From Sand to Sparkle
Glass is a remarkably versatile material that plays a significant role in our everyday lives, found where we live, work and play. To truly appreciate the beauty and utility of glass, it’s important to delve into its origins.
The story of glassmaking starts with the transformation of billions of tiny silica particles. When these particles are combined with heat and various additives such as soda ash, lime and crushed glass, they create a mixture known as a “batch.” This batch is then heated using a blast of flame, resulting in a glowing molten substance, which is then cooled and solidified into various shapes.
This process, steeped in history, reveals the intricate artistry and craftsmanship that turn simple materials into stunning, functional objects that we interact with daily.
Through the Looking Glass Back to Top
To create transparent glass, two important features must be present: it must be free of bubbles and have a completely flat surface. To achieve this flatness, tin is utilized in a process known as "float glass."
In this method, molten glass is poured onto a layer of melted tin, which is less dense than glass. This allows the glass to float on top of the liquid tin. The calm surface of the molten tin aids in producing a perfectly flat piece of glass.
Stretch & Cool Down Back to Top
A set of wheels called "stretch machines" adjusts the glass to the right thickness and width. After spreading out the glass, it goes through the annealing process, which slowly cools the glass over time, making it stronger and more durable.
While the glass moves through the annealing lehr, its temperature drops from 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, helping the glass solidify. Once the glass is cool enough to be removed from the tin, it is further cooled by open-air fans to about 200 degrees.
Finishing Touches Back to Top
Carbide-cutting wheels score the glass, allowing it to break into uniform pieces. The cooled glass ribbon then passes over roller wheels that help cleanly separate the glass along the scored lines. Each batch is finished to a specific thickness and cut into sizes.
Some glass is then placed in the magnetic sputtered vacuum deposition chamber (MSVD), where thin layers of metals, mainly silver, bond to the glass for solar control and other purposes. Finally, the glass is prepared for shipping.
For the full story about how glass is made, view the video above.
For even more information about glass, visit our Glass Education Center.