Float glass and grid glass (also known as "flat glass") are two different flat glass production processes. The core differences between them lie in the forming technology, product quality and application scenarios.
1. Comparison of production processes
|
character |
float glass |
Lattice glass (flat drawing method) |
|
theory |
The glass liquid floats on the molten tin liquid and naturally spreads out to form |
The glass liquid is formed by roller pressing and then stretched laterally for cooling |
|
technological resources |
It was invented by the British Pilkington Company in 1959 |
Early traditional craftsmanship was relatively low-cost |
|
production environment |
A tin bath and protective gas (such as nitrogen) are required |
No tin bath is required and the equipment is simple |
|
energy consumption |
Higher |
lower |
2. Differences in product performance
|
index |
float glass |
Lattice glass |
|
surface quality |
The surface is as smooth as a mirror, without ripples (excellent optical performance) |
Slight ripples and relatively low flatness |
|
thickness uniformity |
Uniform (±0.1mm error ) |
Slightly uneven (±0.3mm or more) |
|
light transmittance |
>91% (6mm thickness) |
About 88%-90% (of the same thickness) |
|
Impurities/Bubbles |
Extremely rare |
It may contain tiny bubbles or impurities |
|
Strength |
Relatively high (suitable for deep processing) |
Low (fragile) |
3. Application scenarios
Float glass
High-end building curtain walls, automotive windshields, mirror original sheets, electronic display substrates (such as mobile phone screens).
Deep-processed basic materials (tempering, laminating, coating, etc.).
Gefa Glass
Low-end building doors and Windows, rural markets, temporary partitions.
Everyday items with low optical requirements (such as ordinary glassware and lamps).
4. Environmental Protection and Policies
Float glass: Tin contamination needs to be treated, but the unit energy consumption is gradually decreasing.
Gefa Glass: Due to high energy consumption and low quality, China has restricted its new production capacity since 2010 and it has gradually withdrawn from the market.
