From skyscraper and high-rise office windows to glass balustrades and decorative shelving, it’s a critical component in many modern structures, enhancing safety and providing many other benefits.
But how is toughened glass made and cut to size for these different applications?
The experts over at Express Toughening reveal all you need to know about this process.
So, how is toughened glass made?
Toughened glass, also known as tempered glass, is made by heating regular annealed glass – that’s commonly used for domestic windows, doors, and other household items – to an extremely high temperature before rapidly cooling it.
The annealed glass is heated to at least 600°C, and once it reaches the required temperature, it is transferred to a quenching chamber, where it’s blasted with cold air to cool the glass down quickly.
This process creates tension and compression in the glass, which is what gives it its superior strength and durability, making it suitable for use for a range of applications.
How is toughened glass cut down to size?
The cutting of the glass has to take place before the toughening process, as doing it after would cause the glass to crack and shatter, despite its high impact resistance.
Before the toughening process commences, annealed glass can be cut to any shape or size to meet your specific project requirements.
This is done by scoring a line into the glass, which is typically achieved using a V-shaped cutting wheel.
The glass is then weakened along this line, which allows the sheet to be ‘broken’ in two.
It’s vital to ensure you get your measurements spot on, as once the process is complete, toughened glass can’t be recut or adjusted in any way.
Can I cut the glass myself?
Whilst cutting glass down to your required shape and size may sound simple enough, it requires expertise, precision, and specialist equipment to get it right.
Any professional will strongly advise that you leave this task to them, to ensure the cut is as accurate and clean as possible and that the glass is very integrity isn’t compromised.
Since many toughened glass products are custom-cut to suit your exact requirements, you shouldn’t need to make any further adjustments afterwards, anyway.
Professionals strongly recommend leaving glass cutting to the experts to ensure precision and prevent compromising the integrity of the glass. Toughened glass, being custom-cut to your specific needs, doesn’t require further adjustments after it’s cut, guaranteeing a perfect fit for your project.
Order bespoke toughened glass products online
From glass balustrades and shower screens to shelving, tabletops, and more, toughened glass is the ideal choice for many applications around the home or office.
To find out more about toughened glass and how it’s made, or for help choosing the perfect products for your project, be sure to get in touch with the experts at Express Toughening today!
This is done by scoring a line into the glass, which is typically achieved using a V-shaped cutting wheel.
With decades of experience in the industry and a wide range of toughened glass products available, their team would be more than happy to answer your questions, offer advice, and fulfil your bespoke toughened glass requirements.