English
EspañolBlue-Sky Safety Glass - Pursue quality and cast high-quality goods.
Home / News / Industry News / The Application of Heat strengthened glass and The production steps of Heat strengthened glass
Heat-strengthened glass is a type of glass that has undergone a heat treatment process to increase its strength and resistance to thermal stress. It is commonly used in various architectural and automotive applications. Here are some key applications of heat-strengthened glass:
Architectural Glazing: Heat-strengthened glass is widely used in architectural glazing applications, particularly for large windows, curtain walls, and glass facades. Its increased strength compared to regular annealed glass allows for larger glass panels and reduces the risk of breakage due to thermal stress caused by temperature fluctuations.
Spandrel Panels: Heat-strengthened glass is often used in spandrel panels, which are opaque or colored glass panels installed between floors in building facades. These panels can hide structural elements, insulation, or mechanical systems while maintaining a uniform appearance with other transparent glass areas.
Skylights and Canopies: Heat-strengthened glass is suitable for skylights, canopies, and overhead glazing applications. These structures are exposed to environmental factors such as wind loads, temperature changes, and potential impacts. Heat-strengthened glass provides the necessary strength and durability to withstand these conditions.
Balustrades and Railings: Heat-strengthened glass is used for balustrades and railings in both interior and exterior settings. It provides a safe and transparent barrier while offering resistance to breakage and the ability to withstand loads and pressure.
Storefronts and Shopfronts: Heat-strengthened glass is utilized in storefronts and shopfronts, where large glass panels are commonly used to create an inviting and visually appealing entrance for commercial establishments. Its increased strength ensures the safety and security of the premises.
Automotive Applications: Heat-strengthened glass is also employed in the automotive industry. It is used for side and rear windows in vehicles where improved strength is required compared to standard annealed glass. Heat-strengthened glass provides better resistance to impact, reducing the risk of breakage and ensuring passenger safety.
Display Cases and Shelves: Heat-strengthened glass is used in display cases and shelves, particularly in retail environments, museums, and exhibitions. Its increased strength and resistance to thermal stress make it suitable for supporting and protecting valuable or delicate items.
Furniture and Interior Design: Heat-strengthened glass can be utilized in furniture design and interior applications, such as glass tabletops, partitions, shelves, and cabinets. It adds a sleek and modern look to spaces while providing durability and resistance to breakage.
Overall, the application of heat-strengthened glass extends to a wide range of architectural, automotive, and design-related uses. Its enhanced strength and resistance to thermal stress make it a valuable choice for projects that require durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal.Besides,The production of heat-strengthened glass involves a specific thermal treatment process to enhance its strength and resistance to thermal stress. Here is a general overview of the production steps:
Glass Cutting: The first step in the production of heat-strengthened glass is cutting the glass sheets to the desired dimensions. This can be done using automated cutting machines that score and break the glass along predetermined lines.
Glass Cleaning: The cut glass sheets are thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, or residues. This ensures that the glass surface is free from impurities before undergoing the strengthening process.
Pre-Heating: The glass sheets are pre-heated in a furnace to an elevated temperature, typically around 600 to 650 degrees Celsius (1112 to 1202 degrees Fahrenheit). This helps to eliminate any surface imperfections and ensures uniform heating during the subsequent strengthening process.
Heat Strengthening: The pre-heated glass sheets are then subjected to a rapid cooling process, known as quenching. The glass is placed onto a conveyor system and passed through a controlled air or gas quenching process. The quenching process involves directing jets of air or gas onto both sides of the glass, rapidly cooling the surface while the interior of the glass remains relatively hot.
Annealing: After the quenching process, the glass undergoes an annealing process. Annealing involves slowly cooling the glass to relieve internal stresses and stabilize its structure. The glass is typically placed in an annealing lehr or oven and gradually cooled over a specific period of time.
Inspection and Quality Control: The heat-strengthened glass sheets are thoroughly inspected to ensure they meet the desired quality standards. This includes checking for any defects, such as surface imperfections, optical distortions, or residual stresses that may affect the glass's strength or appearance.
Cutting and Fabrication: Once the heat-strengthened glass sheets pass the quality control inspection, they can be further processed as per the specific requirements of the application. This may involve cutting the glass into smaller pieces, shaping it, drilling holes, or applying edge treatments to achieve the desired final product.
Packaging and Distribution: The finished heat-strengthened glass sheets are carefully packed to protect them during transportation and storage. They are typically packaged in crates or pallets to prevent damage and ensure safe handling.
It's important to note that the exact production steps and equipment used may vary depending on the specific manufacturing process and the equipment available in different glass production facilities. Additionally, the parameters of the heat-strengthening process, such as the temperature, quenching method, and annealing time, can be adjusted based on the desired strength and thermal characteristics of the final glass product.
