Glass engineering is a sub-discipline of materials engineering concerned with the design of glass, ceramics, and related composites. Professionals in this field develop and test new materials that can replace traditional glass in applications requiring increased performance or strength. A glass engineer may also create new equipment to aid in the glass or ceramic manufacturing process. Some glass engineers focus on manufacturing, where they supervise the creation of glass-related structures or products. Others are in charge of instructing this subject, whether in a classroom setting or through factory or workplace training.
Many glass engineers work in research and development, developing new materials and technologies to help the industry improve. They experiment with existing materials to improve their strength or performance, as well as blending new glass and ceramic composites to meet the needs of various projects. A glass engineer in a research and development position also builds models or test structures to see if they can withstand certain types of forces, temperatures, or other factors.
Glass engineers work in the manufacturing industry, designing the factories and equipment that are used to make glass and ceramic products. Developing new machinery capable of processing raw materials and producing glass more quickly, or devising techniques to improve the production process, are examples of this. A glass engineer can also advise businesses on how to best layout equipment within a factory to maximize production and assist with employee training. These experts also install and maintain equipment to ensure that it works properly.
A glass engineer can create products for the construction and manufacturing industries. Buildings with glass exteriors or large glass surfaces, for example, usually necessitate a lot of input from a glass engineer. The engineer ensures that the materials are assembled in such a way that they keep water and air out while remaining strong and durable enough to withstand normal construction forces. Electronics, fiber optics, and automotive products are all developed glass engineers in the manufacturing field.
Candidates for a career in glass engineering must first earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in materials engineering or a related field. They should be capable of reading and recreating glass engineering drawings to aid in the description of a new product. It’s also beneficial to keep up with new developments and technologies in the glass and ceramics industry, as well as to be familiar with all applicable safety codes and standards.