DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A CONVECTION HEATING SYSTEM IN A GLASS TEMPERING FURNACE

摘要

Glass tempering has relied on radiant heaters to transfer heat to glass sheets. This has a direct correlation to the length of time that the glass is subject to heating in the furnace and its related line speeds. This paper presents the design and development of a supplementary convection heating system with the objective of reducing glass residence time and increasing production efficiency. It will document the methodology of retrofitting a current furnace in a cost effective manner while increasing heat transfer to the glass and increasing throughput. This study will address factors affecting the systems' performance such as current draw, surface compression test, break pattern, warp configuration, and nozzle design. The retrofitted system has achieved design goals and promises to increase heat transfer rates to the glass as well as increase furnace productivity.