Operating a glass washing and drying line requires a clear understanding of equipment workflow, water and air systems, safety controls, and proper maintenance. A well-managed process ensures that each sheet of glass enters production free of dust, residue, and moisture. This stability is essential in industries such as architectural glass, furniture glass, laminated glass, solar panels, and coating lines. Many manufacturers rely on automated solutions to keep quality consistent, and suppliers like ADDTECH offer equipment designed for stable output and long-term reliability.
A glass washing and drying line typically includes loading, pre-washing, main washing, rinsing, drying, and unloading zones. Before operation begins, ensure that the glass thickness range, conveyor alignment, and protective devices meet the required specifications. Operators start the conveyor to bring each piece into the pre-wash zone, where spray pipes release circulating water to remove coarse particles. The glass then moves into the main washing chamber for brush cleaning with heated water. After rinsing with purified water, it enters the air-knife drying section, where high-speed air removes surface moisture. Finally, the clean and dry glass exits through the unloading table.
Before feeding any material into the line, conduct a routine inspection. Check the cleanliness of the water tanks and ensure the filtration system is unobstructed. Verify that rotating brushes are intact and adjusted to the correct height to avoid scratching. Inspect the air knives for uniform openings and ensure the blower pressure matches the specification. Conveyor belts should be aligned, lubricated where required, and free of sharp debris. Confirm that the electrical control panel, sensors, and emergency buttons respond properly. This preparation step prevents breakdowns and ensures smooth operation throughout production.
Once the line is ready, activate the main power and start the conveyor system. Adjust the conveyor speed according to the glass thickness and type. Turn on the pre-wash and main wash pumps, followed by the heating system if hot water washing is required. The operator then sets the brush rotation to the appropriate speed to achieve effective cleaning without damaging coated or low-E surfaces. During rinsing, ensure that pure water circulation is active to remove any remaining residues. Activate the air-knife blower and adjust the air pressure to achieve complete drying. As the glass moves forward, monitor its surface to confirm there are no water streaks or dust marks.
Consistent monitoring is essential for maintaining quality. Observe water clarity in the tanks; once the contamination level increases, replace or filter the water. Check temperature stability in heated sections because fluctuations reduce cleaning performance. Ensure the brushes rotate freely and do not show signs of wear. Inspect the blower pressure periodically to verify the drying efficiency. Operators should also monitor sound levels because abnormal noise may indicate bearing issues, misalignment, or pump obstruction. If using advanced automated systems, the digital control panel will display real-time alarms and performance data.
Below is a table describing common issues and possible causes during operation:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Water streaks on glass | Low air pressure | Adjust blower or clean air filters |
| Scratches on surface | Worn brushes or debris | Replace brushes and clean tanks |
| Ineffective cleaning | Low water temperature | Recheck heating system |
| Noise from pumps | Blocked pipelines | Inspect and flush pipes |
Maintaining a quick response to these signs prevents production downtime and ensures each batch of glass meets the correct standard.
Effective maintenance keeps the washing and drying line stable and extends its service life. Clean the water tanks daily and check the filters for trapped particles. Inspect the brush filaments and adjust them regularly, especially when dealing with coated glass. Lubricate mechanical components according to the manufacturer’s intervals. Clean the air-knife outlets to maintain high airflow. Once a week, check electrical components, connectors, and temperature sensors to ensure they operate within normal ranges. Regular maintenance reduces operational risk and preserves long-term efficiency.
Safety is integral to operating a fully automated washing and drying line. Before starting production, ensure all protective covers are closed. Only trained personnel should access the control panel. Operators must avoid wearing loose clothing that may get caught in rotating brushes. Always cut the main power before performing maintenance. Keep the working area dry to prevent electrical hazards. Review the emergency stop functions frequently to guarantee immediate shutdown when necessary.
A well-operated glass washing and drying line enhances product quality, reduces waste, and ensures efficiency throughout the production cycle. From preparation to monitoring and maintenance, every step plays a crucial role in delivering clean, residue-free, and fully dried glass sheets. For facilities seeking stable performance and durable equipment, choosing advanced solutions such as those offered by ADDTECH can further improve reliability and ease of operation.