Transparent float glass is a type of flat glass made using float glass technology, which has various advantages such as good flatness, high transparency, and resistance to damage. Here are some detailed information about transparent float glass:
History and Development: The forming process of float glass was successfully developed by the British Pilkington Glass Company in the late 1950s. Subsequently, China successfully developed its first float glass through self-reliance and independent innovation in 1971.
Production process: The production process of float glass is completed in a tin bath filled with protective gases (such as N2 and H2). Under the action of gravity and surface tension, molten glass spreads and flattens on the tin surface to form a flat glass ribbon, which is then annealed and cut to obtain the product.
Types: According to their applications, float glass can be divided into building grade, automotive grade, mirror grade, and ultra-thin float glass. Among them, ultra white floating glass is commonly used in solar thin film cells, high-end building decoration, etc. due to its high transparency (transmittance of over 91%) and crystal clear characteristics.
Features: Float glass has the characteristics of smooth surface, uniform thickness, and low optical distortion. It has good decorative characteristics, high transparency, brightness, and purity, and is suitable for building doors and windows, natural lighting materials, etc.
Industry News: According to the 2023 report, China's transparent float glass industry has seen new developments in technology and policies, with sales volume and revenue showing an increasing trend. At the same time, the market share of Chinese transparent float glass in the global market has increased, and the market share of domestic enterprises has also changed.
Application areas: Transparent float glass is widely used in the construction industry, automotive industry, solar energy industry, etc. In the construction industry, it is used for exterior windows, curtain walls, etc; In the automotive industry, used for manufacturing automotive glass; In the solar energy industry, it is used for solar panels and other applications.
Market and Enterprises: The global transparent float glass market is contested by multiple companies, including AGC, Saint Gobain, NSG Group, and others. These enterprises have their own strategies and developments in terms of market share, sales volume, and operating revenue.
Technology and Innovation: With the advancement of technology, the production efficiency and product quality of float glass continue to improve. For example, the Luoyang float glass process has been officially named as China's "Luoyang Float Glass Process" and awarded the Gold Medal for Creative Invention, demonstrating China's technological strength in this field.
Policy support: The transparent float glass industry in China is supported by relevant policies, which contribute to the healthy development and technological innovation of the industry.
Challenges and Opportunities: The industry is facing challenges such as fluctuations in raw material prices and environmental requirements, as well as opportunities for development in areas such as new energy and green buildings