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- COLD process
Operations to produce LCD glass substrates are divided into “HOT” and “COLD” processes. In the HOT process, the raw materials are melted and formed into a mother glass sheet. In the COLD process, the glass sheet is cut to the size specified by the customer. In the HOT process, it is important to obtain smooth surfaces and to reduce the “defect density” (the number of defects per unit of weight) by eliminating foreign particles and air bubbles, etc. The COLD process centers on maintaining high “surface quality” free from scratches and contamination. It is necessary to appropriately control both processes to produce high-quality products.
Mother glass sheets are cut to the specified size with a diamond wheel or by laser.
If the cut glass edge is left as it is, it affects the subsequent production steps because it is extremely vulnerable to shock and has sharp edges. To increase the glass strength and facilitate handling, the cut surface is smoothed by polishing.
Fine particles (minute pieces of glass) measuring several microns in diameter adhere to the surfaces of glass sheets after cutting and edge-cutting. The surfaces are thoroughly cleaned because these particles can scratch the glass or result in failure during customer production processes.
Inspection is carried out to remove defective products. In this step, we examine our products by using special inspection equipment that can detect minute foreign objects and scratches. AvanStrate has developed unique evaluation equipment that is the first of its kind anywhere in the world. This equipment enables us to not only eliminate defective products, but also monitor process quality based on image data analysis.
Since LCD glass substrates are very thin and vulnerable to shock, the materials and method of packaging, which require special expertise, are also improved every day.
The products are shipped to customers both in and outside of Japan according to the quantities and delivery dates specified.
