Alternative Sustainable Architectural Glass Solutions
Unlike other insulated glazing solutions, PassivGlas™ VIG’s are an affordable solution that can offer a triple glazed performance (U Value 0.49 W/m2K) in an equivalent thickness of a monolithic glass, offering flexibility in design whilst meeting strict energy efficiency requirements.
Vacuum glazing units can be incorporated seamlessly into various architectural styles, allowing architects the ability to create form and function in visually appealing structures without compromising on performance.
Controlling Heat Loss
PassivGlas™ controls heat loss almost four times more effectively than double glazing, and even surpasses the thermal performance of triple glazed gas filled units (U Value 0.81 W/m2K). This benefit is in addition to being available at a fraction of the thickness, 8.15 mm to 12.15 mm, and can be manufactured into a hybrid unit (a single VIG with a thermally broken spacer bar and another lite of glass) from 20 mm thickness, to meet various styles of framing.
Sustainable Builds
One of the key advantages of energy efficient windows that use vacuum glazing, is their ability to significantly reduce heat loss, this is achieved by creating a vacuum (0.15 mm thickness) between the glass panes which minimises heat transfer through conduction and convection. As a result, buildings with PassivGlas™ vacuum glazing can expect improved insulation performance, leading to lower energy consumption and C02 emissions.
Sustainable Retrofit Builds
For architects, the use of PassivGlas™ as part of the buildings ability to meet energy requirements for Carbon Net Zero, is an added benefit. Our installers are experienced in working closely with Architects on a range of different projects and can offer advice to deliver a sustainable design solution.
Vacuum insulated glazing from PassivGlas™ can be installed without the need for specialised window frames. This makes our thermal glass the ideal choice for architectural retrofit projects, as it can fit seamlessly into a wide range of building scheme designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are vacuum units?
Vacuum Insulated Glazing or VIG is an advanced fenestration type of insulating unit. It consists of two glass panes, like a standard Insulating unit, but rather than the spacer bar and an air gap, VIG’s are separated by a micro vacuum gap, with a glass solder edge seal.
Are they fully tested?
Yes, they are tested to recognised industry standards:
Impact resistance: EN 12150-2 & ANSI Z97.1-37 & EN 12600 & BS356 (recently completed)
Weathering: EN1279-5 & ASTM E546/E2188/E2189
U-Value: ISO8301/EN12667 (Recently UKAS tested) & ASTM C518
Soundproof: ISO 10140-2 (Recently UKAS tested)
Do the standard units use coated glass?
Yes, all PassivGlas™ Linear units incorporate a Low-e single silver toughenable coating.
In order to meet the current Part O regulations, a Low-e double silver coating would be needed to meet the 70/40 requirements. Please check with VGN as to availability and MOQ for this product range.
What is the expected life?
Expected life on the unit is 25+ years due to there being no spacer bar to fail.
Will there be any condensation
Condensation is formed when the air temperature surrounding an object falls below the dew point and changes into a liquid
Internal:
Although condensation will not form on the internal surface of a VIG unit, Vacuum Glazing does not eradicate condensation from the room.
The warmer inner glass will potentially change the rooms cold point.
It is advisable to ensure all rooms have effective ventilation/circulation.
External:
Condensation may form on the external glass surface under certain conditions.
Generally, forms a grid around the micro-pillars.
Will disappear when the outside temperature warms with the morning sun.
It is an indication of how efficiently your windows are at reducing thermal loss.
Condensation between glasses:
An indication that the Vacuum has been lost.
Consult your supplier to confirm course of action.