**Is plate glass still made?
Plate glass, also known as flat glass or float glass, is a type of glass that has been used in architecture and construction for many years. It is made by pouring molten glass onto a flat surface and then allowing it to cool and solidify. However, with advancements in technology and the introduction of new types of glass, many people wonder if plate glass is still being made today. So, is plate glass still made? The answer is yes, but its use has become limited.
**History of plate glass
Plate glass was first invented in the early 19th century. Prior to this, glass was made in small sheets and needed to be cut and pieced together for use in windows. Plate glass, on the other hand, could be made in large, flat sheets, making it much easier to use for windows and other building applications. This innovation led to the widespread use of plate glass in the construction industry.
**Plate glass manufacturing process
The manufacturing process for plate glass involves pouring molten glass onto a flat surface, such as molten tin or molten lead. The glass then spreads out and is allowed to cool and solidify, creating a flat and smooth surface. This method is known as the float glass process, and it produces glass that is free of any distortion or waves.
**Advancements in glass technology
While plate glass is still being manufactured today, advancements in glass technology have led to the development of newer, stronger, and more energy-efficient types of glass. These newer types of glass include tempered glass, laminated glass, and insulated glass.
Tempered glass is a type of glass that has been heat-treated to make it stronger and more resistant to breaking.
Laminated glass is made by sandwiching a layer of resin between two layers of glass. This results in glass that is strong, durable, and shatter-resistant.
Insulated glass is made by sandwiching a layer of air or gas between two layers of glass. This creates a barrier that helps to prevent heat transfer, making it more energy-efficient than traditional plate glass.
**Uses of plate glass today
While plate glass is no longer the go-to choice for windows and other building applications, it still has a few uses today. One of the most common uses of plate glass is in the manufacture of mirrors. Mirrors are made by applying a reflective coating to one side of a sheet of glass. Plate glass is often used for this purpose, as it is easy to work with and provides a smooth, flat surface.
Plate glass is also used in the manufacture of glass furniture, such as tabletops and shelves. Its smooth, flat surface makes it ideal for these applications.
**Conclusion
In conclusion, plate glass is still being manufactured today, but its use has become limited due to advancements in glass technology. While it was once the go-to choice for windows and other building applications, newer types of glass, such as tempered glass, laminated glass, and insulated glass, have taken its place. However, plate glass still has a few uses today, such as in the manufacture of mirrors and glass furniture.
