WO2020236768A1 - Procédés et appareil de fabrication d'un ruban en verre - Google Patents

Procédés et appareil de fabrication d'un ruban en verre Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020236768A1
WO2020236768A1 PCT/US2020/033507 US2020033507W WO2020236768A1 WO 2020236768 A1 WO2020236768 A1 WO 2020236768A1 US 2020033507 W US2020033507 W US 2020033507W WO 2020236768 A1 WO2020236768 A1 WO 2020236768A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
conduit
molten material
vessel
central
channel
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2020/033507
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Miki Eugene KUNITAKE
Pierre LARONZE
Original Assignee
Corning Incorporated
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Corning Incorporated filed Critical Corning Incorporated
Publication of WO2020236768A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020236768A1/fr

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Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
    • C03B—MANUFACTURE, SHAPING, OR SUPPLEMENTARY PROCESSES
    • C03B5/00—Melting in furnaces; Furnaces so far as specially adapted for glass manufacture
    • C03B5/16—Special features of the melting process; Auxiliary means specially adapted for glass-melting furnaces
    • C03B5/18—Stirring devices; Homogenisation
    • C03B5/182—Stirring devices; Homogenisation by moving the molten glass along fixed elements, e.g. deflectors, weirs, baffle plates
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
    • C03B—MANUFACTURE, SHAPING, OR SUPPLEMENTARY PROCESSES
    • C03B5/00—Melting in furnaces; Furnaces so far as specially adapted for glass manufacture
    • C03B5/16—Special features of the melting process; Auxiliary means specially adapted for glass-melting furnaces
    • C03B5/167—Means for preventing damage to equipment, e.g. by molten glass, hot gases, batches
    • C03B5/1672—Use of materials therefor
    • C03B5/1675—Platinum group metals
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
    • C03B—MANUFACTURE, SHAPING, OR SUPPLEMENTARY PROCESSES
    • C03B7/00—Distributors for the molten glass; Means for taking-off charges of molten glass; Producing the gob, e.g. controlling the gob shape, weight or delivery tact
    • C03B7/02—Forehearths, i.e. feeder channels
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
    • C03B—MANUFACTURE, SHAPING, OR SUPPLEMENTARY PROCESSES
    • C03B7/00—Distributors for the molten glass; Means for taking-off charges of molten glass; Producing the gob, e.g. controlling the gob shape, weight or delivery tact
    • C03B7/02—Forehearths, i.e. feeder channels
    • C03B7/06—Means for thermal conditioning or controlling the temperature of the glass
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C03—GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
    • C03B—MANUFACTURE, SHAPING, OR SUPPLEMENTARY PROCESSES
    • C03B17/00—Forming molten glass by flowing-out, pushing-out, extruding or drawing downwardly or laterally from forming slits or by overflowing over lips
    • C03B17/06—Forming glass sheets
    • C03B17/064—Forming glass sheets by the overflow downdraw fusion process; Isopipes therefor

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates generally to methods for manufacturing a glass ribbon and, more particularly, to methods for manufacturing a glass ribbon with a glass manufacturing apparatus comprising a first conduit and a second conduit.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a plurality of conduits extending between a delivery vessel and a receiving vessel, wherein the molten material is conveyed through the plurality of conduits.
  • the plurality of conduits can comprise shorter lengths and smaller cross-sectional sizes than a single conduit.
  • the existing structure within which the glass manufacturing apparatus is housed can accommodate the plurality of conduits with shorter lengths, without having to be increased in size.
  • a total surface area of the conduits may be larger than a surface area of a single conduit, thus increasing heat extraction from the molten material flowing through the plurality of conduits. Consequently, heat extraction from the molten material can be increased while not increasing a total length of the conduits.
  • a glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a first conduit extending between a delivery vessel and a receiving vessel.
  • the first conduit comprises a first channel extending in a first flow direction of the first conduit.
  • the first conduit may be configured to direct a first quantity of molten material from the delivery vessel, through the first channel, and to the receiving vessel.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a second conduit extending between the delivery vessel and the receiving vessel.
  • the second conduit comprises a second channel extending in a second flow direction of the second conduit.
  • the second conduit may be configured to direct a second quantity of the molten material from the delivery vessel, through the second channel, and to the receiving vessel.
  • the first conduit comprises a first pipe extending between a first end and a second end.
  • the first conduit defines a first inlet orifice at the first end of the first pipe and a first outlet orifice at the second end of the first pipe.
  • the first end of the first pipe may be attached to the delivery vessel and the second end of the first pipe may be attached to the receiving vessel.
  • the first conduit may be configured to receive the first quantity of the molten material from a first delivery orifice in the delivery vessel, and deliver the first quantity of the molten material to a first receiving orifice in the receiving vessel.
  • the second conduit comprises a second pipe extending between a first end and a second end.
  • the second conduit defines a second inlet orifice at the first end of the second pipe and a second outlet orifice at the second end of the second pipe.
  • the first end of the second pipe may be attached to the delivery vessel and the second end of the second pipe may be attached to the receiving vessel.
  • the second conduit may be configured to receive the second quantity of the molten material from a second delivery orifice in the delivery vessel, and deliver the second quantity of the molten material to a second receiving orifice in the receiving vessel.
  • the first inlet orifice may be distinct from the second inlet orifice, and the first outlet orifice may be distinct from the second outlet orifice.
  • the first conduit can comprise a first intermediate conduit and the second conduit can comprise a second intermediate conduit.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a first central conduit comprising a first central channel extending in a first central flow direction of the first central conduit.
  • the first central conduit extends between an upstream end and a downstream end.
  • the upstream end of the first central conduit may be attached to the delivery vessel and the downstream end of the first central conduit may be attached to the first intermediate conduit and the second intermediate conduit.
  • the first central conduit may be configured to receive the first quantity of the molten material and the second quantity of the molten material from the delivery vessel within the first central channel, and deliver the first quantity of the molten material to the first intermediate conduit and the second quantity of the molten material to the second intermediate conduit.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a second central conduit comprising a second central channel extending in a second central flow direction of the second central conduit.
  • the second central conduit extends between an upstream end and a downstream end.
  • the upstream end of the second central conduit may be attached to the first intermediate conduit and the second intermediate conduit, and the downstream end of the second central conduit may be attached to the receiving vessel.
  • the second central conduit may be configured to receive within the second central conduit the first quantity of the molten material from the first intermediate conduit and the second quantity of the molten material from the second intermediate conduit, and deliver the first quantity of the molten material and the second quantity of the molten material to the receiving vessel.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a mixer positioned in one or more of the first channel or the second channel.
  • the mixer may be configured to alter a flow profile of one or more of the first quantity of the molten material within the first channel or the second quantity of the molten material within the second channel.
  • methods of manufacturing a glass ribbon with a glass manufacturing apparatus comprise delivering a first quantity of molten material from a delivery vessel to a first channel of a first conduit.
  • Methods comprise delivering a second quantity of the molten material from the delivery vessel to a second channel of a second conduit.
  • Methods comprise passing the first quantity of the molten material from the first channel to a receiving vessel.
  • Methods comprise passing the second quantity of the molten material from the second channel to the receiving vessel.
  • the delivering the first quantity comprises directing the first quantity of the molten material through a first delivery orifice in the delivery vessel and a first inlet orifice in the first conduit.
  • the delivering the second quantity comprises directing the second quantity of the molten material through a second delivery orifice in the delivery vessel and a second inlet orifice in the second conduit.
  • the delivering the first quantity of the molten material comprises receiving the first quantity of the molten material within a first central channel of a first central conduit.
  • the delivering the second quantity of the molten material comprises receiving the second quantity of the molten material within the first central channel of the first central conduit.
  • methods comprise positioning a mixer in one or more of the first channel or the second channel to alter a flow profile of one or more of the first quantity of the molten material within the first channel or the second quantity of the molten material within the second channel.
  • FIG. 1 schematically illustrates example embodiments of a glass manufacturing apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of the glass manufacturing apparatus along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an enlarged portion of the glass manufacturing apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a plurality of conduits of the glass manufacturing apparatus along line 4-4 of FIG. 3 in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of additional embodiments of a plurality of conduits of the glass manufacturing apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional representation of a helical twisting of the plurality of conduits of the glass manufacturing apparatus generally along line 6-6 of FIG. 5 in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of yet additional embodiments of a plurality of conduits of the glass manufacturing apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure; and [0035] FIG. 8 illustrates an enlarged portion of the glass manufacturing apparatus comprising a mixer positioned in a conduit in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.
  • an exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 and a forming apparatus 101 comprising a forming vessel 140 designed to produce a ribbon 103 from a quantity of molten material 121.
  • the ribbon 103 can comprise a central portion 152 positioned between opposite edge portions (e.g., edge beads) formed along a first outer edge 153 and a second outer edge 155 of the ribbon 103, wherein a thickness of the edge beads can be greater than a thickness of the central portion.
  • a separated glass ribbon 104 can be separated from the ribbon 103 along a separation path 151 by a glass separator 149 (e.g., scribe, score wheel, diamond tip, laser, etc.).
  • the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 can comprise a melting vessel 105 oriented to receive batch material 107 from a storage bin 109.
  • the batch material 107 can be introduced by a batch delivery device 111 powered by a motor 113.
  • an optional controller 115 can be operated to activate the motor 113 to introduce a desired amount of batch material 107 into the melting vessel 105, as indicated by arrow 117.
  • the melting vessel 105 can heat the batch material 107 to provide molten material 121.
  • a plurality of melting vessels 105 can be provided, with one or more conduits (e.g., conduits 128) connected between the plurality of melting vessels 105.
  • a melt probe 119 can be employed to measure a level of molten material 121 within a standpipe 123 and communicate the measured information to the controller 115 by way of a communication line 125.
  • the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 can comprise a first conditioning station comprising a fining vessel 127 located downstream from the melting vessel 105 and coupled to the melting vessel 105 by way of a first connecting conduit 129.
  • molten material 121 can be gravity fed from the melting vessel 105 to the fining vessel 127 by way of the first connecting conduit 129.
  • gravity can drive the molten material 121 through an interior pathway of the first connecting conduit 129 from the melting vessel 105 to the fining vessel 127.
  • bubbles can be removed from the molten material 121 within the fining vessel 127 by various techniques.
  • the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 can further comprise a second conditioning station comprising a mixing chamber 131 that can be located downstream from the fining vessel 127.
  • the mixing chamber 131 can be employed to provide a homogenous composition of molten material 121, thereby reducing or eliminating inhomogeneity that may otherwise exist within the molten material 121 exiting the fining vessel 127.
  • the fining vessel 127 can be coupled to the mixing chamber 131 by way of a second connecting conduit 135.
  • molten material 121 can be gravity fed from the fining vessel 127 to the mixing chamber 131 by way of the second connecting conduit 135.
  • gravity can drive the molten material 121 through an interior pathway of the second connecting conduit 135 from the fining vessel 127 to the mixing chamber 131.
  • the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 can comprise a third conditioning station comprising a delivery chamber 133 that can be located downstream from the mixing chamber 131.
  • the delivery chamber 133 can condition the molten material 121 to be fed into an inlet conduit 141.
  • the delivery chamber 133 can function as an accumulator and/or flow controller to adjust and provide a consistent flow of molten material 121 to the inlet conduit 141.
  • the mixing chamber 131 can be coupled to the delivery chamber 133 by way of a third connecting conduit 137.
  • molten material 121 can be gravity fed from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery chamber 133 by way of the third connecting conduit 137.
  • gravity can drive the molten material 121 through an interior pathway of the third connecting conduit 137 from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery chamber 133.
  • a delivery pipe 139 can be positioned to deliver molten material 121 to forming apparatus 101, for example the inlet conduit 141 of the forming vessel 140.
  • Forming apparatus 101 can comprise various embodiments of forming vessels in accordance with features of the disclosure comprising a forming vessel with a wedge for fusion drawing the glass ribbon, a forming vessel with a slot to slot draw the glass ribbon, or a forming vessel provided with press rolls to press roll the glass ribbon from the forming vessel.
  • the forming vessel 140 shown and disclosed below can be provided to fusion draw molten material 121 off a bottom edge, defined as a root 145, of a forming wedge 209 to produce a ribbon 103 of molten material.
  • the molten material 121 can be delivered from the inlet conduit 141 to the forming vessel 140.
  • the molten material 121 can then be formed into the ribbon 103 based, in part on the structure of the forming vessel 140. For example, as shown, the molten material 121 can be drawn off the bottom edge (e.g., root 145) of the forming vessel 140 along a draw path extending in a draw direction 154 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100. In some embodiments, edge directors 163, 164 can direct the molten material 121 off the forming vessel 140 and define, in part, a width“W” of the ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the width“W” of the ribbon 103 extends between the first outer edge 153 of the ribbon 103 and the second outer edge 155 of the ribbon 103.
  • the width“W” of the ribbon 103 which extends between the first outer edge 153 of the ribbon 103 and the second outer edge 155 of the ribbon 103, can be greater than or equal to about 20 millimeters (mm), for example, greater than or equal to about 50 mm, for example, greater than or equal to about 100 mm, for example, greater than or equal to about 500 mm, for example, greater than or equal to about 1000 mm, for example, greater than or equal to about 2000 mm, for example, greater than or equal to about 3000 mm, for example, greater than or equal to about 4000 mm, although other widths less than or greater than the widths mentioned above can be provided in further embodiments.
  • mm millimeters
  • the width“W” of the ribbon 103 can be within a range from about 20 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 50 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 100 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 500 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 1000 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 2000 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 3000 mm to about 4000 mm, for example, within a range from about 20 mm to about 3000 mm, for example, within a range from about 50 mm to about 3000 mm, for example, within a range from about 100 mm to about 3000 mm, for example, within a range from about 500 mm to about 3000 mm, for example, within a range from about 1000 mm to about 3000 mm, for example, within a range from about a range from about range from
  • FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the forming apparatus 101 (e.g., forming vessel 140) along line 2-2 of FIG. 1.
  • the forming vessel 140 can comprise a trough 201 oriented to receive the molten material 121 from the inlet conduit 141.
  • cross- hatching of the molten material 121 is removed from FIG. 2 for clarity.
  • the forming vessel 140 can further comprise the forming wedge 209 comprising a pair of downwardly inclined converging surface portions 207, 208 extending between opposed ends 210, 211 (See FIG. 1) of the forming wedge 209.
  • the pair of downwardly inclined converging surface portions 207, 208 of the forming wedge 209 can converge along the draw direction 154 to intersect along the root 145 of the forming vessel 140.
  • a draw plane 213 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can extend through the root 145 along the draw direction 154.
  • the ribbon 103 can be drawn in the draw direction 154 along the draw plane 213.
  • the draw plane 213 can bisect the forming wedge 209 through the root 145 although, in some embodiments, the draw plane 213 can extend at other orientations relative to the root 145.
  • the molten material 121 can flow in a direction 156 into and along the trough 201 of the forming vessel 140.
  • the molten material 121 can then overflow from the trough 201 by simultaneously flowing over corresponding weirs 203, 204 and downward over the outer surfaces 205, 206 of the corresponding weirs 203, 204.
  • Respective streams of molten material 121 can then flow along the downwardly inclined converging surface portions 207, 208 of the forming wedge 209 to be drawn off the root 145 of the forming vessel 140, where the flows converge and fuse into the ribbon 103.
  • the ribbon 103 of molten material can then be drawn off the root 145 in the draw plane 213 along the draw direction 154.
  • the ribbon 103 comprises one or more states of material based on a vertical location of the ribbon 103.
  • the ribbon 103 can comprise the viscous molten material 121, and at another location, the ribbon 103 can comprise an amorphous solid in a glassy state (e.g., a glass ribbon).
  • the ribbon 103 comprises a first major surface 215 and a second major surface 216 facing opposite directions and defining a thickness“T” (e.g., average thickness) of the ribbon 103.
  • the thickness“T’ of the ribbon 103 can be less than or equal to about 2 millimeters (mm), less than or equal to about 1 millimeter, less than or equal to about 0.5 millimeters, for example, less than or equal to about 300 micrometers (pm), less than or equal to about 200 micrometers, or less than or equal to about 100 micrometers, although other thicknesses may be provided in further embodiments.
  • the thickness“T’ of the ribbon 103 can be within a range from about 20 pm to about 200 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 750 pm, within a range from about 100 pm to about 700 pm, within a range from about 200 pm to about 600 pm, within a range from about 300 pm to about 500 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 500 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 700 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 600 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 500 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 400 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 300 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 200 pm, within a range from about 50 pm to about 100 pm, within a range from about 25 pm to about 125 pm, comprising all ranges and subranges of thicknesses therebetween.
  • the ribbon 103 can comprise a variety of composition, for example, soda-lime glass, borosilicate glass, alumino-borosilicate glass, alkali-containing glass, or alkali-free glass, alkali aluminosilicate glass, alkaline earth aluminosilicate glass, etc.
  • the glass separator 149 can then separate the glass ribbon 104 from the ribbon 103 along the separation path 151 and stacked to form a stack of separated glass ribbons 104 or coiled onto a storage roll.
  • the separated glass ribbon can then be processed into a desired application, e.g., a display application.
  • the separated glass ribbon can be used in a wide range of display applications, comprising liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPD), organic light emitting diode displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), touch sensors, photovoltaics, and other electronic displays.
  • LCDs liquid crystal displays
  • EPD electrophoretic displays
  • OLEDs organic light emitting diode displays
  • PDPs plasma display panels
  • touch sensors photovoltaics, and other electronic displays.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a delivery vessel 301 and a receiving vessel 303.
  • the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 can be substantially hollow and may comprise a chamber within which the molten material 121 may be contained.
  • the molten material 121 can be conveyed from the delivery vessel 301 to the receiving vessel 303, for example, with the delivery vessel 301 positioned upstream from the receiving vessel 303.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 in the embodiment of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 of FIG.
  • the delivery vessel 301 can comprise, for example, one or more of the melting vessel 105, the fining vessel 127, the mixing chamber 131, or the delivery chamber 133.
  • the receiving vessel 303 can comprise, for example, one or more of the fining vessel 127, the mixing chamber 131, the delivery chamber 133, or the forming vessel 140, etc.
  • the delivery vessel 301 can comprise the melting vessel 105 and the receiving vessel 303 can comprise the fining vessel 127.
  • the delivery vessel 301 can comprise the fining vessel 127 and the receiving vessel 303 can comprise the mixing chamber 131.
  • the delivery vessel 301 can comprise the mixing chamber 131 and the receiving vessel 303 can comprise the delivery chamber 133.
  • the delivery vessel 301 can comprise the delivery chamber 133 and the receiving vessel 303 can comprise the forming vessel 140.
  • FIGS. 1 and 3 illustrate features of embodiments of the plurality of conduits 128 for conveying the molten material 121 between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303, for example, from the delivery vessel 301 to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303, for example, with the plurality of conduits 128 positioned downstream from the delivery vessel 301 and upstream from the receiving vessel 303 relative to a flow of the molten material 121.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise the first connecting conduit 129 extending between the melting vessel 105 and the fining vessel 127, for example, when the delivery vessel 301 comprises the melting vessel 105 and the receiving vessel 303 comprises the fining vessel 127.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise the second connecting conduit 135 extending between the fining vessel 127 and the mixing chamber 131, for example, when the delivery vessel 301 comprises the fining vessel 127 and the receiving vessel 303 comprises the mixing chamber 131.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise the third connecting conduit 137 extending between the mixing chamber 131 and the delivery chamber 133, for example, when the delivery vessel 301 comprises the mixing chamber 131 and the receiving vessel 303 comprises the delivery chamber 133.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise the delivery pipe 139 extending between the delivery chamber 133 and the forming vessel 140, for example, when the delivery vessel 301 comprises the delivery chamber 133 and the receiving vessel 303 comprises the forming vessel 140.
  • the delivery vessel 301, the receiving vessel 303, and the plurality of conduits 128 may be representative of several different structures of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional view of embodiments of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 along line 4-4 of FIG. 3.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a first conduit 401 and a second conduit 403.
  • the first conduit 401 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first conduit 401 can be attached directly to the delivery vessel 301 and to the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 4).
  • the first conduit 401 is not limited to direct attachment, and in some embodiments, the first conduit 401 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 with one or more intervening structures, conduits, tubes, etc. positioned between the first conduit 401 and the delivery vessel 301 and/or between the first conduit 401 and the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first conduit 401 can comprise a first channel 405 extending in a first flow direction 407 (e.g. a linear first flow direction) of the first conduit 401.
  • the first conduit 401 may be substantially hollow, with the first conduit 401 surrounding the first channel 405.
  • the first conduit 401 can direct a first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301, through the first channel 405, and to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 can flow in the first flow direction 407 from the delivery vessel 301, through the first channel 405 of the first conduit 401, and to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first conduit 401 can comprise several different structures that may be substantially hollow and may define the first channel 405.
  • the first conduit 401 can comprise a first pipe 413 extending between a first end 415 and a second end 417.
  • the first pipe 413 can comprise one or more of platinum, rhodium, platinum-rhodium, iridium, etc.
  • the first pipe 413 can comprise several cross-sectional shapes in one or more of the first pipe 413 or alternatives to the first pipe 413, for example, a circular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an oval shape, etc.
  • the first end 415 of the first pipe 413 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 and the second end 417 of the first pipe 413 can be attached to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first pipe 413 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners, welding, etc.
  • the first pipe 413 can be substantially straight and can extend along a first axis 451 between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first conduit 401 can define a first inlet orifice 421 at the first end 415 of the first pipe 413 and a first outlet orifice 423 at the second end 417 of the first pipe 413.
  • the first conduit 401 can receive the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 from a first delivery orifice 427 in the delivery vessel 301 (e.g., a sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301) and deliver the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 to a first receiving orifice 429 in the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., a sidewall 304 of the receiving vessel 303).
  • the second conduit 403 can be similar (e.g., substantially identical in length, cross-sectional shape, cross-sectional area, and/or axial orientation) in structure to the first conduit 401.
  • the second conduit 403 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second conduit 403 can be attached directly to the delivery vessel 301 and to the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 4).
  • the second conduit 403 is not limited to direct attachment, and in some embodiments, the second conduit 403 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 with one or more intervening structures, conduits, tubes, etc.
  • the second conduit 403 can extend substantially parallel to the first conduit 401, with the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 spaced apart from each other.
  • the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 can be spaced apart to form a gap 441 between the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403, wherein the molten material 121 may not flow through the gap 441.
  • the second conduit 403 can comprise a second channel 445 extending in a second flow direction 447 (e.g. a linear second flow direction) of the second conduit 403.
  • the second conduit 403 may be substantially hollow, with the second conduit 403 surrounding the second channel 445.
  • the first flow direction 407 can be a linear direction
  • the second flow direction 447 can be a linear direction
  • the second flow direction 447 may be substantially parallel to the first flow direction 407.
  • the second conduit 403 may extend parallel to or non-parallel to the first conduit 401 and may have the same or a different length as the first conduit 401
  • the second conduit 403 can direct a second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301, through the second channel 445, and to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 can flow in the second flow direction 447 from the delivery vessel 301, through the second channel 445 of the second conduit 403, and to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second conduit 403 can comprise several different structures that may be substantially hollow and may define the second channel 445.
  • the second conduit 403 can comprise a second pipe 453 extending between a first end 455 and a second end 457.
  • the second pipe 453 can comprise one or more of platinum, rhodium, platinum- rhodium, iridium, etc.
  • the second pipe 453 can comprise several cross-sectional shapes in one or more of the second pipe 453 or alternatives to the second pipe 453, for example, a circular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an oval shape, etc.
  • the first end 455 of the second pipe 453 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 and the second end 457 of the second pipe 453 can be attached to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second pipe 453 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners, welding, etc.
  • the second pipe 453 can be substantially straight and extend along a second axis 452 between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303.
  • a distance separating the first pipe 413 of the first conduit 401 and the second pipe 453 of the second conduit 403 can be substantially constant along the first flow direction 407 and the second flow direction 447 along a length of the first pipe 413 and the second pipe 453.
  • the second conduit 403 can define a second inlet orifice 461 at the first end 455 of the second pipe 453 and a second outlet orifice 463 at the second end 457 of the second pipe 453.
  • the second conduit 403 can receive the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 from a second delivery orifice 467 in the delivery vessel 301 (e.g., the sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301) and deliver the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 to a second receiving orifice 469 in the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., the sidewall 304 of the receiving vessel 303).
  • the first inlet orifice 421 may be distinct from the second inlet orifice 461, and the first outlet orifice 423 may be distinct from the second outlet orifice 463.
  • the first inlet orifice 421 may be spaced apart and separate from the second inlet orifice 461 such that the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 may flow through the first inlet orifice 421 but not through the second inlet orifice 461, and the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 may flow through the second inlet orifice 461 but not through the first inlet orifice 421.
  • the first outlet orifice 423 may be spaced apart and separate from the second outlet orifice 463 such that the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 may flow through the first outlet orifice 423 but not through the second outlet orifice 463, and the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 may flow through the second outlet orifice 463 but not through the first outlet orifice 423.
  • the first outlet orifice 423 and the second outlet orifice 463 may both extend through the sidewall 304 of the receiving vessel 303 at spaced apart locations of the sidewall 304.
  • the first delivery orifice 427 of the delivery vessel 301 may be distinct from the second delivery orifice 467 of the delivery vessel 301. In some embodiments, the first delivery orifice 427 and the second delivery orifice 467 may both extend through the sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301 at spaced apart locations of the sidewall 302. In some embodiments, the first receiving orifice 429 of the receiving vessel 303 may be distinct from the second receiving orifice 469 of the receiving vessel 303. In some embodiments, the first receiving orifice 429 and the second receiving orifice 469 may both extend through the sidewall 304 of the receiving vessel 303 at spaced apart locations of the sidewall 304.
  • the second flow direction 447 (e.g., linear flow direction) can be substantially parallel to the first flow direction 407 (e.g., linear flow direction).
  • the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 can flow through the first conduit 401 along the first flow direction 407 substantially parallel to the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 that flows through the second conduit 403 along the second flow direction 447.
  • first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 By spacing apart the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 and the respective orifices in the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303, certain parts of the molten material 121 within the delivery vessel 301 can be targeted to pass through one of the first conduit 401 or the second conduit 403 without cross-contamination.
  • the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 can be arranged side-by-side in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity wherein the direction of gravity is illustrated in a downward direction in FIG. 3 and into the page of FIG. 4.
  • the first conduit 401 can extend along the first axis 451 and the second conduit 403 can extend along the second axis 452.
  • the first axis 451 and the second axis 452 may be linear and substantially parallel, wherein the parallel axes (e.g., the first axis 451 and the second axis 452) lie within a plane that may be perpendicular to the direction of gravity.
  • first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 are not limited to such an arrangement, and in some embodiments, the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 may be arranged on top of each other.
  • first conduit 401 may extend along the first axis 451 while the second conduit 403 may extend along the second axis 452, wherein the first axis 451 and the second axis 452 may lie within a plane that includes the direction of gravity.
  • the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 are not limited to these configurations, and in some embodiments, the first conduit 401 may not extend parallel to the second conduit 403.
  • methods of manufacturing the glass ribbon 104 with the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise delivering the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301 to the first channel 405 of the first conduit 401.
  • the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 can flow from the delivery vessel 301, through the first delivery orifice 427 in the sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301 and the first inlet orifice 421 in the first pipe 413 and into the first channel 405 of the first conduit 401.
  • delivering the first quantity 409 can comprise directing the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 through the first delivery orifice 427 in the sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301 and the first inlet orifice 421 in the first conduit 401.
  • methods of manufacturing the glass ribbon 104 with the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise passing the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 from the first channel 405 to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first quantity 409 can flow through the first channel 405 and can pass through the first outlet orifice 423 and the first receiving orifice 429 in the sidewall 304 of the receiving vessel 303, whereupon the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 can be received within the receiving vessel 303.
  • methods of manufacturing the glass ribbon 104 with the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise delivering the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301 to the second channel 445 of the second conduit 403.
  • the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 can flow from the delivery vessel 301, through the second delivery orifice 467 in the sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301 and the second inlet orifice 461 in the second pipe 453, and into the second channel 445 of the second conduit 403.
  • the delivering the second quantity 449 can comprise directing the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 through the second delivery orifice 467 in the sidewall 302 of the delivery vessel 301 and the second inlet orifice 461 in the second conduit 403.
  • methods of manufacturing the glass ribbon 104 with the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise passing the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 from the second channel 445 to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second quantity 449 can flow through the second channel 445 and can pass through the second outlet orifice 463 and the second receiving orifice 469 in the sidewall 304 of the receiving vessel 303, whereupon the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 can be received within the receiving vessel 303.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 are not limited to the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 that extend substantially parallel to each other between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303. Rather, in some embodiments, the plurality of conduits 128 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 comprise a first central conduit 501, a second central conduit 503, a first intermediate conduit 505, and a second intermediate conduit 507. In some embodiments, the first conduit (e.g., the first conduit 401) can comprise the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second conduit (e.g., the second conduit 403) can comprise the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503 can be positioned on opposing sides of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can be positioned between the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503.
  • the first central conduit 501 can be positioned upstream from (e.g., on an upstream side of) the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the second central conduit 503 can be positioned downstream from (e.g., on a downstream side of) the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can helically wind about each other between the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503.
  • an upstream end of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 may be attached to the first central conduit 501.
  • the upstream end of the first intermediate conduit 505 may be attached to a first location of a downstream end of the first central conduit 501 and the upstream end of the second intermediate conduit 507 may be attached to a second location of the downstream end the first central conduit 501.
  • the first location of the downstream end of the first central conduit 501 can be at a lower elevation with respect to gravity than the second location of the downstream end of the first central conduit 501.
  • At a downstream end of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 may be attached to the second central conduit 503.
  • the downstream end of the first intermediate conduit 505 may be attached to a first location of an upstream end of the second central conduit 503 and the downstream end of the second intermediate conduit 507 may be attached to a second location of the upstream end the second central conduit 503.
  • the first location of the upstream end of the second central conduit 503 can be at a higher elevation with respect to gravity than the second location of the upstream end of the second central conduit 503.
  • the first central conduit 501 can extend between an upstream end 601 and a downstream end 603.
  • the upstream end 601 of the first central conduit 501 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 and the downstream end 603 of the first central conduit 501 can be attached to the upstream ends of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the upstream end 601 of the first central conduit 501 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners, welding, etc.
  • the downstream end 603 of the first central conduit 501 can be attached to the upstream ends of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners, welding, etc.
  • the first central conduit 501 can comprise a first central channel 605 extending in a first central flow direction 607 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the first central conduit 501.
  • the first central conduit 501 can receive a first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 and a second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301 within the first central channel 605.
  • the first central conduit 501 can deliver the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 to the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 to the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the first central conduit 501 can define a first central inlet orifice 617 at the upstream end 601 of the first central conduit 501.
  • the first central conduit 501 can define a first central outlet orifice 619 and a second central outlet orifice 621 at the downstream end 603 of the first central conduit 501.
  • the first central conduit 501 can receive the first quantity 611 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 from a delivery orifice 622 in the delivery vessel 301, and deliver the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 to the first intermediate conduit 505 through the first central outlet orifice 619 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 to the second intermediate conduit 507 through the second central outlet orifice 621.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303. By extending between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303, in some embodiments, the first intermediate conduit 505 can deliver the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301 to the receiving vessel 303, while not being directly attached to the delivery vessel 301 or the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can be attached to the first central conduit 501 and to the second central conduit 503.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can comprise a first channel 625 extending in a first flow direction 627 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the first intermediate conduit 505.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 may be substantially hollow, with the first intermediate conduit 505 surrounding the first channel 625.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can direct the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 from the first central conduit 501, through the first channel 625, and to the second central conduit 503.
  • the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 can flow in the first flow direction 627 from the first central conduit 501, through the first channel 625, and to the second central conduit 503.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can comprise several different structures that may be substantially hollow and may define the first channel 625.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can comprise a first pipe 629 extending between a first end 631 and a second end 633.
  • the first pipe 629 can comprise one or more of platinum, rhodium, platinum-rhodium, iridium, etc.
  • the first pipe 629 can comprise several cross-sectional shapes in one or more of the first pipe 629 or alternatives to the first pipe 629, for example, a circular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an oval shape, etc.
  • the first pipe 629 can be attached to the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners, welding, etc.
  • the first end 631 of the first pipe 629 can be attached to the first central conduit 501 while the second end 633 of the first pipe 629 can be attached to the second central conduit 503.
  • the first pipe 629 can extend non-linearly between the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can define a first inlet orifice 635 at the first end 631 of the first pipe 629 and a first outlet orifice 637 at the second end 633 of the first pipe 629.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can receive the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 from the first central outlet orifice 619 in the first central conduit 501 and deliver the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 to a second central inlet orifice 639 in the second central conduit 503.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303. By extending between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303, in some embodiments, the second intermediate conduit 507 can deliver the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301 to the receiving vessel 303, while not being directly attached to the delivery vessel 301 or the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can be attached to the first central conduit 501 and to the second central conduit 503.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can comprise a second channel 645 extending in a second flow direction 647 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 may be substantially hollow, with the second intermediate conduit 507 surrounding the second channel 645.
  • the second flow direction 647 may be substantially parallel to the first flow direction 627.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can direct the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 from the first central conduit 501, through the second channel 645, and to the second central conduit 503.
  • the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 can flow in the second flow direction 647 from the first central conduit 501, through the second channel 645, and to the second central conduit 503.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can comprise several different structures that may be substantially hollow and may define the second channel 645.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can comprise a second pipe 649 extending between a first end 651 and a second end 653.
  • the second pipe 649 can comprise one or more of platinum, rhodium, platinum-rhodium, iridium, etc.
  • the second pipe 649 can comprise several cross-sectional shapes in one or more of the second pipe 649 or alternatives to the second pipe 649, for example, a circular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an oval shape, etc.
  • the second pipe 649 can be attached to the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners, welding, etc.
  • the first end 651 of the second pipe 649 can be attached to the first central conduit 501 while the second end 653 of the second pipe 649 can be attached to the second central conduit 503.
  • the second pipe 649 can extend non-linearly between the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503.
  • the second pipe 649 can define a second inlet orifice 655 at the first end 651 of the second pipe 649 and a second outlet orifice 657 at the second end 653 of the second pipe 649.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can receive the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 from the second central outlet orifice 621 in the first central conduit 501 and deliver the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 to a third central inlet orifice 659 in the second central conduit 503.
  • the first inlet orifice 635 may be distinct from the second inlet orifice 655, and the first outlet orifice 637 may be distinct from the second outlet orifice 657.
  • the first inlet orifice 635 may be spaced apart and separate from the second inlet orifice 655 such that the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 may flow through the first inlet orifice 635 but not through the second inlet orifice 655, and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 may flow through the second inlet orifice 655 but not through the first inlet orifice 635.
  • the first outlet orifice 637 may be spaced apart and separate from the second outlet orifice 657 such that the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 may flow through the first outlet orifice 637 but not through the second outlet orifice 657, and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 may flow through the second outlet orifice 657 but not through the first outlet orifice 637.
  • the first central outlet orifice 619 of the first central conduit 501 may be distinct from the second central outlet orifice 621 of the first central conduit 501, while the second central inlet orifice 639 of the second central conduit 503 may be distinct from the third central inlet orifice 659 of the second central conduit 503.
  • the first inlet orifice 635 may be tangent to or touching (e.g., without a wall between the adjacent orifices) the second inlet orifice 655.
  • the first outlet orifice 637 may be tangent to or touching (e.g., without a wall between the adjacent orifices) the second outlet orifice 657.
  • the second central conduit 503 can extend between an upstream end 661 and a downstream end 663.
  • the upstream end 661 of the second central conduit 503 can be attached to the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507, while the downstream end 663 of the second central conduit 503 can be attached to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the second central conduit 503 can comprise a second central channel 665 extending in a second central flow direction 667 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the second central conduit 503.
  • the second central conduit 503 can receive within the second central conduit 503 the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 from the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 from the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the second central conduit 503 can deliver the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can assist in mixing the molten material 121.
  • the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 can accumulate towards the bottom of the delivery vessel 301 and the first central conduit 501 while the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 can accumulate above the first quantity 611 towards the top of the delivery vessel 301 and the first central conduit 501.
  • the first central outlet orifice 619 and the first inlet orifice 635 may be located below the second central outlet orifice 621 and the second inlet orifice 655 relative to a direction of gravity 671.
  • first central outlet orifice 619 and the first inlet orifice 635 may be located towards a bottom of the first central conduit 501 while the second central outlet orifice 621 and the second inlet orifice 655 may be located towards a top of the first central conduit 501.
  • the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 can therefore be received within the first channel 625 of the first intermediate conduit 505 while the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 can be received within the second channel 645 of the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can extend non-linearly between the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can partially helically wind about each other, such that the first intermediate conduit 505 extends upwardly from the first central conduit 501 to the second central conduit 503 while the second intermediate conduit 507 extends downwardly from the first central conduit 501 to the second central conduit 503.
  • the second outlet orifice 657 and the third central inlet orifice 659 may be located below the first outlet orifice 637 and the second central inlet orifice 639 relative to the direction of gravity 671.
  • the second outlet orifice 657 and the third central inlet orifice 659 may be located towards a bottom of the second central conduit 503 while the first outlet orifice 637 and the second central inlet orifice 639 may be located towards a top of the second central conduit 503. Therefore, in some embodiments, the first end 631 of the first intermediate conduit 505 may be located below the first end 651 of the second intermediate conduit 507, while the second end 633 of the first intermediate conduit 505 may be located above the second end 653 of the second intermediate conduit 507. In some embodiments, the first central conduit 501 can extend along a first central axis 681 while the second central conduit 503 can extend along a second central axis 683.
  • the first central conduit 501 can extend substantially coaxially with the second central conduit 503, with the first central axis 681 being substantially colinear with the second central axis 683.
  • the first central axis 681 and the second central axis 683 can lie within a plane that may be substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity 671.
  • the first intermediate conduit 505 can lie on a lower side of the plane adj acent to the first central conduit 501 and can lie on an upper side of the plane adj acent to the second central conduit 503.
  • the second intermediate conduit 507 can lie on an upper side of the plane adjacent to the first central conduit 501 and can lie on a lower side of the plane adjacent to the second central conduit 503.
  • the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 can therefore be delivered from the bottom of the first central conduit 501 to the top of the second central conduit 503.
  • the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 can be delivered from the top of the first central conduit 501 to the bottom of the second central conduit 503.
  • This winding arrangement of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can therefore twist a flow profile of the molten material 121 and mix the first quantity 611 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 that may be received within the second central conduit 503.
  • a cross-sectional size of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 may be different than a cross- sectional size of the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503.
  • a cross-sectional size of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 may be less than a cross-sectional size of the first central conduit 501.
  • a cross-sectional size of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 may be less than a cross-sectional size of the second central conduit 503.
  • first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 comprising a reduced cross-sectional size as compared to the first central conduit 501 and the second central conduit 503, several benefits may be achieved. For example, heat extraction of the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 flowing through the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 flowing through the second intermediate conduit 507 can be increased due to a larger surface area of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 as compared to a single conduit comprising a larger cross-sectional size than the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the length of the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507 can be reduced as compared to a single conduit comprising a larger cross-sectional size.
  • greater power densities can be applied to the molten material 121 within the delivery vessel 301 since greater heat extraction can be achieved downstream from the delivery vessel 301 within the first intermediate conduit 505 and the second intermediate conduit 507.
  • the increased heat extraction can further reduce a temperature gradient of the first quantity 611 of the molten material 121 within the first intermediate conduit 505 (e.g., between a center of the first intermediate conduit 505 and a wall of the first pipe 629) and the second quantity 613 of the molten material 121 within the second intermediate conduit 507 (e.g., between a center of the second intermediate conduit 507 and a wall of the second pipe 649).
  • a distance from the center of the conduit (e.g., the first intermediate conduit 505 or the second intermediate conduit 507) to a wall (e.g., of the first pipe 629 or the second pipe 649) may be reduced, thus allowing for temperature changes near the wall to more quickly affect a temperature of the first quantity 611 or the second quantity 613 towards a center of the conduit.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 are not limited to the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403 extending substantially parallel to each other between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 4), nor are the plurality of conduits 128 limited to the first central conduit 501, the second central conduit 503, the first intermediate conduit 505, and the second intermediate conduit 507 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 5-6). Rather, in some embodiments, the plurality of conduits 128 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 comprise the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, a third conduit 701, a fourth conduit 703, and a first central conduit 705.
  • the first conduit 401 may be similar to the first conduit 401 illustrated in FIG. 4.
  • the first conduit 401 can comprise the first channel 405 extending in the first flow direction 407, the first pipe 413 extending between the first end 415 and the second end 417 defining the first inlet orifice 421 and the first outlet orifice 423.
  • the first conduit 401 can receive the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 within the first channel 405.
  • the second conduit 403 can be similar (e.g., substantially identical) to the second conduit 403 illustrated in FIG. 4.
  • the second conduit 403 can comprise the second channel 445 extending in the second flow direction 447, the second pipe 453 extending between the first end 455 and the second end 457 defining the second inlet orifice 461 and the second outlet orifice 463.
  • the second conduit 403 can receive the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 within the second channel 445.
  • the third conduit 701 can be similar (e.g., substantially identical) to the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403.
  • the third conduit 701 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, and 6) in a direction that may be substantially parallel to the first conduit 401 and the second conduit 403.
  • the third conduit 701 can comprise a third channel 711 that extends in a third flow direction 713 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the third conduit 701.
  • the third conduit 701 can direct athird quantity 715 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301, through the third channel 711, and to the first central conduit 705.
  • the third conduit 701 can comprise a third pipe 717 extending between a first end 719 and a second end 721.
  • the third conduit 701 can define a third inlet orifice 725 at the first end 719 of the third pipe 717 and a third outlet orifice 727 at the second end 721 of the third pipe 717.
  • the first end 719 of the third pipe 717 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 while the second end 721 of the third pipe 717 can be attached to the first central conduit 705.
  • the fourth conduit 703 can be similar (e.g., substantially identical) to the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, and the third conduit 701.
  • the fourth conduit 703 can extend between the delivery vessel 301 and the receiving vessel 303 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 3-4, and 6) in a direction that may be substantially parallel to the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, and the third conduit 701.
  • the fourth conduit 703 can comprise a fourth channel 731 that extends in a fourth flow direction 733 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the fourth conduit 703.
  • the fourth conduit 703 can direct a fourth quantity 735 of the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301, through the fourth channel 731, and to the first central conduit 705.
  • the fourth conduit 703 can comprise a fourth pipe 737 extending between a first end 739 and a second end 741.
  • the fourth conduit 703 can define a fourth inlet orifice 745 at the first end 739 of the fourth pipe 737 and a fourth outlet orifice 747 at the second end 741 of the fourth pipe 737.
  • the first end 739 of the fourth pipe 737 can be attached to the delivery vessel 301 while the second end 741 of the fourth pipe 737 can be attached to the first central conduit 705.
  • the first flow direction 407 can be a linear direction
  • the second flow direction 447 can be a linear direction
  • the third flow direction 713 can be a linear direction
  • the fourth flow direction 733 can be a linear direction, for example, with the first flow direction 407, the second flow direction 447, the third flow direction 713, and the fourth flow direction 733 being substantially parallel.
  • the first central conduit 705 can be similar (e.g., substantially identical) to the second central conduit 503 illustrated in FIG. 6.
  • the first central conduit 705 can extend between a first end 751 and a second end 753.
  • the first end 751 of the first central conduit 705 can be attached to the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703.
  • the second end 753 of the first central conduit 705 can be attached to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first central conduit 705 can comprise a first central channel (e.g., similar to the first central channel 605 and second central channel 665) extending in a first central flow direction 755 (e.g. a linear flow direction) of the first central conduit 705.
  • the first central conduit 705 can receive within the first central channel the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 from the first conduit 401, the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 from the second conduit 403, the third quantity 715 of the molten material 121 from the third conduit 701, and the fourth quantity 735 of the molten material 121 from the fourth conduit 703.
  • the first central conduit 705 can deliver the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121, the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121, the third quantity 715 of the molten material 121, and the fourth quantity 735 of the molten material 121 to the receiving vessel 303.
  • the delivering the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 can comprise receiving the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 within a first central channel of the first central conduit 705.
  • the delivering the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 can comprise receiving the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 within the first central channel of the first central conduit 705.
  • a cross-sectional size of the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703 may be different than a cross-sectional size of the first central conduit 705.
  • a cross-sectional size of the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703 may be less than a cross-sectional size of the first central conduit 705.
  • the reduced cross-sectional size of the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703 can yield several benefits, for example, increased heat extraction of the molten material 121 (e.g., the first quantity 409, the second quantity 449, the third quantity 715, and/or the fourth quantity 735).
  • the increased heat extraction can thus allow for a reduced length of the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703, a reduced temperature gradient of the molten material flowing through the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703, and greater power density to be applied upstream from the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, the third conduit 701, and the fourth conduit 703 in the delivery vessel 301.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates additional embodiments of the first conduit 401 or the second conduit 403 as viewed from the perspective of line 8 of FIG. 3.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a mixer 801 positioned in one or more of the first conduit 401 or the second conduit 403.
  • the mixer 801 can alter a flow profile of one or more of the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 within the first channel 405 (e.g., of the first conduit 401) or the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 within the second channel 445 (e.g., of the second conduit 403).
  • the mixer 801 can be positioned in the first channel 405 of the first conduit 401 but not the second channel 445 of the second conduit 403.
  • the mixer 801 can be positioned in the second channel 445 of the second conduit 403 but not the first channel 405 of the first conduit 401. In some embodiments, the mixer 801 can be positioned in both the first channel 405 of the first conduit 401 and the second channel 445 of the second conduit 403. In some embodiments, the mixer 801 may be positioned in neither of the first conduit 401 nor the second conduit 403. The mixer 801 may not be limited to being positioned in the first conduit 401 and/or the second conduit 403 (e.g., the conduits illustrated in FIG. 4).
  • the mixer 801 can be positioned in one or more of the first channel 625 of the first intermediate conduit 505 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 5-6), the second channel 645 of the second intermediate conduit 507 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 5-6), the third channel 711 of the third conduit 701 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 7), the fourth channel 731 of the fourth conduit 703 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 7), or one or more of the central conduits 501, 503, 705 (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 5-7).
  • the mixer 801 can alter the flow profile of the molten material 121 within the conduit (e.g., the first conduit 401, the second conduit 403, etc.).
  • the mixer 801 can comprise a pair of helical vanes that extend between an upstream end and a downstream end.
  • One helical vane can extend from a lower elevation to a higher elevation from the upstream end to the downstream end, while the other helical vane can extend from a higher elevation to a lower elevation from the upstream end to the downstream end.
  • the flow profile of the molten material 121 can be altered.
  • the mixer 801 can reverse a position of the molten material 121 that passes through the mixer 801 by directing the molten material 121 at a higher elevation at the upstream end to a lower elevation at the downstream end, and by directing the molten material 121 at a lower elevation at the upstream end to a higher elevation at the downstream end.
  • the mixer 801 can therefore alter the flow profile of the molten material 121 by mixing the molten material 121 within the conduit.
  • methods of manufacturing the glass ribbon 104 with the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise positioning the mixer 801 in one or more of the first channel 405 or the second channel 445 to alter a flow profile of one or more of the first quantity 409 of the molten material 121 within the first channel 405 or the second quantity 449 of the molten material 121 within the second channel 445.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can provide several benefits associated with conveying the molten material 121 from the delivery vessel 301 to the receiving vessel 303 through the plurality of conduits 128.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise an increased surface area, thus providing for an increased surface to volume ratio. This increased surface to volume ratio can increase heat extraction efficiency of the molten material 121 flowing through the plurality of conduits 128, thus reducing a larger thermal gradient within the molten material 121.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can therefore be shorter in length than a single conduit.
  • the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can accommodate relatively smaller building sizes and constraints.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise a smaller cross-sectional size (e.g., diameter) than a single conduit.
  • a single conduit extending between the delivery vessel 301 to the receiving vessel 303 comprises a larger diameter than the diameters of the plurality of conduits 128, with the larger diameter producing a larger thermal gradient in the molten material 121 flowing through the single conduit. This larger thermal gradient can reduce heat extraction efficiency and can reduce temperature control of the molten material 121.
  • the molten material 121 flowing through the single conduit may comprise a greater velocity at a center of the conduit but a lower velocity adj acent a sidewall of the conduit. This velocity difference can become large enough that flow becomes unstable.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can each comprise a smaller cross-sectional size, which can allow for a reduced thermal gradient for the molten material 121 flowing through each of the plurality of conduits 128, and better control of the temperature of the molten material 121 within the plurality of conduits 128.
  • a distance from a center of one of the plurality of conduits 128 to a sidewall of the one of the plurality of conduits 128 may be reduced, as compared to the larger single conduit, thus reducing the temperature gradient and velocity difference of the molten material 121 flowing through the one of the plurality of conduits 128.
  • the velocity of the molten material 121 flowing through the plurality of conduits 128 can therefore be better controlled, which reduces the likelihood of unstable flow.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can facilitate mixing of the molten material 121.
  • the molten material 121 within the delivery vessel 301 may be inhomogeneous.
  • a first composition of the molten material 121 may be positioned at a bottom of the delivery vessel 301.
  • a second, differing composition of the molten material 121 may be positioned at a top of the delivery vessel 301.
  • the plurality of conduits 128 can be helically wound about each other (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 5-6).
  • This helical winding of the plurality of conduits 128 can allow for the molten material 121 within the delivery vessel 301 to be better mixed upon being received within the receiving vessel 303.
  • the first composition of the molten material 121 positioned at a bottom of the delivery vessel 301 may be delivered to a top of the receiving vessel 303
  • the second composition of the molten material 121 positioned at a top of the delivery vessel 301 may be delivered to the bottom of the receiving vessel 303.
  • one or more of the plurality of conduits 128 can comprise the mixer 801 to further mix the molten material 121 that flows through the plurality of conduits 128.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Glass Compositions (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil de fabrication de verre qui comprend un premier conduit s'étendant entre un récipient de distribution et un récipient de réception. Le premier conduit comprend un premier canal s'étendant dans une première direction d'écoulement du premier conduit. Le premier conduit dirige une première quantité de matériau fondu depuis le récipient de distribution, à travers le premier canal, et vers le récipient de réception. L'appareil de fabrication de verre comprend un second conduit s'étendant entre le récipient de distribution et le récipient de réception. Le second conduit comprend un second canal s'étendant dans une seconde direction d'écoulement du second conduit. Le second conduit dirige une seconde quantité du matériau fondu depuis le récipient de distribution, à travers le second canal, et vers le récipient de réception. Les procédés comprennent la fabrication d'un ruban de verre avec l'appareil de fabrication de verre.
PCT/US2020/033507 2019-05-23 2020-05-19 Procédés et appareil de fabrication d'un ruban en verre WO2020236768A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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US201962851814P 2019-05-23 2019-05-23
US62/851,814 2019-05-23

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4353726A (en) * 1981-04-17 1982-10-12 Owens-Illinois, Inc. Method and apparatus for preheating pulverous materials prior to their introduction into a melting furnace
US7150165B2 (en) * 2003-01-09 2006-12-19 Richard Bruce Pitbladdo Molten glass fining apparatus
JP2012036063A (ja) * 2010-08-11 2012-02-23 Asahi Glass Co Ltd 溶融ガラスの撹拌装置及び撹拌方法
JP2012101991A (ja) * 2010-11-12 2012-05-31 Nippon Electric Glass Co Ltd 溶融ガラス移送管
JP2015124131A (ja) * 2013-12-27 2015-07-06 日本電気硝子株式会社 溶融ガラス供給装置、及びガラス板製造装置

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4353726A (en) * 1981-04-17 1982-10-12 Owens-Illinois, Inc. Method and apparatus for preheating pulverous materials prior to their introduction into a melting furnace
US7150165B2 (en) * 2003-01-09 2006-12-19 Richard Bruce Pitbladdo Molten glass fining apparatus
JP2012036063A (ja) * 2010-08-11 2012-02-23 Asahi Glass Co Ltd 溶融ガラスの撹拌装置及び撹拌方法
JP2012101991A (ja) * 2010-11-12 2012-05-31 Nippon Electric Glass Co Ltd 溶融ガラス移送管
JP2015124131A (ja) * 2013-12-27 2015-07-06 日本電気硝子株式会社 溶融ガラス供給装置、及びガラス板製造装置

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