10 rules for a flawless finish on tempered glass edges
La tempered glass edge finish directly affects the strength of the glass and, consequently, the safety during installation and the durability of the glass over time. To achieve flawless glass grinding and, therefore, a perfect finish, a few small steps should be followed.
Knowledge of techniques, combined with the use of cutting-edge technologies such as those integrated in the glass grinding machines of our range, allows you to achieve the highest quality standards in the edge grinding of tempered glass sheets.
Here are our tips, based on over 45 years of experience in glass grinding!
1. Know the characteristics of tempered glass
Theory always comes before practice! Before moving on to the edge processing of tempered glass, it is important to know the specific characteristics of this material.
It is in fact glass that has undergone heat treatment aimed at increasing its resistance to impact and temperature changes but, at the same time, making it more sensitive. This therefore means that a tempered glass grinding, if not performed properly and with the use of appropriate tools, can compromise the integrity of the entire plate making it prone to breakage.
Thorough knowledge of the material is essential to achieve a safe, high-quality finish.
2. Choose the most suitable type of grinding
The type of edge you want to achieve directly affects the aesthetics and functionality of the glass sheet.
To achieve a perfectly machined, beveled and elegant edge (ideal in furniture or window applications), it is essential to perform a polished edge grinding; on the contrary, for structural glass that does not require special aesthetic finishes, it is also possible to leave the edge raw.
In any case, each machining operation requires precise parameters and specific tools that must be carefully calibrated.
3. Use high-precision grinding machinery
Le glass grinding machines Must ensure consistency, accuracy and reliability.
Within the range dedicated to Adelio Lattuada's glass solutions, it is possible to find state-of-the-art machinery that can be customized with the use of advanced technologies and automation systems so as to achieve excellent and repeatable results over time, minimizing errors and waste.
Automated systems with numerical control and digital adjustments allow speed, pressure and feed rate to be set with extreme accuracy.
Each customer has its own needs, each final project has its own characteristics: for each one, there is a Lattuada straight-line grinding machine ready to come into play!
4. Taking care of the quality of abrasive tools
The basis of the grinding process is them: diamond and polishing tools. Diamond wheels and polishing wheels should be chosen according to the thickness and type of glass to be processed: in the case of tempered glass, it is essential to use wheels with progressive grit sizes so as not to compromise the material and to achieve a smooth transition between residue removal and polishing.
Regular maintenance of tools, and replacement of worn grinding wheels, is essential to avoid compromising the finish in the edges of tempered glass.
5. Monitor the speed of progress
A excessive forward speed during tempered glass grinding can generate vibration, overheating and uneven finishes. Conversely, too low a speed slows down the process and can adversely affect productivity.
With our grinding machines you can precisely adjust the feed rate according to the thickness of the glass, the complexity of the edge and the type of grinding wheel used. The goal is to find the perfect balance between finish quality and production time optimization!
6. Keep the working pressure constant
Another crucial parameter that is important to monitor is the Pressure exerted by the grinding wheels on the edge of the glass.
Excessive pressure can create unwanted mechanical stress, while insufficient pressure can reduce grinding effectiveness. Pressure control systems built into Lattuada machines ensure even and controlled contact along the entire edge, even with large-format tempered glass or varying thicknesses.
7. Integrate efficient cooling systems
Did you know that during grinding, friction between the tool and tempered glass can generate heat?
This overheating, if not dissipated quickly and efficiently, can deform the edge of the slab.
Therefore, it is essential to install a closed-loop cooling system which allows you to keep the temperature under control and eliminate any machining residue. In our grinding machines you will also find water filtration and recovery systems already integrated in the machines, to reduce the consumption and environmental impact of your processing!
8. Perform quality checks at each stage
Constant control of the edge of tempered glass is essential at every stage of the process, not just at the end of grinding!
If detected in time, imperfections can be corrected promptly by safeguarding the tempered glass pane. To do so, our automated glass grinding lines can be integrated with advanced systems that detect even the smallest anomalies, enabling instant corrective action.
9. Train staff and upgrade skills
There is no technological advancement without operators trained in its use.
A professional edge grinding of tempered glass requires specific technical skills, knowledge of materials, and mastery of machinery. Adelio Lattuada supports its customers with training and refresher services so that each operator can make the most of the potential of the installed machines and act promptly in case of anomalies.
10. Rely on reliable technology partners
Last but not least: to achieve perfect finishes, it is essential to work with a supplier of glass grinding machines that guarantees support, constant innovation and customization.
Adelio Lattuada is a benchmark in the industry, with a range of solutions designed to process glass with extreme precision and maximum safety.
The quality in grinding tempered glass is in the details!
Investing in advanced technology, adopting good practices and training staff are three key pillars to achieve perfectly ground tempered glass at every angle.
Rely on straight-line grinders Adelio Lattuada: you can count on reliable, durable and long-lasting machines that are ideal for every application: from architecture to furniture, from contract to automotive.
Do you want to find out the best machine for your tempered glass grinding needs? Contact us!
