Security glass is a specialised type of glass that is designed to provide enhanced safety and protection against various threats, including physical impact, forced entry and vandalism. Its strength and durability make it an essential component, particularly for commercial buildings, residential homes and public spaces where safety and security are of great importance.
Incorporating security glass into structures can significantly reduce the risk of property damage, loss and personal injury. This guide explores the various types of security glass available, their unique characteristics and how they cater to various needs depending on their applications.
Security Glass Types
Bullet Resistant Glass
Bullet Resistant glass, also known as ballistic glass, is specifically designed to withstand the impact of projectiles such as bullets or shrapnel. It is commonly used in high-security areas, such as banks, government buildings and armoured vehicles.
Bulletproof glass is typically made using multiple layers of glass separated by laminated interlayers. The number of layers and the thickness of the glass determine the level of protection provided by the glass.
Laminated Glass
Laminated glass is composed of two or more sheets of glass bonded together with a plastic interlayer, usually PVB or SGP. The interlayer acts as a barrier, preventing the glass from shattering into sharp fragments even when broken. This property makes laminated glass ideal for applications where safety is of great importance, such as car windshields, windows in high-traffic areas and skylights.
In addition to its shatter-resistant properties, laminated glass also offers other benefits. It can be used to reduce noise transmission, provide UV protection and even serve as a fire-resistant barrier when combined with appropriate interlayers.
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is a strong and durable type of safety glass. It is produced by quickly cooling the glass after heating it to high temperatures. This process creates internal stresses that make it more resistant to breakage.
Upon breaking, unlike normal glass that shatters into sharp shards, tempered glass shatters into small, cubical fragments. This reduces the risk of injury and makes tempered glass a popular choice for applications such as shower doors, sliding doors and tabletops.
Heat Strengthened Glass
Heat-strengthened glass shares some similarities with tempered glass. It undergoes a thermal treatment process that involves heating the glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. However, the cooling process is less drastic compared to tempered glass. This creates a different internal stress pattern, which results in increased strength compared to regular annealed glass but not to the same extent as tempered glass.
Wired Glass
Wired glass is a type of safety glass that has a metal wire mesh embedded within its structure. The wire mesh provides additional strength and helps to prevent the glass from shattering into large pieces in case of a fire or forced entry.
Wired glass is commonly used in doors and windows of fire-related buildings, as it can help to contain a fire and delay its spread. It is also used in areas where there is a risk of vandalism or burglary.
Acoustic Glass
Acoustic glass, also known as soundproof glass, is designed to reduce noise transmission. It is often used in areas where noise pollution is a concern, such as offices, homes and hotels. Acoustic glass is typically constructed using laminated glass with special interlayers that absorb sound waves. The thickness of the glass and the type of interlayer used will determine the level of sound insulation that the glass provides.
Conclusion
Security glass offers a versatile solution for enhancing safety and protection in various applications. From the high-impact resistance of bulletproof glass to the noise reduction capabilities of acoustic glass, there is a security glass type to suit every need.
When selecting security glass, it is important to consider factors such as the specific threats you want to protect against, the desired level of protection and your aesthetic preferences. AIS Glass offers a wide range of security glass solutions that cater to all safety requirements.
This, combined with expert guidance and customisable options, makes AIS Glass stand out as a glass solutions provider and an ideal choice for your security glass needs.