What is Curved Glass
Curved glass is also known as bent glass and radius glass. Curved glass is produced by applying pressure to the edges of ordinary window glass, therefore shaping it into a curve. It can be used in building ornaments, partitions, furniture or any other decoration where pure aesthetics are required. Curved glass offers numerous shapes and colors that are sure to turn heads in awe.
How is it Made?
Curved glass is produced by heating ordinary flat or “float” plate glass to around 400 degrees Celsius, then positioning it over a rounded mould. The mould is usually made up of cast iron, because it can retain heat for extended periods of time while being able to withstand high pressure.
The hot glass is then pressed into the mould—the actual process varies but generally involves placing wooden boards on either side of the glass and applying hydraulic pressure until the desired curve is achieved. This method produces very uniform, curved results that are both inexpensive and efficient (making them perfect for commercial purposes).
To avoid any damage occurring during transportation, Curved Glasses —depending on their size—are normally shipped in special protective boxes with polystyrene inserts. Curved glass is also available in the form of laminated glass or even tempered for additional strength and safety.
How is it Used?
Curved glass can be used in many different ways to create anything from partitions to furniture to building ornaments. Curved glass enhances any architectural style due to its clean lines and pure aesthetics. Curved glass beams are increasingly popular in modern architecture because they allow natural light indoors without compromising privacy or security. Curved glasses can also be implemented into pools, water fountains, sinks, spas and more.
It is often paired with other materials like stainless steel or asphalt to create beautiful hardscape designs that accentuate the glass’ appearance and used indoors or outdoors to create a unique look that makes a lasting impression.
The hot glass is then pressed into the mould—the actual process varies but generally involves placing wooden boards on either side of the glass and applying hydraulic pressure until the desired curve is achieved. This method produces very uniform, curved results that are both inexpensive and efficient (making them perfect for commercial purposes).
To avoid any damage occurring during transportation, Curved Glasses —depending on their size—are normally shipped in special protective boxes with polystyrene inserts. Curved glass is also available in the form of laminated glass or even tempered for additional strength and safety.
Examples of Bent & Curved Glass
Is Curved Glass Expensive?
Curved glass requires a lot more material because it has to be produced in larger sheets so that it can be manipulated into the exact shape required, therefore curved glass is more expensive to produce and is on average at least 30% more expensive than flat float glass.
Author
Viet is a glazier servicing the area of Bankstown NSW and has many years experience providing glass repair and aluminium shopfront installation services.