Top 10 Questions for Laboratory Apparatus Glass Blower Interview

1. What are the key principles of glass blowing?

• Keeping the glass at the appropriate temperature
• Using the right amount of pressure
• Creating the desired shape using the correct tools and techniques

2. Describe the steps involved in creating a basic glass apparatus, such as a test tube.

Gathering the Materials

• The type of glass required
• Tools such as a blowpipe, torch, and mandrel

Heating the Glass

• Using a torch to heat the glass until it becomes pliable
• Rotating the glass to ensure even heating

Shaping the Glass

• Using tools to shape the glass into the desired form
• Blowing into the glass to create the desired shape and size

Annealing the Glass

• Cooling the glass slowly to relieve any stress and increase its strength
• Placing the glass in an annealing oven or kiln

3. What are the different types of glassblowing torches and how do you choose the right one for a specific task?

• Oxygen-gas torches: Provide a high temperature flame for precise and delicate work
• Air-gas torches: Less expensive and easier to use, but produce a lower temperature flame
• Natural gas torches: Offer a wide range of flame temperatures and are suitable for larger projects
• Propane torches: Portable and versatile, but produce a lower temperature flame
• Mapp gas torches: Provide a hotter flame than propane and are ideal for thicker glass

4. What are the common defects that can occur in glassblowing and how do you prevent them?

• Annealing cracks: Caused by uneven cooling, can be prevented by using a controlled annealing process
• Cordiness: Caused by impurities in the glass, can be prevented by using high-quality glass
• Strain: Caused by uneven heating or cooling, can be prevented by using a controlled heating and cooling process
• Bubbles: Caused by trapped air, can be prevented by using a degassing process
• Cold shuts: Caused by incomplete fusion of the glass, can be prevented by using a hot enough flame and proper welding techniques

5. What are the safety precautions that must be taken when working with glassblowing equipment?

• Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and a lab coat
• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes
• Handle hot glass with care and use heat-resistant tools
• Never point the torch at yourself or others
• Be aware of the location of fire extinguishers and safety showers

6. What are the different types of glassblowing tools and how do you use them?

• Blowpipes: Used for blowing air into the glass to create hollow forms
• Torches: Used for heating the glass to make it pliable
• Mandrels: Used for shaping and supporting the glass while it is being worked
• Paddles: Used for shaping and flattening the glass
• Tweezers: Used for handling small pieces of glass

7. How do you troubleshoot common problems that can occur while glassblowing?

• Glass is not melting: Check the torch tip and make sure it is clean and not clogged
• Glass is cracking: Heat the glass more slowly and evenly
• Glass is bubbling: Degas the glass before working with it
• Glass is not annealing properly: Allow the glass to cool slowly and evenly
• Glass is not the desired shape: Use the appropriate tools and techniques to shape the glass

8. What are the different techniques used in glassblowing and how do you choose the right technique for a specific project?

• Blowing: Used to create hollow forms
• Fusing: Used to join two pieces of glass together
• Marvering: Used to smooth and polish the surface of the glass
• Punting: Used to attach a glass object to a punty rod for support
• Pulling: Used to create thin rods or tubes of glass

9. What are the different types of glass that can be used for laboratory apparatus and what are their properties?

• Borosilicate glass: High resistance to thermal shock and chemicals, commonly used for laboratory glassware
• Fused quartz: Extremely high resistance to heat and chemicals, used for specialized laboratory applications
• Soda-lime glass: Common type of glass used for containers and windows, not as durable as borosilicate glass
• Aluminosilicate glass: High strength and low thermal expansion, used for specialized applications such as telescope mirrors
• Lead crystal glass: Contains lead oxide, giving it a high refractive index and brilliance, used for decorative glassware

10. What are the career advancement opportunities for a Laboratory Apparatus Glass Blower?

• Lead Glass Blower: Supervise other glass blowers and manage the production of laboratory glassware
• Glassblowing Instructor: Teach glassblowing techniques and principles to students
• Glassblowing Artist: Create unique and artistic glass pieces
• Research and Development: Develop new glassblowing techniques and materials
• Quality Control: Ensure that laboratory glassware meets quality standards

A Laboratory Apparatus Glass Blower designs, fabricates, and repairs specialized glassware for scientific research and industry. Their key responsibilities include:

1. Design and Fabrication

Collaborating with scientists and engineers to design and fabricate custom glassware.

• Creating detailed drawings and specifications for glassware.
• Selecting appropriate glass types and forming techniques for specific applications.

2. Repair and Maintenance

Repairing damaged or broken glassware, including vacuum systems and laboratory equipment.

• Identifying the cause of damage and developing repair strategies.
• Using specialized techniques, such as fusing, grinding, and polishing, to restore glassware to working condition.

3. Quality Control

Inspecting and testing glassware to ensure it meets specifications and quality standards.

• Performing dimensional measurements, pressure testing, and visual inspections.
• Maintaining records of inspection results and recommending improvements.

4. Training and Supervision

Training and supervising apprentices or assistants in glassblowing techniques and safety procedures.

• Demonstrating proper glassworking skills and educating on safety protocols.
• Monitoring progress and providing feedback to ensure proficiency.

To ace the interview for a Laboratory Apparatus Glass Blower position, candidates should consider the following tips:

1. Research the Company and Role

Thoroughly research the company and the specific role to gain a deep understanding of their business, products, and industry.

• Visit the company website and social media pages.
• Read industry publications and articles.

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Emphasize your skills and experience in designing, fabricating, and repairing glassware.

• Provide specific examples of projects you have worked on and the techniques you employed.
• If you have worked in a similar industry, discuss how your knowledge and skills are transferable.

3. Demonstrate Your Passion for Glassblowing

Convey your passion for glassblowing and your interest in the field.

• Share your knowledge of different glass types, forming techniques, and industry advancements.
• Explain why you are excited about the prospect of working in this industry.

4. Prepare for Technical Questions

Be prepared to answer technical questions about glassblowing techniques, materials, and equipment.

• Review the fundamentals of glassblowing, such as different heating and forming methods.
• Research common types of glassware used in scientific research and industry.