Refractory materials are extensively used in the glass industry due to the high temperatures involved in glass production processes. 

1. Glass Furnaces: Refractory materials are used to construct the furnaces for glass melting. These furnaces operate at extremely high temperatures, typically exceeding 1500°C (2732°F). Refractory linings made of materials like fused cast silica, alumina, zirconia, or magnesia are used to withstand the intense heat, chemical reactions, and mechanical stresses within the furnace.

2. Glass Tanks: Refractories are used to line glass tanks, which hold the molten glass during the forming process. The tank sidewalls, bottoms, and lips are lined with refractories to insulate against heat loss and resist chemical corrosion from molten glass and gases.

3. Feeders and Dispensers: Refractory materials are employed in feeders and dispensers used to supply molten glass to the forming equipment. These refractory components must withstand high temperatures, thermal shocks, and corrosive environments.

4. Regenerators: Glass furnaces often utilize regenerators, which preheat incoming combustion air by absorbing heat from hot flue gases. Refractory checkerwork structures line the regenerators and must withstand frequent thermal cycling and corrosive conditions.

5. Forehearths and Distributor Channels: Refractory materials line the forehearths and distributor channels where molten glass is evenly distributed and controlled before being fed to the forming equipment. These refractories provide thermal insulation, corrosion resistance, and dimensional stability.

6. Cooling Zones: Refractories are used in cooling zones, such as in the lehr or annealing processes where glass is gradually cooled to room temperature. The refractory materials used in these zones must have good thermal shock resistance and high-temperature stability.

7. Glass Molds: Refractory materials are used to make molds for shaping and forming glass, such as in glass blowing or casting processes. These molds provide dimensional accuracy, thermal insulation, and resistance to thermal cycling and chemical attack.

Refractories used in the glass industry are selected based on factors such as temperature resistance, thermal shock resistance, chemical compatibility with glass compositions, mechanical strength, and durability. They are crucial for maintaining the integrity of glass production equipment, ensuring the quality of glass products, and optimizing energy efficiency in the glass manufacturing process.