Saflex Introduces New Interlayer Configuration for Essential Facilities

Saflex has introduced a new configuration of high-performance interlayer that meets level E, the recommended glazing standard for essential facilities, in a single lite of laminated glazing, which eliminates the need to use an insulated glazing system, making hurricane protection much more affordable.

The Palm Bay Community Hospital in Palm Bay, Fla., is the first project to incorporate the level E interlayers.

The product uses a combination of Saflex's toughest interlayers, laminated between two pieces of glass under heat and pressure. According to the supplier, the resulting piece of glass looks and functions like a single piece of ordinary glass but is stronger and tougher than 90-gauge laminated glass.

"While most hurricane-related building codes are designed to protect homes and businesses during a hurricane, experts still advise people to evacuate," says Julia Schimmelpenningh, architectural applications manager for Saflex. "A tough building standard known as ASTM E 1996 Level E was designed to protect buildings and the people inside when evacuation is not an option. However, until now, there were few solutions available for achieving Level E. Those that were available were so costly that they were often value-engineered out of plans."

Testing shows that glass made with the new Saflex solution passes level E impact tests, which call for the glazing to resist a 9-pound 2 x 4 fired at 80 feet per second. Although the glass may crack, it clings to the interlayer and prevents debris, wind, water and pressure from entering and destroying the structure. (For comparison, standard large missile-level D-tests require a material to resist a 9-pound 2 x 4 fired at 50 feet per second.)

CLICK HERE for more information.

Not receiving your own FREE copy of the Architects' Guide to Glass and Metal e-newsletter?
CLICK HERE to subscribe today.

Not receiving your own FREE copy of the Architects' Guide to Glass and Metal magazine?
CLICK HERE to subscribe to Architects' Guide to Glass & Metal magazine.