Product overviewGlass Service designs and supplies distributors and forehearths engineered for controlled thermal conditioning of glass before forming. Available in direct (FH DC) and combined indirect/direct (FH DC-IC) cooling configurations, these units prioritise thermal homogeneity, adjustable cooling and compact installation footprint.
Key features- Available widths: 400–1500 mm
- Glass depth range: 178–250 mm (model- and glass-dependent)
- Cooling options: Direct central cooling (DC), Indirect radiant cooling (DC-IC) and combinations; optional bottom cooling for high-pull lines
- Independent left/right firing control and temperature measurement by optical pyrometers or platinum thermocouples
FH DC – Direct Cooling- Central separated cooling channel minimizes interaction with side heating zones
- Uniform cooling air distribution along full zone length
- Simple refractory block design for faster installation and lower refractory costs
- Reduced overall length possible due to central cooling, saving installation space
- Mechanical design with high resistance to bending
FH DC-IC – Indirect + Direct Cooling- Combination of sinusoidal radiation plates for smooth radiant cooling and direct central air cooling
- Separation of waste gases from cooling air—recommended for low-pull lines and special glass types
- Operator-adjustable balance between radiant and direct cooling for optimal homogeneity
- Bottom cooling can be added for high-pull installations
Direct vs Indirect cooling conceptDirect cooling: controlled cold-air flow along the forehearth centreline provides rapid central glass cooling and fast response during job changes. Indirect cooling: radiant plates transfer heat away smoothly from the centreline, providing gentle central cooling without direct air impingement.
Technical specifications- Forehearth widths: 400–1500 mm (14"–54" depending on model)
- Glass depth: typically 178–250 mm (6"–9") depending on glass colour and type
- Model ranges: FH DC K16–K54; FH DC-IC K26–K54
- Temperature control: independent left/right firing
- Cooling air fan motor: example 3-phase 400 VAC 50 Hz – 0.55 kW (typical)
- Refractory design: simple block layout for easy installation and high bending resistance
- Indirect cooling surfaces: sinusoidal-profile radiation plates to enhance heat transfer