PANEL SIZES
3000 x 1500mm
2000 x 2000mm
GLASS THICKNESS
PROPERTIES
Glass types:
Float – Normal locally produced glass which exhibits a pale green tint which is more apparent when slumped.
Tinted float – pale green, pale blue, grey, brown, High performance tints – dark green, dark blue
Starphire – ultra clear low iron float glass, imported.
TEXTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Process of imparting texture and patterns into sheets of glass involves intense heat to soften the glass sufficiently for it to melt over and into specially prepared moulds.
The heat is provided by kilns, specifically designed to suit the glass forming process. The moulds can be a variety of materials (refractories) selected for their particular characteristics.
The resultant glass reflects the artistic input at the design and moulding stage, and the subsequent treatments that might be used. These include colour applications, obscuring treatments, etching, shape-cutting and edging, adhered embellishments and metal-ware.
The process of slumping glass on a mould imparts a textural surface on one side leaving the other smooth, glossy but not flat. Random variations in the background texture are inherent in the process. The edges are fire polished and remain flat but slightly rounded.
Different moulding techniques can be used to produce patterns incorporating fire polished areas contrasting with obscure texture.
Where required for specific glazing situations flat borders can be incorporated. All standard textures are available as toughened safety glass.
TOLERANCES & EDGEWORK
Due to the expansion and contraction during the processing of glass up to 3mm variation in panel sizes may occur.
Forged glass can accommodate all standard glass processing treatments such as holes, notches, cut-outs and edge-polishing.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
In glazing situations where GradeA Safety glass is required, most Forged Glass can be toughened to comply with Australian Standards AS/NZS2208 – Safety glazing materials for use in buildings (human impact considerations).
It should be noted that the toughening process may impart some slight “bowing” over the length of the panel, or in some cases, scuff marks caused by the furnace. These are unavoidable
CUSTOM TECHNIQUES
A texturing process exclusive to Toucan Forged Glass is ‘Transitional’ where texture and pattern merge into clear transparent glass within the same sheet. Numerous situations can benefit from this treatment – for example: feature panels can be seamlessly incorporated into larger areas of clear glass: views can be controlled, both in and out, to maximum advantage. Entry-ways, shower screens and windows are given added intrigue.
Various pieces of coloured glass and/or clear glass are cut to a pre determined design and heated to temperatures in excess of 800degrees. This process is used in art projects, embellishments, platters, bowls & lighting, and cannot be toughened.
A comprehensive range of glass paints, both transparent and obscure colours and metallics can be applied to glass by air-brushing, hand painting and silk screening techniques. Heated in the kiln, the paint becomes permanently bonded to the glass.
Cold treatments – applied two-pac enamel
This process is primarily used on glass panels for wall-cladding, such as splashbacks.
It is also the best method for true colour representation in signage and corporate branding.
Note: Where a true paint colour is required it is necessary to use starphire ultra clear glass as this does not affect the colour.
MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING
Slumped glass
Slumped glass is cleaned in the same manner as ordinary glass, however a natural bristle brush may be used on the textured surface if required.
Float glass with fired vitreous paint
The paint has been fired onto the glass at temperatures in excess of 550C. making it highly durable for use in exterior situations.
Any normal commercial glass cleaner can be used with a lint free cloth, or (we use) a solution of metholated spirits and water mixed into a spray bottle to a ratio of roughly 1 to 5.
* Never use a scouring pad or scraper, as this will scratch the glass.
GLAZING CONSIDERATIONS
However due to the textural surface of the glass, suction lifters are generally not able to be used. Where required for specific glazing situations flat borders can be incorporated.
Refer to Australian Standards AS 1288 (glass in buildings – Selection and Installation) for glazing methods & recommendations.