Operating costs for direct resistance melting are generally higher than those associated with fuel-fired furnaces, even though all-electric glass melters operate at reported ranges of 71 to 76 percent efficiency, compared to a range of 30 to 55 percent efficiency for regenerative fuel-fired glass melting furnaces. Always look closely at the specific situation, however, since the efficiencies of electric glass melting furnaces, and actual energy costs, vary depending on glass composition and the specific furnace design.
The initial capital costs for direct resistance glass melting equipment vary with the application. The costs of electric boosting for existing furnaces can be roughly estimated at $3,000-$5,000 per ton of increased glass production per day.
