Measure and reduce tempered glass iridescence We’re all familiar with the spots or streaks that show up on glass surfaces. This is especially true when there is a high degree of light polarization, with glass installations close to the sea or two to three hours before sunset. Thanks to the extensive research and development of Glaston and Arcon from Germany to eliminate this phenomenon, it is now possible for the first time to measure just how much iridescence is occurring when tempering glass. And with Glaston IriControL™, processors can manufacture unprecedented tempered glass quality in which iridescent marks are not even possible to see with the naked eye.
Glaston IriControL1™ – technology to reduce iridescence
With the latest technology just released by Glaston, IriControL™ enables glass processors to temper glass with the most minimal level of iridescence possible. This allows glass to be produced for applications where iridescence is not tolerated or where iridescence is further emphasized with a high degree of light polarization.
The new technology specifically reduces iridescence for glass types that are more sensitive to it, including 8 – 15 mm glass, heat strengthened or clear glass.
Glaston IriControL2™ – measuring iridescence, or anisotropy, with isotropy values
For the first time, iridescence values can be measured in real numerical values. Known as an isotropy value, the number indicates how visible or invisible the iridescence phenomenon is on each processed glass panel. A value from 0 – 50% is unacceptable. Values between 50 – 70% are common, but iridescence marks can easily be seen. Glass with values between 70 – 85% is considered to be high quality glass on the market today. In comparison, Glaston IriControL™ reaches values of over 95% on a consistent basis.
Glaston IriControL2™ combines the IriControL1™ technology with a new offline iridescence measurement system that shows the isotropy value as a real number. This provides a benchmark from which to improve processing or to confirm to customers that the glass exceeds all normal quality standards when it comes to iridescence.
We welcome you to learn more at China Glass 2013 in Beijing, China, at GPD Finland 2013 in Tampere, Finland and at MirStekla in Moscow, Russia.
