Roca Group, designer and manufacturer of bathroom solutions, has invested in the world's first electric tunnel kiln for ceramic sanitary fixtures. In an effort to make the inherently energy and carbon intensive production of ceramic products carbon-free, the company has taken a decisive step towards electrifying its production processes in the Laufen factory in Gmunden (Austria), thanks to the technology of Keramischer Ofenbau.
Keramischer Ofenbau has worked on sustainable innovation for over 25 years and is a market leader in energy-efficient ceramic kilns, making it the ideal partner for Roca Group's decarbonisation project.
After four years of development, the first electric tunnel kiln for sanitary fixtures has successfully started producing ceramic pieces in Gmunden. The Laufen factory, which already uses electricity from renewable sources, was chosen for the first implementation of the new technology. Since the kiln is highly efficient, carbon-free and automated, it offers a valuable alternative to conventional production that relies on fossil fuels.
The first production results of the new kiln system show great potential for the entire industry. Albert Magrans, CEO of Roca Group says: 'We have a long-term goal to make our operations carbon-free and we have worked hard to find solutions that will help us achieve this. This new Pan-European partnership not only helps us on our way to a net-zero policy, but also represents a clear step forward for the sector as a whole.'
Günter Halex, Chairman of the Advisory Board at Keramischer Ofenbau added: 'This electric kiln once again proves that our advanced technologies can decarbonise even the CO2-intensive ceramic industry. Our electrically heated kilns offer our customers increasing independence from the energy market and enable sustainable and economic production, now and in the coming decades. This groundbreaking and innovative project shows that our technology can maintain the maximum quality of ceramic products while making a positive contribution to our planet.'
More information:
Roca Group
www.rocagroup.com