I. Classification by Edge Shape (Common Basic Types)
Straight-edge irregular shape
Feature: The edges are straight, but the overall contour is not rectangular.
Common shapes: circle, oval, sector, rhombus, polygon (such as hexagonal, octagonal), irregular polygon, etc.
Beveled edge/rounded edge irregular shape
Features: On the basis of irregular contours, the edges are ground beveled (such as 1cm beveled edges, 2cm beveled edges, etc.) or rounded (such as R corners, full rounded edges).
Application: Commonly used in furniture and display stands, it feels smoother and safer, and has a more exquisite appearance.
Irregular holes/cuts
Features: Making holes, grooves or concave notches on the glass.
Common shapes: used for installing handles, wire holes, U-shaped notches to avoid corners/equipment, crescent-shaped cuts, etc. The edges of these holes and notches usually also need to be ground.
Ii. Classification by Three-dimensional Modeling (Complex 3D Irregular Shapes)
Bend/Bend tempered glass
Characteristics: During the tempering process, glass is thermally bent into curved surfaces such as arcs and S shapes, and its edge projections are also irregular.
Common shapes: single bend, double bend, compound bend.
Three-dimensional carved/relief glass
Features: Three-dimensional patterns are created by engraving on the glass surface or thickness, and the edges may change accordingly.
Application: Artistic decoration, high-end partitions.
Combined alien shape
Features: It combines the above multiple processes. For instance, a curved piece of glass simultaneously features a polygonal profile and multiple openings.
Iii. Subdivision by Processing Technology (Edge Treatment Methods)
Even if the contours are the same, the way the edges are processed determines their final type:
Cutting irregular shapes: Only contour cutting is completed, with sharp edges (usually further processing is required for safe use).
Frosted irregular edge: The edge is treated with a frosted finish, presenting a semi-transparent matte effect.
Polished irregular edge: The edge has undergone high-precision polishing, becoming as transparent and bright as crystal, with the highest aesthetic appeal.
Sandblasting/printing irregular edges: Sandblasting or silk-screen printing patterns are applied to local areas of the edges.
Summary and precautions
Strictly speaking, the types of "tempered glass irregular edges" are almost unlimited, as they can be customized into any non-rectangular planar or three-dimensional shape and combined with different edge treatment processes.
When actually placing an order, the following points need to be clarified:
Precise drawings: CAD drawings or detailed dimension drawings must be provided, indicating the shape, all radii, angles, hole positions, etc.
Processing sequence: All special-shaped cutting, drilling and edge grinding must be completed before tempering. Once tempered, glass can no longer undergo any mechanical processing (such as cutting or drilling), otherwise it will shatter as a whole.
Minimum radius limit: Due to the strength characteristics of tempered glass, the corners of irregular edges (especially concave corners) must have a sufficiently large arc radius (usually R≥ the thickness of the glass), and cannot be sharp right angles; otherwise, they are very likely to break during tempering or use.
Tolerance: There are certain tolerances in the special-shaped processing and tempering process. It is necessary to confirm the acceptable tolerance range with the manufacturer.
Therefore, the most common expression is not to ask "How many are there?", but to provide the processing factory with specific shapes and process requirements based on design needs and confirm its processing feasibility.
