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Thanks to vacuum, glass bottles and jars can be molded into thin and light shapes at very high speeds. Traditionally, glass molding is done with compressed air, which blows air into a glob of melted material. This procedure has worked well for centuries, but thanks to vacuum the process becomes faster, more energy-efficient and at lower production costs. Find out how vacuum shapes the world of glass manufacturing. 

Vacuum systems for container glass molding

Glass bottles and jars are produced by high speed “Individual Section” (IS) machines. A glob of melted glass is dropped in a mold, compressed air blows the glob to the mold’s shape and the finished bottle is removed. In principle, all the IS machine needs a supply of compressed air, but thanks to vacuum the process becomes faster and more efficient.

By applying vacuum to the process, the production line requires up to five times less air and energy. Thanks to vacuum the IS machine also operates faster and the quality of the finished glass bottle or jar ends up being better.

The most energy-efficient vacuum pump for glass manufacturing: the rotary screw vacuum pump

Bottling - Commercial image

We ran various test, in the lab and with our customers, and found out a rotary screw pump with variable speed drive is the most energy-efficient solution for glass bottle manufacturing. The GHS VSD+ rotary screw vacuum pump is an electricity-saver: the GHS VSD⁺ series have shown a significantly better performance against traditional fixed speed technologies; potentially saving 50%* or more in energy costs, in most applications compared to traditional fixed speed vacuum technologies. Don’t take our word for it, with a Vbox energy audit tool, you can calculate the energy savings for your specific application.

These are the direct benefits to your container glass production line:

  • A solution for every IS installation: the GHS VSD+ comes in a complete range from 350-5400 m³/h 
  • Design for a centralized system: parallel these pumps to cover for higher demands or redundancy
  • High reliability
  • Energy savings of 50% or more on your electricity (compared to fixed speed pumps)
  • Graphical monitoring and control system. Read more about the Elektronikon MK5 Graphic
  • Easy maintenance: suitable for on-site service, along with your compressed air installation
  • Best-in-class oil retention for a clean working environment
  • Low noise levels 
  • A plug-and-play installation

*In most applications compared to traditional fixed speed vacuum technologies based on measurement with our Vbox energy audit tool.

Which vacuum pump technology is most suited for container glass manufacturing: vane or oil-injected screw?

Rotary vane vacuum pumps are traditionally the technology of choice for glass molding and use in IS machines. However, unregulated rotary vane pumps cannot follow fluctuating demands and pressure changes throughout the process. A rotary vane pump is what we call “fixed-speed” technology, which means it always runs full throttle, to achieve the deepest vacuum level it was designed for. As a result, if there are natural fluctuations in demand, these pumps are technologically limited in their controllability and can only be controlled within a relatively narrow predefined rotational speed range. 

An oil-sealed screw vacuum pump, on the other hand, is able to run through a wide range of rotational speeds due to its rotor profile and can always obtain the optimum operating point. This creates stable pressure conditions with reduced energy consumption.

Why do IS machines benefit from a centralized vacuum system?

Would you like to take your glass production installation to the highest level? Then you should consider a centralized vacuum system. A central control system controls and monitors various pumps simultaneously, ensuring the optimal mix of machines is running at all times. The vacuum supply matches the exact demand of the application, while overall energy consumption is optimized. On top of these energy-savings, a centralized vacuum system offers you pressure stability, resulting in a more stable production, especially during mold changes or other short breaks. A stable and reliable vacuum supply also benefits the end quality of the glass.

The one-stop-shop for glass manufacturers

At Atlas Copco, we are used to partnering up with our customers to work out the best possible solution for their specific need. If you’re in the glass industry, we can help you with your complete installation: from design to aftersales service and maintenance. We're looking forward to hearing about your next project.

Energy-efficient and sustainable vacuum solutions from Atlas Copco provide the final perfect touch for Noelle + von Campe

What should you look for in your vacuum pump for glass container manufacturing?

Energy-saving solutions

Sustainability is Atlas Copco's middle name. Every vacuum system we build is optimized to offer the best energy efficiency for your installation. you also benefit from a vacuum system that consumes less energy and helps you to achieve your own sutainability goals.

Reliable, global service network

Step 1 is choosing a reliable pump that delivers consistent performance and uptime. Step 2 is making sure you can count on a global service network that helps you to maintain your equipment. At Atlas Copco we have service centers in every corner of the world. Our proactive maintenance programs and full after-market support allows you to keep your production up and running, whatever happens.

Low cost of ownership

Reliability and a low cost of ownership, that's what counts. Your product's end quality relies on it. Our vacuum pumps combine a made-to-last design with the lowest running cost. So you benefit from a smooth production with a low energy bill.

Stories from our customers

Вакуумное оборудование на производстве пластиковых ванн на заводе Vitra

Turkish bathtub manufacturer Vitra goes green and saves energy by 89%

2 April, 2016

Eczacibasi is a prominent Turkish industrial group, whose core sectors are building products, healthcare and consumer products. Their Vitra brand is among the world’s top providers of bathroom and tiling solutions. Vitra’s Istanbul factory has the capacity to produce 350,000 bathtubs every year.