Tempered glass, known for its strength and safety, is widely used in industrial equipment, sight windows, and architectural applications. However, once the glass has been tempered, secondary processing—such as cutting, drilling, or edge grinding—becomes extremely risky. Understanding the precautions for post-tempering operations is crucial to prevent breakage and ensure quality.

First, it’s important to note that tempered glass cannot be re-cut or drilled after tempering. The tempering process introduces high internal stress within the glass, giving it strength but making it unable to tolerate localized mechanical stress. Any attempt to alter its shape or dimensions can cause sudden and total breakage. Therefore, all required cutting, hole drilling, and edge shaping must be completed before tempering.

If post-processing is unavoidable—for instance, polishing edges or applying coatings—only non-invasive methods should be used. Light surface grinding or laser engraving must be performed with precise control of temperature and pressure to avoid triggering internal stress release.

During handling, protective padding should always be used to prevent edge impact, as edges are the most vulnerable part of tempered glass. Additionally, maintaining a clean environment is essential; dust particles or hard debris can scratch the surface, weakening its tempered layer.

When applying coatings or adhesives, ensure that the glass is completely clean and at a stable temperature to prevent thermal shock. Avoid using materials that cure at high heat, as extreme temperature changes may compromise the glass’s integrity.

In summary, tempered glass offers excellent mechanical strength and safety, but it is not suitable for secondary mechanical modification. Proper planning, precision machining before tempering, and careful handling afterward are the keys to ensuring long-lasting performance and safety.