Scientific laboratories across The University of Queensland (UQ) are filled with interesting and delicate devices, each with its own purpose, but where do they come from and how are they made?
Despite many industries losing their way to mass production, the beakers, test tubes and countless custom-made contraptions are still hand-made on campus.
Situated within UQ’s School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, UQ Glassblowing Services specialises in making and repairing laboratory chemical, scientific and custom built glass apparatus.
UQ Glass Blowing Services custom-make a range of items
The service makes the scientific glassware for UQ and other universities in the country.
The workshop employs a qualified and highly experienced glassblower and an apprentice to ensure client needs are met in a timely and professional manner.
Robin Berlyn has been blowing scientific glass for almost 40 years
“You never really master it. You think you have, but there is always a new material or new technique,” he said.
The glass has to be heated to around 2000°C for it to be manipulated.
Watch the Glassblowing Services in action.
Text and video courtesy Casey Fung, Matt Taylor and UQ’s Office of Marketing and Communications
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