Architecture, today, is exceeding the limits of imagination with the help of science and technology. Where once glass was a mere brittle material for windows now lies a plethora of possibilities in manufacturing and processing extremely functional glass for sound reduction, security, privacy, aesthetics, and most importantly, heat reduction. But the buck doesn’t stop here.
It is also possible to optimize the dysfunctional glass systems of existing and functioning buildings with a special variant of glass such as the AIS Renew which completely transforms the energy consumption scenario of the space. Retrofitting buildings is a specialty at AIS, and it is precisely what we achieved for the 6-storied office building which is the focus of our case study. Problem
It is no doubt that solar and thermal control glass products are any architect’s go-to solutions for creating an energy efficient space. And energy efficiency is the primary requirement of an office where creating the most comfortable and sustainable environment for employees is paramount for productivity.
A six-storied office building featuring glazed windows prominently was facing issues due to increased energy consumption. The requirement was to convert the windows into more energy efficient envelopes, thus enabling visual and thermal comfort. However, converting an old/existing building built with a low performance glass by the traditional method of pulling down the existing glass façade and building afresh is very expensive. Solution
In order to tackle this problem without disturbing and interfering with the day-to-day functioning of the building, the AIS technical team proposed our retrofitting solution, AIS Renew, as part of the AIS 4G solutions. AIS Renew is a unique product which is attached on top of an existing glass window and converts it into an energy saving insulated glass window – all in no time at all.
In order to do this, a particular AIS Renew glass model (Ecosense Exceed as mentioned in the table above) was compared against pared with clear 6 mm glass used in the existing building. An analysis was done on the basis of shade, visible light transmission, solar heat gain coefficient, and U-value.
Further, a building-specific climate simulation was also performed for the existing glass and AIS Renew glass. The results of this analysis are mentioned below.
Results
As is clear from the reference table, AIS Renew with Ecosense Exceed performed better than the clear single glazed units and double glazed units in terms of cooling energy reduction ratio % and radiant temperature. In brief, selecting AIS Renew for retrofitting would result in:
Reduced solar gain in summer thereby reaching the set temperature sooner, thus reducing the load on AC operation.
Insulation of the building against heat due to its lower U-value by influencing long wave infrared radiation while keeping the space cool in summer and warm in winter.
A shorter payback period compared to extra glass cost which would have been used for replacement.
Thus, with a thoroughly scientific analysis of the retrofit, glass manufacturers like AIS ensure the most ideal retrofitting glass solution for your office building, resulting in substantial energy, cost and time savings.
Bangalore is the IT capital of India without the shadow of a doubt, home to numerous industrial complexes, technological parks and corporate hubs. But what goes on behind the scenes of constructing an IT complex that conforms to ECBC rules of energy efficiency without compromising cost effectiveness or building quality?
As the leading glass manufacturing companies in India, AIS was approached by a leading developer of state-of-the-art Technology Parks for global IT, software and technology enterprises to help build the above-mentioned complex. At the end of the day, AIS helped the client build a world class, energy-efficient building with cutting edge glass solutions.
Here’s the story at a glance.
Problem
As a commercial building, the complex was curvilinear with the longer facades are facing East and West, while the other directions were blocked by service areas and toilets. A solar control glass was proposed to be used in the building with a VLT of 17%, SF of 23% and a good U-Value of 3.7.
However, light transmission was poor. So was the colour of the glass proposed initially. Solution
In order to figure out the right glass for the complex, AIS carried out a Climactic Analysis for the city of Bangalore (which is located in the Moderate Zone), along with a whole building simulation using 4 different glass variants for a year involving Shadow Analysis.
The studies revealed that since Bangalore rarely had weather extremes, U value of glass could be modified. Similarly, due to the unique geometry of the building, there were barely any differences in energy consumption due to artificial means in the case of the proposed glass and the glass variants used in simulation.
Consequently, AIS proposed the installation of the Blue shade of AIS Ecosense Enhance high performance glass with a better SF of 37, thus reducing capital costs, and a U-value of 5.7 which was an insignificant change. Results
Cost savings: AIS Ecosense Enhance matched the initially proposed glass in terms of energy efficiency but at a significantly lesser cost.
Operational cost savings: Since AIS Ecosense Enhance’s VLT was better than the proposed glass’s VLT, the need for artificial lighting in the complex was reduced, thus resulting in decreased use of electricity.
Better aesthetics: The Blue shade of AIS Ecosense Enhance brought a refreshing sense of décor to the complex and was widely appreciated by the client.
ECBC compliance: AIS Ecosense Enhance met all the strict energy efficiency norms without any hassle.
This was a significant victory for AIS and also the world of glass – thus reconfirming the critical role glass can play in building green buildings of the future.
The art of manufacturing glass is an old one. It was a process that has been refined for thousands of years. With technology becoming increasingly advanced, glass manufacturers have begun producing float glass that is much sturdier, durable, and compatible with glass processing procedures such as lamination, tempering, acid etching, sandblasting, etc. Skyscrapers shining with glass windows can be seen everywhere today. Homes with large French windows are in-trend. Glass partitions and shower walls are common in almost all homes today. Everything from cars to mobile phones utilises glass.
History of Making Glass
The art of making glass can be traced back to 2600 BC in Mesopotamia. The Egyptians practised making glass around 2500 BC. Artificial glass first appeared in the Egyptian or Mesopotamian civilisation, whereas they used tools made out of volcanic glass obsidian in the Stone Age. Ancient China, however, discovered how to make glass a little later.
Glass beads are known to be one of the earliest products made out of glass. Their creation is thought to be primarily accidental. In the later Bronze Age, glassmaking came to a halt. Glass was a luxury material back then.
Archaeological excavations suggest the use of glass in England during the Middle Ages. In the 10th century, stained glass found a place in cathedrals and the windows of palaces. After the Renaissance, architectural methods changed substantially, leading to a decrease in stained glass as a building material. Domestic use of glass increased following the Industrial Revolution. Vessels, glass windows, and glass beads gained popularity in Europe during this period. During the 19th century, many people preferred glass windows and doors as a decorative option. In the late 19th century, some designers brought back stained glass for decorative windows. It was during this period that Mr. Tiffany discovered several methods to make domed glass handicrafts.
People discovered the true versatility of using glass as a building material only in the 20th century. With glassmaking technology receiving an industrial boom, you could produce several different types of glass. Toughened glass, laminated glass, bulletproof glass, and smart glass all boosted the use of glass in buildings. Today, several skyscrapers, small and big homes, and offices use glass in almost all aspects of construction and design.
What are the Different Types of Glass?
Since glass has a wide variety of applications, it is of different types. Each of these varies in strength and design. In homes and offices, glass is used in everything from large windows to partitions and shower walls. New technology has enabled manufacturers to overcome the typical weaknesses of glass – brittleness, constant transparency, and a complete lack of sound control.
Based on the raw materials used, glass can be classified into the following types:
1. Fused Quartz or Fused Silica Glass
This type of glass is highly resistant to weathering. Its molecules are arranged randomly. This type of glass is used in tube lights and furnaces.
2. Soda-Lime Silica Glass
This type of glass is commonly used in windows and is one of the most prevalent types of glass made anywhere in the world.
3. Sodium Borosilicate Glass
In this type of glass, boron oxide is added. It makes the glass less prone to cracking. It is primarily used to make lab equipment and kitchenware.
4. Lead Oxide Glass
Lead oxide glass has high reflective properties, making it a favourite of jewellery makers. Its crystals reflect light brilliantly.
5. Clear Glass
Also known as float glass, clear glass offers extreme clarity and transparency for unobstructed views, making it the go-to choose for panoramic windows.
6. Tinted Glass
Commonly known as annealed glass, tinted glass is manufactured with a coating or a film to impart its colour and reduce light transmission.
Types Of Value-Added Glass:
Apart from these, ordinary glass has been updated to accommodate various design choices to add value based on your glass needs. Some of the most unique and beneficial value-added glasses include the following:
1. Smart Glass
Smart glass, essentially a privacy solution, is a type of glass that can change its opacity at the click of a button. This type of glass is generally made using ions sandwiched between different glass layers. On the application of electric current, these ions shift positions to change the opacity of glass. Smart glass is widely used in both residential and commercial buildings. Smart glass, like AIS Swytchglass, is also considered to be ecologically efficient due to its ability to prevent/allow lighting and heat in a room.
2. Acoustic Glass
As the name suggests, acoustic glass is used to control sound inside a room, thus taking care of appropriate decibel needs or sound-control needs. It is the trendiest method to soundproof a living space or a commercial office. Acoustic glass is widely used in homes, recording studios, and private offices. This type of glass is ideal for people who do not wish for bulky soundproofing.
3. Frosted Glass
Frosted glass is a privacy-solution value-added glass. It is not entirely transparent, which means it gives the benefit of privacy and partial visibility. It can be used in windows and partitions. Shower screens, doors, cabinet shelves, and false ceilings also employ frosted glass. Frosted glass is used primarily by people desiring privacy, but it can also be a design choice. AIS Krystal Frosted Glass is the perfect way to ensure privacy while adding aesthetic appeal to your living space.
4. Energy Efficient Glass
Energy-efficient glass is used in eco-friendly buildings to maintain a balance between aesthetics and eco-consciousness. It focuses on saving energy as it works by preventing or allowing solar radiation inside a room. AIS Ecosense is an energy-efficient glass curated especially for Indian customers. AIS Ecosense enables a place to stay bright and fresh by limiting the solar energy entering a room. It comes in different varieties and can be used in both exterior and interior architecture.
Apart from these, several other types of glass are frequently used in various industries. These include automotive glass, decorative glass, back-painted glass, and laminated glass. Regardless of the sort, glass is a true blessing to humankind.
How Glass is made?
At Asahi India Glass Ltd., the highest quality glass manufacturing techniques are used to produce the perfect sheets of float glass. The method used is the PPG process that Sir Alistair Pilkington discovered in 1952 and is still the most trusted float glass manufacturing process. Naturally, it has many steps involved in it, and at each stage, great care is taken to be precise and thorough with the production of glass.
From selecting the right type and ratios of ingredients for glass to assimilating them all scientifically to produce glass as we know it, here we answer the question of how glass is made through a step-by-step process:
1. Melting and Refining
To make clear glass, the right set of raw materials is required. This consists of silica sand (SiO2), sodium oxide (Na2O) from soda ash, calcium oxide (CaO) from limestone/dolomite, dolomite (MgO), and feldspar (Al2O3). These ingredients are mixed in the right proportion, and the entire batch is flown into a furnace heated to 1500 degrees Celsius.
To impart colour to the glass, certain metal oxides are also mixed in the batch.
2. Float Bath
The molten material from the furnace flows into the float bath, consisting of a mirror-like surface made from molten tin. This material enters the bath at 1500 degrees Celsius and leaves the bath at around 650 degrees Celsius. Its shape at the exit is like a solid ribbon.
3. Coating for Reflective Glass
After that, if one is producing reflective glass surfaces that help keep indoors cooler, then coating procedures are followed in which either a hard coat or a soft coat is applied to the surface of the glass ribbon at high temperatures.
4. Annealing
Next, a process called annealing is done to remove the internal stresses built up in the glass. This process allows the glass ribbon to pass through a layer that eliminates any pressure on the glass surface and gradually cools it to give it its final hardened form. This makes it easier to cut the glass and shape it accordingly.
5. Inspecting
More than 100 million inspections can be made through acute and advanced inspection technology throughout the glass manufacturing procedure to identify air bubbles, stresses, or grains of sand that refuse to melt. This is essential for quality-proofing the final form of glass.
6. Cutting to Order
Finally, diamond steel is used to trim and cut the glass ribbons into square shapes.
Uses Of Glass in Construction and Architecture
Over the years, glass has characterised modern architecture like no other material. Glass materials distinguish the look and feel of facades and have a crucial involvement in the energy efficiency of buildings.
The usage of glass in the commercial and residential sectors is increasing by leaps and bounds. This versatile material is now considered a symbol of affluence and luxury and has gradually become an architect’s favourite.
Advantages Of Glass in Architecture
Glass can make infrastructure look more stunning and sophisticated. The use of glass in construction adds beauty to the building. Its use achieves the architectural view for external decoration. When used in interiors, glass saves space too.
Glass cladding in buildings carries out the functional requirements of heat retention, lighting, and energy-saving. It also adds a sense of ingenuousness and harmony to any surroundings.
How are AIS’ Glass Solutions Different from the Rest?
We offer various solutions depending on the needs of your project and provide customised solutions to cater to your every need in a glass. We have products that are five times stronger than ordinary glass in the market. allowing architects and contractors to build the best architectural designs.
Why Should You Choose AIS Glass?
Design and durability:
By opting for AIS glass solutions, you are guaranteed to get designs that are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and flexible in nature.
Safety and Security:
Our glass solutions offer better safety and security, making them the best option for use in high-security places.
Noise reduction:
Modern homeowners can also use our solutions to control sound levels and act as an effective insulator. If your office or home is situated near a busy market, railway station, or airport, these solutions can be vital in keeping the sound out.
AIS Glass is India’s leading integrated glass manufacturing company, serving the automotive, architectural, and consumer glass industries. We having over 13 glass sub-assemblyOur products are made with finesse and are customised according to the needs of our customers.
It’s said that there is no better lighting than sunlight. This has been known since medieval times, as is evident in the large windows of forts and castles of old. Today, entire buildings are made up of energy efficient glass in order to maximize natural lighting inside while also keeping the discomforting heat at bay. Thus, even technology has become proficient enough to mimic the natural lighting through artificial means, as is the rage these days in many modern buildings, filtered natural sunlight remains ever so popular – all thanks to innovations in glass. But why is natural lighting important?
Better health
We have all studied in school how daylight is a vital source of Vitamin D. Given we spend more than 80% of our lives indoors, it is increasingly important to allow natural sunlight to reach us within our confines. Daylight improves recovery, sets the circadian rhythm and body clock, elevates the mood, and also improves attentiveness. Therefore, having large glass windows and facades is so important in homes and offices.
Better comfort
So, while proliferation of adequate sunlight is crucial, for comfort, it is important to cut down on the thermal effects of this lighting. Thus, specialized heat reflective glass windows or retrofitted energy efficient glass in old windows help create a cool and comfortable environment for the occupants without cutting down on natural lighting. This way, glare can also be reduced for creating an undisturbed, serene ambience.
Better environment
This is the era of green buildings, thanks to our society becoming more environment conscious. Energy efficient glass such as AIS Ecosense works towards reducing the building’s dependency on artificial lighting or cooling methods, thus invariably leading to reduced energy consumption. The more natural light inside the building, the greener it is.
Better money savings
Taking heed of all the above points, it is easy to conclude that by allowing more natural lighting inside buildings through glass windows and facades, electricity bills can be brought down significantly. Merely tempered glass windows will not do in this case, as architects would tell you. These far reaching benefits of natural lighting in our lives therefore point towards the rising popularity of green architecture. As homeowners and office-owners, we have the power to push our architects to construct, design or redesign our buildings in such a way that they maximize daylight and visibility while minimizing discomfort and energy consumption. In achieving so, glass windows and other applications like facades and skylights play an indispensible role.
An office space needs to have an energy that keeps you positive and your productivity up. Privacy is also a concern for many who feel that that a quiet, interrupted environment suits their working style. So, how can one inculcate elements of privacy in a commercial space like an office where airiness and ventilation are conducive for a positive environment?
The answer lies in installing smart glass solutions for your office. Glass has always been a popular addition to offices around the globe, often replacing walls and whiteboards in many spaces. The latest technology is focused on improving the functional aesthetics of the glass with energy-efficient and sound-proofing leading the pack. Another technological marvel is the invention of switchable glass that can transform from a transparent glass to an opaque one in a matter of seconds.
AIS Swytchglas is one such example. Made with polymer dispersed crystals (PDC), the glass can switch from transparent to translucent and vice-versa, at the press of a button. When the power supply associated with the glass is switched off, the crystals are randomly scattered, deeming the glass opaque and creating the desired private ambiance. When one “switches” the glass on, the current makes the crystals reorient themselves, making the glass transparent, inviting more light and providing spatial illusion to the surroundings.
Associated benefits with this glass are plenty, the biggest one being that it gives you your privacy without creating a claustrophobic environment. The transparent glass wall also creates the illusion of an increased space and imparts a contemporary vibe to the interiors. An ideal addition to conference rooms, private cabins or hall partitions, the glass can be turned off when private conversations or meetings need to be held, and turned on when one needs the interiors to be more illuminated.
Another function of this glass is doubling up as a rear projection screen for presentations or videos, the smooth surface justifying sharp clarity for projected visuals. This smart glass can also be an efficient window glass with the translucent to opaque window providing sufficient light, and thus eliminating the need for installing curtains or blinders on the window. Instant sunshine or instant shade can now be controlled with a remote.
The combination of such functionalities and clean aesthetics is a rarity in the world, making a switchable glass like Swytchglas extremely desirable for office spaces. This glass has made it easier to attune the aesthetics of the working environment as per personal preferences at any time or day.
When it comes to choosing the right glass for your residential or commercial space, careful planning and selection plays an important role. While best quality becomes the supreme determinant, different factors are taken into consideration depending upon where you want the glass to be installed. Providing stylish, aesthetic and strong glasses since long, we have been a leading glass solutions company. To let you choose quality glass at the ease of your fingertips, AIS World of Glass is the perfect app designed specifically to meet the needs of smart buildings with the latest technology.
Here are some of the best features offered by the app which makes Asahi India Glass Ltd. one of the best glass manufacturers in India:- 1. Glass Solutions: – The app presents detailed sections related to different types of glasses. There are five sections in total consisting of privacy, acoustic, safety, energy efficient and aesthetic solutions for you to choose from. These categorizations help ease the process of glass selection depending upon your requirement considerably. 2. Doors and Windows solutions: – The two substrates- uPVC and wooden – offer complete doors and window glass solutions. This ensures perfect blend of style and safety with superior amalgamation of form and function. All you need to do is install the app on your phone to have the customized doors and windows you always desired, in no time. 3. Specialized application: – Depending upon the type of application, AIS offers unique and advanced glass solutions. This means that you can choose a specific glass depending upon where you need to install them. For example- once you search for staircase glass, the variety of best class options will pop up for you to choose from. Same goes for canopies, sky lights, swimming pool and other places as well. These solutions are sure to add an aesthetic appeal to your interiors without compromising on quality. 4. Special experience zones: – Just imagine watching the glass switch from transparent to translucent at a single click right in front of you. Sounds interesting, right? Well, this is what the AIS World of Glass lets you do. You can have a first-hand experience in the privacy and security glass solutions option available in the experience zones to choose the best glass which suits your taste. 5. Connect with us: – The app also features a Connect with Us option where you can send in your requirements and get the best options available in no time depending upon your requirements. 6. Our Videos: Explore our solution videos for better understanding of our product range through this section of the app.
They say that walls have ears. Trying to keep your secret conversations to the bare minimum, therefore, becomes the order of the day. But, if you listen carefully, you will realize that your walls can speak too. And often, all they do is plead you to not leave them plain, dull and boring.
One of the many principles of interior design is to make your wall a pièce de resistance. Be it your bedroom wall, office lobby wall, or the walls of your hotel’s waiting room, you can create a certain mood with the help your walls. This is where lies the importance of using a material for your walls as premium as lacquered glass.
Our AIS Décor Lacquered glass has been specially designed to up the ante when it comes to your interior aesthetics game. Offering 12 electric shades, AIS Décor is simply perfect for paneling your dull walls and bringing them to life. But what mood does every shade invoke? Sparkling White Pearl
This shade is elegance personified. Pearl, as you would know, is one of the most precious objects found in nature. Its soft shine instantly creates a healing mood that emphasizes on peaceful living and serenity. Venetian Red
Passion – that’s the mood created by the shade Venetian Red. It’s fiery, polished look gives rise to an electric ambiance that energizes you to the core. Ebony Black and Black Pearl
While ebony black is a subtle shade, black pearl takes on a more lustrous appearance. These shades of lacquered glass create a mood of mystery. Sterling Silver
If you are a firm believer in futuristic design, then the shade of Sterling Silver is made for you. This lacquered glass has a smooth, mirror-like appearance and is perfect to invoke a mood of minimalism and extreme cleanliness. Snow White and Sparkling Snow White
These two easy-going shades are reminiscent of the simplicity and pristineness of life. Shades of white lacquered glass are perfect to create a calm and bright mood. Sparkling Beige
Luxury and splendour come to mind when one encounters lacquered glass in the shade of Sparkling Beige. This colour is smooth, spotless and creates a very warm ambience under artificial lighting. Chrome Yellow
This shade creates a mood of happiness, clarity, positivity, and general bliss. If you want your walls to instantly cheer you up, then go for Chrome Yellow. Turquoise Green
This shade creates an ambience of refreshing tranquility. Since turquoise green is inspired from the oceans, it has an extremely soothing effect. Stone Grey
When you want to get into a productive mood, then sit and work in a room with Stone Grey lacquered glass walls. Hazel Brown
Hazel Brown shade is perfect to create an outdoor, natural mood. It reminds us of the forest and the trees, and doesn’t shy away from creating a charming ambience.
So, wait no more! Invoke the artist in you and combine various shades of AIS Décor manufactured by the most innovative glass company in India for the most spectacular walls. Because with lacquered glass paneling, walls not only have ears, but moods too.
If you are a fan of classic architecture, then you surely prefer casement windows above other types. These windows are hinged on one side, which can also be top (awning) or bottom (hopper).
While other window variants have their distinct features and advantages, casement windows have been quite a popular choice in the country for a very long time. And as window manufacturing technology has advanced over the years, so has the construction and functionality of casement windows. This is where the wonderful material called uPVC comes into the picture.
While aluminium and wood have been common window and door profiling materials, uPVC doors and windows have emerged, of late, as the perfect blend of form, finesse and functionality. uPVC is an industrial polymer that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also lightweight, strong and durable. And when uPVC, specialized glass, and casement windows come together, they form an unbeatable combination for your home. Let’s find out why: Weather-proofing and longevity
Unlike wood or aluminium, uPVC can withstand moisture, heat, cold, rain, winds, etc. This makes casement windows made from uPVC resistant to corrosion, chipping, flaking, pitting, or peeling. They are also fire-resistant. All these factors make uPVC casement windows very durable and long-lasting. Increased ventilation
Compared to sash windows, uPVC casement windows have an open-out hinge that allows them to open completely. This enables air to enter the building even if the flow angle is acute. Low maintenance
Since uPVC is weather-proof, it requires very little maintenance. uPVC casement windows can be cleaned quite easily and the frequency of maintenance is also quiet low. Heightened safety and security
uPVC casement windows feature security hooks and compression rollers for added safety. Also, the internal glazing prevents removal of window glass from outside. These windows often have a double glazing, thus making them intruder and breakage resistant while simultaneously minimizing heat loss. These security features are very difficult to find in other ordinary windows. Heat, sound and dust resistance
Another advantage uPVC casement windows have over other windows made from aluminium or wood is that they do not develop gaps or leakages after a period of use. uPVC is an exceptional insulating material and provides an able barrier to external heat, wind, pollution, dust particles, etc. This can be further bolstered by selecting adequate glass for the window.
While selecting your favourite uPVC casement windows, do keep in mind the kind of window glass you are opting for. This will depend upon any specific functionality you desire from the windows, such as protection against heat, energy efficiency, noise-cancellation, or privacy.
The trend of using uPVC material in doors and windows has been on the rise, all thanks to the plethora of benefits it offers. uPVC material showcases a perfect blend of modernity and advanced features. It is a tough and durable material which is rot, heat and noise-resistant. It doesn’t require any high maintenance and can be easily cleaned using water and detergent. uPVC doors and windows have a huge success rate as apart from being durable and long lasting, they are reinforced with galvanized steel which makes them withstand adverse conditions easily. The wonderful thing about uPVC is that it can be customized to suit a wide variety of window shapes and designs. If you want to impart your house that ethereal and awe-inspiring bespoke look, then selecting the right type of windows is critical.
Here are 4 types of uPVC window designs you can consider for the same: Sliding Windows: – Sliding windows are horizontal opening windows which provide great cross-ventilation and lighting options. They are easy to operate and provide unobstructed view of the outside world. They are also energy efficient, since they effectively block airflow from inside to outside and vice versa. Sliding windows aid in saving space too as they don’t occupy vertical space as in the case of normal windows. Your room will automatically appear larger if you choose them for your house. French Windows :- One sure shot advantage of French windows is ample lighting in your room. French windows usually have a frame that features window glass running through its entire length. Apart from lighting, they also make your house look spacious. They are most suitable for outer walls since they provide magnificent view of the outside lawns, gardens, pool or patio. They can be decorated with deluxe curtains and blinds to give your home a luxurious look. Casement Windows :- Casement windows are vertical opening windows fixed with side mounted hinges. They are one of the most widely preferred window designs. They can be opened widely and provide better ventilation as compared to fixed windows. Casement windows also provide high security since they are very difficult to break and their hook shaped locks are embedded within the frame making them untouchable from outside. Two Sash Windows :- These are made up of movable panels known as sashes. Two sash windows have been in use since ages and still continue to be one of the most popular choices especially in traditional homes. It offers a perfect blend of utility and attractiveness .It provides double ventilation benefit as when both the sashes are opened, it provides a way for fresh, cool air to come inside while letting the warm air to exit the room from top.
Among all the rooms and spaces in a home, bathrooms often undergo frequent renovations, be it the changing of tiles or the replacement of bath fittings. Today, more and more homeowners are trying to build sleek, stylish, and airy modern bathrooms that become a salient feature of their home. To aid them in this mission, glass as a material, whether in the form of toughened glass, laminated glass or any other glass, is coming in increasingly handy.
One might believe that the idea of using glass, which is often transparent in nature, in a bathing area, which is naturally considered to be a highly private space, is contradictory. However, thanks to advanced processing techniques, the field of glass manufacturing has been blessed with highly functional inventions that address issues such as the safety and privacy of space quite deftly.
Looking for the best glass solutions for your bathroom renovation? Here are three types of glasses you should go for:
Types of Glass:
Tempered Glass for shower doors and partitions
One of the primary ways to renovate a bathroom is to separate the bathing area from the rest of the space. This can be achieved by shower cubicles and enclosures that look sleek, modern, and luxurious to say the least. They are made of highly impact resistant toughened glass, especially the doors, to provide adequate safety to occupants. After all, bathroom floors are often wet and slippery, which means that there is a high chance of slipping. In order to avoid harm to oneself or damage to bath installations, using tempered glass in shower doors, cubicles, and partitions is highly recommended. The installation of tempered glass ensures enhanced durability and safety, making it an excellent choice for modern bathroom renovations.
Frosted Glass for windows and shower enclosures
To augment the privacy inside a bathroom without compromising on the looks, you should opt for frosted glass such as AIS Krystal, which limits visibility through it without creating a dim environment. Frosted glass is created by the process of sandblasting or acid etching, which leads to the creation of a glass surface that is translucent and hazy. This makes frosted glass the ideal material for bathroom windows, partitions, and even shower enclosures!
Lacquered Glass for cabinets and shelves
Hoping to add some colour to your bathroom glass? If this is your primary requirement, then you can add colourful highlights to the space using lacquered glass such as AIS Décor. This is a type of coloured glass in which one surface of the glass is painted with a premium hue, which is guaranteed to ensure a high quality and long-lasting finish. Using lacquered glass in cabinets, shelves, and other minor installations will create a wonderful aesthetic for the bathroom. Also, AIS Décor is moisture and heat resistant, which means that it is ideal for the tough environment of the bathroom.
As we all know, clear float glass is a sheet of glass which is made by floating molten glass over a molten metal bath in order to achieve an end product of uniform thickness and a smooth surface. Float glass is, therefore, one of the most basic forms of architectural glass and can be processed further to yield functional variants of glass such as tempered glass and laminated glass.
But, behind all these technicalities, there lies a fascinating story of how the perfect technique for float glass manufacturing was discovered. It was in 1959 that Sir Alastair Pilkington from Merseyside, England, discovered the innovative process that is followed till this date. And it was all a result of a serendipitous sight. Before the discovery by Pilkington
Till the 1600s, glass continued to be made by blowing large cylinders of hot glass which were then cut and flattened into sheets. Thereafter came the techniques of making plate glass (in which molten glass was poured into a mould and pressed in between plates to create a flat sheet of glass) and sheet glass (in which ribbons of molten glass were extracted from a furnace and flattened by passing them between rollers). Both these techniques were time-consuming and a costly affair, not to mention the surface imperfection and inferior quality of the resultant glass. How to make glass which is perfectly flat, smooth and clear was the question on every glass manufacturer’s lips till the 1950s. One such manufacturer was Alastair Pilkington, who later on received his knighthood for the invention of the float glass manufacturing process. A ground-breaking invention
The Pilkingtons were already known for inventing the plate glass manufacture technique. But the need for a better glass manufacturing technique that could produce glass of the perfect quality was always high on their agenda.
As the story goes, in 1952, while doing the dishes one night, Alastair Pilkington happened to notice one of the dinner plates floating on the water surface in the sink. Instantly, it struck him: what if he could float the glass ribbon from the furnace on a similar liquid surface? The molten glass would mirror the flat liquid surface and will settle down evenly due to gravity!
The only obstacle that remained was finding the perfect liquid for floating molten glass. Water, for all its abundance, would have instantly vaporized upon coming in contact with glass at such a high temperature. Thus, for seven long years, Pilkington and his scientists continued to experiment until it was discovered that molten tin offers the best liquid surface for float glass. The molten tin bath allowed the glass ribbon to cool down slowly while floating, and could also be separated from the cooled glass without leaving any mark on its surface!
Thus, the Pilkington process was born, and float glass of zero distortion, perfect thickness and amazing clarity could be mass produced. This very process is what is used in the manufacture of AIS Clear Float Glass as well.
It is easy to understand why glass is such a popular option when it comes to interior décor and architecture. Above everything else, the aesthetic quality and value of various specialized glass is what makes it stand out from other materials. In this regard, lacquered glass proves to be a wonderful selection for your home interiors. And what better than AIS Décor for the perfect lacquered glass that has much more to offer than what meets the eye?
Lacquered glass is a special type of coloured glass perfectly suited to interiors. It is opaque in appearance, meaning that it doesn’t allow any light to pass through it. It is formed by depositing and baking a coating of lacquer, which is an ornamental coating or a film-forming material, to one side of clear glass. AIS Décor is also manufactured by the same technique and is renowned for its durability, style and function. Here’s why it is the best lacquered glass in the market: 1. World class manufacturing
At Asahi India Glass Ltd., utmost care is taken to use only the best raw materials and certified techniques while manufacturing specialized glass variants. The same is followed for AIS Décor where the best non-toxic and environment-friendly lacquer is applied on the glass and oven-cured through a superior process to ensure that the glass is safe to use and lasts for a very long time. 2. Durable, versatile and easy to maintain
As mentioned earlier, the world class lacquering ensures that the brilliant colours of AIS Décor last longer despite years of usage. Also, since AIS Décor can be easily cut, drilled, bevelled, ground, edge-finished or polished, it can be used to create bespoke designs according to your fancy and requirements. Also, it does not get dirty easily, and can be cleaned and maintained without any hassle. 3. Premium finish
Since the paint adheres to the surface of AIS Décor flawlessly, one is guaranteed a uniform and smooth finish. The range of shades available in AIS Décor is another advantage offered by this lacquered glass. Just like our tinted glass, AIS Décor comes in many different striking shades, right from Ebony Black to Turquoise Green, and is also available in a number of sizes and thickness. Thus, when it comes to aesthetics, you can be spoilt for choice quite easily. 4. Moisture, heat and UV resistant
While ordinary lacquered glass in the market only offers a stylish look, AIS Décor provides many functional and modern benefits due to its advanced technology. It is specially designed to withstand humid environment such as a kitchen or bathroom, and can also resist high temperatures up to 80 degree Celsius. Also, it is also resistant to UV radiation, preventing it from getting discoloured.
When one thinks of a modern home or office, the image of a huge glass façade often comes to mind. Today, it is not at all surprising to see so many homes and workplaces adopting this architectural element with increasing regularity. Not only does it provide an appearance of grandeur and makes the entire building look beautiful from outside, but also results in a great view for the occupants and employees from inside.
But the role of a glass façade is not limited to just that. By employing different types of glasses that have been specially manufactured with key functional and aesthetic properties, one can utilize the glass façade to create a comfortable ambience inside, especially during the harsh and hot summers. This often means two things: cool and bright interiors. Creating a relaxing ambience with a glass façade Since a glass façade allows huge quantity of natural light to enter the interiors, it is important that one ensure that this natural light doesn’t turn into an element of discomfort during the summer months. Sunlight, as we know, consists of various components like visible light, UV rays and infrared rays. While the infrared rays are responsible for carrying heat, UV rays are damaging for our health. Thus, in summers, it is necessary that you use high performance glass to limit these factors, and allow only optimum lighting without the heat to enter your space. With AIS’ advanced solar control and heat reflective glass solutions, this requirement can be serviced efficiently. High performance glass solutions for the ideal glass façade by AIS AIS Ecosense This is a high performance low-E glass that comes in a variety of natural shades. AIS Ecosense is a highly advanced solution that helps in creating the perfect balance between aesthetics, lighting and energy efficiency. The low-E film on its surface reduces heat considerably by absorbing and reflecting a large part of infrared radiation. It also reduces glare and eliminates UV radiation in order to create the perfect internal lighting and a healthy and bright ambience. AIS Opal AIS Opal is the perfect solution as an external glass for buildings. This hard-coated solar control glass prevents heat from entering the building by reflecting away most of it. This economical range of heat reflective glass also comes in a wide range of sizes and thickness. AIS Sunshield For the ultimate cooling effect, AIS Sunshield soft-coated glass is your go to solution. It is extremely durable, reduces glare, comes in eight vibrant shades (including the new Royal Gold), and keeps you safe from UV radiation. Apart from heat insulation, facades can also be provided with noise insulation and heightened security with the help of acoustic laminated glass and toughened glass solutions.
Discovering that your car window is broken can be worrying. Whether it is a small crack or fully shattered, a broken glass must be fixed immediately. If not, it will give easy access to thieves to steal the valuables inside the car, make the car structurally feeble, and cause a whole host of problems. In an ideal situation, you must take the car immediately to an auto glass repair shop. But if you are not able to do that straightaway due to any reason, worry not. Here we have listed the steps that you can take to secure the car and protect it from any outdoor element until the broken glass is replaced.
1- Remove the broken pieces of glass: Start with removing as many pieces of broken glass as possible. Pick up large shards of toughened glass. Make sure you wear gloves while doing that. To clean the excess pieces use a shop vacuum. Place the hose close to the window seal. This will help remove any small pieces of glass stuck inside. Follow this procedure 2-3 times to ensure all pieces of glass are removed. 2- Wipe the frame area and window seal: Once all glass pieces are removed, use a cloth dipped in water to wipe down the frame area and window seal. The procedure may take time but it will help remove all the dirt and dust particles that may stick the area when sealing the window later. Dirt and dust may hinder your efforts of accurately sealing off the area, so make sure it is wiped off completely. 3- Seal the window: Once the area is wiped, use a packing tape to seal the window. Put stripes vertically across the window opening in a way that it touches the window frame. Then run another layer overlapping with the first one. Continue this until the entire area is covered. Tip: Seal the window from the inside of the car to prevent peeling of the paint. You may also use cardboard in place of the packing tape, but the only problem with cardboard is that it will allow moisture to seep into the car. 4- Take the car to the service provider: The last thing to do is to take your care to a reputed service provider and get it fixed. You should not try to fix the window yourself and get it repaired only by experts.
There are many different window glass types such as laminated and tempered glass which are used in automotive glass installations. While windshields, which represent the most important glass installation in a car, are made from laminated glass, side windows are constructed from tempered glass. Many people prioritise windshield maintenance and repair for their cars, but that doesn’t mean that they neglect the side windows.
Unlike annealed and laminated glass, good quality tempered glass, such as Temperlite-LT by AIS Glass, breaks away into tiny pebble-like pieces that are harmless and powdery in nature. This property ensures that the passengers and the drivers remain uninjured in case the side windows get shattered. While tempered glass does make the side windows strong and durable, there are many precautions you need to take in order to ensure that it does not get damaged beyond repair. Here are four things to keep in mind so as to ensure safe working car glass windows:
Do not delay repair
From time to time, it is important to inspect the condition of your car windows. This becomes extremely important in the aftermath of an accident which might have caused some damage to the structure of the car. Even if your windows have a small crack, a minor chip or a scratch, do not assume that it is harmless. These damages have a habit of exacerbating over time while also weakening the glass, thus putting you and other passengers in danger the next time an accident occurs. Therefore, always get the windows repaired quickly by the experts in your vicinity.
Do not slam the car doors violently
Yes, slamming the car doors time and time again can lead to damaged side windows. One has to understand that these sudden closing of the doors with force generate vibrations inside the car. If they occur with high frequency, then there is a chance that some integral structural damage might occur to the window installation or the windows might loosen. It is best to be gentle and mannerly while shutting the car door.
Do not use ammonia-based cleaning agents
It is important to know the right type of cleaning agents for your car windows. Ammonia-based agents are usually used in architectural glass inside homes and buildings, and can damage the tint of the car windows. Also, while cleaning car windows, use a clean cloth or microfiber towel so as to avoid leaving damaging streaks.
Do not expose car windows to long periods of intense, direct sunlight
Long exposure to harsh heat and sunlight causes UV ray damage to car windows, thereby decreasing their lifespan and also affecting the structural integrity of your car. Always try to park your car in the shade, a garage or with a protective cover.
Glass is among the few things that has reaped the benefits of advancements in science & technology. The classic float glass used in display cases is paving way for toughened glass. Simultaneously, commercial and residential spaces are seeing a rising demand for installation of smart glass – a result of the technological prowess that has emerged since the turn of the millennium. Smart Glass is a commonly used term for an electronically switchable glass. From a clear, see-through glass surface to a murky translucent, and opaque perfection, this glass can change its visibility at the touch of a button.
This feature has made smart glass extremely desirable in commercial spaces. With the benefit of controlling both privacy and energy savings, this is among the most popular types of glass for commercial interiors. Some of the ways to incorporate this glass include:
1.Walls & Partitions:
More light in a room makes it look bigger, while adding walls and partitions may cut out on that light source and make the space look smaller. Using Smart Glass to create partitions in a room is a smart move indeed. The transparent walls lend the room a suave feel, and in case one needs privacy, they may simply switch on the button, and in an instant, one gets cool walls around them. This works well for private cabins and conference rooms – regular transparent walls during the day, block opacity during meetings.
2.Building Façade
Many offices in India are moving towards maintaining a glass façade for a superior looking finish to the architecture. However, building owners know the serious costs of lighting and air-conditioning that are shelled out for regular day-to-day functioning within. Installing Smart Glass would be instrumental in controlling the light and heat travelling through the glass, thereby cutting down on costs considerably.
3.Restaurants, Salons & Spas
The hospitality sector can use this type of glass as privacy screen between areas, external windows etc. They are a suitable replacement for traditional partitions such as curtains, blinders or even wooden partitions. The neat finish and utility makes them a much-preferred installation.
4.Hospitals
The medical sector is also opening up to using Smart Glass as part of its interiors. They are more hygienic and easier to maintain than traditional blinds and curtains. The option of changing the opacity levels on demand is extremely lucrative since it allows practitioners to make the glass opaque during examination and maintain a transparent to translucent visibility during other times for regular monitoring.
With the presence of global warming and ecological problems becoming a huge problem over the last few decades, every industry is trying to use materials that will lessen the effects of the same. With the use of sustainable materials increasing by the day in the world, property developers and real estate companies are also doing their bit to improve the environment for a better future. This has led to the rise of green buildings. One of the most important materials in the construction of a green building is glass, whose specialised energy efficient and eco-friendly varieties like solar control and tinted glass are used.
Green Buildings
The development of green buildings is a start in that direction. Green buildings are buildings that use less water, 1ptimizes energy efficiency, conserve natural resources, generate less waste, and provide healthier spaces for occupants as compared to conventional buildings. They are also beneficial for the environment, as most buildings use recycled and environmental friendly building materials and provide effective building management systems.
Use of Glass in Architecture of Green Buildings
To achieve all of this, developers use glass as a major component during construction. Glass is known to be an excellent green material. Types of glasses like solar control glasses and low-E glass can reflect heat or UV rays to maintain an optimal temperature inside the building. Glass in buildings also substantially reduces the need for artificial lighting and allows daylight to make the interiors airier and more open.
From design, appearance, thermal performance, and comfort to simple aesthetics, selecting the right glass is inevitably important for constructing a green building.
achieve a great balance between all the parameters and block a high amount of solar radiation by reflecting away the infrared part of sunlight. This helps buildings remain invariably cool in the summer and cuts down on energy bills and air conditioning usage.
Impact on Environment
The biggest advantage that makes glass a major component in green buildings is the fact that it is recyclable and also does not have a huge impact on the environment itself. Glass can play a role in accomplishing greater indoor environmental quality and when used carefully, can also improve energy efficiency. Along with tangible benefits, glass can also provide enhanced air quality, excellent daylighting, and general health & well-being for the occupants. From a global point of view, the conservation of scarce natural resources is also a huge advantage, while its widespread acceptance and enhanced marketability make it a viable option for the industry too.
Glass is amongst the most extensively used materials in the architectural industry as it plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of heat and light in and out of your home. Glass should not be limited to a functional material or simply be an afterthought. It can also be used to enhance the decor of your interiors, which makes it one of the most versatile materials in architecture.
There are numerous window glass types and other specialized glass available today. Below, you’ll find one apt for each room in your home – THE MASTER BEDROOM Double Glazing Glass
The double glazed glass comprises of two layers of glass with another layer of gas sandwiched between the two. This gives it the high thermal performance that doubled glazed glass is well-known for. It reflects away the infrared heat during the summer season, keeping your room cool, while in the winter season, it retains the heat, keeping the room warm. Laminated Glass
For the highest degree of protection, opt for laminated glass. It is manufactured by bonding together two or more sheets of glass with a plastic interlayer, usually PVB. Owing to its toughness, the glass is used for reinforcing security as it can stop burglars from entering the house and is also available with multi-lock mechanisms. Smart Glass & Integrated Blinds
There’s nothing better than more privacy in a bedroom, and smart glass like AIS Swytchglas, which switches from transparent to translucent at the press of a button, provides you exactly that. Having integrated glass blinds also offer a great modern solution for your windows. THE KIDS’ ROOM Tempered Glass
This type of safety glass is well suited for the kids’ room. Its safety features ensure that little children stay away from harm’s way. Tempered glass is impact resistant, thereby reducing chances of injury. It is made out of ordinary annealed glass which is hardened considerably through the process of heating and rapid cooling. In case of heavy impact, the glass shatters into small pieces without sharp edges. The glass is 4-5 times stronger than regular glass, making it the ideal choice for the kids’ room. THE LIVING ROOM Stained Glass and Clear Glass
This type of glass is widely used for aesthetic purposes, commonly spotted in the windows of old buildings. This coloured, decorative glass can be found in churches, funeral homes and museums. When installed at your house, it allows ample amount of light in while ensuring your privacy. For table-tops, you should use clear glasses.
Lacquered Glass
An immensely popular decorative glass which you can utilize in your kitchen cabinet windows is lacquered glass. It’s stunning painted appearance, eco-friendliness, and heat and moisture resistance make it ideal for the conditions of a kitchen. THE BATHROOM Frosted Glass
Frosted glass is subjected to a sandblasting technique that turns ordinary glass slightly opaque. This effect helps in maintaining privacy, and is a popular choice for bathrooms, glass partitions or walls. Moreover, the glass requires low maintenance as it does not allow dust to stick to its surface.
We all the know the basic components of a car. Wheels, doors, door handles, headlights and tail lights are all permanent fixtures even on the most basic car model available in the market right now. However, the most underrated installation on any vehicle has to be the safety glass on the windshield. The windshield protects all the passengers from any kind of injury from any kind of external damage, which range from small dents caused by weathering or any kind of mishap or accident. The windshield has undergone a lot of development over the years, from the times it was cleaned by the driver himself to windshield wipers that can sense when it rains and automatically switch on. Windshields, or auto glass have one of the most important functions of the car: save the passengers from any kind of bodily harm. But how does a material like glass become so strong so as to not damage anyone inside the car?
Makings of a Windshield Unlike side windows, which are made from toughened glass, the windshield is a very advanced form of laminated glass that has been perfected over the years to provide the best safety standards on a car. From the glue that keeps the layered glass together to the actual fitting of the windshield on the vehicle, the process is extensive and is very carefully conducted. The glass formula of the windshield is firstly put through a float chamber. The raw materials in this chamber are heated to a point so that they melt and are fed onto a bath of molten tin where the glass is rested till it becomes flat. The glass is then formed and cut through a process called annealing and after it is put on a mould for the correct shape. It is then laminated by pressing it repeatedly through rollers to make it transparent and strong. This process helps in strengthening the glass, which itself has a lot of benefits. Laminated glass, technically, consists of two layers of strengthened glass sandwiched by a plastic interlayer, usually PVB (poly vinyl butyral) that acts as a buffer and a glue which holds on to the glass even after shattering. Benefits of a Windshield Glass There are a lot of advantages of the modern windshield, which include: •It gives you ample protection from any kind of external factors that can affect you. •It contributes to the overall structural integrity of the vehicle, working in tandem to keep the entire vehicle safe. •It also helps in deploying air bags, because if the adhesive is put up properly, the airbags can discharge without any hitches. •It also provides protection for not just the driver, but the passenger too, effectively reducing the number of injuries that can suffered in case anything goes wrong.
In the 21st century, there is an increasing emphasis on environment conservation, energy efficiency and sustainability. The world is more sensitized to reducing wastage of energy than ever before. In order to keep up with times, it is important that whether it is your home or office, it should ideally be a green building that helps you save energy and reduce energy bills. In pursuit of this efficiency, glass construction and architecture can be of much use.
Some of the leading glass suppliers in India have come up with modern glass solutions that will not only beautify your living and working space, but also help you reduce your dependency on electricity. These solutions, installed in windows, facades, doors, canopies, domes, etc. contribute towards creating a pleasing ambience inside. Let’s take a look at two of the best energy-efficient glass solutions in the industry: Ecosense – A high performance solution for energy efficiency
The AIS Ecosense high performance glass is a brilliant offering from the house of AIS, the leading glass manufacturing company in India. It is equipped with advanced solar control technology since it is essentially a very high grade Low-E glass.
This glass has been designed in accordance with Indian climactic conditions, and is suitable for all kinds of extreme weather that the country experiences, right from the unbearable summers to the jittering winters. It provides a great balance between aesthetics and performance, and provides relief from the harsh conditions prevalent outdoors. It operates via filtering out solar radiation, such as the near-infrared rays, by absorbing a part of it and reflecting away the remaining amount. This enables cooler and brighter indoors at all times.
The great thing about Ecosense is that it is available in a wide variety of shades and colours to suit all your design and aesthetic needs. It is a great option for the façade of your building. SunShield Heat Reflective Glass – For greater cooling efficiency
The AIS SunShield Heat Reflective Glass is another revolutionary energy efficient and economical solution for homes and offices. It is designed for the intolerable summer heat that is typically associated with Indian summers, with its advanced solar control properties and exceptional durability.
SunShield glass lets you cut on your electricity bills that get inflated due to excessive air conditioner usage by reducing the glare of sunlight. Its high grade external coating also filters out the harmful UV radiation, thereby bringing you all the benefits of natural light without affecting your health or making your environment uncomfortable due to the heat. Moreover, it is available in no less than seven brilliant shades to provide you the aesthetic look that you are looking for.
