Sheet Glass Fabrication Process
Cutting
Our primary means of cutting large format, flat sheet glass substrate is through Mechanical Scribing processes. We carry most sheet glass materials including a full array of Soda Lime, Borofloat, Eagle XG and Willow Glass. Our expertise in the scribing process is a culmination of over 40 years of experience. Precise parameter control, custom scribing equipment, blade selection and operator skill combine to provide the cleanest, strongest edge possible.
Edging
For large format sheet glass, a scribed edge is economical and often adequate for the intended application. Where handling is of concern, we can remove the sharp edge using a diamond pad or belt sander. For more demanding dimensional or esthetic requirements, we can perform precision CNC Grinding on sizes up to 500mm Square, applying Edge Profiles and other features to specification.
Cleaning
Our scribe process is performed in a clean environment with proper handling protocol to minimize residue, particulate and finger prints. If cleanliness is critical, our Ultrasonic Cleaning can accommodate parts up to 500mm Square. Paperless Packaging can be employed to further maintain cleanliness during transit.
Inspection
For large format, scribed glass sheets, we are limited to inspection in normal room light condition (up to 1.5K Lux or 80/50 Scratch and Dig). For sheet glass of more moderate size, after cleaning through and Ultrasonic line, we can inspect in our Class 100 Optical Clean Room to the highest levels of surface quality and cleanliness.
Dimensional Specifications
Most dimensions are limits under optimal conditions and are subject evaluation upon inquiry.
| Specification | Minimum | Maximum | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 50µm | 10mm | +/- 10µm |
| Dimensions (Scribed Edge) | n/a | 1500mm x 2600mm | +/- 50µm |
| Dimensions (Hand Seam) | n/a | 1500mm x 2600mm | +/- 50µm |
| Dimensions (CNC Edge) | n/a | 500mm x 500mm | +/- 25µm |
| Thickness Variation (TTV) | <5µm | n/a | n/a |
| Scratch and Dig | 5/2 | n/a | n/a |
| Ultrasonic Cleaning | n/a | 500mm x 500mm | n/a |
Actual specifications will be dependent upon material, format and other factors. We will be glad to evaluate your requirements and advise the best possible process available.
Capabilities
Dimensional
Depending upon sheet size and substrate thickness, our scribe processes can hold dimensions to 50 microns. For CNC applications of edges, corners and other features, we can dimensional tolerances to 25 microns can be achieved. Dimensional measurements are gathered throughout and our processes are statistically controlled to assure every part is to your specifications.
Thickness
Coresix specializes in processing of thin sheet glass. We have a wide range of stock thicknesses from 100um to 5mm. Though for most large format sheet glass applications, we cannot control the thickness characteristics of the material, our experience in material selection and evaluation throughout the process guarantee compliance to the highest available standards. If you have thickness requirements that can’t be met with standard material, within limited sizes, our Lapping and Polishing processes can reduce thickness tolerances to 5 microns.
Cosmetic
Our processes and handling protocol are designed to minimize introduction of surface defects to the stock sheet glass. For large format sheets, our inspection is limited to what we can see on the shop floor, about 1.5K Lux or 80/50 Scratch and Dig. For parts within 500mm square, our more stringent inspection techniques can be applied within our Class 100 Optical Clean Room, detecting surface imperfections to the micron level.
Cleanliness
For large format sheet glass, Coresix is very effective at maintaining cleanliness throughout the process, handling glass from the edges with gloved hands and minimizing introduction of contaminants. Panels of 500mm Square or less can be ultrasonically cleaned to virtually eliminate organics and particulate. Combined with Paperless Packaging in a Class 100 Clean Room, we can deliver these parts in a process ready state of cleanliness.
