COMPANY PORTRAIT GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP CONTENTS
05 FOREWORD
06 HIGHLIGHTS
08 THE COMPANY
GLASS MANUFACTURE 14 Float glass 16 Laminated safety glass
GLASS COATING 20 Thermal insulation glass 22 Sun protection glass 23 Anti-condensation glass
FIRE-RESISTANT GLASS 26 Fire-resistant glass
GLASS PROCESSING 28 Insulating glass 30 Safety glass 32 Interior
AUTOMOTIVE 36 Automotive glass spare parts 37 Train glazing 38 Aircraft glazing
TECHNICAL GLASS 42 Anti-reflective and mirrored glass 43 EuropTec 44 Panels and displays 45 Medical and laboratory equipment
46 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 47 QUALITY AND RELIABILITY MANAGEMENT 48 SUSTAINABILITY 49 LOGISTICS 50 SANCO GROUP 51 HISTORY 57 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 58 LOCATIONS
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 3 WELCOME MORE LIGHT, MORE LIFE. Glass unites and separates at the same time. It affords an insight without allowing us immediate access. We can admire or marvel at what we see on the other side of the glass. It stimulates our curiosity, inspires us to dream and perhaps marks the beginning of a new understanding.
4 WELCOME THE FASCINATION OF GLASS
Dear Readers
No other ancient material is more modern and has a brighter future than glass. From natural glass formed in the heat of a volcano to industrially produced, large-scale construction glasses or design glass for a modern lifestyle – the history of glass is every bit as fascinating as its properties.
Glass is a timeless material with enormous functionality. It captures sunlight and keeps the cold at bay. It acts as a heat and sound insulator and provides security. We can use glass to structure our living and working environment in line with individual needs, and to constantly realise new visions.
The Glas Trösch brand stands for partnership, dependability
Erich Trösch and ongoing development. We think and plan for the long Chairman of the Board of Directors term. By investing our profits in state-of-the-art plant and Glas Trösch Holding AG new jobs, Glas Trösch continues to grow. I am proud to head this family company founded in 1905 and now in its fourth generation.
Welcome to the world of Glas Trösch.
Erich Trösch Chairman of the Board of Directors Glas Trösch Holding AG
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 5 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP HIGHLIGHTS
New Monte Rosa Hut Zermatt/Switzerland
The world is constantly changing. So is the world of glass. New technologies and products are offering new application possi- bilities all the time.
To find solutions capable of withstanding very high speeds or for use in buildings exposed to extreme climatic conditions, Glas Trösch is constantly searching and researching, experimenting and inventing with great passion. Not least in order to master engineering challenges and to implement pioneering projects across the globe in conjunction with competent partners.
Zentrum Paul Klee Bern/Switzerland
6 Pilatus PC-24 GT4 racing version of the KTM X-Bow
Zefiro 380 high-speed train China
Vacheron Constantin Le Chenit/Switzerland HQ Abu Dhabi/United Arab Emirates
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 7 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP THE COMPANY Four generations of entrepreneurial spirit, quality-oriented thinking and a willingness to take risks are the bedrock on which Glas Trösch stands and continues to grow.
FACTS & FIGURES Year of foundation 1905 Headquarters Buochs/Switzerland Number of factories 60 Countries CH / D / F / PL / MDA / UA / H / SVK / TR / CZ / USA Number of employees 5,000
8 GROUP MANAGEMENT
Daniel Kiwit Fritz Zahnd Frank Studer Erich Trösch Boris Aenishänslin Fabian Zwick CFO Business Development Automotive and Chairman of the Processing Switzerland CEO and Basic Technical Glass Board of Directors and Germany Glass With Glas Trösch since: 2011 1977 1984 1991 2008 2002
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 9 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP
WHAT MAKES GLAS TRÖSCH THE PERFECT PARTNER ?
The flexibility of a medium-sized company, the established reliability management, broad product range, professional pride and commitment of its employees are just a few of the reasons why Glas Trösch has enjoyed the trust of its custom- ers for over a century.
What started out as a small venture to manufacture mirrors and grind glass became the No. 1 in the Swiss market and a leading company for the production and processing of sheet glass in Europe due to its great appetite for innovation. Glas Trösch has a passion for creating quality of life with that fasci- nating building material, glass. Production hall of Glas Trösch AG Swisslamex Bützberg/Switzerland The Glas Trösch Group currently employs 5,000 personnel in around 60 factories in Switzerland, Germany, France, Poland, The Automotive product range includes car, railway, aircraft Moldavia, the Ukraine, Hungary, Slovakia, Turkey, the Czech and helicopter glazing. Republic and the USA. The company’s head office is located in Bützberg/Switzerland. Finally, Technical Glass produces antireflection glass as well as glass solutions for displays, switches, household applianc- Glas Trösch operates in six business areas. Glass Production es and medical/laboratory equipment. is engaged in the manufacture of float glass and laminated safety glass. Glass Coating focuses on thermal insulation and The company’s in-house glass production is at the beginning of sun protection glass as well as special coatings. Exterior Pro- its value creation chain and covered by its quality management. cessing is responsible for window, facade and roof glazing, This ensures first-class quality and allows most customer safety and fire-resistant glass as well as anti-reflective and wishes to be taken into consideration. mirrored glass. Interior Processing provides glass solutions for showers and baths, staircases and floors, railings and balustrades, doors, room partitioning systems, kitchens and furniture.
10 BEO Center Spiez/Switzerland Facade with SILVERSTAR SELEKT four-season glass for thermal insulation and sun protection
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 11 THE FIRST SNOW When it turns cold and grey outside, the long wait begins. For the moment when the snowflakes finally flutter past the window. When you nearly press your nose against the pane, they seem to dance all around it. This magic never fails to fascinate us, year after year.
GLAS TRÖSCH STANDS FOR QUALITY OF LIFE Glass enables us to watch the cold spectacles of winter from the warm comfort of indoors. The finely tuned SILVERSTAR programme offers the right insulating glazing for every need.
GLASS MANUFACTURE FLOAT GLASS EUROFLOAT AND EUROWHITE NG
HOW MUCH QUARTZ IS THERE IN THE WORLD ?
The world’s reserves of quartz sand are virtually unlimited. Quartz sand consists mainly of quartz grains, and quartz is the second most common mineral on Earth. It consists of silicon and oxygen and forms crystals in many different shapes and colours.
Sheet glass made using the float glass process is the starter material for Glas Trösch products. The factories' output not only keeps their own glass processing operations going but also serves to supply an extensive international customer net- work.
The principal raw materials for float glass are quartz sand, Float glass works Euroglas Osterweddingen/Germany lime and soda. The raw materials are melted together with clean broken glass (cullet). The molten mass is then passed into a bath of liquid tin, where a smooth glass surface forms. Sheet glass is transparent, chemically resistant, non-com- bustible as well as resistant to moisture and deformation.
The four float glass works are operated in partnership with other well-known glass processors and are arguably the most modern glassworks in the world.
FLOAT GLASS WORKS
Commissioning date Daily production Hombourg (F) 1995 600 t Haldensleben (D) 1997 700 t Osterweddingen (D) 2006 800 t Ujazd (PL) 2009 1,000 t
14 Strictly speaking, glass is never really cut. A computer-controlled cutting machine first scribes the float glass with a carbide tip, after which it is snapped automatically.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 15 GLASS MANUFACTURE LAMINATED SAFETY GLASS EUROLAMEX
CAN SAFETY BE INVISIBLE ?
A highly transparent film lends the glass new safety properties. It protects against injuries in the event of breakage, and keeps unwanted guests out.
Great importance is accorded to safety when it comes to glass applications. This is the reason why laminated safety glass is now the standard both in architecture as well as in vehicle and aircraft construction.
EUROLAMEX laminated safety glass consists of at least two layers of glass and highly tear-resistant films. In the event of mechanical damage, the glass does not shatter into little pieces but remains attached to the film. The unbroken surface Employee in the clean room on the laminated safety glass line reduces the risk of injury. Adding such films does not affect either transparency or the protective effect of the glass.
A variety of safety properties can be achieved by combining different film thicknesses and glasses. On request, Glas Trösch is able to supply glass with tints, UV and sound insula- tion or other special functions.
16 In the clean room, the plastic film is inserted between the glass plates and the “sandwich” subjected to heat and pressure in autoclaves.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 17 AT HOME One morning, it has finally happened. You open your eyes and glimpse a ceiling, four walls, the sun flickering through the window. Barefoot, you grope your way downstairs. And slowly come to the realisation that it is no longer a dream but your very own home.
GLAS TRÖSCH STANDS FOR TRADITION For four generations, the family company has played its part in helping people to realise their lifetime dreams. Tailor-made interior applications combining the lightness of glass and great durability create a sense of harmony and spaciousness.
GLASS COATING THERMAL INSULATION GLASS SILVERSTAR
AND WHAT ABOUT THE ENERGY BALANCE ?
It takes only around 4 kWh of energy to coat a square metre of glass. Compared to conventional, uncoated double glazing, this saves around 15 litres of fuel oil per square metre of win- dow surface and heating period. This corresponds to around 150 kWh.
Conemporary glass projects call for an environmentally com- patible energy saving concept. Here glass coatings make an important contribution to environmental protection. In 1987, Glas Trösch installed its own magnetron coating plant and extended its range of products with thermal insulation glass under the name SILVERSTAR. Today, the company supplies innovative coatings that meet the most diverse requirements. SILVERSTAR coating plant Ujazd/Poland
The focus is no longer solely on energy saving, but also on energy production. Glasses with SILVERSTAR thermal insula- tion coatings are designed in such a way that a maximum of solar energy is allowed to pass through while retaining the heat in the room.
20 Westend Duo Frankfurt/Germany
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 21 GLASS COATING SUN PROTECTION GLASS SILVERSTAR SUPERSELEKT, SILVERSTAR COMBI AND SILVERSTAR SUNSTOP T
Nycomed Constance/Germany Santander Consumer Bank Mönchengladbach/Germany
FACING THE SUN EFFECTIVELY ?
Natural daylight is a vital factor for life on Earth. It has a systems, meaning a significant cost reduction. This effectively positive effect on people and boosts physical and mental prevents undesirable interior overheating while allowing health. Natural daylight makes us feel good. for the benefits of high light transmission and a captivating exterior view. SILVERSTAR SUPERSELEKT coatings are optimised so as to achieve the highest possible light transmission as well as low To make glass facades stand out, accentuation by means energy transmittance. of colour reflections is employed as an individual design aid. The colour aesthetics of a building shell in glass assert Coating solutions such as SILVERSTAR COMBI combine a specific, self-confident identity. thermal insulation and sun protection without losing the transparency that allows copious natural daylight into the room. The values of SILVERSTAR SUNSTOP T coatings help to achieve low energy consumption for air conditioning
22 ANTI-CONDENSATION GLASS SILVERSTAR FREE VISION T
CLEAR VISION WITHOUT EXTERNAL CONDENSATION ?
In certain weather conditions, modern insulating glass may experience external condensation. This physical effect is attributable to the improved thermal insulation properties of the glass – the higher the insulation value, the more fre- quently it occurs.
Highly effective thermal insulation coatings have already reduced the heat loss of insulating glass to a minimum, and the use of triple glazing is growing steadily.
As a consequence of such improved insulation, the inner pane warms up almost to room temperature, while the outer pane receives virtually nothing of the space heating and may Detached family home Lake Constance/Switzerland cooldown dramatically, depending on the weather conditions. If its surface temperature lies below the dew point of the ambient air, condensation is unavoidable. This is a regular occurrence on well-insulated vertical insulating glass elements.
With SILVERSTAR FREE VISION T, Glas Trösch has developed a coating that effectively prevents external condensation. Unlike hydrophilic coatings that amalgamate condensate droplets into an even water film over the entire glass surface, thereby merely improving vision through the fogged pane, SILVERSTAR FREE VISION T actually prevents condensation.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 23 BUTTERFLIES IN THE STOMACH You sit and think. But not about the things you really ought to be thinking about. No sign of concentration. Your thoughts fly out the window and revolve around this one personGLAS TRÖSCH only. FOR FASCINATION When will we see each other again?
GLAS TRÖSCH STANDS FOR FASCINATION Glass inspires. It allows vistas and dreams to pass through while keeping disturbing influences at bay. Tinted glasses and ornamental glasses have the capability to change reality according to their shape and colour.
FIRE-RESISTANT GLASS FIRE-RESISTANT GLASS FIRESWISS FOAM AND FIRESWISS COOL
CAN GLASS BURN ?
Fire resistance tests needed for quality control and internal development purposes are conducted on a regular basis in the company’s own globally accredited fire laboratory. These tests form the basis for national and international approval procedures.
Glass used for fire-safety purposes not only protects against smoke, heat and flames, but increasingly has an aesthetic function as well. Transparent fire-resistant glass provides natural lighting, thereby offering considerable design free- dom.
With FIRESWISS FOAM and FIRESWISS COOL, Glas Trösch Fire test rig Fire laboratory, Buochs/Switzerland supplies highly effective fire protection solutions. In the event of a fire, the glass turns into a rigid foam sheet. It becomes opaque, cutting off the heat radiation. Much of the heat energy is consumed in this way and rendered harmless. A heat shield is formed that allows people to leave the building safely via the emergency and escape routes.
26 Glas Trösch AG Fireswiss Buochs/Switzerland
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 27 GLASS PROCESSING INSULATING GLASS SILVERSTAR
WHAT KEEPS SPACE HEATING IN BETTER THAN A 250 MM THICK WOODEN WALL ?
An insulating glass with a thickness of just 44 mm is a better insulator than a 250 mm thick spruce wall thanks to wafer-thin, invisible thermal insulation coatings.
For more than 20 years, barely perceptible silver coatings on insulating glass have ensured outstanding thermal insulation while enabling the creation of transparent and light-flooded architecture. Extensive areas of glass not only bring light and views inside. In the colder months, they also help to utilise the free energy that the sun supplies in abundance. Moreover, daylight is important for our physical and mental wellbeing – for our quality of life. Modern insulating glass line of Glas Trösch St. Gallen-Winkeln/Switzerland
SILVERSTAR insulating glass consists of two or three panes, with triple glazing having emerged as the standard. It pro- vides maximum living comfort and remarkable warmth and cosiness, even in close proximity to the window.
28 Townhouse Zurich/Switzerland
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 29 GLASS PROCESSING SAFETY GLASS
HOW SAFE DO YOU FEEL BEHIND GLASS ?
Laminated safety glass provides protection against injury and SWISSLAMEX laminated safety glass offers a wealth of can be made intruder-resistant, penetration-resistant, opportunities for combining architectural design aspirations crash-proof or even bullet-proof, with total transparency with great functionality and safety. Selecting different glass throughout. thicknesses and film layers and laminating them together can achieve a wide variety of safety properties while fulfilling the most challenging design requirements. Laminated safety glass may be clear, translucent, coloured, light-scattering or printed with individual motifs.
SWISSDUREX monolithic safety glass is thermally toughened single glazing. It has a higher bending strength and thermal shock resistance than normal float glass. It can be used for many applications both indoors and outdoors. If damaged, it shatters into small, blunt-edged glass granules. In addition to the safety aspect, monolithic safety glass offers a wealth of design opportunities. Screenprint or direct digital print can be used to transform the glass into a captivating architectur- al element. In terms of design, the sky is the limit.
Safety glass for stairs and railings
30 ACPC Vocational School Freiburg/Switzerland
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 31 GLASS PROCESSING INTERIOR
HOW CAN YOU TURN A KITCHEN INTO A FEAST FOR THE EYES ?
SWISSCULINARIA features a wide variety of shapes, an exten- Thanks to its many different processing techniques, glass sive colour palette, numerous ornamental glasses and individ- offers almost unlimited interior design possibilities: in the ualised surfaces. The results are unique and elegant glass kitchen, bathroom and private living area, in offices, public solutions for the kitchen – a feast for the eyes as well. buildings and the catering sector.
Space for dreams: As an emotional, strikingly shapeable and modern material, glass enables the creation of new interior worlds. Glass lives, enlivens and is tangible. It makes a vital contribution to wellbeing and quality of life. Glass invites you on a journey through the world of contemporary architecture. Its combination of lightness and durability captures the essence of our age. With its transparency, openness and visual attractiveness, glass is the stuff of which dreams are made. In the Glas Trösch Interior Centres, interior glass applications come to be part of a new world of experience. Here, dreams turn into reality.
SWISSCULINARIA to meet sophisticated requirements in the kitchen
32 SWISSSTEP Walkable glass makes every step a special experience for the senses.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 33 ONWARDS AND UPWARDS It has turned into reality. What existed only as a model for many months, now stands in full size in the heart of the city. His first multi-storey building. The many working days and nightshifts are forgot- ten. The facade is just like the blueprint. Its glass reflects the street, the sky – and immense pleasure.
GLAS TRÖSCH STANDS FOR INNOVATION The facade is the face of a building. Glass makes it smile. Different glass facade systems allow for impressive exterior views and bright interiors.
AUTOMOTIVE AUTOMOTIVE GLASS SPARE PARTS
WOULD YOU LIKE A LITTLE MORE ?
In the Glas Trösch e-shop, you can order all products quickly and easily online, 24 hours a day. Useful instructions for dismounting and fitting automotive glass systems can be called up online, helping these tasks to be organised more efficiently.
For more than 30 years, Glas Trösch has been providing bodyshops, garages and motor vehicle glass installers with products and services associated with automotive glass. In addition to windscreens, rear and side windows in original quality, the product range encompasses every tool needed to professionally dismount and fit glass, as well as consumables, Automotive glass logistics centre Oensingen/Switzerland automotive glass sealants and mounting kits.
15 company-operated sales points in Switzerland are supplied daily from the logistics centre in Oensingen. Every customer, all over Switzerland, receives the goods “just in time” and in flawless quality thanks to the company's own vehicle fleet. Regular training ensures that customers always have the latest information on products, processes and trends. If need be, they can also obtain on-site fitting assistance.
36 TRAIN GLAZING
HOW DO YOU BREAK RECORDS?
Glas Trösch is supplying the front glazing for the new Gotthard high-speed train “Giruno”. Starting in 2019, it will race through the world’s longest railway tunnel at speeds of up to 250 km/h – a Swiss railway record.
Working in conjunction with the world’s leading train manufac- turers, Glas Trösch develops and makes front glazing for rail vehicles. With more than 20 years’ experience, the company has acquired a worldwide reputation for curved safety glazing. Its core expertise revolves around bullet-proof, chemically tempered, heated window systems with sun and shatter pro- tection. Stadler EC250 “Giruno” 11-section articulated train Alongside top quality and reliability, product innovation plays a major role. Thanks to its in-house development team, highly motivated employees and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, Glas Trösch ranks among the most capable suppliers in the field of front glazing for rail vehicles and was designated “Best spare parts supplier” by the Swiss Federal Railways.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 37 AUTOMOTIVE AIRCRAFT GLAZING
HOW DO YOU PROTECT PILOTS ?
The risk of bird strikes can never be eliminated. For this reason, Mecaplex develops special acrylic and polycarbonate glazing to provide the best-possible protection for pilots.
When it comes to choosing cockpit glazing, renowned man- ufacturers in many areas of aviation such as business jets, trainers, jet fighters, gliders, helicopters, etc. put their trust in the certified quality offered by Glas Trösch. In addition to cockpit glazing, the company produces light and wing cov- ers for the aviation industry. As a system provider, Glas Trösch covers all processes involved in making top-quality high-tech aircraft glazing: from development, design, tem- plate construction, manufacture and installation through to Airbus Helicopters EC 130 T2 multi-purpose helicopter repair and maintenance.
A key focus of Glas Trösch in this field is directed on the ongo- ing development of raw materials and technologies employed to protect aircraft occupants and enhance interior ambiance.
38 Pilatus PC-24 twin-engine jet aircraft
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 39 A TRIP AROUND THE WORLD The time is right for taking time for yourself. To travel together and see the landscape rush by. City, countryside, river. Looking at the outside world gives way to looking inside yourself. The airflow stirs up memories. We have seen so much already! Do you remember …?
GLAS TRÖSCH STANDS FOR TRUST Glass not only offers a host of attractive design possibilities, it also provides safety and security. Protected behind safety glass such as SWISSDUREX or SWISSLAMEX, you can unwind and relax.
TECHNICAL GLASS ANTI-REFLECTIVE AND MIRRORED GLASS LUXAR NG
LUXAR NG glass in the form of showcases Reflection-free reading Cathedral treasury, Cologne/Germany increases the driver’s safety and physical comfort.
DOES AN ANTI-REFLECTIVE COATING INFLUENCE COLOUR PERCEPTION ?
LUXAR NG coatings have no effect on colour perception. HY-TECH-GLASS is available with different anti-reflective Depending on the ambiance and contrast aimed for, float and mirrored coatings. For example, LUXAR NG anti-reflec- glasses may be coated in the standard colour shades of tive glass boasts outstanding transparency and delivers regular float glass, extra clear, blue, grey, green and bronze. invisible protection for works of art and other valuable items.
HY-TECH-GLASS from Glas Trösch features optical interfer- Spymirror glass and beamsplitter glass are partially ence coatings to reduce irritating mirroring and mirror-coated on one side and employed for classic surveil- reflections to a minimum. In this way, reflection-free views lance situations. They also allow for the creative integration of are assured where clear vision is essential. Prying eyes, on monitor screens and displays and offer a wealth of indoor and the other hand, can bekept at bay by means of mirror-coated outdoor design opportunities. surfaces.
42 EUROPTEC
HOW ARE COMPLEX GLASS PRODUCTS MADE IN SMALL SIZES?
The EuropTec Group has six production locations in Switzer- land, Germany, Hungary, Turkey and the USA with around 500 employees. Its customers include leading providers of displays, consumer electronics and medical technology as well as automotive industry suppliers.
ESG and Luxar are finished using precision screenprinting to make cover panes for monitors while speedometer glasses for motor vehicles are manufactured on the basis of thin glass laminates. EuropTec produces high-quality etched glass for touch displays and has a global sales network in EuropTec Oftringen/Switzerland order to efficiently supply international markets.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 43 TECHNICAL GLASS PANELS AND DISPLAYS
Cover glass for the centre console Porsche Spyder
Speedometer cover glass Design element for control unit Rolls-Royce
44 MEDICAL AND LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
HOW DO YOU MEET EXPECTATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS IN THE FIELD OF MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY ?
EuropTec AG Polymer concentrates on the manufacture of high-precision plastic components. They are produced using modern CNC turning centres, plain turning lathes and milling centres. EuropTec AG Polymer stands out for its specialisation in machined components made of polymer materials and for its processing of transparent plastics.
Finished parts are used as packaging systems for implants and instruments or as structural elements in surgery, endos- copy, dental medicine, laboratory technology and diagnostics. Diagnostics component
CNC milling of plastics Implant holder
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 45 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Product quality is constantly improved through new materials, innovative pro- duct concepts and optimised production processes.
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR US IN THE FUTURE ?
Glass is the material of the future. As a natural material, it utilises solar energy, is long-lasting, provides protection, is easy to clean and non-toxic. Glass will continue to make an important contribution to human comfort and wellbeing, as well as health.
It all begins with research and development. Interdisciplinary teams composed of members from the fields of physics, chemistry, materials science, production engineering, coat- ing process technology, mechanical engineering and machine building work closely together. Innovative product concepts are developed and production processes analysed Meticulously accurate work is the foundation for success. and refined in the company’s own development laboratories. In this way, customer wishes can be fulfilled under realistic production conditions. Constant dialogue with universities of applied sciences and institutes of technology enables the latest research findings to be rapidly incorporated into new products.
46 QUALITY AND RELIABILITY MANAGEMENT The Group's internal quality and reliability management ensures great customer satisfaction.
WHAT DO WE UNDERSTAND BY QUALITY ?
Quality is paramount. This means that our reliability manage- ment does not shy away from addressing any complaints that may arise. Should there be anything that gives cause for concern, Glas Trösch guarantees its customers that it will deal with the matter promptly and correctly.
The overriding goal of quality management to constantly improve and assure quality, together with further develop- ment of products and advanced training of employees. The Glas Trösch team of experienced engineers routinely con- ducts tests in the company’s own laboratory on all materials used in the manufacture of products. The Glas Trösch facto- Glas Trösch stands for superior quality. ries are also supported by an internal QM system based on current standards. This safeguards both process reliability and high product quality.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 47 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP SUSTAINABILITY All processes are designed with conservation of resources and environ- mental protection in mind.
HOW GOOD AN INSULATOR IS GLASS ?
An approx. 40 mm thick insulating glass achieves the same thermal insulation values as a 300 mm thick cavity wall with 100 mm of insulating material. Moreover, in terms of sound insulation, the same glass also stands comparison with a 120 mm thick wall made of lime-sand bricks.
No other ancient material is more modern and has a brighter future than glass. Glass stands equally for fascination and for effective sustainability. The raw materials for glass manufac- ture occur in abundance in nature and are sufficient for many generations to come. Moreover, glass is one of the few materials that can be recycled almost completely. Following Conservation of natural resources through processing and finishing, glass is a quality product with an environmental protection and recycling energy balance that remains unsurpassed.
The principles of sustainability are systematically implement- ed at Glas Trösch. Float glass manufacture is a good example of this. The float glass factory built by Glas Trösch back in 1995 was the first in the world to be equipped with an exhaust gas purification system. Constant investment in pro- duction facilities and plant enables our factories to keep pace with challenging environmental and energy requirements.
48 LOGISTICS An optimum, need-based material flow from the manufacturing facility to the building site is ensured.
WHAT DOES SOMETHING THAT LOOKS SO LIGHT WEIGH ?
A 4 mm thick sheet of glass measuring 3.21 × 6 m weighs around 200 kg. Ten such sheets make up a stack less than 5 cm high, yet weighing in at 2 tonnes.
The Glas Trösch logistics system embraces efficient handling and optimum protection of the freight during any transport. With this in mind, the Glas Trösch Group works with trusted partners, but also employs its own, environment-friendly fleet for daily deliveries throughout Europe.
The organisation is continuously optimised in order to fulfil customer needs as efficiently as possible. Among other things, the custom reusable racks play a decisive role in the Safety is paramount when transporting glass. internal and external logistics. All deliveries are monitored for their punctuality as a part of reliability management.
The Glas Trösch inloader fleet carries glass all over Europe.
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 49 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP SANCO GROUP Glas Trösch is the licensor for the SANCO insulating glass group.
GLASS-BASED DESIGN AND INSULATION
The SANCO Group is made up of medium-sized companies a contact point for associations. It grants material approvals from 14 European countries working in the areas of insulat- for challenging production processes and compiles technical ing glass, laminated safety glass and monolithic safety glass. documentation. SANCO also deals with the planning and monitoring of joint group communication measures such as In addition to supporting its member companies, SANCO pro- trade fairs, the SANCO website, technical literature and sales vides consultancy services and acts both as an information aids for processor customers. centre for architects, schools and building authorities, and as
SANCO Annual General Meeting Oberjoch/Germany
50 GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY HISTORY QUALITY FOR FOUR GENERATIONS
FIRST GENERATION 1900–1910 Joh. Fr. Trösch lays the foundation stone for the company. Following a commercial apprenticeship, he devotes himself to the new discovery of photography and takes pictures with silver-coated glass plates. In 1904 he starts his own business. Joh. Fr. Trösch develops a pio- neering process with which to transfer colour photos onto glass and porcelain and sells it throughout Europe. Farmhouse and annex In 1905, together with a partner, he founds the 1920–1930 company “Abächerli & In 1923, the company is entered in the commercial register and Johann Friedrich Trösch Trösch, Photokeramische operates under the name “J. Friedrich Trösch, Glasschleiferei, Anstalt” in Bützberg. The Schilderfabrik, Grabschmuck” [glass-grinding workshop, sign purpose of the company is to make posters and advertising signs factory, grave decoration]. In 1927, in glass and porcelain. From 1906, photos of deceased persons the company begins to manufac- are printed on oval porcelain plates with gold inscriptions. Soon ture mirrors. A mirror coater is the porcelain is replaced by black glass. The sale of grave cross- recruited, who brings his own es – initially in cast iron, later iron wire – is commenced. method with him. The business activities increasingly shift to- 1910–1920 wards the processing of glass. Both black glass and crystal glass are purchased in Czecho- The company letterhead shows its slovakia and processed. New machines have to be purchased areas: glass-grinding workshop, to grind the glass. The company expands its area of business mirror factory, crystal glass facet- into the production and sale of car windscreens. The First ed in every form, shop-window World War (1914–1918) slows down the fledgling company’s fittings, car windows, advertising development. It is not until 1919 that the first factory with and company signs, sandblasting glass-grinding workshop, two garages and an office is built workshop, grave marker boards alongside the farmhouse on Schlossstrasse. Glass-grinding workshop in black glass, porcelain and
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 51 GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY HISTORY
electroplate, grave monu- ments in iron and stone. At the end of the 1930s, the company sign “J. Friedrich Trösch, Glas- und Spiegel- manufaktur, Bützberg” ap- pears (see left).
SECOND GENERATION 1930–1940 In 1923 Rud. Fr. Trösch joins the company at the Company sign end of the 1930s age of 16. He completes a commercial apprenticeship. He learns how to carry out all the practical work in the busi- Delivery truck 1936 ness. In 1927, Rud. Fr. Trösch learns the trade of glass special- ist in the Gerrer SA company in Mülhausen. On his return, he Trösch and the employees are away for months on military duty. sets about the rapid expansion of the business. Furniture fac- Obtaining glass proves difficult because Switzerland is sur- tories and carpentry work- rounded by the Axis Powers. From 1945, Rud. Fr. Trösch is the shops are visited with the sole shareholder and owner of the company. Ice-patterned aim of building up a broader glass is introduced, being mainly used in kitchen construction. clientele for mirrors, ground-glass tops and the 1950–1960 trade in glass. A large natu- After the war, an economic boom begins and the Trösch ral stone mill from Bohe- company is among the beneficiaries. The sale of window glass mia is installed. Flat and and cast glass is expanded. The first representatives are steep facets become the recruited. The sales area is enlarged as far as Bern and into fashion. the Aargau region. The glass-grinding workshop and mirror factory are modernised and expanded. An Opel semi-trailer In 1936, a Ford delivery and a Bedford truck are bought. In 1955, the company is admit- truck is fitted with a verti- ted into the glass cartel “Vertglas”. In 1956, the large domed cal-lift shop-window frame hall is built with three Isler domes and put into operation with in line with an idea by Rud. an electric crane as well as modern warehouse and cutting Fr. Trösch. In 1938 the com- facilities. pany Fr. Trösch AG, Bütz- Rudolf Friedrich Trösch berg is founded. The large domed hall represents an important step towards the future. 1940–1950 In 1939, a new building of 500 m2 is added, and a hand-operat- ed crane is installed. Further extension – two storage sheds – takes place in 1947. During the war years, from 1939 until 1945, the business is only kept going with great difficulty. Rud. Fr.
52 Domed hall Heinz Trösch
THIRD GENERATION of Bystronic, which makes insulating glass and cutting 1960–1970 machines for the European market. In 1965 the new Kulmer- In 1951, Heinz Trösch joins the company and completes a com- glas factory is built in Oberkulm for the manufacture of mercial apprenticeship. He spends most of the first two years soldered insulating glass. The Heglas and Kulmerglas products working in the factory where he gets to know all the practical are marketed under licence all over Europe, and the company work. In 1955, he undertakes the first trials in the manufacture thereby becomes known throughout Switzerland and the neigh- of glued insulating glass. In 1956, production of insulating glass bouring countries. begins under the Heglas brand. Heinz Trösch produces the first insulating glasses by hand in his spare time – in a room of the The two brothers now set old farmhouse. Later, production is transferred to the cellar of about expanding the com- the domed hall and the first employees are recruited. Heinz pany from 20 to around Trösch has machines made to his own design for the manufac- 3,000 employees over 40 ture of insulating glass. Heglas AG is founded in 1958. The same years of work, helped by a year, his brother Erwin Trösch joins the company. In 1962, the healthy economic climate 1,000 m2 Heglas Hall is built out of wood. 1964 sees the founding and loyal staff.
1970–1980 A large factory is erected in Bützberg with 7,200 m2 floor space, as well as a two-storey office building Erwin Trösch with cellar, for the rapidly expanding companies Heglas AG and Fr. Trösch AG. The triple Glas Trösch logo is introduced. The new building with state-of-the-art equipment takes the company a giant step forward. In the subsequent years, a number of other Production Kulmerglas factory companies are founded or acquired in Switzerland: in 1973, Heglas AG in Bulle; in 1974, Glasmatec AG in Niederönz; in
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 53 GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY HISTORY
Factory Bützberg/Switzerland, 1974 Magnetron Bützberg/Switzerland
1975, the subsidiaries in Muttenz and Bern plus Grambach AG 1990–2000 in Zurich and St. Gallen; and in 1976, Isolierglas AG in St. Gal- In Germany, too, companies are acquired: Krebs GmbH in len. In 1978, the manufacture of SWISSLAMEX is started in Bad Krozingen in 1990, and the Kaufmann and Laminex com- Bützberg. panies in Altshausen in 1993. Foreign sales markets are needed for the three SILVERSTAR coating plants. In Burn- 1980–1990 haupt in Alsace, production halls are built for the second and In the following ten years, the car windscreen division is built third magnetron coating plants (1991 and 1993). up and various other companies are acquired, such as Belmo Landquart in 1981, which is now the Glas Trösch plant in Ma- Heinz Trösch manages the com- lans. In 1981, Glas Trösch Holding AG is founded in Bern and pany as CEO for 30 years until in 1983, Glas Trösch Autoglas AG in Ursenbach for the manu- 1989, followed by his brother Er- facture of automotive glass. The same year sees Swissdurex win Trösch for three years, then commencing production in Bützberg. With the 1984 acquisi- Hans Baumberger for nine years tion of Sanco & Co AG in Nördlingen, Glas Trösch makes its until he is succeeded by Erich first foray into Germany. With Sanco & Co AG, Glas Trösch Trösch in 2002. also gains 20 franchisees for SANCO insulating glass. In 1985, Glas Trösch acquires Faglas AG in Thun. The same year, After handing over the manage- Glas Trösch establishes the Glas Trösch advisory service and ment to his brother in 1989, Heinz glaströschdesign for the production of glass furniture. 1988, Trösch devotes himself princi- Hans Baumberger following a major investment of CHF 40 million, marks the pally to the task of establishing commissioning of the large production hall for the first mag- appropriate technical, financial and political conditions for netron coating plant and SILVERSTAR coated glass, repre- setting up the company’s own float glass factory. The inten- senting a decisive step towards the future. tion is to ensure a supply of glass that is not dependent on the oligopolic groups. After years of preparation, a definitive con- struction decision is taken on 12 May 1993. Fortunately, at a critical stage of the project, the fourth generation – Erich Trösch – is willing to accept responsibility for the construc-
54 FOURTH GENERATION 2000–PRESENT DAY In 1991, Erich Trösch represents the fourth generation to join the company. During his studies at the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, he completes various internships in the glass-cutting department, scheduling office, laminated safety glass and monolithic safety glass production, in the assembly departments and the Bulle and St. Gallen works. He graduates in 1991, obtaining the title “dipl. Masch. Ing. ETH” [graduate machine engineer ETH]. In 1993, after his military service, Erich Trösch spends several weeks of train- ing at Cardinal Glass, the largest American manufacturer of insulating glass, run by Roger D. O’Shaughnessy. Also in Euroglas Haldensleben/Germany 1993, he assumes project responsibility for the company’s first float glass works. With the support of Hans Baumberg- tion of the first float glass works and successfully accom- er, Hans Lüdi and a team of engineers, the plant in Hom- plishes this mammoth task. bourg, Alsace/France is built and put into operation in the record time of 14 months. In 1996, accompanied by Armin In 1995 and 1997, the two float glass factories in Hombourg, Streit, Erich Trösch assumes project responsibility for the Alsace/France and in Haldensleben, Saxony-Anhalt/Germa- second float glass factory agreed by the Board of Directors, ny are constructed and put into operation. With the acquisi- to be constructed in Haldensleben, Saxony-Anhalt/Germany. tion of the two companies Ocli/MMG in Goslar and Kappeler This factory, too, is successfully put into operation together in Zofingen (1998/99), Glas Trösch adds another mainstay in with laminated safety glass production and a magnetron the field of technical glass. These companies with around 300 plant. In 1999, Erich Trösch graduates from the renowned employees are transferred to EuropTec AG, Oftringen in 1999 IMD Business School in Lausanne. by A. Lauterburg-Trösch, son-in-law of Heinz Trösch.
Two generations in the factory Swisslamex Bützberg/Switzerland
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 55 GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY HISTORY
Fireswiss building Buochs/Switzerland Euroglas Ujazd/Poland
In 2001, the renowned Schwabenglas Group is acquired In 2009, the fourth float glass works with a capacity of 1,000 with seven factories and 600 employees in the south of tonnes/day is put into operation in Ujazd near Lodz/Poland. In Germany and the Swissdouche division is established. By 2010, EVROGLASS is acquired, the largest insulating glass now the group has grown to include 43 factories. manufacturer in the Ukraine with nine decentralised pro- cessing factories. This makes Glas Trösch the No. 1 in the On 1 January 2002, Erich Trösch takes over from Hans Ukrainian insulating glass market. The same year, an insulat- Baumberger as Chairman of the Group Management and on ing glass factory in Moldavia and a glass processor in Germa- 20 February 2002, he succeeds his father Heinz Trösch as ny are acquired. Chairman of the Board of Directors. With these succession arrangements, a majority of the shares pass to Erich Trösch. 2013 sees the integration of the EuropTec Group. With five factories in Switzerland, Germany, Hungary, Turkey and the In 2002, a factory is built in Buochs (Canton of Nidwalden) for USA, it makes up the Technical Glass division. the manufacture of the fire-resistant glass developed within the company. The same year sees the acquisition of Pilkington In early 2017, Erich Trösch announces the construction of a Automotive Switzerland and the expansion of the second float glass line to provide expanded capacity at the magnetron plant in Bützberg to 35 cathodes. In 2006, the Polish factory in Ujazd. The success story continues. third float glass works is put into operation in Osterwedding- en, Saxony-Anhalt/Germany, with a capacity of 700 tonnes/ With effect from 1 January 2018, Erich Trösch hands over day. In Haldensleben, a highly complex magnetron plant is the position of CEO to Fabian Zwick after 16 years in order to constructed for the manufacture of solar glass. In 2007, the focus on his duties as Chairman of the Board of Directors of new large hall for SWISSLAMEX in Bützberg comes into use, Glas Trösch Holding AG. allowing laminated safety glass of up to 900 × 330 cm to be manufactured.
56 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Maya Trösch, representative Erich Trösch, Chairman of the Trösch family
Fritz Zahnd, Glas Trösch Holding AG Claude Cornaz, CEO Vetropack Holding AG Mark Hess, ADVOCATE lawyers
Jörg Riboni, CFO Emmi Schweiz AG Jan Jenisch, CEO Lafarge Holcim
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 57 FLOAT GLASS EUROGLAS FLOAT GLASS FACTORIES Hombourg (F), Haldensleben (D), Osterweddingen (D), Ujazd (PL) EUROGLAS LAMINATED SAFETY GLASS FACTORIES Haldensleben (D), Osterweddingen (D)
COATING SILVERSTAR COATING FACTORIES Bützberg (CH), Burnhaupt (F), Haldensleben (D), Ujazd (PL)
FIRE-RESISTANT GLASS Buochs (CH)
PROCESSING SWITZERLAND INSULATING GLASS: Bützberg, Bolligen, Oberkulm, St. Gallen-Winkeln, Malans, Bulle, Steffisburg LAMINATED SAFETY GLASS: Bützberg, St. Gallen-Winkeln MONOLITHIC SAFETY GLASS: Bützberg, St. Gallen-Winkeln INTERIOR: St. Gallen-Winkeln, Steffisburg, Showroom Rothrist GERMANY INSULATING GLASS: Bad Krozingen, Memmingen, Nördlingen, Wertingen LAMINATED SAFETY GLASS: Nördlingen, Ulm MONOLITHIC SAFETY GLASS: Bad Krozingen, Memmingen, Mengen, Nördlingen, Ulm INTERIOR: Kempten, Mengen, Waldshut, Showroom Munich THE UKRAINE INSULATING GLASS: Dnipro, Kharkiv, Kiev, Lviv, Odessa, Simferopol (Crimea) MONOLITHIC SAFETY GLASS: Dnipro, Kiev, Lviv MOLDAVIA INSULATING GLASS: Chisinau SLOVAKIA INSULATING GLASS: Bánovce nad Bebravou
AUTOMOTIVE SWITZERLAND Grenchen, Oensingen, Ursenbach GERMANY Holzkirchen CZECH REPUBLIC Uherske-Hradiste
TECHNICAL GLASS SWITZERLAND Bützberg, Oftringen GERMANY Goslar TURKEY Denizli HUNGARY Zalaegerszeg USA Clarksburg
58 GLAS TRÖSCH GROUP LOCATIONS The Glas Trösch Group is based in Buochs/Switzerland. It encompasses about 60 factories in Switzerland, Germany, France, Poland, Moldavia, the Ukraine, Hungary, Slovakia, Turkey, the Czech Republic and the USA.
Clarksburg
NewYork
USA LEGEND Float glass Coating Technical glass Fire-resistant glass Processing Automotive
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 59 Burnhaupt-le-HautHombourg Bad Krozingen Mengen Ulm MemmingenKemptenNördlingenWertingen HaldenslebenOsterweddingen ZalaegerszegUherske-HradisteBánovce nad Bebravou Ujazd
North Sea Baltic Sea RUSSIA
NETHERLANDS BERLIN POLAND
GERMANY WARSAW
BELGIUM
PRAGUE
CZECH REPUBLIC
FRANCE
STRASBOURG
MUNICH SLOVAKIA
BASEL BRATISLAVA
ZURICH AUSTRIA
CHUR BUDAPEST SWITZERLAND LAUSANNE HUNGARY
ITALY
Adriatic Sea ANKARA
TURKEY
Bulle Denizli Buochs Malans Bolligen Grenchen Bützberg Oberkulm Steffisburg OensingenUrsenbach
St. Gallen-Winkeln
60 Lviv Chișinău Odessa Kiev Simferopol Dnipro Kharkiv
RUSSIA
BELARUS RUSSIA
KIEV
UKRAINE
SLOVAKIA
HUNGARY MOLDAVIA
CHIȘINĂU
ROMANIA
Sea of Azov
Black Sea
GLAS TRÖSCH COMPANY PORTRAIT 61 GLAS TRÖSCH HOLDING AG Industriestrasse 29, CH-4922 Bützberg Phone: +41 (0)62 958 52 52, Fax: +41 (0)62 958 52 55 www.glastroesch.com