What is the difference between Borofloat and borosilicate glass?

Differences Between Borofloat and Borosilicate Glass

Borofloat and borosilicate glass are both types of glass that contain boron oxide, which allows them to withstand high temperatures and thermal shocks better than ordinary soda-lime glass. However, there are distinct differences between the two, primarily in their manufacturing processes and applications.

Manufacturing Process

Borofloat is a brand name for a specific type of borosilicate glass produced by Schott AG. It is manufactured using the float glass process, where molten glass is floated on a molten tin bath to produce glass with very flat and smooth surfaces. This process results in glass that is more uniform in thickness and has higher optical clarity.

Borosilicate glass, on the other hand, can be made using various methods, including the traditional blow and blow process or the press and blow process. These methods do not necessarily produce glass with surfaces as flat or smooth as the float glass process.

Applications

Borofloat is often used in applications requiring high optical clarity and precision, such as in optics, photonics, and advanced engineering. Its excellent surface quality and thermal properties make it ideal for these high-tech applications.

Borosilicate glass is widely used in laboratory glassware, cookware, and lighting applications due to its resistance to thermal shock and chemicals. While it may not always have the same level of optical clarity as Borofloat, its durability and versatility make it suitable for a broad range of uses.

Key Differences

  • Borofloat is produced using the float glass process, resulting in higher optical clarity and uniform thickness.
  • Borosilicate glass can be made using various manufacturing methods, leading to differences in surface quality and applications.
  • Borofloat is typically used in high-tech applications requiring precision and optical clarity.
  • Borosilicate glass is versatile and used in a wide range of applications from laboratory equipment to cookware.
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