Hot bending involves heating glass to a pliable temperature, allowing it to be shaped into curves or angles as desired. This technique enables the creation of custom glass structures for architectural, automotive, and artistic applications.
Modern Horizontal Glass Bending Line Procedure
Heating:
Place the glass in a specialized kiln or oven designed for hot bending. The temperature and duration of heating depend on factors such as the type and thickness of the glass. Typically, temperatures range from 600 to 800 degrees Celsius.
Shaping:
Once the glass reaches the desired temperature, it is shaped into the desired form using molds or other tools. The molds are often made from materials that can withstand high temperatures and are designed to create the specific curvature required.
Cooling:
After shaping, the glass is slowly cooled in a controlled manner. This process, known as annealing, helps relieve internal stresses in the glass and enhances its strength and durability. The rate of cooling is crucial to prevent cracks or distortions.