The crucial role of glass washing in glass production

Quality and gloss of finished glass are two elements of fundamental importance in the glass industry. In order to achieve a result of excellence, the washing process must be carried out with extreme precision: following the grinding phase, it not only removes the residues of the work but also ensures a glossy and free of contaminants surface,essential aspects to ensure the success of the final product.

From grinding to washing of glass sheet

In the production process inside the glassworks, the grinding phase of the glass is a crucial step to obtain precise shapes, smooth surfaces and smooth edges.Despite the extreme precision of the machines and the care applied during grinding, it is common that at the end of the process the glass presents impurities and residues that could compromise the quality of the final product.

One of the main reasons for the presence of residues on glass after grinding is the generation of dust and abrasive residues during the machining process.The abrasive particles used to smooth the glass can adhere to the glass surface, leaving small deposits that compromise the aesthetic appearance and transparency of the glass; not only: during the grinding of the glass may form glass splinters that remain attached to the plate and that must necessarily be removed to ensure the safety and integrity of the finished product.

Other processing residues may be due to the presence of oil, grease or substances used as lubricating agents during the grinding process; these residues can transfer to the glass surface causing stains or opacity that affect the glass’s luster.

Wash glass glass sheets with high-performance machines, such as Lattuada washing machines,is therefore essential to effectively eliminate all impurities and residues on the glass surface in order to ensure maximum cleaning and optimum transparency of the finished product. In addition, carefully removing abrasive particles and any other external agents helps to prevent scratches and damage to the glass surface during the subsequent stages of the production and handling process.

But that’s not all: a complete glass washing is of fundamental importance to ensure the correct and precise adhesion ofany subsequent coatings, such as paints or protective films; the presence of impurities on the glass surface could in fact compromise the adhesion and durability of these coatings, reducing the quality and durability of the finished product.

Open-top vertical washing machines VS closed-top vertical washing machines

Depending on the production needs and the core business of the glassworks, it is possible to choose between lavatrici con parte superiore aperta washing machines with open top (such as those of the OT series) and washing machines with closed top (such as those of the CT and CTS series). These two types of glass washing machines have significant differences in the way they are used and in their operation, in detail:

• The vertical washing machines for glass with an open upper part are characterised by an open structure on the top, which allows easy access to the washing chamber during loading and unloading of the glass sheets. The open design, in addition to facilitating the cleaning and maintenance of the machine, It is ideal for washing larger or irregular sized glasses as it allows greater flexibility in the insertion and removal of the glass plate during and after the washing process. Open top vertical washing machine is preferable in glassworks that operate with a high level of production and require a washing that combines speed and efficiency.
• the vertical washing machines with a closed upper part have a structure which protects the glass during the washing cycle. The glass plate in this case is loaded through a door on the front of the machine and sealed to prevent the entry of external debris. The closed design offers a greater level of control over the washing process thanks to the possibility of maintaining stable temperature and humidity inside the machine, optimizing the washing conditions and ensuring uniform high quality results. This type of glass washing machine is the ideal choice for glassworks that produce glass of standardized dimensions and that require greater uniformity in the washing process, as in the case of glass sheets intended for the building or furniture industry.

Lattuada washing machines, both in the OT and CT versions, are designed as stand-alone machines and I can also put in line with other machines such as grinders, drilling machines, etc. . All models of Lattuada brand glass washing machines can be customized to adhere as much as possible to the specific needs of the customer; both versions are made to meet the demands of modern glassworks and allow them to achieve high quality standards and obtain exceptional finished products.

Do you want to have more information and configure with us your next washing machine for glass? Contact us!!