Introducing Glassblowing Machines
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Topic outline
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This lesson introduces the basic machines used in a glass workshop.
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An annealer is a device used in glassblowing to slowly cool a hot piece of glass to relieve internal stresses and prevent cracking or shattering. The annealing process makes the glass more durable and less likely to break when exposed to thermal shock.
Once the glass has been blown and cooled to a workable temperature, it is placed in the annealer. The annealer is heated to a temperature that is slightly below the glass’ melting point. The glass is then left in the annealer for a period of time to allow the internal stresses to relax. After the annealing process is complete, the glass is cooled slowly to room temperature.
Annealing is an important step in glassblowing to ensure that the finished product is strong and durable. Without annealing, the glass would be more likely to break when exposed to thermal shock, such as sudden changes in temperature.
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