Following a major fire in July 2025, Stoelzle Flaconnage, part of the Stoelzle Glass Group, has contracted HORN Glass Industries on August 29, 2025, with the time-critical cold repair and reconstruction of Furnace 1 at the Knottingley site in the United Kingdom. HORN assumed overall responsibility for the engineering, coordination, and execution of the project.
The 170 tonnes-per-day end fired furnace with five forehearths was engineered, manufactured, delivered and erected within a very short time-frame. The scope of work was completed in less than four months. This was possible only through a consistently accelerated project execution, in which design, manufacturing and installation were carried out in parallel and closely coordinated. This approach was complemented by precisely planned logistics. On-site installation, mechanical assembly, and commissioning were completed efficiently while complying with all applicable safety, quality and regulatory requirements.
To enhance energy efficiency and reduce CO₂ emissions, the HORN e-Fusion electric boosting system was integrated, complemented by the HORN HRD-BEAM for contactless glass level measurement.
HORN’s scope of supply included complete engineering and execution of refractory materials, steel construction, and equipment for the melting furnace, distributor, forehearths, and batch charger, as well as dismantling works, full cooling water supply, controlled heat up, filling, and commissioning.
By 20 December 2025, the furnace was fully operational again, ensuring a rapid restart of production with minimal downtime.
This project highlights HORN’s technical expertise, efficiency, and strong team performance. We would like to thank Stoelzle Flaconnage Ltd for the cooperative partnership and wish them continued success and good glass at all times.