The Difference Between Pressed Glass and Blown Glass
I. Pressed Glass
Process Principle
Pressed glass generally refers to the process of using molten glass stock to form glass products with specific shapes, dimensions, and properties through heating, plastic deformation, and cooling. It is also known as a method of glass forming. The principle involves placing a glass blank into a mold, heating and softening it under high temperature and pressure, allowing it to flow and fill the mold cavity. The final product is formed after cooling.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process of pressed glass is relatively complex. First, the glass stock must be prepared, then heated to a specific temperature and held for a period to achieve sufficient plastic deformation capability. Next, the glass blank is placed into the mold, which is positioned in a press machine. Pressure is applied to achieve the desired shape and dimensions. Finally, the mold is removed for cooling, allowing gradual hardening and forming.
Characteristics and Applications
Pressed glass products feature dimensional stability, smooth surfaces, uniform internal structure, and high strength. They are widely used in automotive, construction, instrumentation, and other fields. For example, automotive windshields are high-strength, high-transparency products made from pressed glass, offering wind and lightning resistance.
II. Blown Glass
Process Principle
Blown glass is a common glass-forming method. It involves heating a glass blank to a plastic state, then shaping it by blowing air (inflation and suction), and finally cooling it gradually to form the desired glass product. Blown glass has broad applications and is suitable for creating complex-shaped items like art pieces and bottles.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process of blown glass is relatively simple. The glass blank is heated to a suitable temperature to achieve good plasticity. It is then placed at the blowpipe opening, and the mold is rotated to form a tubular blank. Manual or mechanical blowing/suction operations gradually shape it into the desired form. Finally, the product is cooled to achieve the required dimensions and properties.
Characteristics and Applications
Blown glass products are characterized by diverse shapes, simple processing, and low cost. They are widely used in art, crafts, and similar fields, such as glass artworks and various ornaments. However, blown glass products are relatively fragile, with lower toughness and average resistance to heat and cold.
III. Comparison of Advantages, Disadvantages, and Applications
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pressed glass products offer dimensional stability, smooth surfaces, and high strength, making them suitable for products requiring high dimensional precision and durability. Blown glass, on the other hand, provides diverse shapes and rich colors, with a simpler and lower-cost process, making it ideal for decorative items like artworks and ornaments.
Applications
Pressed glass is suitable for manufacturing high-precision, high-strength, high-quality products such as instruments, vehicle roofs, and privacy windows. Blown glass is mostly used in decorative, artistic, museum, and home décor applications.
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