Today real estate developers, construction, and interior designers are using glass materials in several aspects due to their numerous benefits. But with different applications, the requirement of types of glass is different. People get confused between the two most common types of glass- toughened and tampered.
Toughened and tempered glass is designed to withstand high pressure but differs in manufacturing processes, applications, and performance. By comparing these two types of safety glasses, you can decide which one is best suited for your specific needs. This article will walk you through the definitions, the major differences, which type of glass is designed for which purpose, and more.
What is Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass is chemically treated to improve the thermal stress resistance, eventually making it stronger than regular glass. The tempering process causes the outer liner to compress and the inner liner tense. These stresses cause the outer liner to shatter into tiny pieces, but the inner liner remains intact.
Tempered glass is 4-5 times stronger than ordinary glass. It can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees.
What is Toughened Glass?
Toughened glass undergoes a process of thermal tempering. It involves rapidly heating and cooling the glass to increase its strength and durability. It uses in applications where safety glass is required. The glass can withstand sudden temperature changes and impact.
What are the differences Between Tempered and Toughened Glass?
Toughened and tempered glass are both designed to withstand high pressure and impact. But they differ in their manufacturing processes and performance under extreme conditions.
Tempered glass is chemically treated to enhance its breakage and thermal stress resistance. It is 4-5 times stronger than ordinary glass and can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees.
On the other hand, toughened glass undergoes a process of thermal tempering. It involves rapidly heating and cooling the glass to increase its strength and durability. One key point you must remember is that the glass can be cut into desired shapes and dimensions before the toughening process. After that, it is not possible to cut the glass.
How do You Know if the Glass is Toughened or Tempered?
Identifying whether the glass is toughened or tempered can be challenging. You can be confused easily if you are unfamiliar with their manufacturing processes. However, one of the ways you can quickly understand is by checking the sticker or marking on the glass.
You can check by any toughening mark or British/European standard etched into the glass on the glass surface. Manufacturers usually label tempered glass, and it can differ according to the country it is made.
Another way to get an idea about toughened glass is to check the edges. If the edges are completely smooth, there is a high chance that the glass is tampered.
If you can find some imperfections like warping, bending, or dimples on the glass, it has passed through the toughening process. Due to the heating and quenching process, these imperfections are usual.
Where is Toughened Glass Used?
Toughened glass is widely used in various applications where safety glass is required. Its strength and durability are ideal for areas prone to high impact or sudden temperature changes.
Automotive Industry:
It is one of the most common uses of toughened glass. It is used for car windows, windshields, and mirrors.
Construction Industry:
It is also used in the construction industry for windows, doors, and skylights. It is preferred over ordinary glass because it can withstand extreme weather conditions and high winds.
Partition:
These glasses are used in sports facilities such as basketball courts and hockey rinks. The glass provides a clear view of the game while ensuring safety.
Kitchen:
These glasses are widely used in kitchen setups like glass selves, tabletop, fridge trays, etc.
Its use in various industries has made it an essential material for ensuring safety and protection.
Why and How Does Tempered and Toughened Glass Break?
Tempered and toughened glass is designed to withstand high pressure and thermal stress. However, they can still break under certain circumstances.
The chemical treatment can cause the outer layer of the glass to compress while the inner layer remains tense. The outer layer shatters into tiny pieces when the glass is under high pressure or thermal stress. And the inner layer remains intact.
Toughened glass, on the other hand, breaks differently. It shatters into small pieces when it breaks with rounded edges, similar to a car’s windshield.
Both tempered and toughened glass can break if subjected to extreme force or impact beyond their capacity. For example, a heavy object falling on tempered or toughened glass may break despite its strength and durability. Additionally, scratches or chips on the surface of the glass can weaken it over time. It makes it more susceptible to breaking.
Key Takeaways:
Toughened and tempered glass is designed to withstand high pressure and thermal stress. However, Toughened glass undergoes a process of thermal tempering, while tempered glass is chemically treated. Toughened glass is ideal for areas prone to high impact or sudden temperature changes, such as the automotive and construction industries.
Understanding the key differences between toughened and tempered glass is crucial when choosing the right type. If you’re looking to buy toughened or tempered glass, L&T-SuFin is a reliable platform to consider. With various options from reputed manufacturers, they offer various application options and ensure quality products that meet industry standards.