The Facts About Bullet Proof Glass

Bullet proof glass, or bullet-resistant glass is made from strong, transparent materials. It can vary in thickness between three-fourths inch to three inches. The structure is designed to resist penetration from projectiles, particularly bullets. Two or more materials may be used in constructing these units. Usually one layer is soft and the other layer is hard. Soft layers allow for elasticity in the structure so that the glass does not shatter.

The design goal for these devices is to appear normal, but function as protection against small firearms. Thermoplastic, polycarbonate and sheets of laminated glass are used in the production process. Tempering; and heating, cooling and chemical processes give the materials strength and shock resistance.

The plastic portion of laminated designs provides resistance against impact caused by axes, clubs or similar weapons. However, the plastic alone does not resist the projectiles. The glass is able to flatten the projectile. The plastic deforms and is able to absorb the remaining energy and prevent further penetration. Thickness plays a role in the ability of a structure to stop a projectile. Generally speaking, thicker structures are the most resistant.

These structures are tested. Guns are fired off at a set distance into the material and the level of protection is determined. Protection levels are based on the ability of the material to stop a specific projectile moving at a specific speed.

How effective these devices are can be influenced by their amount of exposure to UV radiation, extreme temperatures and solvents. The ability of these structures is greatly influenced by the environment in which they are installed. For instance, when polycarbonate is impacted by force in an area that has a temperature below 7 degrees Celsius, the material breaks off into pieces called spall. The spall can become a projectile.

There have been developments in these devices. One-way bulletproof devices are a new structure that are commonly utilized on armored trucks. It is able to resist forces from the outside in, but allows forces from the inside out. There are also security laminates. These pieces of film, when bonded using pressure-sensitive adhesive to the inner surface of regular window, can provide the same amount of protection as multi-layered bulletproof devices.

These impact-resistant structures are used in many ways. They may be installed on car windshields or armored trucks. They can be used for protection against natural disasters, particularly hurricanes. Government and military buildings also use these devices. They are installed in many banks and penitentiary facilities as well. Read more about: bullet proof glass

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