Description

Laminated Glass: Enhanced Safety and Sound Control

Laminated glass is a sophisticated safety and performance glass product, constructed by bonding two or more layers of glass together with a tough, transparent interlayer, typically Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) or SentryGlas®. This seemingly simple construction results in a material with significantly enhanced properties compared to traditional annealed or tempered glass.

Unmatched Safety:

• Impact Resistance: Laminated glass offers superior impact resistance. When struck, the interlayer holds the shattered glass fragments together, preventing them from scattering and reducing the risk of injury. This is crucial in applications where safety is paramount, such as:
  • Automotive windshields: A standard feature in virtually all vehicles.
  • Building facades and windows: Protecting occupants from potential break-ins and accidental impacts.
  • Balconies and railings: Providing a secure barrier.
  • Security applications: Resisting forced entry.
• Reduced Penetration: The interlayer significantly increases the resistance to penetration, making it a deterrent against vandalism and break-ins.
• Improved Security: Even if the glass is broken, the interlayer maintains its integrity, preventing easy access.

Enhanced Acoustic Performance:

• Noise Reduction: The interlayer effectively dampens sound waves, reducing noise transmission through the glass. This is highly beneficial in:
  • Residential applications: Minimizing external noise pollution.
  • Commercial buildings: Creating quieter work environments.
  • Transportation: Improving passenger comfort in vehicles.

Other Key Benefits:

• UV Protection: Laminated glass filters out a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting interiors from fading and degradation.
• Shatter Resistance: While not completely shatterproof, laminated glass significantly minimizes the risk of shattering into sharp fragments, ensuring safety even if the glass is compromised.
• Increased Strength and Stability: The interlayer enhances the overall strength and stability of the glass unit, resisting bending and deflection better than single-pane glass.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Available in a variety of thicknesses, tints, and patterns to match diverse design requirements.

Applications:

Laminated glass finds extensive use in diverse applications including:

• Architectural glazing: Windows, doors, curtain walls, skylights
• Automotive: Windshields, side windows, sunroofs
• Security glazing: Banks, shops, museums
• Marine: Boat windows, portholes
• Furniture: Tabletops, shelves

Specifications (Vary based on manufacturer and application):

• Thickness: Available in various thicknesses, ranging from 3mm to 25mm+ and even more depending on configuration (e.g. multiple layers)
• Interlayer Type: PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral), SentryGlas® (ionomer) or other specialized interlayers.
• Tint options: Clear, bronze, gray, green, and custom colours.

Choosing the Right Laminated Glass:

The selection of appropriate laminated glass depends on the specific application and performance requirements. Consult with a glass specialist to determine the optimal thickness, interlayer, and tint for your project. They can help you navigate the wide range of options and ensure you select the perfect laminated glass for your needs.