Measurement + instrumentation: Products + services
Infrared temperature monitoring in the glass industry
Left: The reflective nature of molten glass complicates temperature readings as varying emissivity can lead to measurement inaccuracies. Right: Real-time monitoring provided by IR technology enables immediate adjustments to be made during the production process.
In the glass industry, infrared temperature monitoring is essential to maintaining product quality and process e§iciency. Glass production involves extreme temperatures, from melting raw materials to forming and annealing, where precise temperature control is required. Instrotech, as a local representative for Optris, supplies infrared (IR) sensors and cameras that provide non- contact temperature measurements, making them ideal for such high-temperature environments. The advantages Accurate thermal monitoring ensures that the glass is processed within its optimal temperature range, preventing defects such as thermal stress, bubbles, and uneven surfaces. Using IR technology, manufacturers can detect temperature variations in real time, so they can make immediate adjustments and maintain consistency and quality throughout the production cycle. Enhanced safety is another significant advantage. Non-contact IR sensors reduce the risks of handling extremely hot materials, improving safety for operators and reducing equipment wear and tear. Thus, they contribute to a safer working environment and reduce the maintenance needs and costs for temperature measurement systems exposed to harsh conditions. Furthermore, IR temperature monitoring improves process e§iciency. In melting furnaces, IR sensors allow for precise control of the molten glass temperature, in turn ensuring stable material properties and managing energy consumption. In forming processes, IR cameras monitor temperature variations so mould heating and cooling can be optimised, enhancing product consistency and reducing defects. During annealing, IR technology helps in managing the temperature profile of the glass as it cools, which is important to achieve the desired mechanical properties and minimise stresses in the product. Overall, the use of infrared temperature monitoring in glass manufacturing processes supports the cost-e§ective production of high-quality products together with operational safety. The challenges However, IR non-contact temperature measurement does present specific challenges in the glass industry. High ambient temperatures in glass production environments, such as melting furnaces and forming stations, can impact the accuracy of IR
sensors. The sensors require precise calibration to account for thermal interference and ensure measurement reliability. Additionally, the reflective nature of molten glass complicates temperature readings, as varying emissivity can lead to measurement inaccuracies. Adjusting the emissivity settings on IR devices is crucial but can be complex and time- consuming. Additionally, dust and smoke generated during glass processing can obstruct IR measurements. The particulates can a§ect the clarity of thermal images and readings – hence the IR equipment needs to be frequently cleaned and consistently maintained. Temperature gradients in the glass during processes like annealing can pose further challenges. IR cameras need to be configured to handle these variations e§ectively, so ensuring accurate monitoring across di§erent zones of the production process. The benefits Despite the challenges, IR non-contact temperature measurement o§ers valuable benefits for the glass industry. Precision in high-temperature environments is a significant advantage. IR sensors can measure temperatures accurately without physical contact. This is crucial for monitoring molten glass and high-heat applications where traditional sensors are unsuitable. Precision in temperature measurement means the optimal thermal conditions needed to produce high-quality glass can be provided. Glass industry applications - In producing float glass – enhancing e§iciency in float glass pro- duction - Glass tempering – ensuring uniform heating and cooling in Low Emissivity glass toughening with precise temperature control - Processing glass tube – optimising the process for forming glass tubes at temperatures above 1 000°C - Enamel manufacturing – integrating real-time data for e§icient temperature management in process control systems - Processing single pane glass – boosting e§iciency and product quality with under-line thermal measurement - Producing glass gobs – accurate temperature control and real-time position tracking in industrial production of glass gobs - Producing safety glass – accurate line scanning infrared technology improves safety glass manufacturing.
For more information visit: www.instrotech.co.za
DEC 2025 - JAN 2026 Electricity + Control
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