What Is Strengthened Glass?
Strengthened glass refers to glass that has undergone a special treatment process to improve its mechanical properties. This process typically involves either thermal tempering or chemical strengthening, which increases the glass’s resistance to breakage and thermal shock. As a result, strengthened glass retains its structural integrity under extreme conditions and can withstand significant impacts without shattering.
Is Strengthened Glass Safe?
Compared to standard glass, strengthened glass offers numerous safety advantages:
- Impact Resistance: Strengthened glass is designed to endure greater impacts than regular glass, reducing the risk of breakage and injury in case of accidents.
- Thermal Stability: It can withstand significant temperature fluctuations due to its enhanced thermal properties, making it suitable for use in environments where rapid temperature changes occur.
- Chemical Resistance: Many varieties of strengthened glass exhibit excellent resistance to chemicals, making them ideal for industrial applications where exposure to harsh substances is common.
- Lightweight Design: Despite its strength, strengthened glass is often lighter than traditional materials, making it easier to handle and install in various applications.
- Environmentally Friendly: Like borosilicate glass, strengthened glass can be produced using sustainable materials, making it a more eco-friendly option compared to some plastics.
Properties of Strengthened Glass
| Property | Strengthened Glass | Standard Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | 3-5 times stronger | Baseline strength |
| Thermal Shock Resistance | Excellent (up to 250°C) | Moderate |
| Fracture Behavior | Small blunt pieces | Sharp shards |
| Chemical Resistance | High | Moderate |
| Self-Destruction Risk | Possible under stress | None |
Applications of Strengthened Glass
The strength and resilience of strengthened glass make it a preferred choice for numerous industrial and commercial applications. Typical uses include:
- Mobile Devices: Used as screens for smartphones and tablets due to its high impact resistance and scratch-proof qualities.
- Architectural Elements: Employed in facades, windows, and doors where safety and aesthetics are critical.
- High-Performance Lighting: Utilized in light fixtures that require durability against heat and mechanical stress.
- Automotive Industry: Commonly used in car windows and sunroofs that must withstand impact while maintaining visibility.
- Safety Equipment: Fabricated into protective barriers or enclosures in laboratories and industrial settings.
Strengthened Glass Varieties at Swift Glass
At Swift Glass, we offer a range of strengthened glass products from reputable manufacturers. Our selection includes:
- AGC Dragontrail™ Chemically Strengthened Glass: Known for its exceptional scratch resistance and durability, ideal for mobile device screens.
- Corning® Gorilla® Glass: A widely recognized brand that provides superior toughness for smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
- SCHOTT Xensation® Aluminosilicate Cover Glass: Offers excellent optical clarity along with enhanced durability for high-end devices.
- SCHOTT AS 87 eco Ultra-Thin Aluminosilicate Glass: A lightweight option that combines strength with environmental sustainability.
Our team can fabricate these materials according to your specifications using various methods such as:
- Edge Grinding and Polishing: Refining edges for a smooth finish or adding intricate details with precise tolerances.
- Thermal Tempering: Enhancing the durability and thermal resistance of the glass for use in demanding environments.
- CNC Machining: Providing a variety of machining services for custom shapes and sizes tailored to your needs.
Learn More About Strengthened Glass From the Experts at Swift Glass
Given its numerous advantages, strengthened glass is an excellent material choice for various industrial and commercial applications. That’s why the experts at Swift Glass frequently utilize it in our fabrication processes.Want to learn more about strengthened glass and how it can benefit your next project? Swift Glass is here to help! With over 100 years of experience in glass fabrication, we have the expertise to assist you in understanding this material’s superior properties. We also stock other specialty glasses such as borosilicate glass and fused silica, providing us with the flexibility to meet virtually any fabrication request.To learn more about our strengthened glass offerings or our fabrication capabilities, contact us today. To discuss your specific needs with one of our experts or request a quote, reach out now!