THERMAL FORMED GLASS TIPS
WHAT IS CAST GLASS? Cast Glass is a kiln-forming process made by melting multiple layers Soda-Lime Glass/"Float Glass" together. In order to properly anneal the glass, depending on thickness, each piece takes 2-14 days to cool in a climate-controlled kiln. The glass is textured in the process. The layers of tin, along with the texture, give the glass the ability to illuminate with LED lighting. Each piece is a work of art.
CLARITY: Aqua Clear (Coke bottle green, also called: clear and standard clear) Ultra Clear (Low Iron, also called Starphire ™, Crystal Clear)
COMMON TEXTURES: · Minimal, Creekside, Glacier, River Bottom, Geode, Tactile, Wave, Fizzee, and endless custom options.
SLAB SIZES: 56” x 104” GlassVision also has custom sizes available.
APPLICATIONS: Kitchens, islands, backsplashes, bars, raised bars, vanities, wall dividers, feature walls, and commercial applications.
STORAGE:· A-Frames or racks (just like natural stone or quartz), Glass can be stored inside or outside. Inside is preferred to keep it clear and avoid water spots. Weather, UV, and acid rain will not hurt the glass.
HANDLING: Stone clamps (make sure they are sized correctly), vacuum lifters (smooth side of glass and free of dust), and lifting handles.
TEMPLATING & MEASURING: Templating is the exact same process as natural stone & Quartz. Digital templating (LT Laser, PhotoTop, ProLiner, ETemplate, etc.), physical templates, and measured shop drawings. A positive reveal is recommended on undermount sinks so they can be sealed properly. Inside corners ≥1-1/2” radius.
FABRICATION:
CLEAN WORK SURFACES Work surfaces should be free of granite/marble/quartz debris.
CUTTING
WATERJET Table Prep: Use tar paper and foam (expanded polystyrene) Garnet Size: (80 or 100 grit) Piercing: use Ultra Pierce (low PSI). Pierce off the edge of glass when possible. Feed rate: 2.55 inches/minute (for 1 1/2" thick glass)
BRIDGE SAWS Cover saw bed surface with a layer of sacrificial foam (expanded polystyrene). Enter and exit the sawblade into the glass slowly. A continuous rim glass blade is recommended for cutting to avoid chipping. Hand cutting is not recommended.
CNC MILLING Use a glass core bit to mill glass.
AIR POCKETS: Air pockets are normal and part of the cast glass process. If a glass air pocket is cut through during fabrication it should be filled with UV glue prior to polishing.
POLISHING: Edging: 1/8” bevel or small radius. Refer to “POLISHING TOOLS & TECHNIQUES.”
TRANSPORTING: Similar to granite and quartz, glass should be transported vertically on an A-frame system. Glass should sit on rubber padding during storage and transportation. To avoid chipping and cracking, avoid contact with other glass, concrete, steel, granite, or quartz.
INSTALLATION: (See Installation Manual)