Dry Glass Forming
Advanced Container Forming Without Lubrication
Location
San Luis Potosi, Mexico
Modesto, CA, USA
Pöchlarn, Austria
Aachen, Germany
Years
2016 – 2026
Collaborators
RWTH Aachen University
Introduction
The Gold Standard for Future Container Glass Production
The dry glass forming initiative focuses on developing friction-free container glass manufacturing through advanced tribological investigations of glass-to-metal contact during industrial-scale forming operations.
This research eliminates traditional lubrication cycles by implementing innovative friction sensors and specialized coatings for glass contact surfaces. The project optimizes forming processes through precise mold temperature control, timing optimization, and non-swabbing technology that reduces operational complexity while maintaining product quality.
By advancing process simulation and automation capabilities, this initiative enhances manufacturing efficiency, reduces environmental impact from lubricants, and improves overall competitiveness of glass containers against alternative packaging materials through cleaner, more sustainable production methods.
Project details
Revolutionary Carbon-Neutral Glass Production
Milestones of the project so far:
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IPGR and project partners have developed an innovative robotic cell system for automated coating application, installed at two member facilities and the main IPGR research facility. The system delivers fast and uniform coating application, significantly reducing processing time while ensuring consistent quality and coverage.
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The extensive IPGR member network provides comprehensive industry trials across diverse manufacturing environments and bottle specifications. The trial program covers different bottle types from beverage containers to pharmaceutical and cosmetic packaging, ensuring broad applicability. Member facilities provide real-world testing environments that validate performance under actual production conditions, enabling rapid technology transfer and industrial implementation.
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Laboratory facilities provide scientific foundation through tribological analysis, coating characterization, and process optimization.
Specialized equipment measures friction forces, surface interactions, and coating durability under controlled conditions. During industry trials, research teams provide hands-on assistance analyzing bottle quality, coating performance, and mold material interactions to ensure successful implementation.
STUDENTS APPLICATION
Do you want to get involved?
Post-graduate students are always welcome to participate in our projects.
Send a concise CV and a short note on the problems you want to solve, plus any relevant work or publications.
