Thermal stress

Mechanical stress produced when parts of a glass lite expand or contract by different amounts because of temperature differences or restraint.

Meaning and boundaries

Thermal stress is not synonymous with high temperature; uniform heating can create less stress than uneven heating at a lower peak temperature.

Why it matters in glass restoration

Controlling localized heat, work-area size, edge conditions, and cooling is central to safe restoration.

Related terms

• Thermal gradient
• Thermal expansion
• Thermal shock
• Edge damage

References

• Corning — Glass Material Terms and Technical Information
  Publisher’s original source
• Guardian Glass — Heat-Strengthened vs. Tempered Glass
  Publisher’s original source