Crystal and glass

Brushing Applications in the Crystal and Glass Industry

Cleaning of glass sheets before processing

Before carrying out processes such as tempering, laminating, or screen printing, glass surfaces must be completely free of dust or other particles released during the cutting process.

In glass washing machines, cylindrical brushes are one of the most important elements to ensure uniform cleaning across the entire surface. These brushes normally work in combination with water and industrial detergents to remove any particles adhering to the glass.

The filaments used in these applications are usually high-quality nylon (PA), as it offers a good balance between softness and cleaning capacity. In particularly delicate applications, softer filaments specifically designed to avoid any risk of micro-scratches can also be used.

The correct selection of the brush in these machines is essential to ensure the final quality of the glass before critical processes.

Glass transport in production lines

During the glass manufacturing or transformation process, the sheets must move along different equipment and workstations.

In many cases, industrial brushes are used as a transport surface.

Table-type lath brushes, for example, provide firm support to reduce friction when moving through the various workstations.

It is also possible to use cylindrical brushes in series, forming a roller conveyor that propels the glass sheets to the next point on the line.

This system is especially useful when handling large-sized glass or very thin sheets, which can break or scratch if transported on rigid surfaces.

The most commonly used filaments in these applications are usually technical nylon or special low-abrasion filaments, which guarantee soft contact with the glass surface.

The use of brushes for transport also improves glass stability during movement, avoiding vibrations or sudden jolts.

Cleaning glass dust after cutting

The glass cutting process generates fine dust particles that can adhere to the surface of the pieces. These particles can affect both the final finish and subsequent processes, such as laminating or gluing.

Rotary cylindrical brushes are used to remove this dust immediately after cutting. This prevents the particles from moving to other parts of the production line.

Depending on the type of glass and the level of dirt, technical nylon or polypropylene filaments can be used, selected to offer effective cleaning without generating abrasion.

This type of solution keeps surfaces clean throughout the production process and reduces defects in the final product.

Polishing and surface finishing

In some technical or decorative glass manufacturing processes, industrial brushes are used to perform surface finishing or light polishing operations.

Disc brushes are an interesting option in polishing processes because they concentrate their movements in a specific area of the material.

In these applications, brushes can work in combination with abrasive compounds or polishing liquids to improve the glass finish or remove small imperfections generated during machining.

The brushes used in these processes usually incorporate abrasive nylon filaments or special technical fibers, designed to provide a uniform finish without damaging the piece.

This type of solution is mainly used in the manufacture of technical glass, optical glass, or special components.

Machinery sealing and dust protection

Glass manufacturing facilities often generate large amounts of fine dust from cutting or machining the material. This dust can affect the operation of sensitive equipment or contaminate other areas of the production line.

Strip brushes are frequently used as flexible sealing systems in machinery, industrial doors, or passage openings.

These brushes allow the passage of materials or components while acting as a barrier against dust and drafts.

The filaments used are usually polypropylene or nylon, selected based on the required wear resistance and the environmental conditions of the facility.