Non-linear ultrasound for identifying defects in molten glass during production

Purpose and goal

The purpose has been to introduce a measurement method which already in hot conditions can determine the quality of the glass. A measurement method has been developed where the glass quality can be determined in the hot, molten glass. The goal has been to use this new technology to introduce Acoustic Agree in a new market segment and offer the glass industry this solution. This has been done by informing about the performance and the availability of the technology at meetings with various glass producers and at the international glass conference in Kosta.

Results and expected effects

The result of this work is a developed specialized measurement method determining the glass quality. It involves the measurement method, fixture and sensors that are designed for this specific purpose. The method is verified in both laboratory and industrial glass manufacturing environment. The method has proved to work well in both environments. Several glass-producing companies both Swedish and foreign have shown an interest and wish test the method for their production. This can lead to a number of fixed installations and to new employment of test personnel.

Approach and implementation

A larger amount of samples for technical development has been made in laboratory environment at Acoustic Agree. Glucose has similar viscous properties at room temperature as glass is in molten state. Measurement fixture and sensors were developed. The temperature development of the fixture was investigated. Adjustment of the measurement of quality in glass melt is done in a laboratory environment at Glafo. The method is sensitive to the bubbles in the glass melt. Final test was in the glassworks of Målerås. Communication of these results was by business contacts and conference papers.