Seamless connection of soda-lime float glass by welding: preliminary test results

In order to extend the possibilities for the creation of transparent connections of glass elements, a preliminary experimental testing program on window glass welding has been carried out. The testing program was focused exclusively on soda-lime float glass which is generally considered to be impossible to weld. Different welding techniques have been evaluated in order to produce planar and perpendicular connection types. The most important parameters that influence the process were detected, and it was shown that soda lime float glass actually can be welded. In addition, four-point bending tests have been performed on planar welded glass specimens in order to evaluate the mechanical resistance of the welded joints