Boric Oxide Improves Glassfibre Performance

Adding boric oxide (B203) to the batch in producing glassfibre not only benefits manufacturers by improving melt characteristics, it also enhances product performance during its storage, transport, in-service and insulation use. A recent study of insulation glassfibre undertaken by Borax has shown that B203 is a powerful flux and lowers the glass melting point. While the relative low melt viscosity needed for fiberisation normally requires a higher temperature, the addition of B203 initiates glass formation at an earlier stage, prevents crystals and gives manufactures extended machine life by avoiding spinner hole blockages.