There are many types of glass that respond to specific uses and needs, thanks to the properties that characterize them.
Today we will analyze the qualities and fields of application of the wired glass, also known as reinforced glass.
Wired glass is a particular type of soda-lime glass that is not perfectly transparent, but which guarantees the filtering of light. This type of glass is characterized by the presence of a electrowelded mesh incorporated inside it, composed of chromed metal wires. The wired glass, with its characteristic smooth surfaces, offers strategic fire resistance properties.
How is wired glass produced?
It is obtained by casting and rolling the sheets in a pasty state, between which a network of thin steel wires slightly tinned in the molten glass is interposed. Precisely the presence of this plate guarantees the wired glass the RE classification, to certify its mechanical resistance and resistance to flames and hot gases.
In fact, the metal mesh favors one uniform heat distribution over the entire surface of the glass, guaranteeing the cohesion of the sheet and avoiding its explosion, even for temperatures equal to the softening temperature, between 600 and 700°C.
The metal skeleton is also able to retain splinters in the event of the sheet breaking, offering a medium level of protection against vandalism and break-ins. Nonetheless, wired glass is not classified as safety glass since it does not have the technical properties indicated by the regulations.
What are the application fields?
Wired glass proves to be an ideal solution for internal and external applications, in commercial environments, offices and homes.
Its fire resistance properties, in combination with other structures, make it strategic for the construction of doors and windows of fire routes. In fact, the wired glass contributes to increasing the time necessary for evacuation in emergency situations.
Traditionally, it is used in industrial premises and gyms, but its chromatic and decorative possibilities also favor its use in buildings of different types. In the building sector, wired glass finds application in walls, coverings, roofs, facades, balconies and stairs, ensuring optimal natural lighting and the right privacy for each environment.
Although it is an economical material, used when cost containment is necessary; in recent years, architects and designers have become fascinated by the versatility and surprising light effects produced by wired glass, also exploiting it for furnishing elements, counters, shelves and dividing walls.
Sources: vetreriare.com, macocco.com, duzcam.sisecam.com
