What Is the Purpose of Metal and Glass Annealing?
Generally, the purpose of annealing treatment is to soften steel or glass, regenerate overheated steel or remove internal tension. The most popular type of heat treatment, annealing glass or metal makes the materials more resilient, purifies and improves workability. An annealing glass furnace applies high heat to alter the microstructure of a material and change its mechanical or electrical properties.
What is the Glass & Metal Annealing Process?
First, an annealing oven heats glass to relieve internal stresses without causing deformation. The glass remains in the high-temperature environment until its temperature is even throughout. Next, the glass cools, which requires an annealing glass furnace with optimal temperature accuracy and control. Once cool, the glass is safe to cut, polish and drill.
The annealing process for metal is called metallurgy annealing. Like annealing glass, the process of annealing metal materials provides strength to ensure ductility or flexibility. Ductility allows metal to be heated and manipulated without breaking, followed by slow cooling.
What Are the Stages of the Annealing Process?
Metal and glass annealing should be conducted in a controlled laboratory environment with the right tools, annealing furnace and an understanding of the annealing process.
The annealing process involves three stages:
- Recovery
- Recrystallization
- Grain growth
Industries Served
Many industries leverage the annealing process for annealing glass and soft metals such as steel, copper, silver and brass. An annealing oven or furnace is commonly used by players in the following industries:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Aluminum producers
- Foundries
- Plastics
- Power transmission equipment
- Recreational vehicles
- Steel forging
Sentro Tech’s Glass and Metal Annealing Oven Models
Our glass annealing ovens offer high temperatures with accurate temperature control. Browse our list of glass annealing furnaces below.
Questions About Annealing Furnaces and Ovens
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