Molten glass ultrasonic degassing technology
Sialon Ceramics Ltd and Aktive Arc Ultrasonics sarl have announced a breakthrough in ultrasonic molten gas technology that can reduce energy costs by 20% and reduce the environmental impact of glass manufacture.
The process uses an innovative ultrasonic generator and a proprietary ceramic sonotrode to treat large volumes of high viscosity molten glass at temperatures of up to 1600oC.
The ultrasonic gas melt degassing technology increases process efficiency, reducing the refining temperature and saving up to 20% of the energy cost.
“Removing gas bubbles from glass during its manufacture is an essential part of the glassmaking process” explained Nico Van Dongen, Director of Sialon Ceramics. “The gas bubbles form during the glass melting process, which involves several chemical reactions that create the glass”
Describing the process, Mario Plasencia, Director of Aktive Arc Ultrasonics, said: “Our ultrasonic degassing process uses a new ultrasonic generator and a proprietary ceramic sonotrode, which can treat large volumes of highly viscosity molten glass at temperatures of up to 1600oC. We carry this out at the forehearth, placing the sonotrodes directly into the melt. This process allows us to reduce refining temperatures from around 1450°C to 1300°C. This is massive and provides a total energy saving of up to 20%.”
