Exploring our Glass solutions
When it comes to selecting the right type of glass for construction projects, it is crucial to understand the differences between the various types of glass available on the market. In this article, we will explore annealed, heat strengthened and fully tempered glass, the different laminated glass compositions and their application in projects where safety and impact resistance are essential.
Annealed Glass
Annealed glass, also known as annealed glass, is the most basic type of glass produced. It is manufactured by slow cooling the glass, which minimizes internal stresses. This process makes the glass easier to cut and work, but also makes it more susceptible to shattering into large, sharp shards if subjected to impact.
Common applications:
Lattice or security windows
Decorative applications
Use in areas where high impact resistance is not required
However, due to its fragile nature, annealed glass is not ideal for applications where significant impact is expected.
Heat Strengthened Glass
Heat strengthened glass is approximately twice as strong as annealed glass. It is produced by a controlled heating and cooling process that induces surface stresses, which improves its resistance to breakage. When broken, heat strengthened glass tends to fragment into larger, less sharp pieces than annealed glass.
Common applications:
Exterior Doors and Windows
Commercial facades
Railings and balconies
Impact resistant products
Fully Tempered Glass: Maximum Strength
Fully tempered glass is up to five times stronger than annealed glass. It is manufactured by a high-temperature heating process followed by rapid cooling, which induces compressive stresses in the glass surface. This technique gives the glass exceptional impact and heat resistance. When broken, fully tempered glass shatters into small, blunt pieces, minimizing the risk of injury. For this reason, it is commonly used in applications where safety is a priority.
Common applications:
Doors and windows in commercial buildings
Automotive glass
Shower enclosures
Railings and balconies (railings)
Laminated Glass with PVB Interlayer: Combining Safety and Strength
Laminated glass is a versatile and safe solution obtained by bonding two or more layers of glass with a PVB (polyvinyl butyral) interlayer. Depending on the thickness of the PVB and glass, laminated glass can be suitable for basic or high impact applications.
Products with 1/4" glass and PVB .030".
For applications where safety and durability are important, we use 1/4" laminated glass with a .030" PVB interlayer. This type of glass is ideal for commodity products that require an additional safety barrier in the event of breakage, because instead of disintegrating into sharp shards that could cause injury, the fragments remain attached to the interlayer, significantly reducing the risk of them scattering or falling. This behavior is one of the main advantages of PVB-laminated glass, as it improves safety compared to unlaminated glass. However, the strength of the glass is compromised, and it should be replaced to restore the full integrity of the installation.
Common applications:
Residential windows
Interior and exterior doors
Reduced glass size
Decorative applications
In the event of an atmospheric event, it is necessary to add additional protection, such as storm nets, to ensure the integrity of the product.
Impact Laminated Glass with .090" PVB
For projects that require superior impact resistance, such as in hurricane-prone areas or where safety is a priority, we offer 7/16" and 9/16" laminated glass, both with .090" PVB . This increased PVB thickness provides an additional layer of protection, ensuring that the glass remains intact even under heavy impact.
7/16" glass with PVB .090"
This glass is ideal for moderate impact applications where a balance between safety and aesthetics is needed.
Common applications:
Security windows and doors in commercial areas
Building facades exposed to adverse weather conditions
Railings on public structures
9/16" glass with .090" PVB
When it comes to maximum safety and strength, 9/16" laminated glass with .090" PVB is the ideal choice. This glass is designed to withstand severe impacts, offering maximum protection in high-risk situations.
Common applications:
Hurricane and bullet resistant glass
Protection in high-risk areas and security
Windows and doors in high-rise buildings
Although the glass may fracture, the overall structure remains intact, providing a continuous barrier that continues to protect against wind, rain, or even intrusion attempts.