The spread of large curtain walls, the expansion of commercial and hospitality spaces, and the growing attention to surface customization are reshaping the role of glass within architectural projects.

In this context, the role of glass sandblasting is evolving too. No longer a simple surface treatment, but a technology capable of enhancing the final product through permanent finishes, decorative effects, and increasingly sophisticated applications. For fabricators, the challenge is no longer just achieving a high-quality aesthetic result, but ensuring its repeatability across industrial production, even when working with large panels destined for architecture or interior design.

This is precisely the context for GlassBuild America 2026, the leading trade event dedicated to glass and fenestration in the United States. From September 23 to 25, in Las Vegas, manufacturers, fabricators, designers, and technology suppliers will come together to discuss the trends reshaping the industry and the most effective solutions to meet new market demands.

GlassBuild America 2026 at a Glance

Where: Las Vegas, Nevada (USA)

When: September 23–25, 2026

Event dedicated to: glass, windows/doors, and facades

Fratelli Pezza focus: technical discussions on glass sandblasting and the opportunity to visit installed systems in the United States

Booth: ITA Pavilion, BOOTH 1259

How to attend: registration for GlassBuild America 2026 is open on the fair’s official website (Early Bird rate until August 6). The event takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center – West Hall.

Glass Sandblasting in the USA: A Market That Rewards Quality, Automation, and Expertise

The evolution of architectural glass is also changing the way production processes are designed. Panel sizes are growing, demand for customization is rising, and accepted tolerances are shrinking — making reliable, repeatable processes that integrate easily into modern production lines essential.

To meet these needs, North American fabricators are increasingly turning to technologies that reduce manual intervention, improve process repeatability, and maintain high quality standards even in customized production. In this scenario, technology is only one of the factors determining the final result: the quality of masking, the choice of abrasives, the correct definition of process parameters, and control of the entire process affect finish quality just as much as the machine itself.

For this reason, more and more companies are looking for partners capable of transferring application expertise, not just supplying equipment.

Fratelli Pezza: A Growing Presence in the United States

The evolution of the North American market is also reflected in Fratelli Pezza’s growing presence in the United States.

Over the past year, the company has installed two MISTRAL 260 EV+ automatic systems, dedicated to processing large panels of architectural and decorative glass, with further installations already planned before the end of the year. These applications show how the American market too is investing in technologies capable of delivering high productivity, consistent quality, and process repeatability — features that are now essential for handling increasingly complex production.

Founded in 1970, Fratelli Pezza today has more than 5,000 machines installed worldwide — a wealth of experience that translates, for the U.S. market, into direct technical support and industrially tested solutions, not just equipment supply.

MultiShading: The Technology Behind the Added Value

The concept of “high-value-added sandblasting” mentioned at the outset finds a concrete answer in MultiShading, the technology developed by Fratelli Pezza for the MISTRAL EV+ series of automatic sandblasting machines. The system makes it possible to create vertical, horizontal, diagonal, or concentric gradients with millimeter precision, managed via touchscreen interface and repeatable at scale — a capability that directly answers the growing demand, in the U.S. market, for customized large-format decorative glass without sacrificing production repeatability.

Beyond the Trade Show: From Booth Discussions to On-Site Experience

GlassBuild America will be an opportunity to explore Fratelli Pezza’s solutions and discuss the needs of industry professionals.

For companies interested in learning more about the technology, the conversation started at the show can continue after the event too. Thanks to its numerous installations across North America, Fratelli Pezza can, when possible, put interested companies in touch with clients who use its automatic glass sandblasting systems every day.

Talking with those who use the technology daily provides direct, concrete feedback. Furthermore, where the client company is available, a follow-up visit to the facility may be arranged, to see the systems in operation in a real production environment.

Beyond the Machine: The Value of the Glass Sandblasting Process

Glass sandblasting is the result of a balance between technologies, materials, and expertise.

Achieving uniform, repeatable, high-quality finishes requires attention to every stage of the process: from process design to the choice of masking film, from abrasives to operating parameters, through to surface protection and production time optimization.

This is the philosophy that has guided Fratelli Pezza alongside glass processors for more than half a century, providing not only automatic systems and manual sandblasting cabinets, but also consumables, software, permanent marking systems, technical consultancy, and application know-how. An integrated approach that allows customers to develop new applications, improve production efficiency, and ensure consistent results over time.

Meet Fratelli Pezza at GlassBuild America 2026

From September 23 to 25, 2026, Fratelli Pezza will be at GlassBuild America to meet manufacturers, fabricators, and industry professionals interested in exploring the latest developments in glass sandblasting and discussing the opportunities offered by the North American market.

GlassBuild America will be an important opportunity to share experiences, explore new applications, and discuss the challenges reshaping glass processing. In an ever-evolving industry, the ability to integrate reliable technologies, application expertise, and production process optimization is an increasingly decisive factor for companies’ competitiveness. Booth: ITA Pavilion – BOOTH 1259

FAQ

L'articolo GlassBuild America 2026: Sandblasted Glass Gains Further Ground in the U.S. Market proviene da Fratelli Pezza.

In this scenario, glass sandblasting can no longer be considered a simple surface treatment. It has become an integrated process, in which technologies, materials, software, and application expertise all contribute equally to the final result.

This very evolution will be at the heart of Glasstec 2026, the world’s leading international trade fair for the glass industry, taking place from October 20 to 23 in Düsseldorf. The event brings together manufacturers, processors, designers, and technology suppliers eager to discover the solutions redefining the future of glass processing.

Glasstec 2026 at a Glance

When: October 20–23, 2026
Where: Düsseldorf, Germany – Messe Düsseldorf (Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre)
The world’s benchmark event for the glass industry: over 1,250 exhibitors from 50 countries and more than 32,000 professional visitors expected, based on figures from the previous edition
Fratelli Pezza focus: MultiShading, permanent marking, masking materials, surface protection, and process consultancy
Booth: Hall 16, Stand A26
How to attend: visitor registration and ticket information is available on the official Glasstec website

Quality Comes from the Whole Process, Not the Machine Alone

When discussing glass sandblasting, attention often focuses on the machine’s performance. In reality, the quality of the finish depends on the interaction of numerous factors that must be designed and controlled as a single process: the choice of masking materials, the type of abrasive, the process parameters, the management software, application expertise, and final surface protection all directly affect finish consistency, result repeatability, and production efficiency.

For this reason, more and more glass processors are looking for partners who can support them not only in choosing the most suitable technology, but also in optimizing the entire production process, with the goal of reducing waste, increasing productivity, and developing new applications.

Founded in 1970, Fratelli Pezza today offers an approach that integrates technologies, consumables, technical consultancy, and application know-how, backed by more than 5,000 machines installed worldwide.

MultiShading: Expanding Creative Possibilities for Glass Design

Among the innovations Fratelli Pezza will present at Glasstec 2026, MultiShading will play a central role — the technology developed to create progressive gradients and varying levels of opacity directly through sandblasting.

Unlike traditional uniform processing, MultiShading makes it possible to modulate the intensity of sandblasting within the same surface, creating gradual, multidirectional transitions and decorative solutions that significantly expand the design possibilities for architects and designers.

Digital process control also delivers highly repeatable results even in industrial production, making it possible to achieve applications that until a few years ago required particularly complex manual work.

For the interior design, architecture, and decorative glass sectors, this means being able to combine creative freedom with production efficiency.

Permanent Glass Marking: Functionality and Traceability

Beyond decoration, sandblasting can also serve a technical function. Dedicated systems make it possible to create permanent markings directly on the glass surface, such as company logos, identification codes, numbers, or elements useful for production traceability.

These applications are used across numerous sectors, from industrial manufacturing to technical glass, helping to improve product identification throughout the entire production cycle. In this area too, Fratelli Pezza will present solutions at Glasstec designed to combine precision, reliability, and ease of operation within modern production processes.

Glasstec 2026: An Opportunity to Discuss the Future of Glass Sandblasting

Throughout the event, visitors will be able to meet with Fratelli Pezza specialists and explore the latest developments in glass sandblasting, seeing firsthand the technologies, materials, and solutions developed to optimize the entire production process.

Visitors will also be able to explore the potential of MultiShading, learn about permanent marking systems, evaluate different masking and surface protection solutions, and discuss the most in-demand applications in architecture, interior design, and decorative glass.

More than a simple product showcase, Glasstec will be an opportunity to share expertise, application experience, and new development perspectives with industry professionals.

Meet Fratelli Pezza at Glasstec 2026

From October 20 to 23, 2026, Fratelli Pezza will be at Glasstec in Düsseldorf, meeting manufacturers, processors, and glass professionals from around the world.

In an industry in constant evolution, where quality, customization, and production efficiency are increasingly strategic factors, Glasstec remains the international reference point for discovering the technologies shaping the future of glass processing.

For Fratelli Pezza, Glasstec 2026 will be an opportunity to show that the value of glass sandblasting doesn’t depend on a single technology, but on the integration of expertise, materials, and processes capable of transforming a traditional process into a high-value-added solution.

FAQ

L'articolo Glasstec 2026: Glass Sandblasting Beyond the Machine proviene da Fratelli Pezza.

Over the past few years, the glass processing industry has undergone significant transformation. Contemporary architecture, interior design and contract projects increasingly require customized glass surfaces, larger formats, sophisticated decorative effects and manufacturing processes capable of delivering consistent quality and repeatable results.

In this context, glass sandblasting has evolved far beyond a simple surface finishing technique. It has become a versatile manufacturing process that allows glass processors to control transparency, privacy, aesthetics and functionality, creating solutions for shower enclosures, office partitions, balustrades, doors, façades, mirrors and a wide range of interior design applications.

Meeting these new market demands requires not only advanced equipment, but also deep process expertise. With this vision, Fratelli Pezza will participate in the two leading international glass industry exhibitions in 2026: GlassBuild America, taking place in Las Vegas from 23 to 25 September, and Glasstec, held in Düsseldorf from 20 to 23 October.

Two exhibitions, two markets, one shared vision

Although they serve different geographical markets, GlassBuild America and Glasstec provide valuable insights into the future of the global glass industry.

In North America, demand continues to grow for decorative and functional glass used in residential and commercial construction, particularly for privacy applications and customized architectural projects. In Europe, Glasstec remains the world’s leading exhibition for glass manufacturing technologies, bringing together machinery manufacturers, glass processors, architects and industry professionals who shape the future of glass processing.

For Fratelli Pezza, participating in both events means engaging directly with different production needs, understanding emerging market trends and presenting technologies developed to help manufacturers improve quality, efficiency and production flexibility.

GlassBuild America 2026: Process expertise and application-driven solutions for the North American market

Fratelli Pezza’s participation at GlassBuild America will focus on technical discussions with glass manufacturers and processors operating in the North American market.

Rather than exhibiting machinery, the company will showcase real-world applications, innovative processing solutions and the latest developments designed to improve productivity, quality and flexibility in glass sandblasting.

This approach reflects Fratelli Pezza’s growing presence in the United States, where two MISTRAL 260 EV+ automatic glass sandblasting systems have recently been installed, supporting manufacturers producing architectural and decorative glass in large format.

→ Read the dedicated article about Fratelli Pezza at GlassBuild America 2026.

Glasstec 2026: Showcasing the complete glass sandblasting process

At Glasstec, Fratelli Pezza will present its complete ecosystem of technologies developed through more than fifty years of experience in glass sandblasting.

Visitors to Hall 16 – Stand A26 will have the opportunity to see automatic and manual sandblasting machines, while also exploring the technologies and expertise that contribute to consistent processing quality: masking systems, software, abrasives, permanent glass marking and surface protection treatments.

Rather than presenting individual products, the company will demonstrate how high-quality sandblasting results depend on the effective integration of every stage of the production process.

→ Discover what Fratelli Pezza will showcase at Glasstec 2026.

MultiShading: Expanding the creative possibilities of automated glass sandblasting

The company’s most significant innovation for 2026 is MultiShading, a new technology developed to extend the creative capabilities of automated glass sandblasting.

MultiShading makes it possible to create:

• multidirectional shading effects;
• multiple opacity levels on the same glass panel;
• smooth transitions between transparent and satin-finished areas;
• complex decorative patterns produced automatically with high repeatability.

These capabilities open new opportunities for applications including shower enclosures, privacy glass, office partitions, decorative panels, backlit mirrors, balustrades, architectural glazing and interior design.

Beyond its aesthetic advantages, MultiShading has been developed to simplify production by reducing the number of processing steps traditionally required to achieve sophisticated decorative effects.

More than machinery: A complete process approach to glass sandblasting

Professional glass sandblasting is not defined solely by the machine used. Consistent results depend on the successful combination of process design, materials, production parameters and application expertise.

For this reason, Fratelli Pezza has developed an integrated approach covering every stage of the process, including automatic and manual sandblasting machines, dedicated software, masking materials, abrasives, permanent marking solutions, protective surface treatments and technical consultancy.

This integrated methodology enables glass processors to handle increasingly demanding applications while maintaining high quality standards, production consistency and repeatable results.

Meet Fratelli Pezza in 2026

FAQ

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However, not all glass sandblasting machines are designed for the same applications. Some are built for high-volume industrial production, others for artisan craftsmanship and custom projects, while portable solutions are ideal for on-site work or processing already installed glass.

Choosing the right machine depends on several factors, including production volume, application requirements, flexibility, and the desired level of automation.

This guide will help you identify the most suitable solution for your business.

How to Choose a Glass Sandblasting Machine

Before investing in new equipment, ask yourself a few essential questions:

• How many glass panels do you process each day?
• Do you mainly produce standard or customized products?
• Do you need to work directly at the customer’s premises?
• Are you creating decorative designs or standard frosted finishes?
• How important are productivity and cycle times?

The answers to these questions will quickly indicate which type of machine best matches your production needs.

Quick Guide: Which Glass Sandblasting Machine Should You Choose?

Automatic Glass Sandblasting Machines

Automatic glass sandblasting machines are designed to maximize productivity, consistency, and repeatability.

Once the processing parameters have been programmed, the machine performs the complete sandblasting cycle automatically, reducing labor requirements while maintaining constant quality.

They are particularly suitable for:

• Industrial glass fabricators
• High-volume production
• Frosted glass manufacturing
• Repeatable decorative applications
• Companies looking to increase productivity

Automatic systems are the preferred choice for businesses where production efficiency and consistent results are essential.

Manual Glass Sandblasting Cabinets

Manual glass sandblasting cabinets give the operator full control over the abrasive blasting process.

This makes them especially suitable for unique pieces, prototypes, artistic work, and highly customized glass products where operator skill plays a key role.

Typical applications include:

• Prototypes
• Small production batches
• Custom decorative glass
• Artistic glass processing
• Sample production

Manual sandblasting offers maximum flexibility and allows operators to adapt the process to each individual project.

Portable Glass Sandblasters

Portable glass sandblasting machines provide maximum flexibility.

They can be used in workshops, production facilities, or directly on-site without requiring permanent installation.

Portable systems are particularly suitable for:

• Installed glass
• On-site projects
• Touch-up operations
• Localized repairs
• Occasional sandblasting work

They are an excellent solution whenever transporting the glass to the workshop is impractical or impossible.

Comparing the Different Types of Glass Sandblasting Machines

Feature	Automatic	Manual	Portable
Automation level	High	None	None
Operator involvement	Limited	Continuous	Continuous
Productivity	High	Medium	Low
Repeatability	Excellent	Depends on operator	Depends on operator
Suitable for high-volume production		✘	✘
Suitable for small batches	✘
Custom decorative work
On-site applications	✘	✘
Installed glass	✘	✘
Machine footprint	Large	Medium	Compact

Advantages of Each Solution

Each type of glass sandblasting machine offers specific advantages depending on the production environment and application.

Typical Applications

Application	Automatic	Manual	Portable
Frosted glass
Mirrors
Serial production
Decorative glass
Prototypes
Small components
Touch-ups and repairs

Which Glass Sandblasting Machine Is Right for You?

The best glass sandblasting machine depends on your production requirements, the type of applications you manufacture, and the level of flexibility your business needs.

There is no universal solution. The right choice depends on how your company processes glass today—and how you expect production to evolve in the future.

Choosing the Right Machine for Long-Term Growth

When evaluating a glass sandblasting machine, it is important to look beyond the initial investment.

Production capacity, process repeatability, operating costs, ease of use, future upgrade options, and technical support all contribute to the overall value of the equipment throughout its lifetime.

Selecting the right machine today means choosing a solution capable of supporting your business as production volumes and customer requirements continue to grow.

Conclusion

There is no single glass sandblasting machine that is ideal for every application.

Automatic machines provide the highest productivity and repeatability for industrial production.

Manual sandblasting cabinets offer maximum flexibility for customized work, prototypes, and artistic applications.

Portable sandblasters are the preferred solution for on-site operations, installed glass, and localized repairs.

Carefully evaluating production volume, application type, and operational requirements allows glass fabricators to choose the most efficient technology while maximizing return on investment.

FAQ

Which glass sandblasting machine should I choose?

The best choice depends on your production volume, the type of glass processing you perform, and whether you require industrial productivity, manual flexibility, or on-site portability.

What is the difference between an automatic and a manual glass sandblasting machine?

Automatic machines perform the sandblasting cycle using programmed process parameters, ensuring high productivity and repeatable quality.

Manual sandblasting cabinets allow the operator to control the blasting process directly, making them ideal for custom decorative work, prototypes, and artistic applications.

When should I choose an automatic glass sandblasting machine?

Automatic systems are recommended for:

• industrial glass production;
• high production volumes;
• repeatable processing;
• companies seeking higher productivity and consistent quality.

When is a manual sandblasting cabinet the best option?

Manual machines are ideal for:

• prototypes;
• sample production;
• customized decorative glass;
• artistic glass processing;
• small production batches.

What are portable glass sandblasters used for?

Portable sandblasters are designed for:

• installed glass;
• on-site projects;
• localized repairs;
• maintenance work;
• occasional glass processing.

Can an automatic machine produce decorative glass?

Yes. With the appropriate masking systems and processing programs, automatic glass sandblasting machines can produce both standard frosted glass and highly customized decorative patterns while maintaining excellent repeatability.

Which machine offers the highest repeatability?

Automatic glass sandblasting machines provide the highest level of repeatability because all processing parameters are automatically controlled throughout the production cycle.

Can already installed glass be sandblasted?

Yes. Portable glass sandblasting equipment allows processing directly on installed glass, provided that suitable protection and safety measures are in place.

What should I evaluate before purchasing a glass sandblasting machine?

Key considerations include:

• daily production volume;
• maximum glass dimensions;
• type of applications;
• available production space;
• need for on-site work;
• operating costs;
• future upgrade possibilities.

Can different types of sandblasting machines be used in the same company?

Absolutely. Many glass manufacturers combine automatic machines for serial production with manual or portable equipment for prototypes, customized work, maintenance, and special applications. Using different technologies allows companies to maximize both productivity and flexibility.

L'articolo How to Choose the Right Glass Sandblasting Machine: Automatic, Manual or Portable? proviene da Fratelli Pezza.

It is a strategic decision that allows glass fabricators to expand their range of services, increase the value of finished products, improve surface quality, and offer innovative solutions for architectural, decorative, and industrial glass applications.

A professional sandblasting machine also delivers greater production continuity, lower operating costs per square meter, and consistent quality across every project.

For many glass processors, it represents a long-term investment that creates new business opportunities while improving competitiveness in an increasingly demanding market.

In Brief

• Increase the added value of your products
• Expand your range of glass processing services
• Achieve consistent, repeatable quality
• Reduce production costs per square meter
• Improve productivity
• Ensure continuous production
• Invest in long-term business growth

Expand Your Glass Processing Capabilities

A professional glass sandblasting machine enables manufacturers to produce a wide variety of high-value glass applications.

Typical products include:

• Frosted glass
• Decorative glass
• Privacy glass
• LED mirrors
• Bird-safe glass
• Anti-slip glass surfaces
• Custom architectural and interior design elements

Expanding your product portfolio allows your business to meet new market demands, differentiate itself from competitors, and offer products with significantly higher added value.

Turn Glass into a High-Value Product

A professional glass sandblasting machine does more than increase production capacity.

It transforms standard glass into a premium product that stands out through aesthetics, functionality, and customization.

From frosted and decorative glass to LED mirrors, bird-safe glazing, and anti-slip surfaces, every new application creates opportunities to increase project value and improve profit margins.

For many glass processors, the real return on investment comes not only from producing more glass but from offering specialized products that command higher margins.

When Is the Right Time to Invest in a Professional Glass Sandblasting Machine?

Better Quality, Less Rework

Industrial-grade sandblasting equipment delivers uniform, repeatable, and consistent surface finishes.

Instead of relying solely on operator experience, the entire process is controlled and optimized to maintain the same quality standards over time.

This results in:

• fewer production defects;
• reduced rework;
• improved customer satisfaction;
• greater production reliability.

Consistent quality is one of the key factors that allows glass manufacturers to build long-term customer relationships while reducing production costs.

Why Choose a Professional Glass Sandblasting Machine?

Professional glass sandblasting equipment is designed not only for productivity but also for reliability, durability, and long-term operational efficiency.

Industrial components, abrasive recovery systems, optimized air consumption, and engineered process control ensure high performance even during continuous production cycles.

The result is:

• higher overall production efficiency.
• fewer machine stoppages;
• lower maintenance requirements;
• longer equipment life;
• lower operating costs over time;
• higher overall production efficiency.

Reduce the Cost per Square Meter

When evaluating an investment, purchase price should never be the only consideration.

The real value of a professional glass sandblasting machine lies in its ability to reduce operating costs throughout its entire service life.

Efficient management of compressed air, abrasive consumption, and production cycles helps lower the cost of processing every square meter of glass.

Lower operating costs translate into:

• improved profitability;
• greater production efficiency;
• faster return on investment;
• increased competitiveness.

Over time, these savings become one of the most significant financial benefits of investing in professional sandblasting technology.

Greater Productivity

Modern automatic glass sandblasting machines are designed for continuous production.

Automation reduces setup times, improves workflow efficiency, and allows manufacturers to process larger volumes while maintaining consistent quality.

Repeatable production is especially important for companies serving architectural projects, interior design, and industrial glass applications.

An Investment That Grows with Your Business

A professional glass sandblasting machine should meet not only your current production requirements but also your future business goals.

As market demands evolve, manufacturers often need additional processing capabilities, higher productivity, or new applications. Choosing a machine with a modular design allows your production system to evolve without replacing the entire investment.

The ability to integrate optional features, upgrade software, and adapt machine configurations makes it easier to respond to changing customer requirements while protecting your investment over the long term.

Selecting equipment designed for future growth means investing in technology that will continue to generate value for many years.

What to Consider Before Buying a Professional Glass Sandblasting Machine

Choosing the right glass sandblasting machine requires more than comparing technical specifications.

Several factors determine whether the investment will deliver the expected return over time.

Evaluating these aspects before purchasing helps ensure that the selected solution meets both current production needs and future expansion plans.

Why a Professional Glass Sandblasting Machine Is a Smart Investment

Purchasing industrial equipment should always be viewed as a long-term investment rather than a simple expense.

A professional glass sandblasting machine generates value through improved productivity, lower operating costs, higher product quality, and access to new market opportunities.

The real return on investment is not measured solely by production output but by the ability to produce higher-value products while maintaining consistent quality and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Investing in a professional glass sandblasting machine is an investment in the future of your business.

Beyond improving productivity and processing quality, it enables glass manufacturers to expand their product portfolio, reduce operating costs, and deliver high-value architectural, decorative, and functional glass solutions.

For companies seeking long-term growth, greater competitiveness, and higher profitability, professional sandblasting technology provides a reliable foundation for future development.

FAQ

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The availability of used equipment is updated regularly based on the machines currently in stock.

For technical information, photos, pricing or a customized quotation, please contact our sales team.

Machines available

For further information, photos or a customized quotation, please contact our sales team.

At the moment, no other used sandblasting machines are available.

This page is updated regularly according to machine availability.

If you are looking for a specific model, please contact our team. We may be able to inform you about upcoming opportunities before they are published online.

FAQ

L'articolo Used Glass Sandblasting Machines Available proviene da Fratelli Pezza.

The availability of used equipment is updated regularly based on the machines currently in stock.

For technical information, photos, pricing or a customized quotation, please contact our sales team.

Machines available

For further information, photos or a customized quotation, please contact our sales team.

At the moment, no other used sandblasting machines are available.

This page is updated regularly according to machine availability.

If you are looking for a specific model, please contact our team. We may be able to inform you about upcoming opportunities before they are published online.

FAQ

L'articolo Used Glass Sandblasting Machines Available proviene da Fratelli Pezza.

For glass manufacturers and processors, this trend also represents a new design opportunity. Today, technologies are available that can make glazed surfaces safer for birds without compromising aesthetics, functionality or glass quality. One of the most effective solutions is bird-safe glass created through sandblasting.

Why birds collide with Glass Surfaces

Birds do not perceive glass as a physical barrier. When a glazed surface reflects the sky, vegetation or the surrounding environment, birds mistake it for open space and fly into it at high speed. In many cases, the consequences are fatal.

The problem is particularly serious near:

• green areas, gardens and tree-lined spaces
• rivers, lakes and agricultural areas
• curtain walls, balconies and large glazed surfaces in residential and commercial buildings

As also highlighted by LIPU – an italian organization active in bird conservation with which we recently established contact – reports of birds found after colliding with glazed surfaces are increasing. This trend is directly linked to the growing use of glass in new buildings and renovation projects.

What is Bird-safe Glass and how does it work?

Bird-safe glass is a glazed surface processed in such a way that birds can perceive it without drastically altering its appearance. The aim is to break up the mirror effect or complete transparency of the glass by applying a pattern – a sequence of visible elements – that birds are able to recognise and therefore avoid.

To be effective, a bird-safe pattern must comply with scientifically validated standards, particularly the so-called “2×4 rule”: the elements of the pattern must be spaced no more than 5 cm vertically and 10 cm horizontally apart (2×4 inches, hence the name), evenly covering the surface. This allows even small birds enough time to recognise the visual signal and adjust their flight path.

Regulations and standards for the use of Glass in construction across Europe

At present, there is no single European directive regulating the treatment of glazed surfaces for bird protection. However, countries such as Switzerland, Germany and Austria have already introduced standards based on scientific research.

In countries such as the United States, Canada and China, the issue is more advanced and increasingly integrated into architectural and construction practices. In Italy, the path towards building regulations that include bird-safe requirements is still long, although awareness of the issue is steadily growing.

Glass sandblasting for Bird-safe Surfaces

Among the technologies currently available for producing bird-safe glass, glass sandblasting stands out for its quality, durability and versatility. It is therefore considered one of the most effective techniques.

The sandblasting process, which can be either automatic or manual, involves propelling micro-abrasive particles onto the glass surface using dedicated machinery, creating an even frosted texture. By applying masks or shaped stencils – such as the Amacor stencils used by Fratelli Pezza – it is possible to create precise and repeatable patterns fully compliant with international bird-safe standards.

The main advantages of sandblasting compared with other solutions include:

• Long-lasting durability: the treatment is permanent, integrated into the glass surface itself, and does not deteriorate due to weather exposure like adhesive films or paints.
• Controlled aesthetics: the level of opacity and the pattern can be customised, maintaining partial transparency where required while preserving the architectural design of the building.
• Production flexibility: sandblasting machinery can process large surfaces, flat sheets, curved glass and different thicknesses, adapting to any architectural context.
• Compatibility with different glass types: float glass, laminated glass, tempered glass and insulating glass units can all be treated through sandblasting.

Other existing solutions, such as adhesive films, external screens, UV printing or ceramic coatings, may be suitable in specific situations, but they often present limitations in terms of durability, visual impact or maintenance costs compared with integrated sandblasting.

The project with LIPU Bergamo: towards more sustainable architecture

To help spread awareness of bird-safe solutions and encourage greater understanding of the issue, Fratelli Pezza recently collaborated with LIPU Bergamo, an organisation committed to bird conservation in the local area.

During the delegation’s visit to our headquarters in Clusone, sandblasted glass samples featuring two different bird-safe patterns were produced.

These samples will serve as practical communication tools and will be used during educational meetings and awareness activities aimed at:

• architects
• surveyors
• local authorities
• construction industry professionals

The purpose is to demonstrate first-hand what bird-safe glass looks like, how it works and why it makes a difference.

The ultimate goal is to encourage bird-friendly measures to become progressively integrated into local building regulations, allowing bird-safe glazed surfaces to become part of contemporary architectural design.

Would you like to produce Bird-safe Glass for your projects?

Integrating bird-safe glass into architectural projects means contributing to more sustainable construction practices that take biodiversity and the environmental impact of buildings into account.

Technologies for creating anti-collision surfaces already exist and make it possible to combine bird protection, aesthetic quality and glass functionality. Thanks to glass sandblasting and increasingly precise processing systems, these solutions can now be easily integrated into production processes while ensuring accurate and long-lasting results.

Fratelli Pezza manufactures glass sandblasting machinery used worldwide, with solutions suitable both for large-scale industrial production and for high-precision artisanal processing.

If you are a glassmaker, contractor or designer interested in integrating bird-safe processing into your production workflow, contact us: together we will find the solution best suited to your needs.

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From uniform blasting to dynamic process control

In modern glass processing, there is a growing demand for more complex and customized surface finishes.

In this context, Multishading represents an evolution of traditional sandblasting processes.
Developed for Mistral EV+ automatic sandblasting machines, it introduces dynamic pressure control to achieve advanced shading effects.

Unlike constant-pressure systems, Multishading enables controlled gradients directly within the process.

Multi-axis pressure control

The core of Multishading lies in its ability to modulate blasting pressure along the movement of the gun.

The glass is always positioned on its longer side. However, the system adjusts pressure:

• vertically
• horizontally

As a result, shading effects are generated by process control rather than glass positioning.

This allows precise and repeatable transitions across the surface.

Linear, radial and concentric shading effects

With continuous pressure modulation, Multishading enables a wide range of finishes:

• linear gradients
• smooth transitions across large surfaces
• radial shading
• concentric patterns

This flexibility opens new possibilities for both industrial production and architectural glass design.

Optimized processing of circular glass elements

One of the key advantages of Multishading is the ability to process circular geometries efficiently.

Traditionally, these applications require manual adjustments.
However, dynamic pressure control allows the process to adapt to the shape of the glass.

This results in:

• improved surface uniformity
• higher quality finishes
• reduced manual intervention

Integration into industrial workflows

Multishading is designed for industrial environments.

It allows manufacturers to:

• standardize complex processes
• reduce operator dependency
• ensure consistent results

Moreover, it expands production capabilities without changing the machine setup.

Mistral EV+: a platform for advanced glass processing

Multishading is part of the technological evolution of the Mistral EV+ series.

By integrating advanced pressure control, it enables a more flexible and scalable approach to glass surface processing.

L'articolo Multishading: Advanced Control of Glass Sandblasting Shading proviene da Fratelli Pezza.

The event will take place at the Egypt International Exhibition Center in Cairo from May 7 to 9, 2026.
During the exhibition, visitors will be able to discover Fratelli Pezza solutions through Corpotrade, a partner active in the distribution of glass processing technologies in the region.

At Windoorex Cairo 2026, Fratelli Pezza technologies for glass sandblasting and marking will be presented by Corpotrade, offering solutions designed for industrial production and architectural applications.

Glass sandblasting technologies represented in Cairo

At Windoorex Cairo 2026, Fratelli Pezza technologies for glass sandblasting and marking will be presented by Corpotrade.

These solutions are designed for both industrial production and architectural applications.
In particular, they allow precise and repeatable surface treatments on flat glass.

The technologies include:

• automatic glass sandblasting solutions for industrial processes
• manual systems for flexible glass processing
• glass marking technologies for permanent identification

A presence in the Middle East glass industry

Windoorex Cairo is an important event for professionals in the glass and construction sectors.

In addition, it offers a key opportunity to explore new technologies and applications.
For this reason, the exhibition attracts companies and operators from across Egypt and the Middle East.

Through collaborations with local partners such as Corpotrade, Fratelli Pezza supports the development of the glass processing market in the region.

Visit Corpotrade at Windoorex Cairo 2026

Visitors and industry professionals are invited to meet the Corpotrade team at Hall 3 – Booth A32.

Here, they can learn more about Fratelli Pezza technologies and their applications in glass processing.

L'articolo Fratelli Pezza technologies at Windoorex Cairo 2026 proviene da Fratelli Pezza.