CURVED GLASS

Redefining Architecture with Flexible and Energy-Saving Designs

CURVED FACADES

Curved glass facades blend aesthetic elegance with advanced engineering, transforming buildings into architectural marvels. High-quality float glass is shaped via gravity bending, press bending, or free bending and then tempered or heat-strengthened for enhanced durability. These facades maximize natural light, provide unobstructed views, and boost energy efficiency with advanced coatings. Ideal for commercial, residential, and cultural buildings, they add a modern, sophisticated look. Despite challenges like optical distortions and higher costs, curved glass facades remain a preferred choice for innovative and sustainable designs.

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MASTERING CURVED GLASS: ADVANCED TECHNIQUES AND EXPERTISE

Jily has implemented several key advancements in their production equipment and technology, significantly enhancing the quality and efficiency of their curved glass manufacturing process. These improvements have established Jily as a leader in the industry, enabling them to produce high-quality curved glass with precision and reliability.

ADVANCED PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT

1. State-of-the-Art Furnaces:

Jily has upgraded to state-of-the-art furnaces equipped with precise temperature control systems. These furnaces ensure uniform heating of the glass, which is critical for preventing stress points and achieving even softening of the glass. The ability to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the furnace enhances the quality of the bent glass.

2. Precision Molding Systems:

Jily uses advanced molding systems for gravity bending and press bending. These molds are designed with high precision to ensure that the glass conforms accurately to the desired shapes. The use of high-quality materials and precise engineering in mold construction minimizes deviations and defects in the final product.

3. Automated Handling and Positioning Systems:

To enhance efficiency and accuracy, Jily has integrated automated handling and positioning systems. These systems ensure precise placement of glass sheets in the furnace and molds, reducing the risk of human error and improving the consistency of the bending process.

4. Rapid Cooling and Tempering Equipment:

Jily has invested in advanced cooling and tempering equipment that allows for rapid and uniform cooling of the bent glass. This equipment creates a compressive stress layer on the surface of the glass, significantly enhancing its strength and durability. The ability to control the cooling rate precisely ensures that the glass achieves optimal mechanical properties.

TECHNOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENTS

1. Advanced Temperature Control Systems:

Jily's furnaces are equipped with cutting-edge temperature control systems that provide real-time monitoring and adjustments. These systems ensure that the glass is heated uniformly, preventing thermal stress and ensuring consistent quality across all pieces.

2. Innovative Coating Technologies:

Jily has developed and integrated innovative coating technologies that enhance the thermal performance and durability of their curved glass. These coatings can be applied during or after the bending process, improving the glass’s ability to reflect heat in summer and retain warmth in winter.

3. Automated Quality Control and Inspection Systems:

Jily employs sophisticated automated quality control systems that inspect each piece of curved glass for optical clarity, surface quality, and structural integrity. These systems use advanced sensors and imaging technologies to detect imperfections, ensuring that only the highest quality glass reaches the market.

4. Custom Design and Simulation Software:

To support their custom design capabilities, Jily uses advanced design and simulation software. This technology allows engineers and designers to model complex shapes and predict how the glass will behave during the bending process. By simulating the production process, Jily can optimize their techniques and reduce the risk of errors.

Jily's advancements in production equipment and technology have significantly improved their ability to manufacture high-quality curved glass. By investing in state-of-the-art furnaces, precision molding systems, automated handling and positioning, rapid cooling and tempering equipment, and advanced quality control systems, Jily ensures that their products meet the highest standards of quality and durability. These technological enhancements enable Jily to produce innovative and reliable curved glass solutions that cater to the needs of modern architecture and design.

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HOW CURVED GLASS IS MADE: EXPLORING THREE ESSENTIAL PROCESSES

Curved glass, with its elegant and functional appeal, requires precision and expertise in its manufacturing. There are three primary processes used to create curved glass: gravity bending, press bending, and freeform bending. Each method has its unique applications and benefits, tailored to meet specific design and structural requirements.

Gravity Bending

Gravity Bending is an innovative technique used in the creation of curved glass, leveraging the natural force of gravity to shape glass into smooth, graceful curves. This process is celebrated for its ability to produce aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound glass pieces, making it a favorite in architecture, design, and art.

The Gravity Bending Process

1. Preparation:

A flat sheet of glass is thoroughly cleaned and inspected to ensure it is free of any defects or impurities that could affect the final product.
The mold, designed to the desired curvature, is prepared and placed in the bending furnace.
2. Heating:

The glass sheet and the mold are heated in a furnace to the glass's softening point, typically between 600-700°C (1112-1292°F). At this temperature, the glass becomes pliable and can be shaped.
3. Bending:

As the glass reaches the appropriate temperature, gravity gently pulls it down over the mold, allowing it to conform to the mold's shape naturally. This process requires precise temperature control and timing to ensure the glass bends evenly and without defects.
4. Cooling:

Once the desired curvature is achieved, the glass is slowly cooled in a controlled manner, a process known as annealing. This step is crucial to relieve internal stresses within the glass and to ensure that it retains its shape and structural integrity.

Advantages of Gravity Bending

Aesthetic Appeal:

Gravity Bending creates smooth, flowing curves that are visually stunning and can enhance any design. The gentle curves produced by this method are often seen as more natural and elegant compared to those created by other bending techniques.
Precision and Consistency:

The controlled nature of the gravity bending process ensures that each piece of glass is formed with high precision, making it suitable for both custom projects and larger-scale production runs.
Structural Integrity:

The slow and even bending process helps maintain the structural strength of the glass. Proper annealing further ensures that the glass is free from internal stresses that could lead to breakage.
Versatility:

Gravity Bending can be applied to various types of glass, including clear, tinted, and textured options. This versatility allows for a wide range of creative applications, from architectural elements to decorative pieces.

Applications of Gravity Bending

Architectural Features:

Curved glass walls, windows, and façades that add a modern and sophisticated touch to buildings.
Interior Design:

Custom furniture, partitions, and railings that create a sleek and contemporary look within spaces.
Art and Sculpture:

Unique glass sculptures and installations that captivate and inspire viewers with their elegant curves.
Custom Projects:

Tailored glass solutions for specific design requirements, ensuring each piece perfectly matches the client's vision.

Gravity Bending is a remarkable process that combines the elegance of natural curves with the precision of modern technology. Its ability to create beautiful, strong, and versatile glass pieces makes it an invaluable technique in various industries. Whether used in architecture, interior design, or art, Gravity Bending continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with glass.

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line1 PROCESS OVERVIEW

Heat-Treated Bending

1. Preparation:

A flat glass sheet is carefully cleaned and inspected to ensure it is free from defects that could cause breakage during the bending process.
2. Heating:

The glass sheet is placed in a bending furnace, where it is heated to its softening point, typically between 600-700°C (1112-1292°F). The temperature and duration depend on the type and thickness of the glass.
3. Molding

As the glass reaches the appropriate temperature, it becomes pliable. The glass is then carefully shaped over a mold or form that defines the desired curvature. This can be achieved using gravity, mechanical pressure, or a combination of both.
4. Quenching:

After the glass has been molded into the desired shape, it undergoes rapid cooling, or quenching, to increase its strength. This is done by blowing cool air onto the glass surfaces, causing the outer layers to cool and solidify quickly while the inner layers cool more slowly. This creates a balanced internal stress profile that enhances the glass's strength and durability.
5. Annealing:

The curved glass is slowly cooled to room temperature in a controlled manner to relieve internal stresses and prevent cracks. This stage ensures that the glass retains its structural integrity and remains free from defects.

Advantages of Heat-Treated Bending

Aesthetic Appeal:

Gravity Bending creates smooth, flowing curves that are visually stunning and can enhance any design. The gentle curves produced by this method are often seen as more natural and elegant compared to those created by other bending techniques.
Precision and Consistency:

The controlled nature of the gravity bending process ensures that each piece of glass is formed with high precision, making it suitable for both custom projects and larger-scale production runs.
Structural Integrity:

The slow and even bending process helps maintain the structural strength of the glass. Proper annealing further ensures that the glass is free from internal stresses that could lead to breakage.
Versatility:

Gravity Bending can be applied to various types of glass, including clear, tinted, and textured options. This versatility allows for a wide range of creative applications, from architectural elements to decorative pieces.

Applications of Heat-Treated Bending

Architectural Glazing:

Heat-treated curved glass is used in building façades, skylights, and canopies, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Interior Design:

It is popular for creating elegant and modern interior features such as partitions, railings, and furniture.
Automotive Industry:

The process is widely used to produce windshields and other automotive glass components that require both strength and curved shapes.
Marine Applications:

The durability and strength of heat-treated curved glass make it suitable for use in boat windows and other marine applications.

Heat-Treated Bending is a versatile and highly effective method for producing strong, safe, and beautifully curved glass. Its combination of thermal shaping and rapid cooling results in a product that meets the rigorous demands of various industries, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits.

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MANUFACTURING OF TEMPERED CURVED GLASS

Cold bending

Cold Bending is a method of shaping glass at room temperature, leveraging the inherent flexibility of certain types of glass. This technique is favored for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ability to produce gentle curves without the need for heating.

The Cold Bending Process

1. Selection:

A specific type of glass that is flexible enough to withstand bending without breaking is chosen. Thinner and specially treated glass is typically used for this process.
2. Framing:

The glass sheet is carefully placed onto a frame or support structure designed to define the desired curve. This frame acts as a guide to achieve the precise curvature required for the project.
3. Applying Pressure:

Gradual mechanical force is applied to bend the glass into shape. This can be done using various tools and techniques to ensure even pressure distribution and to prevent stress concentrations that could lead to breakage.
4. Securing:

Once the desired curvature is achieved, the glass is secured in place with brackets, clamps, or other fixtures. These hold the glass firmly in its curved shape.

Advantages of Cold Bending

1. Economical:

Cold Bending is generally less expensive than heat-based bending methods because it eliminates the need for specialized heating equipment and the energy costs associated with it.
2. Quick Process:

Since it does not require heating and cooling cycles, Cold Bending is a faster method, allowing for quicker project turnaround times.
3. Simplified Setup:

The process requires simpler equipment compared to thermal bending techniques, making it more accessible and easier to set up for various applications.
4. Flexibility in Design:

Cold Bending can accommodate a variety of gentle curves and is suitable for both large-scale architectural elements and smaller, custom-designed pieces.

Applications of Cold Bending

Architectural Façades:

Curved glass panels used in building exteriors, creating sleek and modern designs.
Interior Partitions:

Glass partitions that offer a contemporary look while maintaining an open and airy feel within spaces.
Skylights:

Gently curved glass skylights that allow natural light to flood into buildings, enhancing aesthetics and energy efficiency.
Balustrades and Railings:

Curved glass balustrades and railings that provide safety while adding a touch of elegance to staircases and balconies.

Cold Bending is a versatile and efficient method for creating curved glass elements without the need for heating. Its cost-effectiveness, quick turnaround, and ability to produce gentle curves make it an excellent choice for various architectural and design applications. Whether used in building façades, interior partitions, or decorative features, Cold Bending offers a practical solution for achieving beautiful, curved glass designs.

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CURVED GLASS PROJECTS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH JILY GLASS

Milan Fashion House- Italy : An exquisite blend of classic elegance and modern innovation.

The Challenge: Creating a flagship store in Milan that reflects the brand's luxury and innovation, surpassing the limitations of traditional flat glass in achieving fluid, dynamic designs.

The Solution: Integrating curved glass allowed for the creation of sweeping, organic forms, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and functional performance.

Benefits of Curved Glass:
1. Aesthetic Appeal: Smooth, flowing lines create a modern, elegant look.
2. Maximized Natural Light: Curved glass diffuses light effectively, brightening interiors.
3. Enhanced Space Perception: Creates a sense of openness and spaciousness.
4. Durability and Safety: Strong, impact-resistant, and secure, maintaining a pristine appearance.

Curved Glass Performance: Offers superior thermal insulation, acoustic properties, and durability, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious shopping environment.

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