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There are different types of glass marketed as "safety glass" or "security glass". They all have their advantages and disadvantages. Here we answer the most frequently asked questions about safety glass and our products. If you cannot find an answer to your specific question, please feel free to contact us.

HAMMERGLASS - PLEXIGLASS - PC - ACRYLIC PLASTIC

What is Hammerglass®?

Hammerglass® is a durable and optically clear polycarbonate sheet that is 300 times stronger than glass - and virtually unbreakable. Hammerglass panels are coated with a hard silicon oxide layer that protects against scratches and abrasion. The surface coating also provides 99.96 per cent UV protection, which prevents Hammerglass lenses from becoming cloudy or discoloured over time. Hammerglass does not contribute to the spread of flames in the event of a fire.

What is polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate (PC) is a tough, transparent thermoplastic of exceptional durability. Polycarbonate is marketed under the brand names Hammerglass, Lexan, Makrolon, Saphir and others. The difference between the various brands and makes of polycarbonate lies, among other things, in the purity and surface coating of the sheets. Without a surface coating, PC is easily scratched and will also yellow within six months. Many surface coatings serve primarily to protect against yellowing.

What is Plexiglas®?

Plexiglas® is one of several brand names for the acrylic plastic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). In common usage, however, the term "Plexiglas" is very often (and incorrectly) used for plastic sheets in general. Plexiglas® is about 30 times stronger than ordinary glass, but sensitive to scratches and solvents. Plexiglas® is combustible.

What is acrylic plastic?

Acrylic plastic is a name for the thermoplastic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) marketed under trade names such as Bonoplex, Perspex and Plexiglas. Acrylic plastic is sensitive to acids, acetone and other solvents. Acrylic plastic differs from hammered glass in that it cracks when it is bumped or struck - unlike hammered glass, which bends without cracking. Furthermore, acrylic plastic burns, whereas hammerglass is self-extinguishing when ignited.

How good is the optical quality of Hammerglass®?

A 12-millimetre window made of Hammerglass® has the same high optical quality as windows in helicopters and aeroplanes.

How high is the heat reduction with Hammerglass IR?

Hammerglass IR (Infra Red) removes 45-55% of incident solar heat.

How to get rid of static electricity?

Static electricity on Hammerglass windows disappears when the windows are washed with water and some rinse aid (normal washing machine rinse aid).

How to order Hammerglass?

Sales are made via INTECH-ICS AG or directly via Hammerglass AB (Automotive). We are happy to answer questions and actively participate in the product development of new solutions.

SAFETY GLASS & SAFETY GLASS

What is safety glass?

Glass that prevents or actively reduces the risk of injury to people who come into contact with it is referred to as "personal safety glass" or, in practice, "safety glass". Classification EN 12600 and EN 356, P1A to P3A.

What is safety glass?

Glass that protects against vandalism, firearms, unauthorised entry, burglary, explosions and blasts, water pressure, electromagnetic radiation, X-rays, fire, noise and UV radiation is referred to as "safety glass". Classification EN 356, P6B to P8B..;

What is tempered glass?

Toughened glass is up to five times stronger than normal glass. When it finally does break, it disintegrates into an infinite number of small fragments - as anyone who has ever had a Duralex glass pane fall on the floor knows. However, the fragments are not sharp-edged, which is why toughened glass is used for the side windows of motor vehicles. The advantage of toughened glass is that it is relatively cheap and easy to install. The disadvantage is that toughened glass has to be ordered to measure, as it cannot be cut after toughening, which leads to long delivery times. Also, toughened glass is not particularly difficult to penetrate. A light blow with a sharp object is often enough to break the pane.

What is laminated safety glass?

Laminated glass consists of two or more panes of glass bonded together with a plastic film. It is sometimes also incorrectly referred to as "bulletproof glass". Laminated glass can be produced as a very thick pane which, in combination with the extremely tough interlayer, is difficult to penetrate - or even, if thick enough, is "bulletproof". However, panes of laminated glass are very expensive to buy and also difficult to install. The biggest disadvantage, however, is that laminated glass cracks easily (even if it holds together in one piece), making it an expensive material for exposed areas.

What is laminated safety glass?

Ordinary flat glass can be laminated with a safety film on one or both sides. The main advantage of safety lamination is that it makes an ordinary pane of glass more resistant to impact and shock in a cost-effective way. The safety film also prevents glass fragments from being thrown around if the pane is broken. The safety film can be applied without having to replace the glass itself. However, the safety film does not make the pane itself particularly strong. The pane will break if it is not subjected to too much stress and will then have to be replaced (and a new film applied).

What is bulletproof glass?

Bullet-resistant glass (bulletproof glass) consists of several panes of glass joined together to withstand the force of a bullet. The glass packages often become very thick - 5 cm or more - and therefore also very heavy. Classification EN 1063, BR1 to BR7.

SECURITY CLASSIFICATIONS & SECURITY LEVELS

In which security classes and security levels is Hammerglass available?

Hammerglass unbreakable glazing solutions are available in all security and protection classes up to P8B, which is the highest security class for anti-burglary grilles and shutters. Hammerglass Ballistic Protection is certified in classes BR1-NS, BR4-NS and BR6-NS, Hammerglass Explosion Protection in classes EXR1/EXR2.

How secure are anti-theft grilles and roller shutters?

Unfortunately, many thieves have learned how to remove anti-theft grilles and shutters. If a strong rope is attached to the bumper or trailer hitch of a vehicle, the anti-theft grille can be pulled out. Apart from blocking the view into a shop or shop window, anti-theft grilles have in many cases given the shop owner or shop manager a false sense of security.

FURTHER QUESTIONS ON THE SUBJECT OF GLASS

What is mechanical cracking?

Normally, window glass can break for a variety of reasons. If the glass is installed incorrectly or if, for example, a screw head is against the glass, cracking can occur. With this type of cracking, the cracks usually grow at irregular angles from the edge of the glass. Contact your installer if such cracks occur.

What is thermal cracking?

Thermal cracks can occur when the window glass is strongly overheated. A thermal crack always starts at a right angle from the edge of the glass, in contrast to mechanically caused cracks which occur at irregular angles. Contact your installer if such cracks occur.