Biaxial flexure test methods were used to interrogate the role of tin penetration and enamelling on the strength and dynamic fatigue behaviour of float glass. A twofold higher strength was observed for the air versus tin side of unenamalled float glass and was attributed to differences in flaw severity and population between the two surfaces. The tin side contained significantly larger flaws than the air side, presumably due to damage induced by contact with the rollers in the aft end of the float process line. The strength of the enamelled float glass is significantly lower than the un enamelled glass, independent of the side to which the enamel is applied. Fracture in the enamelled float glasses initiates from defects, such as pores, pigment aggregates and un-fused reagents that are contained in the enamel.
