9. Feeder

9.1 General

Each machine is supplied with glass from the forehearth via a distribution channel known in the glass industry as a feeder. This feeder consists of a channel ending in a hemispherical part, called the forehearth bowl, with a calibrated orifice through which the glass flows. The whole unit is made of carefully insulated refractory materials.

Above the forehearth bowl is a mechanical device that activates a refractory punch to seal the bowl opening. At predetermined intervals, this device distributes glass "drops" of perfectly defined weight to the machines, known as gobs.

This channel is equipped with heating and cooling devices.