Imagine replacing a giant gas oven with a high-tech electric version that uses microwaves or induction, similar to how a kitchen hob works but on a massive scale. It's about switching from burning gas to using clean electricity to melt and bake ceramics. To make it work, they are also creating digital 'twins'—virtual copies of the machines—to keep everything running smoothly and safely.
Ceramic manufacturers rely on expensive, volatile fossil fuels for high-temperature processes, leading to high CO2 emissions and energy insecurity.
Three pilot furnaces (induction/electrode frit smelter, microwave alumina calciner, hybrid hydrogen/electric tunnel kiln) and digital twin management tools.
If you are a glass producer dealing with high natural gas costs and carbon taxes — this project developed a frit smelter powered by induction and electrodes that replaces fossil fuels. This shift helps reduce dependence on gas imports and lowers emissions.
If you are an alumina plant dealing with energy-intensive calcination — this project developed a microwave-based calciner. This allows for a more sustainable heating process using renewable electricity instead of traditional fuels.
If you are a brick manufacturer dealing with the need to decarbonize tunnel kilns — this project developed a hybrid kiln integrating electricity and hydrogen combustion. A full-scale unit could avoid more than 505 GWh of natural gas consumption per year.
Based on available project data, specific pricing for the equipment is not provided, although the project aims to demonstrate 'cost-effective' electrification pathways.
Yes, the project focuses on demonstrating three pilot technologies and calculates impact based on 'full-scale units' that can reduce 97,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.
Based on available project data, there are no specific details regarding IP or licensing agreements provided in the summary.
The project investigates the flexibility and integration of electric heating with renewable energy sources to ensure a resilient energy system.
The project runs from 2024-01-01 to 2027-12-31, during which the pilot technologies will be validated.
The consortium is heavily industry-weighted with 9 industrial partners (47% ratio) and 5 SMEs, indicating a strong focus on commercial viability. With 19 partners across 10 countries, it combines academic research from 3 universities and 4 research centers with practical industrial application, ensuring the technology is tested in diverse European market contexts.
Contact Fundacion CIRCE in Spain for technical partnership inquiries.
Contact us to find the right industrial partner for your ceramic plant electrification.
