Delivering efficient control solutions for Latin American glassmakers

“Today, we have a versatile team of nine employees, with experience in glass and life science-related applications” he explains. “We are supported by both our international partner network and also by our global Eurotherm systems and services team of glass experts.”

In the glass industry, the company’s previous experience relates primarily to the control of manufacturing process furnaces for automotive glass tempering applications. “Our customers need high process reliability and accuracy, the main characteristics they can find in Eurotherm products.”

Eurotherm engineers have core expertise in precision control strategies and related services that help customers to meet tight tolerances and achieve high efficiency manufacturing. “Businesses appreciate our local support in the design, installation and maintenance of solutions, whether it be for new or upgrade installations.”

EPower and EPack power control modules are a popular choice with local glass industry customers and the company intends to build on success gained in other regions by promoting the benefits of the high efficiency power control system design. “For process control, our systems are based on Eurotherm T2550 PAC or T2750 PAC controllers, which offer customers the combination of high availability and precision control they require” says Marco Aguilar. “The 3500 advanced temperature controller and programmer range is also a popular product in some applications.

Process Solutions
From the simplest single loop control to full-scale information integration and plant-wide distribution control systems, Eurotherm can provide scalable, modular solutions to match a customer’s application and budget. As requirements grow, new modules can be incorporated into existing systems, with integration a key part of Eurotherm offerings. It’s products, hardware as well as software, are designed to work on multiple communication platforms, with connectivity at all levels.

Latin American coverage  
While Brazil has been the main focus of its activities to date, Eurotherm Ltda is confident of developing business opportunities with glassmakers throughout Latin America and in particular, in Argentina. Users of flat and curved automotive tempering processes are particular targets, as the region’s hollow glass manufacturers.

The Brazilian Eurotherm office is integrated into the Global Eurotherm strategy and operations. “In the glass industry, we relate to our global specialist personnel, receiving support from international Eurotherm glass experts and providing local support for the implementation and operation of local projects, many of which are designed and purchased in other parts of the world” Marco Aguilar confirms.

Improving market conditions
With Brazil still recovering from the effects of a major recession, prospects for the future are positive. “Process upgrades and new projects have been postponed because of this negative context but are now starting to recover again” says Marco Aguilar. “Now that the economy is back on track and consumption is growing, there is good potential for the glass container industry in particular.”

By comparison, other parts of Latin America suffered a less severe recession. Glass volumes are increasing, as the industry shows positive signs of recovery. This bodes well, both for the region’s glass industry and suppliers like Eurotherm Ltda.