Metro Performance Glass is one of New Zealand’s premier glass manufacturers, with a proud history spanning several decades. With around 900 employees across New Zealand and Australia, the company supports both commercial and residential markets with scale, capability and deep industry expertise.
Their product range is among the widest in the country - from highperformance double and triple glazing to laminated safety glass, shower panels, balustrades, mirrors and even printed glass. Recognised for delivering customized solutions, fast lead times and exceptional service, Metro Performance Glass continues to set the standard for performance, innovation and support within New Zealand’s glass industry.
The formation of the partnership and LiSECproducts in use at Metro Performance Glass
The partnership between Metro Performance Glass and LiSEC began in the late 1990s, with the first installations dating back to around 1997. Over the years, Metro Performance Glass has continuously expanded its use of LiSEC technology, appreciating the reliability, automation and integration offered by LiSEC’s solutions. The relationship has grown stronger through regular collaboration, training and support from LiSEC teams in both Austria and Australia and LiSEC partner Glasscorp in New Zealand.
© LiSEC: LiSEC glass processing line
LiSEC solutions are deeply integrated into Metro Performance Glass‘s manufacturing operations, supporting every stage of the glass production process. From the moment raw glass arrives, it is stored in buffers and handled by cranes - both provided by LiSEC - ensuring safe and efficient movement of materials. The glass is then processed by LiSEC cutting tables, which are operating in bothMetro’s Auckland and Christchurch plant. According to Metro Performance Glass theLiSEC cutting tables stand out for their precision and reliability, forming the foundation for further processing.
© LiSEC: LiSEC press for the production of insulating glass
Buffer storage systems from LiSEC play a crucial role in managing the workflow, allowing glass to be temporarily held between production steps. This not only streamlines operations but also reduces manual handling, which in turn minimizes errors and remakes. TheLiSEC insulating glass linesenableMetro Performance Glass to produce double and triple glazed units that meet the growing demand for energyefficient solutions, especially in colder regions like New Zealand’s South Island.
© LiSEC: LiSEC glass cutting line with LiSEC software
Automation is a key advantage of LiSEC’s offering. Bert Riepma (Operational Projects & Systems Manager) highlighted how LiSEC’s systems allow glass to move through the plant with minimal human intervention, improving quality and consistency. The crane system further enhances internal logistics, automating the transport of glass between different workstations. LiSEC’s technology is present in nearly every aspect of Metro Performance Glass’ operations, from cutting and buffering to edge deletion and finishing.
© LiSEC: LiSEC washing machine
Software integration is another area where LiSEC stands out. Metro has connected LiSEC’s GPS.order and GPS.prod software with their own glass ordering system. This integration streamlines order management and production planning, making it easier to keep track of jobs and optimize workflows.
© LiSEC: overview ofLiSEC cutting lines
Additional LiSEC software, such as dynopt, is used to support cutting table optimisation, while autofabprovides highdensity automation throughout the plant. Bert Riepma (Operational Projects & Systems Manager) noted that having a unified software system reduces complexity, eliminates integration issues and provides a single point of contact for support, whichmakes daily operations smoother and more efficient.
Implementing LiSECLONGLiFEupgrades
Metro Performance Glass has been proactive in extending the lifespan of its LiSEC equipment through the LONGLiFE upgrade program, which they came across during LiSEC’s Virtual Fair in 2020 on the LiSEC Campus. The need for upgrades became apparent as older machines (NT, XP, Windows7based systems) approached the end of their full product supportperiod. Starting in 2020, Metro embarked on a multi-year project to replace and upgrade all outdated systems, including cutting tables, IG linesand buffer systems.
© LiSEC: LiSEC BSV-45NK frame bender
Key benefits of LONGLiFE Upgrades at Metro Performance Glass
» Extended Equipment Lifespan: Upgrading existing machinery proved far more economical than complete replacement, allowing Metro to maximize the value of their investments.
» Reduced Downtime: LONGLiFE upgrades only cause short machine downtimes, ensuring smoother operations and higher productivity.
» Enhanced IT Security: Transitioning from unsupported operating systems (XP, Windows 7) to Windows 10 improved cybersecurity and compliance.
» Sustainability: By upgrading rather than replacing, Metro contributed to sustainability efforts by reducing waste and making the most of existing resources.
» Efficient Implementation: The upgrade process became faster and more streamlined over time, with careful planning and collaboration between Metro’s maintenance teams and LiSEC engineers.
© LiSEC: different glass types processed by Metro Performance Glass
Looking ahead
The partnership with LiSEC has empowered Metro Performance Glass to stay ahead of industry trends, embrace automation, and deliver a wide variety of highquality glass products with minimal lead times. The LONGLiFE upgrades have ensured that Metro Performance Glass’ production lines remain reliable, secure, and efficient, supporting Metro’s commitment to service excellence and innovation.Metro continues to plan further upgrades, aiming to keep all systems up to date and ready for future challenges. Their strong relationship with LiSEC and Glasscorp New Zealand ensures ongoing support and access to the latest technological advancements.
