Glassrørene

Glassrørene, or glass tubes, are slender hollow cylinders made from glass. They are produced by glassblowing or by drawing molten glass into long, continuous strands that are cut to length. Common materials include soda-lime glass for general-purpose use and borosilicate glass for chemical resistance and thermal stability. The tubes may be colorless or colored and often feature polished ends to reduce breakage risk. Depending on design, the outer diameters range from fractions of a millimeter to several millimeters, and lengths can vary from a few centimeters to meters. Glassrørene are typically annealed after forming to relieve internal stresses.

In science and industry, glassrørene serve as basic laboratory components, such as capillary tubes, transfer lines, and parts of larger glass assemblies. They are also used in chromatography, microfluidics, and vacuum or gas-handling systems. In craft and architecture, transparent glass tubes are employed for decorative installations, lighting, or sculpture, valued for their clarity and ability to diffuse light. Specialized forms include fused silica capillaries used in high-temperature or high-purity contexts, and thick-walled tubes used for protective sleeves or manual glassworking.

Safety and handling: glass tubes are brittle and can break with little warning, creating sharp edges. Cutting, joining, or terminating ends should be done with appropriate tools and safety equipment. Clean with suitable solvents, avoid thermal shock, and store in padded supports to prevent damage. Dispose of broken tubes as sharp waste.