| 摘要 |
The sag rate of fusion pipes (e.g., isopipes (<bold>13</highlight>) used in an overflow downdraw fusion process) is reduced by the application of axial forces (F) to the end regions (<bold>23</highlight>) of the pipe. The axial forces are applied to the end regions below the pipe's neutral axis (<bold>19</highlight>) so that a bending moment is generated which opposes gravitational sagging of the middle of the pipe. The use of such sag-controlling axial forces increases pipe service life by, for example, at least a third. |
