Hey there! As a supplier of Ford Blue Float Glass, I've gotten tons of questions about how it stacks up against tempered glass. So, I thought I'd break it down for you in this blog post.
What's Ford Blue Float Glass?
First off, let me tell you a bit about Ford Blue Float Glass. It's a type of tinted float glass with a distinct blue hue. This glass is made through the float glass process, where molten glass is floated on a bed of molten tin. This results in a smooth, uniform surface with excellent optical clarity.
The blue tint in Ford Blue Float Glass isn't just for looks. It offers some practical benefits too. It helps to reduce solar heat gain, which means it can keep your space cooler on sunny days. This can lead to energy savings as you rely less on air - conditioning. Also, it provides a certain level of privacy while still allowing natural light to filter in.
There are other types of tinted float glass out there too, like Gold Bronze Float Glass, Black Float Glass, and Dark Grey Float Glass. Each has its own unique look and properties, but today we're focused on how Ford Blue compares to tempered glass.
What's Tempered Glass?
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass. It's made by heating regular glass to a very high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This process creates internal stresses in the glass, which makes it much stronger than regular glass.
One of the biggest advantages of tempered glass is its strength. It can withstand much more impact than normal glass. If it does break, it shatters into small, blunt pieces instead of large, sharp shards. This makes it a popular choice for applications where safety is a major concern, like shower doors, car windows, and some building facades.
Strength and Durability
When it comes to strength, tempered glass takes the lead. As I mentioned, the tempering process makes it several times stronger than regular float glass, including Ford Blue Float Glass. If you're in an area where there's a risk of impact, like a busy street or a place with lots of activity, tempered glass might be a better choice.
However, Ford Blue Float Glass isn't a slouch in terms of durability. It has a smooth surface that's resistant to scratches and abrasions. And while it's not as strong as tempered glass, it can still hold up well in normal, everyday situations.
Safety Features
Tempered glass is all about safety. Its shattering pattern is designed to minimize the risk of injury. In case of an accident, the small, blunt pieces are less likely to cause deep cuts compared to the sharp shards of regular glass.
Ford Blue Float Glass, on the other hand, breaks into larger pieces when it shatters. So, if safety is your top priority, tempered glass is the way to go. But if you're using the glass in an area where the risk of breakage is low, Ford Blue Float Glass can still be a great option.
Energy Efficiency
This is where Ford Blue Float Glass shines. The blue tint helps to block out a significant amount of solar radiation. This means less heat is transferred into the building or vehicle, reducing the need for cooling systems. As a result, you can save on energy costs in the long run.
Tempered glass, on the other hand, doesn't have the same built - in solar control properties. It's mainly focused on strength and safety. So, if energy efficiency is a major concern for you, Ford Blue Float Glass might be a better fit.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics are a matter of personal preference. Ford Blue Float Glass has a unique, stylish blue color that can add a modern and sophisticated look to any building or vehicle. It gives a sense of depth and character.
Tempered glass, on the other hand, usually looks like clear glass. While it's clean and classic, it might not have the same visual impact as Ford Blue Float Glass. If you're looking to make a statement with your glass, Ford Blue Float Glass could be the way to go.
Cost
Cost is always a factor when making a decision. Generally, Ford Blue Float Glass is more affordable than tempered glass. The tempering process adds to the production cost of tempered glass, making it pricier.
If you're on a tight budget, Ford Blue Float Glass can offer a good balance of functionality and aesthetics without breaking the bank. But if safety and strength are non - negotiable, you might have to invest in tempered glass.
Applications
The choice between Ford Blue Float Glass and tempered glass also depends on the application.
For residential windows, Ford Blue Float Glass can be a great choice. It provides energy efficiency, a nice look, and can still offer decent protection. If you have a large window facing the sun, the blue tint can help keep your home cool. However, for areas like shower enclosures, tempered glass is the standard because of its safety features.
In commercial buildings, tempered glass is often used for storefronts and areas with high traffic. But for offices or areas where energy efficiency is important, Ford Blue Float Glass can be a good option.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Ford Blue Float Glass and tempered glass each have their own pros and cons. If you're looking for energy efficiency, a unique look, and an affordable option, Ford Blue Float Glass is a great choice. But if strength, safety, and resistance to impact are your top priorities, tempered glass is the way to go.
If you're interested in purchasing Ford Blue Float Glass or have any questions about how it can work for your project, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you make the best decision for your needs.
References
- Glass Association of North America. (2023). Guide to Glass Types and Applications.
- Architectural Glass Manufacturers Alliance. (2023). Float Glass and Tempered Glass: Properties and Uses.