Annealed glass, also known as "plate" glass or "window glass," is the fundamental flat glass product produced through the float glass process. Its name comes from the annealing process, where the glass is slowly cooled to relieve internal stresses after formation. Typically, annealing involves temperatures between 850°F and 900°F, which is the glass's stress-relief point, followed by heat soaking to ensure uniform temperature.
Post-annealing, the glass can be cut, drilled, or polished without risking internal stresses that might cause it to shatter. However, annealed glass lacks strength and safety features. When broken, it typically shatters into random, jagged pieces, posing injury risks. Therefore, applications requiring high strength and safety should avoid annealed glass. Building codes may restrict its use in high-risk areas prone to breakage or injury.
Annealed glass is cost-effective because it skips additional manufacturing steps. Its design flexibility allows for various styles, including curved shapes.
Annealed glass serves as a precursor for other glass types. Laminated glass, for instance, consists of two annealed glass pieces bonded with a plastic layer. It's also used in producing heat-strengthened glass, tempered glass, insulated glass, and coated glass.
Characteristics of Annealed Glass:
Brittle and strong under compression
Low tensile strength
Low thermal shock resistance
Prone to breakage from sudden temperature changes
Forms sharp fragments upon breaking
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