| Technology |
Glass films vs coated glass
|
After the introduction of the float glass process developments in the industry occurred so rapidly as to be almost revolutionary. Glass had never been so well understood. These rapid changes have also lead architects to consider the application of glass in construction. However there were still problems regarding low-thermal efficiency to resolve.
|
 Since the 1970s consumers, architects and builders have searched for ways to make windows more energy efficient. This lead to the development of new technologies aimed at overcoming previous limitations.
The first solution was a simple coating, which reduces energy wasted in heating and cooling. Further developments in coating technology have lead to a development of coatings which change the properties of glass so as to be practically custom-made for any environmental condition, and offer a specific look or performance. The applications of coating technology are endless, so it comes as no surprise that coated glass production and research increase each year.
In recent year glass films have been developed as an alternative choice to classical coating. Glass film was first introduced in the early 1970's. In the beginning several limitations, such as highly-reflective properties and easily-scratched surfaces, were encountered. However, after time and research investments, glass film overcame these limitations. Today they are easy to apply, almost invisible, and relatively cheap. There are two types of films for window applications - safety film and solar-control film.
The major advantage of glass films is that they can be applied when glass is already formed in the glazier shop and do not require special machinery. This method is therefore used typically to improve already-installed glass given that to replace these with new coated glass would be more expensive.
Read more about both products on the selected links.
|
Photos: Glaverbel
Last review: June, 2005 |
Add a Comment
|
You have to be registered in order to add your comment.
If you already have an account, please sign-in to comment.
|
|
|
| Other Net Sources |
A Film Review
Finding Window Film’s Place in the Sun.
Glass Coating
Changes in coatings offer the industry and consumers
a wide selection from which to choose.
Window Film
A growth business for glass retailers
Reflective glass
Here you will find some general information about reflective glass and which issues should be consider before installing reflective glass.
|
|
