Energy efficient glazing solutions
When having the responsibility of facility management, it is key to understand the potential risks and building inefficiencies, and understand how to resolve these in a cost-effective manner.
PassivGlas™ vacuum glazing solutions can have a positive impact in a variety of commercial facilities to boost energy efficiency and manage any internal noise control pollution (Rw: 36 dB), thus enhancing the buildings appearance and appeal.
Secure glazing
Facilities managers responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of buildings, can benefit by installing PassivGlas™ vacuum glazing units in the windows of properties. Through its excellent thermal insulation properties (U Value – 0.49 W/m2K), PassivGlas™ lowers energy consumption all year round due to reducing the reliance on heating and cooling systems.
Identifying potential hazards, a PassivGlas™ unit retrofit could help resolve the issue, as vacuum glazing can be fully toughened with an option for laminated, allowing the units to be security glass solutions.
Affordable retrofit solution
Retrofitting can be carried out with minimal disruption to the occupants of the building, as this can be completed without the need to remove the existing frames. This makes PassivGlas™ an affordable solution for upgrades and refurbishments to existing buildings.
With a 15-year warranty and a life expectancy of over 25 years, PassivGlas™’ durability and ease of maintenance, make the units a practical choice for facilities managers.
Optimal performance
When it comes to managing the functionality of the building, alongside the benefits of exceptional thermal control and improved noise abatement, having an 80% light transmittance can optimise the environment and comfort of all interior spaces.
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.