Modern architectural projects require the use of glasses to a major extent, whether for commercial buildings, residential buildings, or even homeowners wanting to renovate their existing houses. With many glass types out there, choosing one that fits the project can be tricky, and most glass solutions offer distinct properties suited for different scenarios. Subsequently, two choices usually come up in every project when selecting the best glass solution: toughened and laminated glass.
What is Toughened Glass?
Toughened glass is an extremely versatile glass that is five times stronger than ordinary or annealed glass. The process of making toughened glass involves heating a regular-strength pane of glass to a high temperature and rapidly cooling it. The outer layer of the glass becomes extraordinarily resilient and can endure shocks and temperature fluctuations.
What is Laminated Glass?
Laminated glass is a very strong, transparent glass with a variety of uses. A plastic interlayer, usually composed of polyvinyl butyral(PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate(EVA), is sandwiched between two glass interlayers, intended to remain intact even when broken. It is a great alternative to traditional glass and is applicable in buildings or locations where there is a high risk of hurricanes and natural disasters.
Toughened and Laminated Glass: A Comparison
When any individual takes a brief look at these two glasses, they almost seem indistinguishable, but that’s not the case. What differs is in their properties and how those aspects make them applicable in different settings.
Toughened Glass
- Up to five times stronger than ordinary glass.
- Provides heat resistance four to five times stronger than standard, annealed glass.
- Can withstand high-temperature adjustments of up to 250°C.
- Used for pool fences, balustrading, shower screens, greenhouse glass, and worktops.
- Shatters into small, safe, blunt pieces, minimizing the risk of injury.
Laminated Glass
- Stays in place when broken.
- Composed of two or more glass pieces with a plastic layer in between.
- Ideal for high security or safety locations like balcony balustrades, shop fronts, glass canopies, doors, and residential buildings.
- Also used on windscreens on most of the world’s cars due to its shattering process.
Common Properties of Toughened Glass And Laminated Glass
As much as there are differences, toughened glass, and laminated glass have certain properties that are similar while also having distinct differences. All it depends on is the area of application. Here are some of the similar properties they share:
- Increased safety: Despite being made from different materials, both types of glasses are significantly more secure and stronger than regular glass. They are less likely to cause severe injuries as they break into definite, dull whole pieces when broken, unlike standard glass which typically breaks into sharp, jagged shards.
- Improved strength: Both glass types have a higher potency than the standard types. Toughened glass is treated with heat to improve its strength, whereas laminated glass consists of multiple glass layers glued together by a plastic interlayer, which provides an additional layer of strength.
- Impact resistance: Toughened and laminated glass equally show more withstanding power than regular glass. The panels can better endure magnified stress without fracturing, thus offering security and toughness to applications that require it.
- Versatility: Both types of glass are used in different components, e.g. windows, doors, skylights, vertical and ramp railings. Their security features are an appropriate tool for use either at home or in the office.
- Weather resistance: Tempered glass and laminated glass perform better against the impacts of storms, hail, or sudden temperature changes.
Applications of Toughened Glass and Laminated Glass
When any designer or architect thinks about a construction project, be it for homes, industries, or big corporations, the application of glasses is somehow the primary objective that is considered. Though its applications are influenced by various factors, it’s safe to say that architectural glass solutions have become an integral part of modern living. Now, let’s stress the application aspects of these stunning glasses.
1.) Toughened Glass Applications:
•Windows and doors: Increased strength and safety, ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Shower enclosures: Resistance to thermal stress and ability to maintain strength in wet environments.
• Glass railings and balustrades: Safety barrier and modern aesthetic.
• Skylights and roof lights: Weather-related stress and breakage resistance.
2.) Laminated Glass Applications:
• Security and bullet-resistant glazing: Highly resistant to forced entry and impact from bullets.
• Sound insulation: Ideal for recording studios, offices, and homes near busy roads or airports.
• Automotive glazing: Safety features in vehicle windshields.
• UV protection: Filters harmful UV rays, suitable for museums and art galleries.
Key Differences:
• Production process: Heat-treated for increased strength.
• Breakage pattern: Toughened glass shatters into small, harmless pieces.
• Specific applications: Toughened glass is used for thermal stress resistance and strength, and laminated glass is used for security, sound insulation, and UV protection.
Conclusion
Both toughened and laminated glasses offer unique benefits and are suited for different applications. Manufacturing architectural glasses is indeed a great responsibility. As the leading glass manufacturer in India, The Glass Guru upholds this role perfectly by offering quality service and cutting-edge innovation. We pride ourselves on the depth of our product offering, our impeccable quality, and our green approach which enables us to effectively meet diverse glass applications.
If you are interested in our eco-friendly glass products or would like further information, get in touch with us today and let us know your specific needs.