Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA – May 13, 2026, HWI, A member of Calderys announces the launch of AZTECH-S, a next-generation refractory solution engineered specifically for glass furnace superstructures. Designed to meet the glass industry’s growing demand for higher performance, longer campaign life and improved product quality—particularly above the molten glass line—AZTECH-S succeeds the legacy VISTA product and is engineered to deliver greater durability, improved stability and more consistent performance in demanding glass production environments.
Designed for Harsh Furnace Conditions
In glass furnaces, the superstructure environment —the area above the molten glass— presents a unique combination of thermal, chemical, and mechanical stresses. Refractories in this zone must withstand aggressive vapor-phase attack, alkali condensation, and high-temperature cycling—all while maintaining structural integrity and minimizing contamination risks.
AZTECH-S was developed to address these challenges. Utilizing a premium sintered AZS composition (alumina-zirconia-silica), this product delivers enhanced resistance to corrosion and volatilization mechanisms commonly experienced in this zone of the furnace. Its refined microstructure supports improved stability in harsh furnace atmospheres, helping operators maintain consistent performance over extended campaigns.
Engineered for Quality and Reliability
A key advantage of AZTECH-S lies in its optimized material properties. By reducing degradation and limiting defect-generating interactions, it contributes to cleaner furnace operation and more consistent end-product outcomes.
Ongoing industrial trials are already demonstrating measurable improvements in product quality and durability when compared to traditional materials, including the former VISTA grade. Early results indicate enhanced resistance to alkali attacks and lower wear rates, both of which are critical to maintaining furnace efficiency and minimizing unplanned downtime.
A Strategic Replacement for VISTA
As AZTECH-S is introduced to the market, it will serve as the direct successor to VISTA across relevant applications. The transition provides glass manufacturers with a seamless upgrade, offering improved performance while maintaining compatibility with existing furnace designs and operating conditions.
The development of AZTECH-S reflects a commitment to continuous innovation and to providing solutions that align with the evolving operational goals of modern glass producers, where higher productivity, longer furnace campaigns and consistent product quality remain key priorities.
Official Launch at Glassman Latin America
AZTECH-S will be officially introduced to the industry at Glassman Latin America, taking place on May 20–21, 2026, in Mexico City, Mexico. As one of the leading events dedicated to innovation and sustainability in glass manufacturing, the exhibition provides an ideal platform to launch this next-generation solution. HWI teams will be present at booth XX to showcase AZTECH-S, discuss customer opportunities and answer questions from industry professionals.
About HWI, A member of Calderys
HWI is one of the leading suppliers of refractory products and services in the United States, with a history that spans 160 years. It is part of Calderys and is the brand for the Americas region of the Group. HWI operates an extensive network of manufacturing sites and distribution centers across the Americas, along with the largest refractory industry research facility in North America. Serving virtually every major industry that requires refractory solutions to enhance production and protect assets, HWI is consistently recognized for its talented experts, industry firsts, and intensely driven excellence.
For more information, visit https://thinkhwi.com