Production Process: The Float Method

At SIG, the innovative float process supports the creation of clear float glass. Molten glass, mainly contains silica sand, soda ash, and limestone, is carefully refined and poured onto a molten tin bath. The molten tin, with a lower melting point than the glass, acts as a perfect flat surface. Due to floatability, the molten glass spreads evenly across the tin, forming a flat, free of defect sheet. As the glass cools and hardens on the tin bath, its upper surface remains smooth and free from the distortions built in traditional casting methods. Ultimately, the solidified glass sheet is passed through a lehr to control internal stresses and ensure stability. The SIG’s float process produces premium clear float glass in thicknesses ranging from a mere 2 millimeters to a substantial 16 millimeters.

SIG’s clear float glass enjoys several valuable properties that contribute to its widespread use. Here are a few of the key ones:

• Exceptional Light Transmission: One of the most significant characteristics of SIG’s clear float glass is its remarkable light transmittance, typically surpassing 85%. This allows for unobstructed natural light to fill a room, fostering a bright and luminous environment.
• Chemical Inertness: SIG’s clear float glass exhibits a high degree of chemical stability. It is resistant to interaction with most common substances, making it suitable for applications involving food and beverage storage or display.
• Superior Optical Clarity: The float process guarantees a virtually plain and impeccable surface, free from defects or distortions. This brilliant optical clarity makes SIG’s clear float glass ideal for windows, mirrors, and picture framing, ensuring perfect views and accurate reflection.
• Versatility and Formability: SIG’s clear float glass is easily adaptable for additional processing. It can be tempered for enhanced strength and safety, laminated for soundproofing and impact resistance, or coated with various films to achieve specific functionalities such as solar control or low-emissivity.

The versatility of SIG’s clear float glass translates into a vast array of applications across different industries. Some of the most prominent include:

• Construction: SIG’s clear float glass forms the foundation of modern architecture, serving as the primary material for windows, doors, curtain walls, and skylights. Its clarity allows for natural light penetration while providing a physical barrier against the elements.
• Automotive: The automotive industry utilizes SIG’s clear float glass for windshields, side windows, and rear windows, ensuring excellent visibility for drivers and passengers.
• Furniture: SIG’s clear float glass finds application in furniture design, used for tabletops, shelving units, and display cabinets. Its ability to showcase items while remaining practically invisible adds a touch of elegance and refinement.
• Display and Signage: Float glass is commonly used as the base for display cases in museums and retail stores, offering a transparent view of showcased items. It is also utilized for signage purposes, ensuring clear and readable communication.
• Solar Energy: SIG’s clear float glass forms the base layer for solar panels. Coatings can be applied to improve light transmission and energy conversion efficiency.

In conclusion, SIG’s clear float glass serves as a testament to human resourcefulness. Through its remarkable clarity, unique properties, and versatile nature, SIG’s clear float glass has become an indispensable material in the modern world, shaping our built environment and enabling a wide range of applications.