A Handbook of Laboratory Glass-Blowing

Aimed at laboratory technicians and budding glassblowers, "A Handbook of Laboratory Glass-Blowing" by Bernard D. Bolas offers a practical guide to working with glass for scientific purposes.

Here's a breakdown of the book's key content:

• Getting Started:

  • Introduction to the art of glassblowing, emphasizing essential principles and safety precautions.
  • Choosing the right tools, equipment, and types of glass for the job.

• Fundamental Techniques:

  • Straightforward procedures for common laboratory glassware manipulations, including:
    • Cutting and sealing glass tubes.
    • Crafting specific elements like thermometer bulbs, pipettes, and absorption bulbs.
    • Joining tubes and building branches onto existing glassware.
    • Blowing bulbs and shaping basic apparatus.
    • Using glass rods and strips for shaping and support.
    • Cracking and directing glass breaks for controlled shaping.
    • Gripping glassware for manipulation, especially when using corrosive solutions.

• Advanced Techniques:

  • Creating internal seals, air traps, spray arresters, and filter pumps within glassware.
  • Constructing various condensers (plain, double surface, and spherical).
  • Building Soxhlet extraction tubes for fat analysis.
  • Working with glass for vacuum tubes and electrode work.
  • Encasing thermometers and crafting alarm or recording thermometers.
  • Techniques for spinning molten glass for specific formations.

• Beyond the Basics:

  • Understanding the composition and properties of different types of glass.
  • Annealing (stress relieving) glassware for stability and durability.
  • Non-fusion methods for shaping and modifying glass, including drilling and grinding.
  • Attaching stopcocks to glassware for flow control.
  • Marking and calibrating laboratory apparatus, including thermometers.
  • Techniques for safely evacuating air from glassware.
  • Joining glass to metal for specialized equipment.
  • Silvering glass for reflective surfaces.

• Making Do with Less:

  • Improvising glassblowing setups using alternative fuels like oil.
  • Utilizing scrap glass to create small rods and tubes.
  • Analyzing commercially manufactured glassware to understand construction techniques.
  • Concluding remarks on the essential elements for successful glassblowing practice.

The book focuses on clear instructions and practical examples, making it a valuable resource for those interested in learning the art of laboratory glassblowing.