Abstract: A method of, and apparatus for, separating a sheet of glass along a score line on the sheet. The method comprises flexing the glass at the score line along an axis of flexure on the support to pre-stress the glass to a level below the critical stress level, and initiating a break at one end of the score line. The apparatus comprises a support for the sheet, the support defining an axis of flexure for alignment with the score line, at least one movable pressure member spaced above and on one side of the score line, a press head to move the pressure member into contact with the sheet of glass to pre-stress the sheet at the score line, and a break initiator at one end of the score line.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a method for thermal pressing a glass-impregnated preform to create a composite body with a glass or glass-ceramic matrix. The method involves contacting the preform during pressing with members prepared from a material exhibiting significant impedance to heat flow in order to delay cooling of the preform during consolidation. The preferred preform consists of a stack of glass-impregnated plies having ceramic fibers and/or whiskers entrained therein.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an improved wood burning stove employing a combustion chamber and a flue for removing exhaust therefrom and also a catalytic converter means for oxidizing oxidizable species in the exhaust. A passageway is provided for bypassing the exhaust around the catalytic converter means, the passageway being controlled by a bypass damper for controlling access to the passageway for varying impedance otherwise presented to the exhaust by the converter, for example, during the addition of fuel to the stove. Such an arrangement minimizes back pressure caused by the converter means.