GB505534A - Method of and machine for forming bottoms on tubular glass blanks - Google Patents

Abstract

505,534. Shaping glass tubes. JACKSON, L. MELLERSH-. (Kimble Glass Co.) Sept. 6, 1938, No. 26054. [Class 56] A machine for bottoming glass tubes of elliptical crosa-section comprises chucks for holding both ends of a tubular glass blank and rotating it while the middle portion is heated, means for moving the chucks apart to separate the blank into two tubes with closed ends, and means for moving the chucks together again to bring the closed ends of the tubes into a centrally-disposed mould. The glass blanks 36, Fig. 3, are fed one at a time from a hopper by notched discs 34 and are deposited on a conveyer 29. This consists of a pair of chains 41 provided with a number of carriages 42 in which are journalled discs 46 that receive the blanks 36. The blanks are carried over burners 54 which preheat the middle portions of the blanks, and during the movement, the discs 46 are rotated by chains 48 and so rotate the blanks. After the preheating, the blanks are picked up by a transfer device 32 composed of notched bars 58 which move in a rectangular path and deposit the blanks between chucks 61. The notches 59 in the bars 58 are of sufficient width to allow the blanks to settle with their major axes horizontal. The chucks grip the ends of the blanks and rotate them while the middle portions are further heated by burners 92, Fig. 11. The chucks are then separated to pull out the softened part of the blanks and the flame from the burner cuts through the glass to form each blank into two tubes with closed ends. Other burners 93 then round the ends. Next, the tubes are further separated by the chucks, and a mould 89 is raised to a position where moulding-cavities 91 are in line with the axes of the chucks. The rotation of the tubes is stopped, and the chucks are moved inwards towards the mould. Compressed air is then admitted through the chucks to shape the tube ends in the moulds. The chucks are again separated and release the tubes on to the transfer device 32 which deposits them on a conveyer 31, Fig. 3. The tubes are again rotated and are.carried through housings 137 containing burners that smooth the open ends of the tubes. Finally, the finished tubes are deposited on a shoot 139.