Equipment and methods for manufacturing glass

Abstract

A glass manufacturing apparatus includes a melting vessel containing an internal chamber for receiving molten glass. A first electrode, a second electrode, a third electrode, and a fourth electrode extend within the internal chamber. A first power source is electrically connected to the first and second electrodes and delivers a first current. A second power source is electrically connected to the second and third electrodes and delivers a second current. The second current is out of phase with the first current. A third power source is electrically connected to the third and fourth electrodes and delivers a third current. The third current is out of phase with the second current. A method for manufacturing glass is also provided.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 725030, filed November 26, 2024, pursuant to 35 USC §119, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to apparatus and methods for manufacturing glass, and more specifically, to apparatus and methods for manufacturing glass including a melting vessel having multiple electrodes. Background Technology

[0004] As is well known, glass can be manufactured to form various glass products. Passing molten glass through a melting vessel is, as is well known, part of the glassmaking process. However, temperature control within the melting vessel can be challenging. Furthermore, the walls of the melting vessel are subject to wear due to the increased temperature inside. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following is a brief overview of this disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some of the aspects described in the detailed description.

[0006] In various aspects, a glass manufacturing apparatus includes a melting vessel comprising an internal chamber for receiving molten glass. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a first electrode, a second electrode, a third electrode, and a fourth electrode extending within the internal chamber and in contact with the molten glass. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a first power source electrically connected to the first and second electrodes. The first power source is configured to deliver a first current to the first and second electrodes. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a second power source electrically connected to the second and third electrodes. The second power source is configured to deliver a second current to the second and third electrodes. The second current is out of phase with the first current. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a third power source electrically connected to the third and fourth electrodes. The third power source is configured to deliver a third current to the third and fourth electrodes. The third current is out of phase with the second current. The magnitude of the second current differs from both the first and third currents.

[0007] In all respects, the phase difference between the first current and the second current is in the range of approximately 100 degrees to approximately 140 degrees.

[0008] In all respects, the phase difference between the second current and the third current is in the range of approximately 100 degrees to approximately 140 degrees. The first current is in phase with the third current.

[0009] In all respects, the phase difference between the first current and the second current is in the range of approximately 40 degrees to approximately 80 degrees.

[0010] In each respect, a plurality of first electrodes are arranged in a first row and extend through the bottom wall of the melting vessel. The plurality of first electrodes includes the first electrode.

[0011] In each respect, a second plurality of electrodes are arranged in a second row parallel to the first row and extend through the bottom wall of the melting vessel. The second plurality of electrodes includes the second electrode.

[0012] In each respect, a third plurality of electrodes are arranged in a third row parallel to the second row and extend through the bottom wall of the melting vessel. The third plurality of electrodes includes the third electrode.

[0013] In each respect, a fourth plurality of electrodes are arranged in a fourth row parallel to the third row and extend through the bottom wall of the melting vessel. The fourth plurality of electrodes includes the fourth electrode.

[0014] In each respect, the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode, and the fourth electrode are arranged in a first column, the first column extending along a first column axis perpendicular to the first row axis, and the first plurality of electrodes are arranged in the first row along the first row axis.

[0015] In all respects, the distance between the first electrode and the nearest sidewall of the melting vessel is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm.

[0016] In various aspects, a glass manufacturing apparatus includes a melting vessel comprising an internal chamber for receiving molten glass. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a first electrode assembly comprising a first electrode positioned adjacent to a first sidewall of the melting vessel and a second electrode positioned adjacent to an opposing second sidewall of the melting vessel. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a second electrode assembly comprising a first center electrode positioned adjacent to a centerline of the melting vessel and a second center electrode positioned adjacent to the centerline. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a first power source electrically connected to the first electrode assembly, the first power source being configured to deliver a first current to the first and second electrodes. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a second power source electrically connected to the second electrode assembly. The second power source is configured to deliver a second current to the first and second center electrodes. The first current is less than the second current.

[0017] In all respects, the first distance between the first electrode and the second electrode is greater than the second distance between the first center electrode and the second center electrode.

[0018] In all respects, the first current is in phase with the second current.

[0019] In all respects, the distance between the first electrode and the nearest sidewall of the melting vessel is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm.

[0020] In various aspects, methods for manufacturing glass include delivering a first current from a first power source to a first electrode and a second electrode. The first and second electrodes extend within an internal cavity of a melting vessel and are in contact with molten glass contained within the internal cavity. The method also includes delivering a second current from a second power source to the second and third electrodes. This second current is out of phase with the first current and extends within the internal cavity, contacting the molten glass. Finally, the method includes delivering a third current from a third power source to the third and fourth electrodes. The third and fourth electrodes extend within the internal cavity and are in contact with the molten glass. This third current is out of phase with the second current.

[0021] In all respects, the first current is in phase with the third current.

[0022] In all respects, the phase difference between the first current and the second current is in the range of approximately 100 degrees to approximately 140 degrees.

[0023] In all respects, the phase difference between the second current and the third current is in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees.

[0024] Additional features and advantages of the aspects disclosed herein will be set forth in the following detailed description, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand, or recognize by practice, some of the features and advantages thereof, based on the description, including the following detailed description, claims, and drawings. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present aspects intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and features of the aspects disclosed herein. Drawings are included to provide further understanding, and are incorporated in and form a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate aspects of this disclosure and, together with the description, explain the principles and operation of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0025] These and other features, aspects, and advantages can be better understood when reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0026] Figure 1 Example aspects of glass manufacturing equipment according to various aspects of this disclosure are illustrated schematically;

[0027] Figure 2A top view of a melting vessel according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown;

[0028] Figure 3 The various aspects shown in this disclosure are as follows Figure 2 A top view of the electrodes inside the melting vessel;

[0029] Figure 4 The various aspects shown in this disclosure are as follows Figure 2 A top view of the electrodes inside the melting vessel;

[0030] Figure 5 The various aspects shown in this disclosure are as follows Figure 2 A top view of the electrodes inside the melting vessel; and

[0031] Figure 6 A top view of a melting vessel according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The aspects will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example aspects are shown. Where possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. However, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein.

[0033] As used herein, the term “about” means that quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters and other quantities and characteristics are not exact and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as required, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors and other factors known to those skilled in the art.

[0034] In this document, a range can be expressed as from “about” one value and / or to “about” another value. When such a range is expressed, each aspect includes the distance from said one value to said other value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent “about”, it should be understood that said value forms the other aspect. It should be further understood that the endpoints of each range are valid both in relation to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0035] The directional terms used in this article, such as up, down, right, left, forward, backward, top, bottom, upper, lower, etc., are used only with reference to the accompanying drawings and are not intended to imply absolute orientation.

[0036] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein implies a requirement that its steps be performed in a particular order, nor does it imply that any device requires a particular orientation. Therefore, if a method does not actually describe the order in which its steps are followed, or any device does not actually describe the order or orientation of individual components, or unless the technical solution or description further specifies that the steps are limited to a particular order, or does not describe a particular order or orientation of the device's components, then it is by no means implied that an order or orientation is inferred in any way. This applies to any possible non-express basis of interpretation, including: logical matters concerning the arrangement of steps, operational procedures, component order, or component orientation; general meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

[0037] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” contain plural indicators. Thus, for example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, a reference to the “a” component includes aspects having two or more such components.

[0038] The terms “exemplary,” “example,” or their various forms are used herein to mean something that serves as an example, illustration, or description. No aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or “example” should be construed as superior to or better than any other aspect or design. Furthermore, examples are provided for clarity and understanding purposes only and are not intended to limit or constrain the disclosed subject matter or any relevant portion of this disclosure in any way. It will be understood that numerous additional or alternative examples of varying scope may have been presented, but for the sake of brevity, such examples may have been omitted.

[0039] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the terms “comprising” and “including” and their variations shall be interpreted as synonymous and open. The list of elements following the transitional phrase “comprising” or “including” is a non-exclusive list, and therefore may include other elements besides those specifically described in the list.

[0040] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “basically,” and their variations are intended to indicate that the described feature is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially flat” surface is intended to mean a flat or substantially flat surface. Furthermore, “substantially” is intended to mean that two values ​​are equal or approximately equal. The term “substantially” can mean values ​​that differ from each other by approximately 10%, such as values ​​that differ from each other by approximately 5%, or values ​​that differ from each other by approximately 2%, approximately 1%, or approximately 0.5%.

[0041] Modifications may be made to this disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless otherwise stated, terms such as "first," "second," etc., are not intended to imply temporal, spatial, or sequential aspects. Rather, these terms are used only as identifiers, names, etc., for features, elements, items, etc. For example, the first end and the second end typically correspond to end A and end B, or two different ends.

[0042] This disclosure relates to a glass manufacturing apparatus that uses a melting vessel with multiple electrodes to manufacture glass. For example... Figure 1 As schematically shown, an exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a glass melting and delivery device 102 and a forming device 101, the forming device being designed to produce a glass ribbon (e.g., ribbon 103) from a quantity of molten material (e.g., molten glass 121). The ribbon 103 may include a central portion 152 positioned between opposing edge portions (e.g., edge beads) formed along a first edge 153 and a second edge 155 of the ribbon 103, wherein the thickness of the edge portions may be greater than the thickness of the central portion. Additionally, the separated ribbon may be separated from the ribbon 103 along a separation path 151 via a ribbon separation device 149.

[0043] In various aspects, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may include a melting container 105 (e.g., also...). Figure 2-6 (As shown in the diagram), it is oriented to receive a batch of material 107 from storage bin 109. The batch of material 107 can be introduced via a batch delivery device 111 powered by motor 113. As indicated by arrow 117, an optional controller 115 can be operated to start motor 113 to introduce the desired amount of batch material 107 into melting container 105. Melting container 105 can heat the batch of material 107 to provide molten material or molten glass 121. A melt probe 119 can be used to measure the level of molten glass 121 in riser 123 and the measured information can be transmitted to controller 115 via communication line 125. Figure 2 As shown, the melting container 105 may include one or more heating elements (e.g., electrodes) that can heat a batch of material 107 to form molten glass.

[0044] Additionally, in various aspects, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may include a first conditioning station comprising a refining vessel 127 located downstream of the melting vessel 105 and coupled to the melting vessel 105 via a first connecting conduit 129. For example, molten glass 121 may be fed from the melting vessel 105 to the refining vessel 127 by gravity via an internal path of the first connecting conduit 129. Furthermore, air bubbles may be removed from the molten glass 121 within the refining vessel 127 using various techniques.

[0045] In various aspects, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may also include a second conditioning station, which includes a mixing chamber 131 located downstream of the refining vessel 127. The mixing chamber 131 can be used to provide molten glass 121 with a homogeneous composition, thereby reducing or eliminating any inhomogeneities that might otherwise exist within the molten glass 121 leaving the refining vessel 127. As shown, the refining vessel 127 can be coupled to the mixing chamber 131 via a second connecting conduit 135. For example, the molten glass 121 can be fed from the refining vessel 127 to the mixing chamber 131 by gravity through an internal path of the second connecting conduit 135.

[0046] Additionally, in various aspects, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may include a third regulating station comprising a delivery chamber 133 located downstream of the mixing chamber 131. The delivery chamber 133 can regulate the molten glass 121 to be fed into the inlet line. For example, the delivery chamber 133 may function as a reservoir and / or flow controller to regulate and provide a stable flow of molten glass 121 to the inlet line. As shown, the mixing chamber 131 may be coupled to the delivery chamber 133 via a third connecting conduit 137. For example, the molten glass 121 may be fed from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery chamber 133 by gravity through the internal path of the third connecting conduit 137. As further shown, the delivery conduit 139 may be positioned to deliver the molten glass 121 to the forming apparatus 101. The forming apparatus 101 is located in... Figure 1 The diagram is schematically shown (e.g., at 143) because the forming apparatus 101 may include several different structures. In one possible aspect, the forming apparatus 101 may include a structure for fusion drawing molten glass 121 from the bottom edge (e.g., the root) of the forming wedge to produce a strip 103. In such an example, the forming apparatus 101 may include a groove extending along a groove axis between an inlet end and an opposite end. The inlet end is one end of the groove near the delivery conduit 139 from which the molten glass 121 is received. The molten glass 121 may be drawn from the bottom edge (e.g., the root) of the forming apparatus 101 along a drawing path extending in the strip travel direction 154 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100. Additional structures, such as edge guides, may guide the molten glass 121 away from the forming apparatus 101 and partially define the width 108 of the strip 103. However, in other respects, other forming equipment may be used, such as a groove drawing apparatus, in which molten glass 121 is drawn (e.g., drawn) from a groove at the bottom of a container (e.g., container 143) containing molten material.

[0047] In various aspects, the width 108 of the strip 103 extending between the first edge 153 and the second edge 155 of the strip 103 may be selected based on the forming method (e.g., fusion drawing, slot drawing, etc.). In various aspects, the width 108 may be greater than or equal to about 20 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 50 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 100 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 500 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 1000 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 2000 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 3000 mm, for example greater than or equal to about 4000 mm, but in various aspects other widths less than or greater than the widths mentioned above may be provided. For example, the width 108 can be in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 50 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 100 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 500 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 1000 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 2000 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 3000 mm to approximately 4000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 3000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 50 mm to approximately 3000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 100 mm to approximately 3000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 500 mm to approximately 3000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 1000 mm to approximately 3000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 2000 mm to approximately 3000 mm, for example, in the range of approximately 2000 mm to approximately 2500 mm. Within a range of mm, and all ranges and subranges therein. In various aspects, the strip 103 includes one or more material states based on the vertical position of the strip 103, i.e., based on the material state based on the distance from the position of the forming device 101. For example, in a first position, the strip 103 may include viscous molten glass 121, and in a second position, the strip 103 may include an amorphous solid in a glassy state (e.g., a glass strip).

[0048] The band 103 may include a first main surface and a second main surface facing opposite directions, and the thickness (e.g., average thickness) of the band 103 is defined between the two main surfaces. In various aspects, the thickness of the band 103 may be less than or equal to about 2 millimeters (mm), less than or equal to about 1 millimeter, less than or equal to about 0.5 millimeters, for example, less than or equal to about 300 micrometers (μm), less than or equal to about 200 micrometers, or less than or equal to about 100 micrometers, but other thicknesses may be provided in other aspects. For example, the thickness of the 103 band can be in the range of approximately 20 micrometers to approximately 200 micrometers, in the range of approximately 25 micrometers to approximately 250 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 750 micrometers, in the range of approximately 100 micrometers to approximately 700 micrometers, in the range of approximately 200 micrometers to approximately 600 micrometers, in the range of approximately 300 micrometers to approximately 500 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 500 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 700 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 600 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 500 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 400 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 300 micrometers, in the range of approximately 40 micrometers to approximately 200 micrometers, in the range of approximately 50 micrometers to approximately 100 micrometers, in the range of approximately 25 micrometers to approximately 125 micrometers, including all thickness ranges and sub-ranges therein. Additionally, band 103 may include various compositions, such as one or more of soda-lime glass, borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass, alkali-containing glass, alkali-free glass, aluminosilicate, borosilicate, boroaluminosilicate, silicate, glass ceramics, or other materials including glass. In various aspects, band 103 may include one or more of lithium fluoride (LiF), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), calcium fluoride (CaF2), barium fluoride (BaF2), sapphire (Al2O3), zinc selenide (ZnSe), germanium (Ge), or other materials.

[0049] The strip separation device 149 can separate the strip 103 along the separation path 151 to provide multiple separated strip portions. In various aspects, the longer portions of the strip 103 can be wound onto a storage roller. The separated strip can then be processed for desired applications, such as display applications. For example, the separated strip can be used in a variety of display and non-display applications, including but not limited to liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPDs), organic light-emitting diode displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), micro-LED displays, mini-LED displays, organic light-emitting diode lighting systems, light-emitting diode lighting systems, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), touch sensors, photovoltaics, foldable phones, or other applications.

[0050] Figure 2A top view of a melting vessel 105 is shown, wherein the melting vessel 105 includes an internal chamber 201 therein that receives and contains molten glass 121. An inlet pipe 202 may be attached to a wall of the melting vessel 105 such that a batch of material 107 can travel through the inlet pipe 202 and then into the internal chamber 201 of the melting vessel 105. The molten glass 121 may exit the internal chamber 201 through a first connecting pipe 129. A centerline 204 may extend through the center of the melting vessel 105 between its inlet end (e.g., at the inlet pipe 202) and its outlet end (e.g., at the first connecting pipe 129).

[0051] The melting vessel 105 includes a plurality of electrodes 203 extending through one or more walls of the melting vessel 105, such that the plurality of electrodes 203 can contact the molten glass 121. Figure 2 In one example, the plurality of electrodes 203 extend through the bottom wall 205 of the melting vessel 105 and into the internal chamber 201. However, in other aspects, some or all of the plurality of electrodes 203 may extend through the sidewalls of the melting vessel 105. The plurality of electrodes 203 may be formed of one or more types of materials, such as tin, molybdenum, etc. In various aspects, the length of the plurality of electrodes 203 (e.g., the distance the electrodes 203 extend into the melting vessel 105) may range from about 50 cm to about 75 cm. In various aspects, the length of the plurality of electrodes 203 may be within about 50% to about 75% of the depth of the molten glass 121 within the melting vessel 105. This length is the length by which the plurality of electrodes 203 extend into the melting vessel and contact the molten glass 121. In various aspects, some or all of the plurality of electrodes 203 may have a circular cross-sectional shape with a diameter ranging from about 15 mm to about 100 mm or from about 25 mm to about 75 mm.

[0052] In various aspects, the plurality of electrodes 203 may be arranged in multiple rows and multiple columns. For example, the plurality of electrodes 203 may include a first electrode 211, a second electrode 213, a third electrode 215, a fourth electrode 217, etc. In various aspects, the first electrode 211, the second electrode 213, the third electrode 215, and the fourth electrode 217 may be arranged in a first column 219 extending along a first column axis 221. In various aspects, the plurality of electrodes 203 may include a first plurality of electrodes 225 arranged in a first row 227, wherein the first plurality of electrodes 225 includes the first electrode 211. In various aspects, the first row 227 may extend along a first row axis 229, wherein the first column axis 221 is perpendicular to the first row axis 229 and parallel to the center line 204 in various aspects. Although the first row 227 is shown as including eleven electrodes (e.g., the first plurality of electrodes 225), the first row 227 is not limited thereto and may include any number (e.g., one or more) of electrodes. In various aspects, the first row 227 may include 4 to 13 electrodes. The first row 227 can generate a total power in the range of about 50 kW to about 300 kW, where the total power is the sum of the power generated by each electrode in the first row 227. The electrodes in the first row 227 can be spaced apart from the nearest sidewall by a distance, said distance being in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm. In various aspects, the distance between the electrodes in the first row 227 and the nearest sidewall can be selected based on one or more factors, such as the temperature of the glass adjacent to the electrodes in the first row 227, the material of the sidewall, the expected wear rate of the sidewall, etc. The distance between each electrode in the first row 227 and its adjacent electrode can be in the range of about 500 mm to about 1500 mm. In some aspects, each electrode in the first row 227 is equidistant from its adjacent electrode, such that the spacing between each electrode in the first row 227 is constant.

[0053] In various aspects, the plurality of electrodes 203 may include a second plurality of electrodes 235 arranged in the second row 237, wherein the second plurality of electrodes 235 includes a second electrode 213. In various aspects, the second row 237 may extend along a second row axis 239, wherein the first column axis 221 is perpendicular to the second row axis 239. Although the second row 237 is shown as including eleven electrodes (e.g., the second plurality of electrodes 235), the second row 237 is not limited thereto and may include any number (e.g., one or more) of electrodes. In various aspects, the second row 237 may include four to thirteen electrodes. The second row 237 may generate power in the range of about 50 kW to about 300 kW. The second row 237 may be spaced apart from adjacent rows (e.g., the first row 227 and the third row 247) by a distance, wherein the spacing is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The distance between each electrode in the second row 237 and its adjacent electrodes may be in the range of about 500 mm to about 1500 mm. In some respects, each electrode in the second row 237 is equidistant from its neighboring electrodes, such that the spacing between each electrode in the second row 237 is constant.

[0054] In various aspects, the plurality of electrodes 203 may include a third plurality of electrodes 245 arranged in a third row 247, wherein the third plurality of electrodes 245 includes a third electrode 215. In various aspects, the third row 247 may extend along a third row axis 249, wherein a first column axis 221 is perpendicular to the third row axis 249. Although the third row 247 is shown as including eleven electrodes (e.g., a third plurality of electrodes 245), the third row 247 is not limited thereto and may include any number (e.g., one or more) of electrodes. In various aspects, the third row 247 may include four to thirteen electrodes. The third row 247 may generate power in the range of about 50 kW to about 300 kW. The third row 247 may be spaced apart from adjacent rows (e.g., the second row 237 and the fourth row 257) by a distance, wherein the spacing is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The distance between each electrode in the third row 247 and its adjacent electrodes may be in the range of about 500 mm to about 1500 mm. In some respects, each electrode in the third row 247 is equidistant from its neighboring electrodes, such that the spacing between each electrode in the third row 247 is constant.

[0055] In various aspects, the plurality of electrodes 203 may include a fourth plurality of electrodes 255 arranged in a fourth row 257, wherein the fourth plurality of electrodes 255 includes a fourth electrode 217. In various aspects, the fourth row 257 may extend along a fourth row axis 259, wherein a first column axis 221 is perpendicular to the fourth row axis 259. Although the fourth row 257 is shown as including eleven electrodes (e.g., a fourth plurality of electrodes 255), the fourth row 257 is not limited thereto and may include any number (e.g., one or more) of electrodes. In various aspects, the fourth row 257 may include four to thirteen electrodes. The fourth row 257 may generate power in the range of about 50 kW to about 300 kW. The fourth row 257 may be spaced apart from the nearest sidewall by a distance, wherein the spacing is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm. In various aspects, the distance between the electrodes in the fourth row 257 and the nearest sidewall may be selected based on one or more factors, such as the temperature of the glass adjacent to the electrodes in the fourth row 257, the material of the sidewall, the expected wear rate of the sidewall, etc. The distance between each electrode in row 4, 257 and its neighboring electrode can range from approximately 500 mm to approximately 1500 mm. In some respects, each electrode in row 4, 257 is equidistant from its neighboring electrode, such that the spacing between each electrode in row 4, 257 is constant.

[0056] The distance between adjacent electrodes (e.g., in the range of about 500 mm to about 1500 mm) is advantageous for several reasons. For example, in various aspects, the ratio of the distance (e.g., length) between adjacent electrodes to the maximum width of the current path between the electrodes can be greater than or equal to 1.7. The current path extends through the molten glass 121 between the two electrodes electrically connected to the power source, wherein the maximum width of the current path is measured in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis intersecting the adjacent electrodes (e.g., where the length is measured along said axis). Therefore, the distance or length between two adjacent electrodes can be greater than the maximum width of the current path. By maintaining the ratio at greater than or equal to about 1.7, the size of any region adjacent to the adjacent electrodes and not heated or within the current path can be reduced or minimized. In this way, power distribution to the molten glass 121 can be improved, thereby maximizing power transfer to the molten glass 121.

[0057] In all aspects, rows 227, 237, 247, and 257 can be substantially parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the center line 204. In all aspects, rows 227 and 237 can be positioned on one side of the center line 204, while rows 247 and 257 can be positioned on the opposite side of the center line 204. Furthermore, although... Figure 2Four electrode rows 227, 237, 247, and 257 are shown, but the melting vessel 105 is not limited to this configuration. Rather, in various aspects, the melting vessel 105 may include more or fewer than four electrode rows 227, 237, 247, and 257.

[0058] Glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include one or more power sources electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes 203. For example, when the plurality of electrodes 203 are in contact with molten glass 121, the one or more power sources may provide current through the molten glass 121 due to the potential between the electrodes. In various aspects, the one or more power sources may include a first power source 261 electrically connected to a first electrode 211 and a second electrode 213. The first power source 261 may include an alternating current source, and one or more first electrical conductors 263 may be electrically connected to the first power source 261, the first electrode 211, and the second electrode 213. For example, the first electrical conductor 263 may include a conductive material (e.g., wire, cable, etc.) to establish an electrical connection between the first power source 261 and the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213, and thus establish a current supply. In various aspects, the first power source 261 may include a line power source provided by a utility. Alternatively, the first power source 261 may include a generator. Thus, the first power source 261 may deliver a first current to the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213, such that the method may include delivering the first current from the first power source 261 to the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213.

[0059] In various aspects, the one or more power sources may include a second power source 271 electrically connected to the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215. The second power source 271 may include an alternating current (AC) power source, and one or more second electrical conductors 273 may be electrically connected to the second power source 271, the second electrode 213, and the third electrode 215. For example, the second electrical conductor 273 may include a conductive material (e.g., a wire, cable, etc.) to establish an electrical connection between the second power source 271 and the second and third electrodes 213 and 215, and thus establish a current supply. In various aspects, the second power source 271 may include a line power source provided by a utility. Alternatively, the second power source 271 may include a generator. Therefore, the second power source 271 may deliver a second current to the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215, such that the method may include delivering the second current from the second power source 271 to the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215.

[0060] In various aspects, the one or more power sources may include a third power source 281 electrically connected to the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217. The third power source 281 may include an alternating current (AC) power source, and one or more third electrical conductors 283 may be electrically connected to the third power source 281, the third electrode 215, and the fourth electrode 217. For example, the third electrical conductor 283 may include a conductive material (e.g., a wire, cable, etc.) to establish an electrical connection between the third power source 281 and the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217, and thus establish a current supply. In various aspects, the third power source 281 may include a line power source provided by a utility. Alternatively, the third power source 281 may include a generator. Therefore, the third power source 281 may deliver a third current to the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217, such that the method may include delivering a third current from the third power source 281 to the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217.

[0061] although Figure 2 Three power sources 261, 271, and 281 electrically connected to three pairs of electrodes are shown, but additional power sources may also be provided. For example, the remaining electrodes of the plurality of electrodes 203 may be electrically connected to one or more of the power sources 261, 271, and 281 and / or electrically connected to one or more additional power sources. In various aspects, a single power source may be electrically connected to two electrodes (e.g., similar to power sources 261, 271, and 281 connected to two electrodes respectively), or a single power source may be electrically connected to more than two electrodes, for example, as part of a current balance transformer (CBT) design. In operation, the power sources may generate a voltage or potential between the electrodes. The power sources may be energized, causing a flame to pass through the centerline 204 and through the molten glass 121 between the pairs of electrodes. Thus, the molten glass 121 may be Joule-heated due to the current passing through it. In various aspects, the electrodes may be energized (e.g., “ignited”) in a direction along the centerline 204 from the inlet end of the melting vessel 105 (e.g., at the inlet conduit 202) to the outlet end (e.g., at the first connection conduit 129). Alternatively, the electrodes can be energized (e.g., “ignited”) in a direction along the centerline 204 from the outlet end of the melting vessel 105 (e.g., at the first connection line 129) to the inlet end (e.g., at the inlet line 202).

[0062] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the electrical connection between the first power source 261, the first electrode 211, and the second electrode 213. For example, the first current 301 (e.g., in...) Figure 3 (Indicated schematically by arrows) can be supplied from the first power source 261 to the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213 via the first electrical conductor 263. The first current path 303 (e.g., in...) Figure 3(Schematably shown in dashed lines) The first current 301 can extend through the molten glass 121 between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213. In other aspects, the electrical connection between the first power source 261, the first conductor 263, and the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213 may include additional electrical components, such as a voltage controller or other electrical controller, measuring device, transformer, thyristor, etc. In various aspects, the first current 301 may represent a reference current that can be used to compare the phase angles of the second current, third current, etc. In this way, the first phase angle of the first current 301 may be zero. The first current 301 can extend through the molten glass 121 between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213 along a first current path 303.

[0063] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the electrical connection between the second power source 271, the second electrode 213, and the third electrode 215. For example, the second current 401 (e.g., in...) Figure 4 (Indicated schematically by arrows) can be supplied from the second power source 271 to the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215 via the second electrical conductor 273. The second current path 403 (e.g., in...) Figure 4 (Schematably shown in dashed lines) The second current 401 can extend through the molten glass 121 between the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215. In other aspects, the electrical connection between the second power source 271, the second conductor 273, and the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215 may include additional electrical components, such as a voltage controller or other electrical controller, measuring device, transformer, thyristor, etc. The second current 401 can extend through the molten glass 121 between the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215 along a second current path 403.

[0064] In various aspects, the second current 401 is out of phase with the first current 301. For example, the second current 401 may include a second phase angle that differs from the first phase angle of the first current 301 (e.g., is not zero). In various aspects, the phase difference between the first current 301 (e.g., the first phase angle) and the second current 401 (e.g., the second phase angle) may be in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees, or may be about 120 degrees. In other aspects, the phase difference between the first current 301 (e.g., the first phase angle) and the second current 401 (e.g., the second phase angle) may be in the range of about 40 degrees to about 80 degrees, or may be about 60 degrees. In yet another example, the phase difference between the first current 301 (e.g., the first phase angle) and the second current 401 (e.g., the second phase angle) may be in the range of about 160 degrees to about 200 degrees, or may be about 180 degrees. The phase difference may include the difference between the absolute value of the second phase angle of the second current 401 and the absolute value of the first phase angle of the first current 301.

[0065] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the electrical connection between the third power source 281, the third electrode 215, and the fourth electrode 217. For example, the third current 501 (e.g., in...) Figure 5 (Indicated schematically by arrows) can be supplied from the third power source 281 to the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217 via the third conductor 283. The third current path 503 (e.g., in...) Figure 5 (Schematably shown in dashed lines) A ​​third current 501 can extend through the molten glass 121 between the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217. In other aspects, the electrical connection between the third power source 281, the third conductor 283, the third electrode 215, and the fourth electrode 217 may include additional electrical components, such as a voltage controller or other electrical controller, measuring device, transformer, thyristor, etc. A third current 501 can extend through the molten glass 121 between the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217 along a third current path 503.

[0066] In various aspects, the third current 501 is out of phase with the second current 401. For example, the third current 501 may include a third phase angle that differs from the second phase angle of the second current 401 (e.g., is not zero). In various aspects, the phase difference between the second current 401 (e.g., the second phase angle) and the third current 501 (e.g., the third phase angle) may be in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees, or may be about 120 degrees. In other aspects, the phase difference between the second current 401 (e.g., the second phase angle) and the third current 501 (e.g., the third phase angle) may be in the range of about 40 degrees to about 80 degrees, or may be about 60 degrees. In yet another example, the phase difference between the second current 401 (e.g., the second phase angle) and the third current 501 (e.g., the third phase angle) may be in the range of about 160 degrees to about 200 degrees, or may be about 180 degrees. The phase difference may include the difference between the absolute value of the second phase angle of the second current 401 and the absolute value of the third phase angle of the third current 501. In all respects, the third phase angle can be the same as the first phase angle, such that the first current 301 and the third current 501 are in phase (e.g., the phase difference is zero degrees).

[0067] The multiphase operation of electrode 203 described herein can offer several benefits. For example, in industrial environments, three-phase power can be supplied by a utility or the power grid. With a three-phase power supply, each phase can be offset relative to the other two phases, for example, by 120 degrees. Figure 2-5As described, some electrodes can be electrically connected to be powered by one phase, while other electrodes can be electrically connected to be powered by a different phase. By arranging the plurality of electrodes 203 in multiple rows 227, 237, 247, 257 and columns 219, temperature control within the melting vessel 105 can be improved. For example, temperature control can be improved because multiple independent “zones” are formed within the melting vessel 105, where a first zone can be controlled independently of a second zone.

[0068] In other words, the potential (e.g., voltage or root mean square (RMS) voltage) between the first pair of electrodes (e.g., the first section) can differ from the potential between the second pair of electrodes (e.g., the second section), thereby providing different heating at different locations or sections within the melting vessel 105. For example, a first power source 261 electrically connected to the first pair of electrodes (e.g., first electrode 211 and second electrode 213) can generate a first potential between electrodes 211 and 213, thereby establishing a first current 301 between electrodes 211 and 213 and generating heat at the location of the first pair of electrodes. The current path between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213 is the first section. A different power source (e.g., a second power source 271) electrically connected to different second pairs of electrodes (e.g., second electrode 213 and third electrode 215) can generate a second potential between electrodes 213 and 215, thereby establishing a second current 401 between electrodes 213 and 215 and generating heat at the location of the second pair of electrodes. The current path between the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215 is the second section. In various aspects, the first potential may differ from the second potential, which would generate different amounts of heat in the first zone (e.g., between the first pair of electrodes 211, 213) than in the second zone (e.g., between the second pair of electrodes 213, 215). In this way, the temperature of different locations or zones within the melting vessel 105 can be controlled by changing the potential between different sets of electrodes, wherein the magnitude of the second current is different from (e.g., greater than) the first and third currents.

[0069] Different power sources (e.g., third power source 281) are electrically connected to different third pairs of electrodes (e.g., third electrode 215 and fourth electrode 217), which can generate a third potential between electrodes 215 and 217, thereby establishing a third current 501 between electrodes 215 and 217 and generating heat at the location of the third pair of electrodes. The current path between the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217 is a third partition. In all aspects, the heat generated in the first and third partitions can be the same, but may be lower than that in the second partition. In all aspects, other groups of electrodes (e.g., two or more electrodes) can form additional partitions, which can be heated in a manner similar to the three partitions described herein.

[0070] Therefore, compared to a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, the electrode 203 disclosed herein can reduce heating near the sidewalls but increase heating near the centerline 204 in various aspects. In such examples, rows 227 and 257 near the sidewalls of the melting vessel 105 may generate less heat than rows 237 and 247 that are closest to and adjacent to the centerline 204. This arrangement helps to reduce wear on the refractory material of the melting vessel 105 while maintaining the required temperature within the melting vessel 105, for example, near the centerline 204. In various aspects, compared to a melting vessel including two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, the current provided by the electrode 203 disclosed herein in the outer rows (e.g., the first row 227 and the fourth row 257) can be about 40% to about 70%, or about 42% to about 65%, of the single-phase power supply current. However, the current supplied by the electrodes 203 disclosed herein in the inner rows (e.g., the second row 237 and the third row 247) can be approximately 100% to approximately 125% of the single-phase power supply current. Therefore, the voltage in the outer rows (e.g., the first row 227 and the fourth row 257) can be reduced, which can lower the temperature of the adjacent sidewalls within the melting vessel 105, thereby reducing the wear that the sidewalls may experience. In all respects, the maximum temperature experienced by the sidewalls can be approximately 4 degrees Celsius to approximately 10 degrees Celsius lower than the maximum temperature of the aforementioned single-phase melting vessel with two rows. Therefore, due to reduced wear, the sidewalls can be constructed from a material with lower resistivity, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the melting vessel 105.

[0071] Therefore, compared to a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, the electrode 203 disclosed herein can provide benefits in various respects related to reduced heating near the sidewalls but increased heating near the centerline 204. That is, the current between the two middle rows (e.g., between the second and third rows) can be increased, while the current between the two outer rows (e.g., between the first and second rows, and between the third and fourth rows) can be decreased, thereby reducing the temperature near the sidewalls of the melting vessel 105 and reducing sidewall wear.

[0072] For example, compared to a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, a vessel arranged in four rows and powered by a multi-phase power supply (e.g., Figure 2 The electrode 203, which is powered (as shown), can generate a first current between the first and second rows (e.g., a first current 301 between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213) or a second current between the third and fourth rows (e.g., a third current 501 between the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217), said current being about 50% to about 75% or about 60% to about 70% of the current between the two rows of electrodes in a melting vessel having two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. Additionally, Figure 2The design can generate a current between the second and third rows (e.g., a second current 401 between the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215), which is substantially equal to the current between the two rows in a melting vessel having two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In these examples, Figure 2 The maximum voltage in the design can be about 60% to about 70% or about 64% of the maximum voltage in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, and the generated electrical power (e.g., in kilowatts) can be about 85% to about 95% of the electrical power in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. Figure 2 The highest bulk glass temperature of the molten glass 121 in the design can be about 5 to about 15 degrees Celsius higher, or about 9 degrees Celsius higher, than the highest bulk glass temperature in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. Furthermore, Figure 2 The highest wall temperature of the melting vessel 105 in the design can be about 7 to about 13 degrees Celsius lower, or about 10 degrees Celsius lower, than the highest wall temperature of a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. This results in reduced wall wear of the melting vessel 105 by about 37% compared to the wall wear of a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply.

[0073] In another example, compared to a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, a vessel arranged in four rows and powered by a multi-phase power supply (e.g., Figure 2 The electrode 203, which is powered (as shown), can generate a first current between the first and second rows (e.g., a first current 301 between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213) or a second current between the third and fourth rows (e.g., a third current 501 between the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217), said current being about 50% to about 60%, or about 55%, of the current between the two rows of electrodes in a melting vessel having two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In such an example, Figure 2 The design can generate a current (e.g., a second current 401 between the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215) between the second and third rows, said current being about 5% to about 15%, or about 10%, higher than the current between the two rows in a melting vessel having two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In this example, Figure 2The maximum voltage in the design can be approximately 60% to approximately 70%, or approximately 66%, of the maximum voltage in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, and the generated electrical power (e.g., in kilowatts) can be approximately 85% to approximately 95% of the electrical power in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In this example, the highest bulk glass temperature of the molten glass 121 can be approximately 10 to approximately 15 degrees Celsius higher, or approximately 12 degrees Celsius higher, than the highest bulk glass temperature in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. Furthermore, the highest wall temperature of the melting vessel 105 in this example can be approximately 6 to approximately 10 degrees Celsius lower, or approximately 8 degrees Celsius lower, than the highest wall temperature in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, thus reducing wall wear of the melting vessel 105 by approximately 45% compared to the wall wear of a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply.

[0074] In yet another example, compared to a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, a vessel arranged in four rows and powered by a multi-phase power supply (e.g., Figure 2 The electrode 203, which is powered (as shown), can generate a first current between the first and second rows (e.g., a first current 301 between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213) or a second current between the third and fourth rows (e.g., a third current 501 between the third electrode 215 and the fourth electrode 217), said current being about 35% to about 45%, or about 42%, of the current between the two rows of electrodes in a melting vessel having two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In such an example, Figure 2 The design can generate a current (e.g., a second current 401 between the second electrode 213 and the third electrode 215) between the second and third rows, said current being about 15% to about 30%, or about 23%, higher than the current between the two rows in a melting vessel having two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In this example, Figure 2The maximum voltage in the design can be approximately 60% to approximately 70%, or approximately 65%, of the maximum voltage in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, and the generated electrical power (e.g., in kilowatts) can be approximately 85% to approximately 95% of the electrical power in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In this example, the highest bulk glass temperature of the molten glass 121 can be approximately 15°C to approximately 20°C, or approximately 18°C, higher than the highest bulk glass temperature in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. Furthermore, the highest wall temperature of the melting vessel 105 in this example can be approximately 2°C to approximately 6°C, or approximately 4°C, lower than the highest wall temperature in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, thus reducing wall wear of the melting vessel 105 by approximately 49% compared to the wall wear of a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply.

[0075] In these examples, the sidewall temperature of the sidewall of the melting vessel 105 can reach a maximum temperature of approximately 1450°C to approximately 1600°C, or a maximum temperature of approximately 1500°C to approximately 1575°C, wherein the maximum sidewall temperature is approximately 50°C to approximately 100°C lower than the maximum sidewall temperature in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. Furthermore, the type of refractory material used to form the melting vessel 105 can vary depending on the temperature of the molten glass 121. For example, along the centerline 204, near the second row 237 and the third row 247, the refractory material of the bottom wall of the second row 237 and the third row 247 can be different from the refractory material of the sidewalls adjacent to the first row 227 and the fourth row 257. This is because there is a higher temperature current (e.g., and a higher temperature) between the second row 237 and the third row 247, while there is a lower current (e.g., and a lower temperature) near the first row 227 and the fourth row 257.

[0076] In any of these examples, the voltage on center line 204 is zero because the phase of the first row 227 and the second row 237 is the same as that of the third row 247 and the fourth row 257. The voltage on center line 204 is the voltage measured from center line 204 relative to electrical ground. In all aspects, when there is a 120-degree phase difference between the middle rows 237, 247 and the outer rows (e.g., 227, 237 or 247, 257), the current through center line 204 can be approximately 70% to approximately 80% of the current through center line in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, and the voltage on the vessel is approximately 50% of the voltage on the vessel (e.g., between the sidewalls) in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. In all respects, when there is a 60-degree phase difference between the middle rows 237, 247 and the outer rows (e.g., 227, 237 or 247, 257), the current through the center line 204 can be approximately the same as the current through the center line in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply, and the voltage on the vessel is approximately 80% to approximately 90%, or approximately 83%, of the voltage on the vessel in a melting vessel with two rows of electrodes powered by a single-phase power supply. By reducing the voltage on the vessel, the risk of damage to the melting vessel 105 can be reduced, while more power can be generated, for example, in the vicinity of the middle rows 237, 247.

[0077] Figure 6 Additional aspects of the melting vessel 105 are shown, wherein the plurality of electrodes 203 can be arranged in accordance with... Figure 2 The plurality of electrodes 203 are arranged in different ways. For example, as... Figure 6As shown, the plurality of electrodes 203 may include a first plurality of electrodes 225 arranged in a first row 227 extending along a first row axis 229. The first plurality of electrodes 225 may include a first electrode 601, a second electrode 603, a third electrode 605, a fourth electrode 607, a fifth electrode 609, and a sixth electrode 611. The plurality of electrodes 203 may include a second plurality of electrodes 615 arranged in a second row 617 extending along a second row axis 619, which is parallel to the first row axis 229. The second plurality of electrodes 615 may include a first center electrode 621, a second center electrode 623, and a third center electrode 625. The plurality of electrodes 203 may include a third plurality of electrodes 635 arranged in a third row 637 extending along a third row axis 639, which is parallel to the first row axis 229 and the second row axis 619. The third plurality of electrodes 635 may include a fourth center electrode 641, a fifth center electrode 643, and a sixth center electrode 645. The plurality of electrodes 203 may include a fourth plurality of electrodes 255 arranged in a fourth row 257 extending along the fourth row axis 259. The fourth plurality of electrodes 255 may include a seventh electrode 651, an eighth electrode 653, a ninth electrode 655, a tenth electrode 657, an eleventh electrode 659, and a twelfth electrode 661. In each respect, the first distance separating the first row 227 and the fourth row 257 may be greater than the second distance separating the second row 617 and the third row 637.

[0078] In various aspects, the second plurality of electrodes 615 and the third plurality of electrodes 635 may be misaligned with the first plurality of electrodes 225 and the fourth plurality of electrodes 255. For example, the first electrode 601 and the seventh electrode 651 may be arranged in a column extending along a first column axis 663 perpendicular to the first row axis 229. The second electrode 603 and the eighth electrode 653 may be arranged in a column extending along a second column axis 665 parallel to the first column axis 663. The third electrode 605 and the ninth electrode 655 may be arranged in a column extending along a third column axis 667 parallel to the first column axis 663. The fourth electrode 607 and the tenth electrode 657 may be arranged in a column extending along a fourth column axis 669 parallel to the first column axis 663. The fifth electrode 609 and the eleventh electrode 659 may be arranged in a column extending along a fifth column axis 671 parallel to the first column axis 663. The sixth electrode 611 and the twelfth electrode 661 can be arranged in a column, which extends along the sixth column axis 673 parallel to the first column axis 663.

[0079] In various aspects, the first center electrode 621 and the fourth center electrode 641 may be arranged in a column extending along the first center column axis 675. In various aspects, the first center column axis 675 is positioned between and parallel to the first column axis 663 and the second column axis 665. In this manner, the first center column axis 675 is not collinear with or spaced apart from the first column axis 663 or the second column axis 665, which are the closest axes to and on either side of the first center column axis 675. In various aspects, the second center electrode 623 and the fifth center electrode 643 may be arranged in a column extending along the second center column axis 677. In various aspects, the second center column axis 677 is positioned between and parallel to the third column axis 667 and the fourth column axis 669. In this manner, the second center column axis 677 is not collinear with or spaced apart from the third column axis 667 or the fourth column axis 669, which are the closest axes to the second center column axis 677 and located on either side of it. In all respects, the third center column axis 679 is positioned between and parallel to the fifth column axis 671 and the sixth column axis 673. In this manner, the third center column axis 679 is not collinear with or spaced apart from the fifth column axis 671 and the sixth column axis 673, which are the closest axes to the third center column axis 679 and located on either side of it.

[0080] The glass manufacturing equipment 100 may include one or more power sources electrically connected to the plurality of electrodes 203. Figure 6 The working method of the power supply in the middle can be related to the... Figure 2-5 The power supplies described are essentially the same. For example, refer to... Figure 6A first power source 681 may be electrically connected to a first electrode 601, a second electrode 603, a seventh electrode 651, and an eighth electrode 653. The first power source 681 may include an AC power source and one or more electrical conductors electrically connected to the first set of electrodes (e.g., the first electrode 601, the second electrode 603, the seventh electrode 651, and the eighth electrode 653). Therefore, the first power source 681 may deliver a first current to the first set of electrodes 601, 603, 651, and 653. A second power source 683 may be electrically connected to a third electrode 605, a fourth electrode 607, a ninth electrode 655, and a tenth electrode 657. The second power source 683 may include an AC power source and one or more electrical conductors electrically connected to the second set of electrodes (e.g., the third electrode 605, the fourth electrode 607, the ninth electrode 655, and the tenth electrode 657). Therefore, the second power source 683 may deliver a second current to the second set of electrodes 605, 607, 655, and 657. A third power source 685 may be electrically connected to the fifth electrode 609, the sixth electrode 611, the eleventh electrode 659, and the twelfth electrode 661. The third power source 685 may include an AC power source and one or more electrical conductors electrically connected to the third set of electrodes (e.g., the fifth electrode 609, the sixth electrode 611, the eleventh electrode 659, and the twelfth electrode 661). Therefore, the third power source 685 may deliver a third current to the third set of electrodes 609, 611, 659, and 661. A fourth power source 687 may be electrically connected to the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645. The fourth power source 687 may include an AC power source and one or more electrical conductors electrically connected to the fourth set of electrodes (e.g., the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645). Therefore, the fourth power source 687 may deliver a fourth current to the fourth set of electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645.

[0081] During operation, the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645 can be operated and powered independently of the electrodes in the first row 227 and the fourth row 257. In this way, the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645 can generate different temperatures; for example, the temperature at the center of the melting vessel 105 (e.g., on and near the centerline 204) is higher than the temperature generated by the electrodes in the first row 227 and the fourth row 257. For example, a fourth power supply 687 can generate a potential between the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645, thereby generating a fourth current. Similarly, the first power supply 681, the second power supply 683, and the third power supply 685 can generate potentials between corresponding electrodes in the first row 227 and the fourth row 257 to generate a first current at a first set of electrodes (e.g., the first electrode 601, the second electrode 603, the seventh electrode 651, and the eighth electrode 653), a second current at a second set of electrodes (e.g., the third electrode 605, the fourth electrode 607, the ninth electrode 655, and the tenth electrode 657), and a third current at a third set of electrodes (e.g., the fifth electrode 609, the sixth electrode 611, the eleventh electrode 659, and the twelfth electrode 661).

[0082] In various respects, the voltage potential (e.g., and therefore the current) generated by the fourth power source 687 may differ from the voltage potential (e.g., and therefore the current) generated by the first power source 681, the second power source 683, and / or the third power source 685. For example, in order to generate a higher temperature near the center of the melting vessel 105 adjacent to the centerline 204, the fourth power source 687 may generate a voltage potential (e.g., and therefore the current) that is greater than that generated by the other power sources 681, 683, and 685.

[0083] In all aspects, Figure 6 The currents generated by power supplies 681, 683, 685, and 687 can be in phase or out of phase. For example, a fourth current (e.g., at the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645) can be in phase or out of phase with the currents in the electrodes of the first row 227 and the fourth row 257. When the fourth current is out of phase with one or more of the first, second, or third currents, the phase difference can be in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees, or about 120 degrees, or in the range of about 40 degrees to about 80 degrees, or about 60 degrees, or in the range of about 160 degrees to about 200 degrees, or about 180 degrees. Therefore, in all aspects, Figure 6The melting container 105 shown may include multiple electrode groups, which may be powered separately. For example, a first electrode group may include electrodes 601, 603, 651, and 653, and may be positioned adjacent to opposite sidewalls of the melting container 105. Different second electrode groups may include center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645, and may be positioned adjacent to centerline 204. A power source (e.g., a first power source 681) may be electrically connected to the first electrode group to deliver a first current, while different second power sources (e.g., power source 687) may be electrically connected to the second electrode groups to deliver a second current. The first voltage potential generated by the first power source 681 may be different from, for example, less than, the second voltage potential generated by the fourth power source 687.

[0084] In all respects, the plurality of electrodes 203 and power supplies 681, 683, 685, 687 are not limited to those relating to... Figure 6 The configuration shown and described. For example, although Figure 6 The diagram shows a first power source 681 electrically connected to four electrodes 601, 603, 651, and 653, but this configuration is not intended to be limiting. Instead, the first power source 681 and other power sources 683, 685 can be electrically connected to any number (e.g., two or more) of electrodes. In this way, the first power source 681 (and other power sources 683, 685) can be electrically connected to two electrodes, six electrodes, etc. Similarly, although the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645 are shown electrically connected to a single power source (e.g., a fourth power source 687), this design is not intended to be limiting. Instead, two or more power sources can be electrically connected to the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645. In other words, a power source can be electrically connected to two of the center electrodes (e.g., center electrodes 621, 641), a second power source can be electrically connected to two other center electrodes (e.g., center electrodes 623, 643), and a third power source can be electrically connected to two other center electrodes (e.g., center electrodes 625, 645).

[0085] Additionally, although the second row 617 and the third row 637 are shown as including a total of six electrodes, in all respects the second row 617 may include any number (e.g., one or more) of electrodes, and the third row 637 may include any number (e.g., one or more) of electrodes. Furthermore, although the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645 are shown in an alternating manner with respect to the electrodes in the first row 227 and the fourth row 257, some or all of the center electrodes 621, 623, 625, 641, 643, and 645 may be aligned (e.g., collinear) with some of the electrodes in the first row 227 and the fourth row 257.

[0086] It should be understood that although the various aspects have been described in detail with respect to certain illustrative specific examples, this disclosure should not be regarded as limited thereto, as many modifications and combinations of the disclosed features can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A glass manufacturing apparatus, comprising: A melting vessel, comprising an internal chamber for containing molten glass; A first electrode, a second electrode, a third electrode, and a fourth electrode extend within the internal cavity and are in contact with the molten glass; A first power source is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, and the first power source is configured to deliver a first current to the first electrode and the second electrode. A second power source is electrically connected to the second electrode and the third electrode, and the second power source is configured to deliver a second current that is out of phase with the first current to the second electrode and the third electrode; as well as A third power source is electrically connected to the third electrode and the fourth electrode, the third power source being configured to deliver a third current that is out of phase with the second current to the third electrode and the fourth electrode, wherein the magnitude of the second current is different from the first current and the third current.

2. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the phase difference between the first current and the second current is in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees.

3. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the phase difference between the second current and the third current is in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees, and wherein the first current is in phase with the third current.

4. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the phase difference between the first current and the second current is in the range of about 40 degrees to about 80 degrees.

5. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a first plurality of electrodes arranged in a first row and extending through the bottom wall of the melting vessel, the first plurality of electrodes including the first electrode.

6. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a second plurality of electrodes arranged in a second row parallel to the first row and extending through the bottom wall of the melting vessel, the second plurality of electrodes including the second electrode.

7. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a third plurality of electrodes arranged in a third row parallel to the second row and extending through the bottom wall of the melting vessel, the third plurality of electrodes including the third electrode.

8. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a fourth plurality of electrodes arranged in a fourth row parallel to the third row and extending through the bottom wall of the melting vessel, the fourth plurality of electrodes including the fourth electrode.

9. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first electrode, the second electrode, the third electrode and the fourth electrode are arranged in a first column, the first column extending along a first column axis perpendicular to a first row axis, and the first plurality of electrodes are arranged in the first row along the first row axis.

10. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 5, wherein the distance between the first electrode and the nearest sidewall of the melting vessel is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm.

11. A glass manufacturing apparatus, comprising: A melting vessel, comprising an internal chamber for containing molten glass; A first electrode assembly includes a first electrode positioned adjacent to a first sidewall of the melting vessel and a second electrode positioned adjacent to a opposite second sidewall of the melting vessel. The second electrode assembly includes a first center electrode positioned adjacent to the centerline of the melting vessel and a second center electrode positioned adjacent to the centerline. A first power source is electrically connected to the first electrode group, and the first power source is configured to deliver a first current to the first electrode and the second electrode. as well as A second power source is electrically connected to the second electrode group, and the second power source is configured to deliver a second current to the first center electrode and the second center electrode, wherein the first current is less than the second current.

12. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first distance between the first electrode and the second electrode is greater than the second distance between the first center electrode and the second center electrode.

13. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first current and the second current are out of phase.

14. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the distance between the first electrode and the nearest sidewall of the melting vessel is in the range of about 100 mm to about 500 mm.

15. A method for manufacturing glass, comprising: A first current is delivered from a first power source to a first electrode and a second electrode, the first electrode and the second electrode extending within the internal cavity of the melting vessel and in contact with the molten glass contained within the internal cavity; A second current is delivered from a second power source to the second and third electrodes. The second current is out of phase with the first current, extends within the internal cavity, and contacts the molten glass. as well as A third current is delivered from a third power source to the third and fourth electrodes, which extend within the internal cavity and are in contact with the molten glass, and the third current is out of phase with the second current.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first current is in phase with the third current.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the phase difference between the first current and the second current is in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the phase difference between the second current and the third current is in the range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees.

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