Enamel decoration of glass comes in many forms - including screen-printing, aerograph spray, dipping, machine banding and indirect application via transfers (decals). All are fired onto the glass substrate over controlled firing cycles of 1 to 3 hours at temperatures of 490 to 630°C.

They are available to suit all types of glassware - lighting (shades, bulbs and tubes), bent glass, automotive, domestic appliances, container glass (beverage bottles, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals), architectural flat glass and decorative glassware.

All enamels require different degrees of chemical resistance, physical durability, surface texture and translucency and are formulated to meet a specific need and specific end product. Glass enamels are designed to meet all the technical requirements of the glass decorator, taking account of prevailing conditions and equipment employed in the decorating process.

Enamels can be supplied in powder form as well as a wide range of decorating media including spray, cold oil, thermoplastic, machine banding and hand decorating applications.

In order to select the correct enamel, the following factors should be determined:

• the nature of the substrate (container glass, tableware, etc

• thermal expansion

• application method (screen print, aerograph spray, etc

• decorating medium required (oil, thermoplastic, etc

• proposed firing cycle (time/temperature

These factors will dictate the precise nature and formulation of the enamel and ensure that it is perfect for the purpose for which it is intended.