Tempered Glass: A Comprehensive Review of Features, Benefits, and Applications
As a glass manufacturer, tempered glass is one of our key products, distinguished by its outstanding technical characteristics, high safety, and diverse applications in construction, industrial, and interior decoration projects. This report, utilizing credible Iranian sources and aiming to provide localized, original, and accurate content, examines the technical specifications, advantages, disadvantages, and applications of tempered glass.
Definition and Manufacturing Process
Tempered glass, also known as safety glass, is strengthened through a thermal or chemical process. The process includes the following steps:
- Heating
- Rapid Cooling
- Stress Creation
The glass is heated to its softening point (approximately 650–700°C) in specialized furnaces.
Cold air is blown onto both surfaces of the glass, cooling it quickly.
This process creates compressive stress on the outer surfaces and tensile stress within the glass, significantly increasing its strength.
This method makes tempered glass 3 to 7 times stronger than regular (annealed) glass. When broken, it shatters into small, cube-shaped pieces instead of sharp shards, minimizing the risk of injury.
Technical Specifications
Tempered glass is produced to strict standards to ensure safety and performance. The table below outlines its key technical specifications:
Tensile Strength
3 to 7 times stronger than regular glass
Minimum Surface Stress
69 MPa (10,000 psi) for tempered glass; 100 MPa (15,000 psi) for safety glass
Thickness
4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 mm (10 mm is the most common); laminated for thicker options (20–40 mm)
Standard Dimensions
320 × 220 cm
Custom Dimensions
Up to 600 × 300 cm (at a higher cost)
Thermal Resistance
Withstands indirect heat up to 250°C; thermal shock resistance up to 150–200°C
Types
Clear, frosted (satin), colored (smoked, bronze, green, blue), laminated, reflective
Features and Benefits
Tempered glass is preferred in many projects due to its unique features. Below are its key characteristics and advantages:
- High Impact Resistance
- Safety in Breakage
- Thermal Resistance
- Design Versatility
- Easy Maintenance
- Property Value Enhancement
- Environmental Sustainability
3 to 7 times stronger than regular glass, ideal for high-traffic areas such as entrance doors and shopfronts.
When broken, it fragments into small, blunt pieces, reducing the risk of injury, making it suitable for public and residential spaces.
Can withstand high temperatures (up to 250°C) and thermal shock (150–200°C), suitable for industrial and construction applications.
Available in clear, frosted, colored, and laminated variants, with customization options to match various architectural styles.
Its smooth, stain-resistant surface simplifies cleaning. Self-cleaning nanotechnology is available in some models.
Its sleek, modern appearance increases the aesthetic and market value of residential and commercial spaces.
Tempered glass is recyclable, making it an eco-friendly option.
Ordering and Installation Process
- Ordering: Customers must specify color, thickness, dimensions, and required fittings. On-site measurement services are available.
- Production Time: Standard production takes 7 working days, with an expedited option (1 day) available.
- Installation: Must be performed by professionals to prevent damage. The process includes precise measurement, pre-tempering cutting, and installation with appropriate fittings.
- Pricing: Calculated based on thickness, color, and area (square meter × unit price). For example, in 2024, the price of standard tempered glass ranges from 700,000 to 1,500,000 IRR per square meter.
Applications
Due to its safety and aesthetic features, tempered glass is used in a wide range of projects:
Residential and Commercial Buildings
Glass partitions, balcony railings, entrance doors, shower cabins, shopfronts, and skylights.
Automotive Industry
Side and rear vehicle windows.
Household Appliances
Refrigerator shelves, microwave and oven doors.
Public Spaces
Glass tables, decorative shelves, automatic doors, and glass staircases.
Specialized Applications
Smartphone screen protectors, diving masks, and outdoor furniture.
Key Considerations for Choosing Tempered Glass
- Appropriate Thickness: For light applications like partitions, 4–6 mm is sufficient, but for railings and shopfronts, 10 mm or more is recommended.
- Glass Type: Laminated glass for added safety, colored glass for aesthetics and privacy.
- Quality Standards: Ensure the glass carries Iran’s standard certification for guaranteed quality and safety.
- Expert Consultation: Contact our experts for guidance on selecting the best glass type and fittings.