It’s a cruel irony that we’re putting together this thermal processes-focused issue while outdoor temperatures are well below average in many areas of the country. We’ve seen single-digit temps for several days now, and wind chills are consistently below zero. I think I’m drawn to our cover image because I want to warm my hands on it!

We are heating things up in this issue, though, with firing and drying technologies that could potentially help many manufacturers improve efficiency and quality while reducing costs. High-temperature refractory ceramic fiber insulation is one such technology. “A breakthrough in Morgan’s advanced manufacturing control has allowed the product to be engineered to maximize the fiber content. As a result, it has up to 20% lower thermal conductivity than competitive insulations—and enhanced energy-saving properties with much improved handleability.” Turn to "Case Study: Converting Stone Wool to Refractory Ceramic Fiber Blanket Insulation" for all of the details.

Radio frequency (RF) drying is another technology with lots of potential. “RF drying technology has a variety of uses in the ceramics and fiberglass industries, and has a proven success record over many years of use,” writes PSC’s Glenn Blaker. “The benefits to RF drying include a significant reduction in drying times, faster line speeds, less floor space usage and easy incorporation with lean manufacturing processes.” To learn more, read "Radio Frequency Drying of Ceramics and Fiberglass."

We’re also focusing on decorating technologies in this issue, with articles focused on enamel frits, glass decorating and screen printing.

 What firing and drying technologies does your company rely on to heat things up? We’d love to hear about them! Please don’t hesitate to contact me at (248) 786-1704 or suttons@bnpmedia.com to share your story.