Laminated Glazing Reference Manual-2009
Laminated Glazing Reference Manual-2009
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
Table of Contents
I. PREFACE ....................................................................................................................... 5
The Glass Association of North America ........................................................ 5
Acknowledgements ................................................................................................. 7
Caution .......................................................................................................................... 7
List of Tables
Table 1: Typical Interlayer Thickness ............................................................. 14
Table 2: Safety Glazing Minimum Interlayer Thickness .......................... 23
Table 3: Typical Protocol for Windborne Debris Impact and Cyclical
Tests ............................................................................................................. 32
Table 4: Typical Interlayer for Hurricane Performance .......................... 34
Table 5: Dynamic Racking Performance of Laminated Glass ............... 36
Table 6: UL 972 Test Requirements ................................................................. 37
Table 7: H.P. White Laboratories Test ............................................................. 40
Table 8: WMFL Requirements ............................................................................ 41
Disclaimer
The Glass Association of North America (GANA) has produced this Laminated
Glazing Reference Manual (formerly known as the Laminated Glass Design
Guide) solely to provide general descriptions concerning the basics of glass and
glass performance. The Manual does not purport to state that any particular
type of glass or glass product should be used in any specific application.
The user of this Manual has the responsibility to ensure that competent
professionals select and install the glass in compliance with all applicable laws,
rules, regulations, standards, and other requirements. GANA does not design,
The standards referenced in the Laminated Glazing Reference Manual are under
the jurisdiction of third-party organizations and agencies and are constantly
subject to review and revision. The standards and similar documents
referenced in this Manual are those in effect as of March 1, 2009. The Manual
user should refer to, consult, and comply with the most recent edition of the
referenced standards.
This Manual does not contain all of the information available from all sources
Except where specifically noted (i.e. footnotes, tables, charts), all standards
referenced in this document are intended to be the latest available edition of
such standards available at the time of publication.
Meetings provide an indispensable forum for all of GANA’s activities. Glass Week
is GANA’s annual winter meeting, which brings together technical and general
business topics. GANA’s Fall Conference is a meeting which focuses on mostly
technical issues. The Laminating Division of GANA makes a determined effort
to remain responsive to the continually changing needs of its membership
and works diligently to improve the availability of strategic information to the
Caution
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
8 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
II. Introduction
Glass
The most common glazing material used in laminated products is glass. Glass
is a hard, brittle inorganic substance produced using silicates and a flux (lime
or soda). The raw materials are heated to a very high temperature until
they reach a molten state. The molten glass is blown, cast, pressed, rolled,
Plastics
Plastics are the second type of glazing material used in laminated constructions.
Plastics can be composed of a natural or artificially prepared organic polymer
of low extensibility. Plastics used for laminated constructions are typically
extruded or molded, they are either rigid or non-rigid depending upon the
material type. Plastics are relatively light and are often used in the production
of bullet resistant and other laminates requiring low deflection and rigorous
There are several formulations of PVB interlayers and the specifier must take
care to denote the correct formulation and thickness appropriate for their
Laminated glass with PVB can be used for long term high heat exposure
applications. If the temperature the laminate is subjected to remains
high for prolonged periods of time, greater than 16 continuous hours,
a temperature limit of 180 °F (82 °C) or lower is recommended. A
laminate with PVB interlayer may visually show blemishes such as
bubbles and or slight yellowing if subjected to 180 °F (82 °C) for longer
than 16 continuous hours.
Ionomer
The raw materials are typically combined and extruded as sheet and supplied
in sheet form to fabricators. The fabricators then use a sheet laminating
process to assemble the unit. The unit is processed under heat and pressure
which bonds the components into an integral unit. This type of interlayer is a
rigid sheet and is generally used for high loads and security applications.
The most common technology used for sheet lamination is the nip roll/
autoclave process. This process uses specialized rollers and ovens to squeeze
the air out from between the layers of glass or plastic and the interlayer and
seal the glazing sandwich together. This is followed with the glazing sandwich
going through an autoclave cycle whereby heat and pressure are applied to
the unit to form the integral unit.
Other types of processes also exist such as vacuum bagging and vacuum ring.
These processes operate under the same principle of getting the air out from
Sheet lamination is used for mass production of stock glass sizes as well as
custom products. The interlayer sheet may be available in clear, printed, tinted
or textured products depending upon the formulation of the sheet. Different
color sheets can be layered together and design inserts, such as rice paper and
images on film, can be laminated.
General
Description:
Laminated architectural glass is comprised of two or more plies of glass
and/or plastic, and one or more plies of interlayer. Various glass types can
be incorporated into the laminates and are described in detail below. When
broken by impact, the interlayer tends to retain the glass fragments, minimizing
the risk for injury from sharp edges and flying or falling glass, and strongly
resists penetration by the impacting object or person.
Uses:
Typical applications of laminated architectural glass include locations where
safety glazing is required, such as doors and sidelights, shower and bath doors
and enclosures. Other locations where safety glazing may be specified include
operable windows and fixed glazed panels, balconies, elevators, vision and
spandrel areas, sports stadiums, atriums, greenhouses, skylights, and sloped
Quality:
The quality of laminated glass is discussed in ASTM C 1172 Standard
Specification for Laminated Architectural Flat Glass. The quality of glass
clad polycarbonate is discussed in ASTM C 1349 Standard Specification for
Architectural Flat Glass Clad Polycarbonate. Tolerances, inclusions and other
Sizes:
Maximum and minimum sizes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Interlayer Thickness:
Laminated glass made with cured resin interlayers is limited only by the size
of the glass and not by processing equipment. Cured resin interlayer thickness
may be controlled through the selection of the appropriate spacer tape. Typical
sheet interlayer thickness is described in Table 1. Thicker interlayer can be
achieved for special applications by adding layers together.
Colors:
Glass, plastics and interlayers are normally available in a wide range of colors
and light transmittance. Unique colors and designs can be created through
the use of decorative interlayers and customized printing processes.
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual 13 2009 Edition
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
Table 1
Typical Interlayer
Thickness
Drilling:
Custom drilling, including speak-holes and pass-through holes, is available.2
All sash must be weeped to the outside to allow water drainage. Prolonged
exposure to water, water vapor, solvents, or solvent vapors may cause
delamination or haziness around the periphery.
1 For glass clad polycarbonates (GCP’s), edges are typically seamed only prior to strengthening the glass. Polished edges are not
recommended because additional edgework compromises edge strength GCP’s or laminated polycarbonate. In addition, exposed edges
may compromise the integrity and performance of the unit.
2 For GCP’s and laminated polycarbonates, custom drilling, including speak-holes and pass-through holes, are not recommended. The
integrity and performance of the unit to resist physical and ballistic threat (as tested) can be reduced. Products are not tested under these
conditions.
3 Silicones are typically effective products for weatherproofing glass clad polycarbonate installations. Reference the GANA Glazing Manual
and manufacturer literature.
With the possibility of raw component changes made in any of the materials,
a test from preceding years may not be applicable.
Availability:
Flat and bent laminated architectural products are available throughout North
America from glass fabricators, distributors and glazing contractors.
Costs:
Information can be obtained from glass dealers or glazing contractors in the
individual project area.
Guarantee/Warranty:
Individual manufacturers offer product warranties. See manufacturer's
literature for details.
Uses:
Flat laminated architectural glass can be used in virtually any application
requiring flat glass.
Shapes:
Laminated glass is available in circles, trapezoids, triangles, and standard
squares and rectangles. Flat annealed laminated architectural glass can be cut
to a pattern. Heat-strengthened and tempered glass must be cut to size and
shape prior to lamination. Alternately, annealed glass can be cut to shape and
then laminated using liquid resin.
Description:
Bent laminated architectural glass is comprised of two or more plies of bent
glass bonded together with an interlayer. Clear, tinted, and pyrolytic coated
glass can be incorporated into the bent laminated unit.
Sizes:
Depend upon manufacturers’ processing capabilities.
Shapes:
Bent laminated architectural glass is available in cylindrical bends, curve-
plus-tangent combinations, non-circular curves, and tangent-plus-arc-plus-
tangent bends.
Description:
Glass clad polycarbonate is a laminate consisting of one or more plies of flat
Uses:
Glass clad polycarbonates provide resistance to forced entry and ballistics.
Typical applications of glass clad polycarbonates include prisons, detention
centers, jails, psychiatric facilities and other architectural settings where
security is a primary concern as well as for hurricane windborne projectiles in
Sizes:
Flat glass clad polycarbonate must be ordered cut to size.
Shapes:
Glass clad polycarbonate products are available in rectangles, squares,
triangles, and trapezoids.
Description:
Organic coated glass-butyral is comprised of at least one lite of glass with its
interior or protected surface laminated under heat and pressure to a composite
sheet of PVB with a scratch-resistant polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film.
Optionally, the OCG-B can be applied onto multiple-ply laminated glass. This
composite organic coating consists of an abrasion resistant polyester film
Uses:
Architectural applications of OCG-B include intrusion resistance to forced
entry and no-spall performance for bullet or impact resistant glass. This
organic coating on multiple-ply bullet resistant glass is a viable deterrent
to glass spalling. Single lite OCG-B resists penetration from hard projectiles,
resists glass fall-out from windborne debris breakage when well anchored,
and can meet requirements for burglar and bullet resistant glazing.
Sizes:
Flat type OCG-B glazing can be ordered cut to size or in stock sizes.
Shapes:
OCG-B glazing can be made with flat or curved glass providing application
flexibility. Shape availability is similar to flat and bent laminated glass. Flat
Laminated Polycarbonate
Description:
Laminated polycarbonate is comprised of two or more plies of polycarbonate
and one or more plies of aliphatic polyurethane. Scratch resistant, UV
resistant, textured, tinted, reflective, and / or pigmented polycarbonate sheet
may be incorporated into the laminated unit. Other plastic sheets, such as
acrylics, may be utilized within these product types. Contact manufacturer for
additional specific details.
Sizes:
Laminated polycarbonate is available in various stock sizes, can be ordered
cut to size, or fabricated on site.
Shapes:
Laminated polycarbonate can be cut to patterns using standard tools. Pre-
formed (thermoformed) pieces can be laminated together. See manufacturer’s
literature for more information.
General
Images viewed in reflection or by transmission through laminated glazing
materials maybe distorted. Both reflected and transmitted optical distortion
may result from heat-treatment of glass, thickness variability of the materials
used, mechanical stresses applied by the framing system or changes in exterior
wind pressure, and viewing conditions.
Heat-Treated Glass
Laminated glazing materials may incorporate multiple plies of heat-treated
(e.g. heat-strengthened, tempered) glass in order to achieve high levels of
resistance to thermally and mechanically applied loads. Bow, warp and roll
wave distortion are inherent characteristics of heat-treated glass. While
fabricators take steps to minimize these conditions, they cannot be eliminated.
All of these characteristics are accentuated by the use of reflective coatings
and tinted glass substrates.
Mechanical Stresses
Distortion in all glazing materials may occur as a result of the glazing system,
wind load pressures and overall bow and warp.
Viewing Conditions
Introduction
Laminated architectural glazing products and other architectural laminates
noted on preceding pages provide a broad spectrum of performance attributes
and are therefore the preferred glazing products for a number of applications.
Each of these applications is introduced below and generic information is
presented along with additional information regarding specific systems.
Safety
General
The use of glass products in doors, sidelights, and shower doors, for example,
in buildings is regulated. This is necessary because all glass can break, and
Impact Performance:
Category I: glazing must withstand one 150 foot-pound (203 J) impact
produced by impacting the glazing material with a 100-pound (45 kg)
shot bag from a vertical height of 18 inches (457 mm) or break upon
Category II: glazing must withstand one 400 foot-pound (542 J) impact
produced by impacting the glazing material with a 100-pound (45
kg) shot bag from a vertical height of four feet (1.2 m) or break upon
impact in an acceptable manner as defined in the standard.
Glazing Size:
The glazing can be qualified under two size classifications: 1.) Unlimited Size
(U) requires samples 34 inches by 76 inches, ± 0.125 inch (863 mm by 1930
mm, ± 3 mm) and 2.) Limited Size (L) allows for the largest size commercially
produced by the manufacturer that is less than 34 inches by 76 inches, ± 0.125
Weathering:
Natural Exposure - 1 year outdoor South Florida testing in accordance with
ASTM D 1435-94 Standard Practice for Outdoor Weathering of Plastics.
Impact Performance:
Class A - glazing material that complies with the requirements at a drop height
between 48 inches and 48.5 inches (1219 mm and 1231 mm).
Class C - shall apply only for fire-resistant wired glass. The material complies
with the requirements at a drop height of between 12 inches and 12.5 inches
(305 mm and 318 mm).
CAN/CGSB 12.1-M:
The Canadian General Standards Board document 12.1-M, is a national
standard that contains impact, boil and marking requirements for tempered
and laminated safety glazing materials. The purpose of this standard is to
provide a test method to qualify safety glazing that is capable of reducing the
likelihood of injuries to persons or objects projected from an exterior source or
by glass fragments when the glass is cracked or broken. The standard defines
laminated glass as two or more sheets of glass held together by an interlayer.
The standard establishes a test method and two levels of performance
differentiated by drop height of the lead filled shot bag. The performance
requirements for laminated glass in CAN/CGSB12.1-M are listed below.
Product Performance
Laminated architectural glass made with a 0.030 inch (0.76 mm) or thicker
PVB interlayer may meet the Category I and II requirements of the CPSC 16
Laminated Polycarbonates
Laminated polycarbonates may meet the test requirements for Category I and
II of the CPSC 16 CFR 1201 standard and test requirements of ANSI Z97.1
Class A and B without breakage.
Table 2
Safety Glazing Minimum
Interlayer Thickness
In addition to the mechanical loads noted above, sloped and overhead glazing
is usually subjected to thermal stress. The selection of the specific glass (i.e.,
heat-strengthened, chemically strengthened, annealed, fully tempered, tinted,
etc.) to be used and the configuration of the glass (i.e., outboard vs. inboard
lites in a sealed insulating unit) should consider these thermal loads.
The specific model building code requirements regulating sloped and overhead
glazing are found in Chapter 24 Glass and Glazing of the International Building
Code. Slope glazing requirements for one and two family dwellings are found
in the International Residential Code. It is important to note that the legal
requirements for compliance are found in the applicable state and local laws,
codes, and ordinances.
Structural Performance
Railings
The design of glass railings and balustrades requires consideration as to the
Laminated glass of all types can be used for this application. Laminated glass
can provide retention of the glass if broken and therefore allow replacement
of the glazing when convenient while possibly eliminating the potential for
For all types of loads on glass, keep in mind that for equal sizes, thicknesses,
and loadings, the deflection of glass is identical, whether annealed, heat-
strengthened or fully tempered. If deflection of an annealed lite is too great,
Scratching by foot traffic is likely to occur and will affect the appearance and
strength of the glass. Furthermore, wet glass under foot can be very slippery.
Sand blasting or coating the top surface of the laminate with a non-slip material
is advised to reduce the possibility of people slipping and falling. Sandblasting
will reduce the strength of the glass by as much as 50%, therefore glass floors
should not be sand blasted in the field without a complete engineering analysis.
A ceramic enamel paint, decorative interlayer or translucent interlayer can
be used in the laminate for opacity. All parties are advised of the potential
liability for consequential damages.
General
Certain areas of the United States are exposed periodically to the dangers
and damaging effects of hurricanes and/or windstorms. These storms, with
Performance Requirements
ASTM E 1886 Standard Test Method for Performance of Exterior Windows,
Curtain Walls, Doors, and Impact Protective Systems Impacted by Missiles(s)
Figure 1
Product Performance
Laminated glass with PVB interlayer, Cured Resin interlayer, Ionomer interlayer,
Organic Coated-Butyral glass and laminated or glass clad polycarbonates are
capable of accepting the impact of the windborne debris without vacating
the frame. With the proper glazing and interlayer thickness, the glass can
withstand impacts from both the 2 x 4 timber (large missile) and the 0.07
ounce (2 g) steel ball (small missile) and go on to survive the cyclical loading
as well.
For glass laminates in small missile testing, the interlayer can protect the
inner glass ply from breakage due to the dispersion of energy from the missile
For large missile applications, many factors must be considered when designing
for commercial or residential use. The parameters that affect laminated
architectural glass testing include: glass size and aspect ratio, glass breakage
pattern, interlayer thickness, number of glass plies, design and thickness of
frame components and anchoring method of the glazing material.
• Glass can be set in frames that have sufficient clearance of the framework
so as not to come in contact with the frame during drift design and meeting
certain criteria designated in the provisions, and
Product Performance
Laminated glass with PVB interlayer has been subjected to the testing
Laminated security products are tested, via numerous methods and standards,
and are known to offer performance resistance to these known threats, most
often categorized into three main areas: ballistics, blast resistance, and attack
resistance. At times, combinations of performance are often required. Many
laminated security products offer combinations of performance. For additional
information it is recommended all performance requirements be considered
before contacting the manufacturer.
Table 6
UL 972 Test Requirements
Several test procedures evaluate glazing performance in the medium and high/
maximum security institutional setting. Many manufacturers have used H.P.
White Laboratories Test Procedure HPW-TP-0500.03 Transparent Materials
for Use in Forced Entry or Containment Barriers (see Table 7, page 40). The
WMFL (formerly the Walker McGough Foltz & Lylerla) thirty and sixty minute
Ballistics and Forced Entry Test Procedure is another test conducted by labs
4 See the “Commercial Lines Manual” published by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), New York, NY, Division 7 - Glass (Rule 5J,
Discounts, p. G-6) and Division 3 - Crime (Mercantile Open Stock, Section 6, Rule 66, Discounts, pp. CR-47-50).
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
Table 7
Test
40 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only. No further reproduction or networking is permitted. Distributed by Thomson Reuters (Scientific) LLC, www.techstreet.com.
2009 Edition
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
41
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Table 8
WMFL Requirements
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only. No further reproduction or networking is permitted. Distributed by Thomson Reuters (Scientific) LLC, www.techstreet.com.
ASTM F 1233 Ballistic Test
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
Requirements
Table 9
42 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
Table 10
ASTM F 1915 Standard
Test Methods for Glazing
for Detention Facilities
Requirements
General
Bullet resistant laminates are designed to resist penetration from medium-
to-super-power small arms and high-power rifles. There are numerous
Performance Requirements
Bullet-resistant laminated products are tested for ballistics ratings according
to Underwriters Laboratories Standard 752 Standard for Bullet Resisting
Equipment (See Table 11, page 45), the National Institute of Justice (NIJ)
Standard 0108.1 Ballistic Resistant Protective Materials (see Table 12, page
The UL 752 currently specifies eight levels of ballistics resistance plus optional
shot gun tests. This standard requires that no “spalling” occur in order to be
listed. There may be laminated products which can provide a considerable
measure of protection from ballistic attack yet are not certified under the UL
752 requirements. It is the architect's or the specifier's design responsibility to
determine what product performance is necessary for each glazing situation.
General
Blast resistant laminates can substantially reduce injury from flying glass
resulting from direct blast shock waves (over-pressures). When properly
designed, framed, and anchored, blast resistant laminates are capable of
maintaining the integrity of the building envelope following an explosion and
reducing interior damage.
Performance Requirements
ASTM F 1642 Standard Test Method for Glazing and Glazing Systems Subject
to Airblast Loadings, is used to test laminated glazings for blast resistance. In
addition, the General Services Administration (GSA) has issued a set of design
guidelines that has been adopted by Interagency Security Committee (ISC).
Both of these documents test glazing to a specified overpressure and impulse
and rate the glass particles from the glazing at various hazard levels depending
upon the amount, size and impact location of the glass particles. Ratings
range from no or low hazard to high hazard. The Department of Defense
Product Performance
Large scale arena testing and shock tube testing indicates that nominal
¼ inch (6 mm) laminated glass using a minimum interlayer thickness to qualify
as CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Cat II/ANSI Z97.1 Class A, when installed properly in a
standard frame can withstand the published GSA/ISC performance values of
4 psi at 28 psi*msec (28 kPa at 193 kPa*msec) or greater at low hazard levels.
Laminated glass in single and laminated insulating units may also perform at
Solar-Control
General
Laminated architectural glass may be designed to reduce solar energy
transmission, control glare, and screen out ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When
solar radiation falls on any glazing, portions are reflected, absorbed, and
transmitted. The absorbed energy heats the glazing and is then dissipated by
the re-radiation and convection from both surfaces of the glazing. Transmitted
solar energy is reduced by the use of tinted or coated glass, colored interlayers,
or combinations of each which absorb part of the solar radiation in the
ultraviolet, visible, and infrared ranges. The absorbed energy is converted
to heat, and a large portion is dissipated to the exterior. By using a tinted
interlayer, tinted or coated glass/glazing, solar transmission will be reduced
without increasing nominal glazing thickness. Laminated architectural glass
can be combined into insulating units for greater thermal performance.
When solar energy is incident on a glazing, the sun’s heat is flowing into the
building interior. Low-e coatings reduce heat flow through a glazing, and
therefore, using low-e coatings instead of ordinary glass will always reduce
the shading coefficient of the glass. For pyrolytic (hard coat) low-e non-
insulating laminated glass, it is important that the low-e coating is facing the
building interior. The pyrolytic low-e coating must not be placed in direct
contact with the interlayer material. When used in a non-insulating laminated
glass construction, sputter coated (wavelength selective) low-e coatings are
designed to face the interlayer material and provide a higher level of solar-
control.
Proper glazing design should take into consideration thermal stresses, which
• The temperature difference between the center and the edge of the glass;
• The temperature difference between the glass and the outdoor air; and
• The extent to which the glass edges are isolated from the glass support
members.
As a general rule, if the edges are cleanly cut and undamaged and are installed
in conformity with the recommendations in this Manual, the principal
controlling variables will be the solar absorptance of the glass and the building
If the laminated lite is clear glass installed as the inboard (interior) lite in
an insulating unit, the lite may not require strengthening depending on the
severity of the winters. Additional considerations regarding heat-treating or
strengthened glass include the use of heat-absorbing or heat-reflecting glass,
solar orientation, the size of the glass, framing conditions, and design loads.
Performance Requirements
Unlike other performance requirements mentioned in this Manual, there are
no specific performance targets for solar-control. Instead, these requirements
Product Performance
The possible combinations of glazing materials with interlayers and their
respective solar performance are too numerous to detail in this Manual. Some
standard laminates with are detailed in Tables 14 & 15 (pages 51 and 52)
for reference purposes but are not intended to be all inclusive. Lawrence
Berkeley National Laboratories has developed Optics, a software program that
can be used to configure laminates with virtually any glazing and interlayer
combination. Optics creates the spectral data for that assembly and will allow
exporting of the file for use in various solar and energy calculating software.
Fenestration products can be modeled in Window, a software program that
calculates solar and thermal performance. The programs are available at
2009 Edition
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
51
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Solar Performance of Basic
Laminates
Table 14
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
Table 15
Solar Performance of Basic
Laminated Insulating Units
Laminated Polycarbonates
Laminated polycarbonates can be tinted by the addition of pigments to the
sheets and/or interlayers. Solar-control (reflective) coatings can also be
applied to the laminate. Consult manufacturers for specific optical properties
of laminates.
General
Damage to interior fabrics and furnishings is caused by a number of factors.
These include ultraviolet radiation, visible light radiation, oxygen, moisture,
elevated temperatures and air pollutants. Some of these factors are more
damaging than others, and not all of them can be eliminated. However,
minimizing the effects of the major causes of deterioration can substantially
slow the process.
Research has shown that about 60% of the potential damages are due to
ultraviolet radiation and 40% are due to visible light in wavelengths between
380 and 500 nm. The damage-weighted transmittance, is the transmittance
of the glazing from 300 through 500 nm weighted by a damage-weighting
function. It is used to indicate the potential damage to materials. The damage
weighted function is generic in that it does not apply specifically to any one
type, or color of material. It does provide consumers with a meaningful single
number rating to compare the performance of different products using a
standardized method.
Performance Requirements
As in the requirements for general solar-control, UV screening is a property
that is specified on a project by project basis at the discretion of the designer.
Certain applications such as museums and facilities using large expanses of
glass in window wall applications may have a need to reduce the deterioration
Product Performance
General
Laminated architectural glass (2-ply or 3-ply) reduces sound transmission over
a wide frequency range depending on glass and interlayer thickness. Laminated
glass in an insulating glass configuration can reduce sound transmission more
dramatically and over a much wider frequency range depending on glass and
air space thickness. The high and low frequencies of jet aircraft, the middle
frequencies of speech and typewriters, and the low frequencies of traffic are
reduced by the damping effect of the plastic interlayer combined with the
glass. Various configurations of glass and interlayer are possible to achieve
the desired acoustical performance. The combination of glass and interlayer
provides a better noise barrier than either monolithic or non-laminated
insulating glass. Typical applications include airports, hotels, data processing
centers, recording studios, factories, and buildings near airport terminals,
highways, or railroad stations.
Performance Requirements
5 The ASTM procedure calls for the Sound Transmission Loss to be recorded for a series of 16 frequency bands. Each band encompasses
one third of an octave over a range of 125 to 4,000 Hz (cycles per second). The STL values in decibels are plotted as a function of frequency
and compared to the STC contour. The higher the STC rating, the greater the reduction of sound transmission.
Table 16
Acoustical Performance
PVB Laminates
Table 23
Acoustical Performance
Cured Resin Laminates
Atrium Enclosures
An atrium is defined as an opening through two or more floor levels other than
enclosed stairways, elevators, hoistways, escalators, plumbing, electrical, air
conditioning, or other equipment, which is closed at the top and not defined
as a mall. Laminated architectural glass is allowed as an atrium enclosure if
the surface of the glass is protected from fire by a sprinkler system that would
continually wet the entire surface.
There are certain general guidelines that should be followed. These include
the following:
5. When multiple plies are used, all of the plies of glass should generally be
of the same type and the same thickness (i.e. all must be either annealed,
heat-strengthened or fully tempered). If the stress levels within each
laminated layer of glass are correctly calculated, it may be possible to
specify different thicknesses of glass and different types of strengthened
glass.
8. The glazing system should provide firm support for the glass edges
(support on all dimensions is recommended) and prevent face or edge
contact that could lead to breakage.
Zoo Enclosures
The design of zoo enclosures and view windows differs substantially from the
Regarding this last point, there is little measured data especially within the
context of a closed environment, such as a zoo. The weight and size of various
animals are generally available, but what little data exist regarding the speed
of animals are based on estimates taken in the wild, and these are often
considered to be inaccurate.
The glazing system must provide firm support for the glass edges (support on
all dimensions is recommended) and prevent face or edge contact that could
lead to breakage.
Caution: Because of the lack of clear criteria and standards regarding zoo
enclosure applications, the designers and the laminators may reach varying
conclusions regarding the configuration of the glazing appropriate for a
specific project.
Lamination to Mirrors
Laminating mirrors can serve multiple purposes. It can transform a standard
mirror into safety glazing material that may meet the American National
2009 Edition
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
71
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Mirror Lamination Surface
Figure 9
Nomenclature
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only. No further reproduction or networking is permitted. Distributed by Thomson Reuters (Scientific) LLC, www.techstreet.com.
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
72 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
IV. Handling, Storage and Glazing
Receiving
Instructions should be made available to your receiving department personnel,
your field captain and any other individual, which may be required to receive
in delivered goods.
The following steps should be taken to avoid damage to glass after it has been
received on the jobsite:
Storage
To avoid glass breakage or damage to other laminated products during jobsite
storage:
1. Store crated glass in a cool, dry, shady, well ventilated area where it will not
be subject to rain or direct sun. Glass can become stained in a very short
For best results, the laminated glass should be at uniform room temperature
of 70 °F (21 °C) or higher for proper cutting and break out.
Lay the glass on a FLAT cutting surface, preferably covered with felt, or a very
firm carpet. Place glass with a slight bow on the table with the bow side up,
scoring and running the bow side first. Place patterned glass on the table with
the pattern side down, scoring and running smooth side first.
Flip glass over, place a straightedge so the second score mark is exactly over
the first. Apply cutting oil liberally on the desired line of cut.
Apply uniform and very firm pressure on the cutter in making the score.
For narrow strips, one to four inches wide, run the cut in short steps from one
end by hand or with glass pliers. Do not attempt to run the entire score in one
snap. Instead, force the run only a few inches at a time, moving the pliers or
hand to adjust behind the run point after each step.
For cutting strips wider than four inches, pull the score line over the edge
of the cutting table and apply firm downward pressure at point on the glass
equally distant from the ends of the score. This will cause the entire score to
“snap” or run at once.
To cut the plastic interlayer, bend the cut section down, just enough to get
the sharp edge of the broken tape measure or razor blade between the cut.
(CAUTION: Bending downward too much will cause the edges of the glass to
chip.) Carefully score the plastic with a broken tape measure or razor blade
using successively deeper cuts until completely through.
General
The glazing system should provide for proper face and edge clearance as well
as nominal bite. (See Table 26, page 77). Proper allowance must be made for
glass, glazing, metal, and erection tolerances, plus expansion and contraction.
Restricted edge clearances can result in glass damage from glass-to-metal
contact when normal building movements and thermal expansion occur.
A weep system must be incorporated into the exterior glazing system and
high moisture installations so that condensation or infiltrated water does
not accumulate in the glazing channel. Sealant compatibility with all glazing
components must be verified by the sealant supplier. A silicone construction
sealant bead should be applied between the face of glass clad polycarbonates
and their retention frames. A pre-shimmed glazing tape is recommended for
glass-clad polycarbonate and bullet resistant laminates to seal and uniformly
cushion the laminate in the frame.
Installation guidelines are noted in Table 26, page 77. Additional glazing
information is presented in the GANA Glazing Manual and Sealant Manual.
Individual manufacturer's recommendations may vary.
Figure 10
Recommended Glazing
Clearances & Bite
(See Table 20 for
recommended minimum
values)
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
78 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
V. Sealant & Glazing Material Compatibility
General
Architects, engineers and glaziers are faced with a complex decision when
selecting sealants to best satisfy building project requirements. There are
a number of generic sealants, each with its own base material. Within a
generic type, individual sealant formulations will have varying quantities of
plasticizer, solvents, curing agents and / or fillers. Each product is specifically
formulated to provide properties making it suitable for some applications but
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
80 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
VI. Maintenance & Cleaning
Razor blades or other sharp objects should not be used to clean glass surfaces.
Such exposure will cause permanent damage. Contact the product manufacturer
for specific cleaning recommendations. GANA Glass Informational Bulletins,
Proper Procedures for Cleaning Architectural Glass Products and Heat-Treated
Glass Surfaces are Different, are available through the Association at www.
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
82 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
VII. Guide Specifications
General Note
All standards referenced in this section are intended to be the latest available
edition. The user must insert the appropriate year (e.g. ASTM C 1172-09
Standard Specification for Laminated Architectural Flat Glass is the latest
edition at the time of publication of this document). Glass specifications
should appear in the glass section of the architectural specification.
Safety Applications
To the specifications for laminated architectural glass noted in “1” above, add
the following:
The laminate shall comply with Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC)
document 16 CFR 1201 Safety Standard for Architectural Glazing Materials,
Solar-Control
To the specifications for laminated architectural glass noted above, add the
following:
Coated glass products shall meet the criteria set forth in ASTM C 1376 Standard
Specification for Pyrolytic and Vacuum Deposition Coatings on Flat Glass.
The laminate shall have a visible transmittance of (value) % with a solar heat
gain coefficient (SHGC) of _____ and a maximum UV energy transmittance of
<1.0% below 380 nm.
Sound Control
To the specifications for laminated architectural glass noted above, add the
Insulating units shall meet criteria set forth in ASTM E 2188 Standard Test
Method for Insulating Glass Unit Performance, ASTM E 2189 Standard Test
Method for Testing Resistance to Fogging in Insulating Glass Units and ASTM
E 2190 Standard Specification for Insulating Glass Unit Performance and
Security Applications
To the specifications for laminated architectural glass noted above, add the
following:
The laminate shall meet (test standard) for bullet resistance (specify Level),
forced entry resistance (specify Class required) or a combination thereof.
Windborne Debris
Window system shall meet the requirements of ASTM E 1996 Standard
Specification for Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, Doors and
Impact Protective Systems Impacted by Windborne Debris in Hurricanes using
a standard design pressure of ___ psf and meeting the requirements of missile
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
86 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
VIII. Standards
Glass Quality
ASTM C 1036 Standard Specification for Flat Glass
ASTM C 1048 Standard Specification for Heat-Treated Flat Glass—Kind HS,
Kind FT
ASTM C 1172 Standard Specification for Laminated Architectural Flat Glass
ASTM C 1349 Standard Specification for Architectural Flat Glass Clad
Polycarbonate
Safety
ANSI Z97.1 American National Standard for Safety Glazing Materials used
Acoustical
ASTM E 90 Standard Method for Laboratory Measurement of Airborne
Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements
ASTM E 413 Standard Classification for Rating Sound Insulation
ASTM E 1332 Standard Classification for Determination of Outdoor-Indoor
Security
ASTM E 2395 Standard Specification for Voluntary Security Performance of
Window and Door Assemblies with and without Glazing
Impact
ASTM F 1233 Standard Test Method for Security Glazing Materials and
Systems
ASTM F 1915 Standard Test Methods for Glazing for Detention Facilities
ASTM F 1641 Standard Test Method for Measuring Penetration Resistance
Earthquake
AAMA 501.4 Recommended Static Test Method for Evaluating Curtain Wall
and Storefront Systems Subjected to Seismic and Wind
Induced Interstory Drifts
AAMA 501.6 Recommended Dynamic Test Method For Determining The
Seismic Drift Causing Glass Fallout From A Wall System
FEMA 368 Recommended Provisions for Seismic Regulations for New
Building and Other Structures
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
90 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
IX. Surface Nomenclature
Surface numbers are not intended to describe the type of glazing substrate,
GANA Fully Tempered Heavy Glass Door and Entrance Systems Design
Guide
This Design Guide provides authoritative technical information to designers
and offers suggestions for proper applications of heavy tempered glass used
in doors and entrances. The aim of this guide is to promote proper design
practices and adherence to appropriate structural standards in fully tempered
heavy glass storefronts and entrance design. Proper design and adherence
to standards serve as a benefit to the architect, glass fabricator, installing
contractor, and most importantly, to the end user. The contents of this Manual
are for the design professional's use in review and final approval.
Purchased/Downloaded by Urmilla (GANA) 03/20/2012. Pursuant to License agreement, no further reproductions authorized.
100 2009 Edition
GANA Laminated Glazing
Reference Manual
Copyrighted material licensed to MARIE ISABELLE LECHLEITER on 2016-11-10 for licensee's use only.
XIII. Organizations Publishing Referenced
Standards and Information
Organization Acronym
All submittals must be received at least one month prior to the meeting date.
A schedule of meeting dates is available from the GANA office and at the
association website www.glasswebsite.com.
Submittal Guidelines:
1. For acceptance into the section of Types of the interlayer material and test
3. For acceptance into the Safety section, send CPSC 16 CFR 1201 and/or
ANSI Z97.1 test reports from an independent test laboratory.
4. For acceptance into the Solar section, supply Visible Transmittance, Solar
Transmittance, Shading Coefficient, Design Instantaneous Heat Gain or
U-values on laminated products.
FABRICATORS
AGC GLASS
11175 Cicero Drive
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Tel: (404) 446-4208
Fax: (404) 446-4221 *Serge Martin
E-mail: [email protected]
www.na.agc-flatglass.com
Arch LA
19430 E. San Jose Ave.
City of Industry, California 91748
Tel: (800) 877-8439
Fax: (909) 595-6025
J. E. BERKOWITZ, L.P.
1 Gateway Blvd.
Pedricktown, New Jersey 08067-3619
*Arthur Berkowitz
Robert Price
Tel: (856) 456-7800 Michael Nicklas
Fax: (856) 299-4344 Chris Frye
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
www.jeberkowitz.com
CARDINAL IG
7201 West Lake Street
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55426
Tel: (952) 929-3134 * Jeffery E. Haberer
Fax: (952) 929-7229 Robert G. Spindler
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected]
Cardinal LG
250 Griffin Street
Cardinal LG
1300 SW 44th Avenue
Ocala, Florida 34474
Tel: (352) 237-4410
Fax: (352) 237-0452 Kyle Peterson
E-mail: [email protected]
FENESTRA IG
9739 201 Street
Langely, BC V1M 3E7
Canada
Tel: (604) 882-3513
Fax: (604) 882-3516
E-mail: [email protected] *Ron Parker
www.totaldesignsolutionsllc.com
OLDCASTLE GLASS
151 Fenwick Court
Delran, New Jersey 08075-2207
Tel: (856) 764-7762
Fax: (856) 764-7931 *Rick Wright
E-mail: [email protected]
www.oldcastleglass.com
Oldcastle Glass
5890 Bethelview Road #10-205
Cumming, GA 30040-1525
PGT INDUSTRIES
10070 Technology Drive
North Venice, Florida 34275-3617
Tel: (941) 480-1600 x22334
Fax: (941) 486-8369 *Kari Norder
Email: [email protected]
www.pgtindustries.com
ALTUGLAS INTERNATIONAL
OF ARKEMA, INC.
2000 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-3399
Tel: (215) 419-7605
Fax: (215) 419-5512 *Tom DeMain
E-mail: [email protected]
ARGOTEC, INC.
49 Greenfield Street
Greenfield, Massachusetts 01301-1378
FERRO CORPORATION
251 West Wylie Avenue
P.O. Box 519
Washington, Pennsylvania 15301-2267
Tel: (724) 223-5900
Fax: (724) 228-3170 *Michelle Burns x5950
E-mail: [email protected]
E-mail: [email protected] Joseph Ryan
www.ferro.com
HUNTSMAN POLYURETHANES
52 Kendall Pond Road
Derry, New Hampshire 03038
Tel: (603) 421-3500
Fax: (603) 421-3510 *Rhona Watson
E-mail: [email protected]
www.huntsman.com
SHEFFIELD PLASTICS
A Bayer MaterialScience LLC Business
119 Salisbury Road
Sheffield, Massachusetts 01257
STEVENS URETHANE
412 Main Street
Easthampton, Massachusetts 01027
Tel: (413) 779-1235
Fax: (978) 887-6473 *John F. Callahan
e-mail: [email protected]
www.stevensurethane.com
ZIRCON CORPORATION
322 Moore Lane
Collierville, Tennessee 38017-2763
Tel: (901) 850-0561
Fax: (901) 850-0563
www.zirconcorp.com
E-mail: [email protected] *Charles E. Bayha
E-mail: [email protected] Jarrad Bayha