Glass Processing Machinery

Get crystal-clear results with the right glass processing equipment
By Meredith McGhan Whether you're making window glass, automobile glass or soap dishes, you're going to need the right glass processing machinery to get the job done. Cut and shape glass with machines that grind, bevel and make straight-line edges or double edges. You may also need to mill, groove, polish, seam or drill glass depending on the type of job you are doing.

When it comes to glass processing equipment, it comes down to the type of glass you are making. Glass processing machinery that makes automobile glass may not be right for you if you're making glass doors for china cabinets or artistic glass products. When it comes time to choosing glass processing machines, keep a few things in mind:

1. Check out which glass processing machinery manufacturers have the best equipment for your type of work.

2. Decide whether you can make do with smaller equipment or whether you'll need industrial glass-processing machinery.

3. Consider used glass processing equipment if you're starting up a shop and want to keep start-up costs down.

Find glass manufacturing machinery for your industry

Glass processing can include burning, blowing, annealing, grinding, cutting, beveling and much more, depending on what you use glass for. Most glass machinery manufacturers make their equipment for a particular type of industry products such as safety glass, optical glass, art glass or window glass.
Try:  Glaston’s brands Tamglass and Bavelloni have a wide range of glass processing machinery for cutting, grinding, tempering and bending. Their products include glass pre-processing and safety glass processing. Chuni International provides glass machinery for the flat glass industry.

Decide what size glass processing machine you need

If you want to save on workshop space, you should probably try to find the smallest possible glass processing machinery. On the other hand, you may need bigger glass processing equipment if you process large pieces of glass.
Try:  Abrasive Technology, Inc. offers The Edger™ brand line of small glass edging machines for working at a jobsite or shop. Glass Agents Company, LLC offers glass tempering and bending systems of all sizes.

Shop around for used glass machinery

Buying used equipment can save you money, and there's plenty of used glass processing equipment available from distributors.
Try:  Atwood Sales Inc. offers a selection of used glass processing machinery online with photos and prices. Glass Machinery Works, LLC offers used and refurbished glass processing equipment as well as new equipment.

• Plan to attend GlassBuild America, a North American exhibit, held in different locations throughout the United States every September/October. Many glass machinery manufacturers exhibit their machines at this expo.
• Make sure to get a warranty if you buy used glass processing machinery in case parts break down. Also get an independent inspection of the equipment before you buy.