LAMINATED GLASS
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass made up of two or more panes bonded together with a layer of plastic or PVB (polyvinyl butyral). It is designed to stay in place if shattered, and can be used in various applications where safety is a priority. In addition to providing safety, laminated glass also offers soundproofing and UV protection benefits.
Table of Contents
What is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that is made up of two or more panes of annealed glass bonded together with a layer of plastic or polyvinyl butyral (PVB). This type of glass is designed to stay in place if shattered, making it an ideal choice for windows and other applications where safety is a priority. Laminated glass also offers many other benefits, such as soundproofing and UV protection. In this article, we will discuss the various types of laminated glass, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
How is Laminated Glass Made?
Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more sheets of annealed glass with a layer of plastic or PVB (polyvinyl butyral). The PVB layer acts as a ‘glue’ that holds the panes together if one of them is shattered. To ensure a secure bond between the glass and the PVB, manufacturers usually subject the glass to heat lamination or autoclave it. Heat lamination involves heating up the PVB before applying it to the glass, while autoclaving involves placing them in a vacuum chamber where pressure and temperature can be controlled during the manufacturing process. Once assembled, laminate glass is cut into desired shapes and sizes for different applications.
Advantages of Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is an incredibly versatile and useful material, offering a range of advantages over traditional glass. It is often used in architectural applications such as windows, doors, skylights, and more. Here are some of the key benefits of using laminated glass:
Safety & Security
One of the major advantages of laminated glass is its safety and security. It is much harder to break than regular glass, making it difficult for burglars to gain access to your home or business. Additionally, if the glass does happen to break, the broken pieces will stay in place due to the plastic interlayer that holds them together.
Energy Efficiency
Laminated glass also offers improved energy efficiency compared to regular glass. The plastic interlayer helps reduce heat transfer from outside temperatures into your home or business, keeping it cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This can help you save money on your energy bills.
Sound Insulation
Another benefit of laminated glass is its sound insulation properties. The plastic interlayer helps reduce noise pollution from outside sources such as traffic or construction sites. This makes it ideal for use in areas where noise levels need to be kept low.
UV Protection
Finally, laminated glass also provides enhanced UV protection against harmful rays from the sun. This can help protect furniture and other items inside your home or business from fading due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.