Glass engineering involves designing and testing new materials for improved performance, developing new equipment, and researching and developing new technologies to improve the glass industry. Glass engineers also design factories and equipment, advise companies, and design products used in construction, electronics, fiber optics, and automotive production. To pursue a career in glass engineering, candidates need an undergraduate or graduate degree in materials engineering or similar fields and must keep up with new developments and safety codes.
Glass engineering is a specialized branch of materials engineering that focuses on the design of glass, ceramics, and related composites. Professionals in this field design and test new materials that can be used in place of traditional glass in applications where improved performance or strength may be needed. A glass engineer can also develop new equipment that can be used to improve the glass or ceramic production process. Some glass engineers specialize in manufacturing, where they oversee the production of structures or glass-related products. Others are responsible for teaching this subject, either in the classroom or in the form of training in a factory or workplace.
Many glass engineers focus on research and development, where they develop new materials and technologies to improve the glass industry. They experiment with existing materials to strengthen them or help them perform better, and blend new glass and ceramic compounds to meet the needs of different types of projects. In research and development positions, a glass engineer also creates test models or structures for testing purposes, to see if they can withstand certain types of forces, temperatures or other factors.
In the manufacturing field, glass engineers design the factories and equipment used to produce glass and ceramic products. This includes developing new machines capable of processing raw materials and producing glass more quickly, or creating techniques to improve the production process. A glass engineer also advises companies on the best way to layout equipment within the factory to maximize production and help train employees to use equipment properly. These professionals also install and maintain equipment to ensure it works as it should.
A glass engineer can design products used in construction and manufacturing. For example, buildings with glass exteriors or large glass surfaces typically require extensive input from a glass engineer. The engineer ensures that the materials are assembled in a way that keeps water and air out, yet is strong and durable enough to withstand normal construction forces. Glass manufacturing engineers also develop products used in electronics, fiber optics and automotive production.
To pursue a career in glass engineering, candidates must complete an undergraduate or graduate degree in materials engineering or similar fields. They must be able to read glass engineering drawings and recreate these types of drawings to help describe a new product. It is also helpful to keep abreast of new developments and technologies in the glass and ceramics industry and to understand all applicable safety codes and standards that affect this field.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
