For the manufacture of glass for road sweepers, we begin with a very precise selection of raw materials to achieve an optimal, high-quality final product. We primarily use high-quality silica sand as the main component of the glass structure, sodium carbonate, which acts as a melting catalyst, lowering the silica's melting temperature, calcium carbonate, which increases the glass's durability and strength, magnesium oxide, which improves its weather resistance, and alumina, which increases its scratch resistance and hardness. Finally, small amounts of oxides are added to modify the glass's properties, such as color and radiation absorption.
Once all the elements are melted at a temperature of 1500°C, the molten glass is poured using a float system that allows the material to spread evenly, creating a smooth, flat surface. This results in maximum optical quality for the glass. Next, it undergoes controlled cooling in an annealing furnace to relieve internal stresses in the glass, making it more resistant to breakage.
After this process, the glass is cut and shaped to the dimensions and shapes required for each window, door, or windshield of the sweeper machine. Computerized cutting machines are used to ensure precision. If necessary, the glass is then curved according to the specific needs and applications. This involves reheating the glass and bending it using molds to create its final shape.
Finally, the necessary operations are performed to produce the desired final type of glass, such as laminated glass, which is especially useful for road sweeper machine windscreens.
