Application Description
Vespel® polyimide pads, rollers and other parts hold and guide precision glass components for TV cathode ray tubes as they emerge from the glass-making furnace and move through various finishing steps at Techneglas Inc. Surface temperatures of the glass parts can exceed 1000°F (538°C). In the past, Techneglas had poor results with parts made of a variety of other materials.
Benefits Gained
Fewer rejects. The use of Vespel® parts has virtually eliminated rejects due to glass checking caused by stress or impurities introduced into hot glass by handling parts.
Longer part life. Under the glass plant’s severe conditions, Vespel® parts last much longer than components used in the past.
Lower production costs. A work team in one Techneglas plant saved more than $100,000 in one year through reductions in edge checking, breakage and maintenance achieved with the use of Vespel® pads, rollers and other parts.
Materials Selected and Why
Unlike other materials tried, Vespel® parts maintain purity and cleanliness upon repeated exposure to glass components at temperatures exceeding 1000°F (538°C). They also meet needs for low friction and wear, dimensional stability, mechanical strength and toughness. Based on the outstanding results achieved with Vespel® parts in its U.S. plants, NEG has begun using them throughout the world.
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