Abstract: The apparatus for refining a glass melt has a refining unit, which includes a horizontally extending refining section for removal of rising gas bubbles from the glass melt flowing through the refining section. So that the refining section can be shortened in contrast to a refining section in an apparatus with an open channel flow, the refining section according to the invention is formed so that the glass melt flow rate is higher over a substantial lengthwise portion of it near its bottom and lower near a surface of the glass melt flowing through it in comparison to the corresponding flow rates in an open channel flow for the same throughput. The refining section is advantageously at least partially covered with a fire resistant cover, which contacts the glass melt flowing through it and has at least one opening through which gas bubbles can escape. In addition the refining section may be provided with built-in elements shaped to provide the desired improved flow rate profile for the glass melt.