The 26th International Enamellers Congress became the central point of debate on the future of the entire enamelling sector. It is worth noting that, building on a rich tradition, the community now clearly sees the need for technological and environmental transformation. The primary objective of the event was the integration of experts from around the world. An equally important benefit proved to be the opportunity to strengthen cooperation between research institutions and industry, particularly in the face of increasingly stringent regulatory frameworks. This global event provided insight into the industry from the perspective of various regions of the world. As it turns out, each of them faces entirely different challenges and exhibits different growth dynamics. On one hand, we can see that the enamelling market in Europe is currently in a phase of stagnation. On the other hand, in regions such as Asia, North Africa, and South America, signs of development are much more prominent.
The main substantive topics of the congress included, among others:
- New regulatory frameworks: A key challenge for the industry is the implementation of the updated Drinking Water Directive, which forces the development and deployment of new frits. These must feature high chemical stability to minimize element migration at temperatures reaching 85°C.
- Decarbonization strategies: The impact of emissions trading systems (ETS 1 and ETS 2) on the industry’s competitiveness was analyzed, alongside the technical barriers associated with transitioning to alternative fuels.
- Circular economy: The durability of enamel coatings was highlighted—particularly in architectural applications (with a lifespan exceeding 50 years)—as an eco-friendly alternative to organic coatings. The potential to eliminate hazardous substances through the use of enamel coatings was also emphasized.
- Material innovations: Research results on enamels reinforced with 316L stainless steel flakes were presented. According to the conducted studies, this additive improves the mechanical strength of the coatings. Another unveiled innovation was an antifouling enamel designed for heat exchangers cooled with seawater.
- Digitalization and automation: Discussions covered intelligent powder feeding systems (IPS), digital ceramic printing, and the use of Digital Twins to simulate thermal processes occurring in enamelling furnaces.
- Advanced analytics: Laser photothermal radiometry was presented as a precise, non-contact method for real-time coating thickness measurement, preventing defects prior to the energy-intensive firing process.
Distinguished Experts
Industrials visits
The event participants had an extraordinary opportunity to visit companies operating enamelling processes across France. It is worth noting that the companies listed below demonstrated great openness and showcased many detailed insights into their manufacturing processes:
Intuis – a manufacturer of modern domestic hot water tanks (water heaters/boilers) covered internally with ceramic enamel.
Le Creuset – a company manufacturing renowned cookware made of enamelled cast iron.
De Dietrich – a manufacturer of chemical processing equipment covered with a layer of ceramic enamel.
Vibrantz Technology – a manufacturer of ceramic enamels and specialty products based on ceramic frits.
Atlantic – a manufacturer of modern domestic hot water tanks (water heaters/boilers) covered internally with ceramic enamel.
Emaillerie Rhenane – a job-shop enamelling facility specializing in coatings for steel, cast iron, and aluminum.
In conclusion, the Paris congress proved that the enamelling sector is successfully evolving to effectively meet market demands and sustainability goals. Furthermore, the integration of digital tools with a strong commitment to product safety allows the industry to set new standards for the 21st century.
The next International Enamellers Congress will take place in Beijing in 2029.
