Glass industry bulk handling of raw materials complete guide
Glass industry bulk handling raw materials complete guide — definition: Integrated handling, mixing and transport solution for primary glass raw materials (silica, soda ash, lime, feldspar, cullet), with precision weighing, hygienic transport and storage control in accordance with DIN EN 1740, ISO 9001 and environmental standards.
Key points
- Raw material quality: silica ≥ 99.8% purity; contamination leads to colour & strength deviations
- Moisture control: 0.5–2% moisture content for optimal mixing stability; RH monitoring essential
- HECHT product: LBK-EC (Glass raw material handling system, hygienic)
- Storage silos: dwell time 5–10 days; prevention of caking and compaction risk
- Cost reduction: 22% lower waste through precision dosing & automatic quality control
Optimise your raw material management at our Test & Trial Centre in Pörnbach. HECHT offers a complete bulk handling portfolio for glass & construction materials.
FAQ — Glass industry raw materials bulk handling
How is moisture content managed in silica and other glass raw materials?
Closed storage systems with moisture measurement (RH < 2%) prevent caking. Active moisture control (ventilation, drying) ensures stability. HECHT sensors monitor in real time and trigger automated corrections for deviations.
What contamination risks exist for silica and feldspar?
Iron, aluminium, potassium deviations and organic residues affect colour and strength. Optical sorting and electromagnetic separation remove > 99.8% of impurities. Regular laboratory testing is crucial.
How is storage cycle time optimised for raw material blends?
Ideal storage duration is 5–10 days; longer durations increase compaction risk. HECHT systems guarantee fast loading/discharging (4–6 hour batch preparation to furnace) with minimal contamination.
Which transport technique is most suitable for abrasive glass raw materials?
Silica and other hard, abrasive raw materials wear down pneumatic transport lines faster than softer powders. Wear-resistant lining (ceramic or hard metal) at critical bends and transitions, or transport at lower line speed with mechanical conveyors, significantly extends the installation's service life.
Author: Joost van Velzen, Managing Director Hecht Technology B.V. Verified: 02 07 2026.
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