windows 7 based systems) approached the end of their full product support period. Starting in 2020, Metro embarked on a multi-year project to replace and upgrade all outdated systems, including cutting tables, IG lines and buffer systems.

Key benefits of LONGLiFE Upgrades at Metro

• Extended Equipment Lifespan: Upgrading existing machinery proved far more economical than complete replacement, allowing Metro to maximize the value of their investments.
• Reduced Downtime: LONGLiFE upgrades only cause short machine downtimes, ensuring smoother operations and higher productivity.
• Enhanced IT Security: Transitioning from unsupported operating systems (XP, Windows 7) to Windows 10 improved cybersecurity and compliance.
• Sustainability: By upgrading rather than replacing, Metro contributed to sustainability efforts by reducing waste and making the most of existing resources.
• Efficient Implementation: The upgrade process became faster and more streamlined over time, with careful planning and collaboration between Metro’s maintenance teams and LiSEC engineers.

Looking ahead

The partnership with LiSEC has empowered Metro Performance Glass to stay ahead of industry trends, embrace automation, and deliver a wide variety of high quality glass products with minimal lead times. The LONGLiFE upgrades have ensured that Metro Performance Glass’ production lines remain reliable, secure, and efficient, supporting Metro’s commitment to service excellence and innovation. Metro continues to plan further upgrades, aiming to keep all systems up to date and ready for future challenges. Their strong relationship with LiSEC and Glasscorp New Zealand ensures ongoing support and access to the latest technological advancements.