Abstract: A method of polishing the surface of a glass article consists in exposing the surface of the said article to a flame produced by oxygen and by a fuel. In order to obtain a perfect surface quality, whatever the thickness and configuration of the article processed, while preventing any premature collapse of the article in question, use is made of a flame such that the thermal energy originating from the transfer of heat by convection exceeds the thermal energy originating from the transfer of heat by radiation, and preferably of a flame of the oxygen-hydrogen type.

Abstract: This burner is so designed as to be capable of operating in a stable manner with no risk of explosion with pure oxygen or air highly enriched with oxygen as the reactant. In one embodiment, a stream of oxygen is delivered through a central tube 4A which terminates in a divergent annular diffuser 30. A mixture of air and pulverized coal is delivered in an intermediate ring 15 around this diffuser and an annular stream of whirling oxygen is delivered in an outer ring 16. Application in indirect heating furnaces, furnaces in which slag exists and cement-making furnaces and in cases where special atmospheres (for example reducing atmospheres) are desired.