What is a Laminated Windscreen?

A laminated windscreen, also known as laminated safety glass, is a type of glass commonly used in automobile windshields. It consists of two layers of glass with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) sandwiched in between. The layers are bonded together using heat and pressure, creating a strong and durable composite material.

Why is Laminated Safety Glass Safer for Automobiles?

Laminated safety glass offers several advantages over traditional tempered glass when it comes to safety in automobiles. 1. Enhanced Structural Integrity: The lamination process gives the windscreen increased strength and rigidity. In the event of an impact, the glass is less likely to shatter into sharp, dangerous shards. Instead, it tends to crack but remains largely intact, reducing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants. 2. Impact Absorption: The PVB layer in laminated glass helps absorb the energy of an impact. It acts as a cushion, dispersing the force across the surface of the glass. This feature is particularly important in the event of a collision, as it reduces the risk of passengers being thrown from the vehicle. 3. Improved Visibility: Laminated windshields offer better visibility compared to tempered glass. When tempered glass shatters, it often creates a web-like pattern of cracks that can obstruct the driver's view. Laminated glass, on the other hand, holds together even when cracked, allowing the driver to maintain a clear line of sight. 4. UV Protection: Laminated safety glass provides protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The PVB layer filters out a significant portion of UV radiation, helping to reduce the risk of sunburn and other sun-related skin damage. It also helps prevent the interior of the vehicle from fading or deteriorating due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Does My Vehicle Have Laminated Safety Glass?

Determining whether your vehicle has laminated safety glass can be done in a few simple steps. 1. Check the Manufacturer's Specifications: Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or contact the manufacturer to find out if laminated safety glass was used in the windscreen. This information is often provided in the specifications section of the manual. 2. Look for Signs of Lamination: Examine the edges of the windscreen closely. Laminated glass typically has a visible layer of PVB sandwiched between the glass layers. It may appear as a thin, clear plastic layer or a slightly tinted band around the edges. 3. Seek Professional Assistance: If you are still unsure, it is best to consult a professional. An automotive glass specialist or a certified technician can inspect your vehicle's windscreen and provide you with a definitive answer. It is worth noting that while laminated safety glass is commonly used in windshields, side windows and rear windows of vehicles may use a different type of glass, such as tempered glass. The use of laminated safety glass in these areas may vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. In conclusion, laminated windshields offer enhanced safety features compared to traditional tempered glass. The lamination process provides increased structural integrity, impact absorption, improved visibility, and UV protection.

To determine if your vehicle has laminated safety glass, refer to the manufacturer's specifications, look for signs of lamination, or call us at Budget Windscreens Auckland, 0800 946 300