GlassBuild 2025 Recap. What the Show Revealed About Automation in the Glass Industry

GlassBuild 2025 Recap. What the Show Revealed About Automation in the Glass Industry

A live robotic demo at GlassBuild 2025 sparked practical conversations about where automation fits in the glass industry. This recap highlights key themes from the show, including common challenges, dispensing priorities, and what manufacturers are asking as they look to modernize.

At GlassBuild 2025, DRM showcased a live robotic dispensing cell and engaged in three days of conversations with manufacturers from across the glass sector. Attendees represented a wide range of specialties, including residential and commercial window and door production, custom fabrication, and architectural glass. While much of the discussion centered on dispensing and material handling, the broader interest in automation made it clear that the glass industry is actively evaluating how to modernize core processes.

Many were in the early stages of exploring automation. Others had clear goals around improving consistency, reducing manual strain, and integrating robotic dispensing into existing production lines. Across the board, questions were focused, practical, and often centered on how to move from concept to implementation.

Manual Labor Still Dominates Glass Production

Conversations throughout the event made it clear that manual labor remains the standard in much of the industry. Operators often perform repetitive, physically demanding work with minimal automation in place. This results in variability, higher labor costs, and growing concerns about safety and long-term sustainability.

Automation is not only being viewed as a solution to labor shortages. It is increasingly seen as a way to stabilize quality and improve throughput.

Dispensing Applications Are a Key Area of Interest

Dispensing was a recurring topic across multiple sectors. Attendees asked about automating tasks such as sealant application, glazing, and the placement of gaskets or spacers. Some had defined challenges around bead consistency. Others wanted to reduce waste and improve ergonomic conditions for their operators.

The dispensing demonstration on the floor allowed for in-depth conversations about motion control, material flow, and process repeatability. These discussions often led to broader questions about programming flexibility, tooling design, and maintenance requirements.

Live Robotics Demonstration Drove Deeper Engagement

Among the exhibits, active movement stood out. The six-axis robot in the DRM booth ran continuously during the show, simulating realistic dispensing operations. This live demonstration helped visitors visualize how the robots move, and how they can be applied to real production problems.

Many paused to observe the system in action and stayed to ask about speed, reach, end-of-arm tooling, and safety zoning. The opportunity to see motion on the floor changed the nature of the conversation.

Automation Experience Ranges Widely Across the Industry

Some attendees had implemented robotics before and were refining existing systems. Others were considering their first automation investment. Across this spectrum, several consistent questions emerged.

  • What level of part variation can be supported?
  • How long does a typical project take from design to installation?
  • How should safety systems be designed and validated?
  • Where does automation make sense, and when is it the wrong tool for the job?

These are foundational questions that require specific answers. The show created an environment for those conversations to begin.

System-Level Thinking Is Gaining Ground

One of the most important themes was integration. Manufacturers were not only interested in the robot itself. They wanted to understand how it fits into the full system. Topics included electrical setup, controls architecture, vision systems, and safety certification.

DRM team members shared examples from previous projects in high-volume glass handling and dispensing, where responsibility included panel builds, safety validation, equipment setting, and ongoing support.

What Comes Next for Glass Industry Automation

Interest in automation continues to grow across the glass sector. Companies are asking the right questions and defining the right problems. The most productive conversations at GlassBuild 2025 focused on specific challenges that automation can solve.

As automation expands, decision-makers in the glass industry will benefit from clear examples, thoughtful planning, and honest assessments of what works. Events like GlassBuild continue to move that conversation forward.

For those who were unable to attend, DRM’s updated dispensing capabilities page includes visuals and downloadable resources. To continue the discussion or explore what automation might look like in your facility, the DRM team would love to share insights based on real applications.