31 Multi-functional glass
The conversation around fire safety glass tends to focus on fire protection alone. However as Andy Lake of Pyroguard explains, when specified correctly, this glass can be combined with other products to create a multi-functional system that offers so much more
I
n an industry with high expectations, architects and specifiers are often looking for ways in which they can push the boundaries of design and deliver more on a project. In order to achieve this, they will look to building products and solutions with innovation at their core and those with multi-functional qualities. But, how does fire safety glass fit into this? When discussing fire safety glass, it can be easy to think of it as a product with a sole function. However, while its primary purpose is indeed to protect people, property and possessions in the unfortunate event of a fire, this can just be the start of a specification. In fact, with the correct technical guidance, it is possible for a glazing system to deliver high levels of fire protection, but so much more. Fire safety glass is manufactured by alternating layers of toughened glass with intumescent gel interlayers, it is these interlayers that deliver the protection, causing the fire safety glass to react in the event of a fire. Yet, through the careful and technical selection of additional specialist glass panes to be interchanged within the system – or, in the case of a double-glazed unit, the installation of a specialist counterpane – additional performance qualities can be achieved.
Glass itself is already favoured by architects, specifiers and interior designers, bringing transparency to buildings and creating open, light and contemporary spaces. However, with this demand for aesthetics also comes the requirement for fire safety, good acoustics and energy efficiency – to name but a few.
Acoustics Take acoustic performance and office developments as an example. Modern office buildings will commonly feature a bright, open-plan layout – designed to help improve productivity levels and aid communication. Glass can be integral to achieving this, whether through the
ADF FEBRUARY 2021
specification of glass partitions between work spaces or even glass boardrooms. Schools are a similar story, often featuring glazed partitions within classrooms to help create a light and airy learning environment. However, this can all present architects with a dilemma, with the need for a glazed system that satisfies the fire safety regulations and also offers sound-deadening properties.
Through the specification of laminated toughened fire safety glass and use of calculations regarding the number of glass layers used within a system, it can be carefully engineered to reduce the amount of sound that is able to pass through the material, offering an enhanced acoustic performance.
Solar control
Another concern for architects when specifying glass is the issue of energy efficiency. This is particularly the case on high-rise buildings with glass facades, where glass forms a considerable percentage of the building envelope and can present the risk of it acting as a large greenhouse. Here again, the multi-functional capabilities of fire safety glass can help. Incorporating a glass pane with a solar control coating within the larger glazed system can prove highly beneficial, helping to reflect the UV light away from the glass. This coating can also work to keep the heat inside the building in colder months, rather than it escaping through the glass.
Aesthetics
As well as ensuring a building’s future occupants are kept comfortable, it goes without saying that architects also want to make a building look good. With the correct technical advice, it is possible for a screen-printed glass pane to be incorporated within a fire-rated glazed system, opening up additional design avenues for interior spaces. With
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
