VIG, EPDs and New Resources in the Spotlight at NGA Glass Conference: Milwaukee

First on the docket, vacuum insulating glazing, or VIG: where it’s been and where it’s going. Pilkington Architectural Glass's Kyle Sword was one of many panelists that reminded conference participants that VIG is not a new technology; its original concept dates all the way back to 1913.

Panelists from Vitro, NSG/Pilkington, Guardian Glass North America and VacuumGlass discussed existing technologies and future developments and applications of VIG. Variations include the elimination of the visible vacuum port, incorporating it into the edge of the system, as well as non-rectangular shapes. New innovations also allow VIG manufacturers to keep proprietary technology confidential. Further testing and data is needed on larger VIG sizes, says Dave Cooper of VacuumGlass.

In other sessions, NGA announced new resources for members and the industry. While many companies right now can use an industry-wide EPD, “it won’t stay that way for long,” says NGA's Tom Culp, as requirements for further material transparency accelerate, with officials asking for even facility-specific EPDs. The $2.1 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will allow NGA to help fund members’ compliance with new requirements, including funding to support glass fabricators’ creation of EPDs. 

The Association also officially relaunched its World of Glass map. This free resource shows global float glass locations and North American fabricator locations, and will include glass recycling facilities as of October.

"Though I thoroughly enjoy the education, the people and the community of the glass industry is where the magic happens," said Kyle Sword. "Love getting a day or two to talk to a huge and diverse group across the glass industry."

Attendees also enjoyed a virtual walking tour of iconic glass buildings in Milwaukee (check out Katy Devlin's recap), and ended the day with a reception at the Milwaukee Art Museum.