Abstract: An advancing layer or sheet of glass is supported on molten metal and its central portion is selectively cooled by direct conductive and convective heat transfer to and through the supporting molten metal. To accomplish this the depth of molten metal beneath the glass is made to differ across the width of the glass layer transverse to the intended path of glass advance. This controlled heat transfer between the glass and the supporting molten metal is particularly useful in a process wherein the molten glass is delivered onto the molten metal along a substantially horizontal path.

Abstract: Marginal edge portions of an advancing layer or sheet of glass supported on molten metal are selectively heated or cooled by direct radiant and convective heat transfer in order to control the alignment of the glass along a preselected path of advance. In a process wherein molten glass is delivered substantially horizontally onto the molten metal, the depth of molten metal beneath the glass is made to differ across the width of the glass layer transverse to the intended path of glass advance to further provide for stabilizing the alignment of the advancing glass through controlled heat transfer between the glass and the supporting molten metal.