Laminated glass is renowned for its strength and versatility, making it an essential component of modern architecture. Used in everything from skyscraper windows to glass balustrade systems, laminated glass provides not only safety but also soundproofing and UV protection. Given its robust nature, you might wonder how such glass can be precisely cut to meet specific design needs. In this article, we aim to demystify the process of how laminated glass is crafted and tailored to fit bespoke applications.

So, How is Laminated Glass Made?

Laminated glass manufacturing is a meticulous process that enhances the glass’s durability and safety features. Here are the key steps involved:

  • Glass Cutting: Initially, the glass is precisely cut into sheets according to the required dimensions. This ensures that each pane fits the intended design perfectly.
  • Cleaning: Each glass sheet undergoes thorough cleaning to remove any impurities that could affect the adhesion of the interlayer.
  • Interlayer Placement: A special interlayer, typically made of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), is placed between the glass sheets. This layer is crucial as it holds the glass together upon impact, preventing shattering.
  • Pre-pressing: The glass and interlayer are fused together under heat and pressure in a pre-pressing process, eliminating any air bubbles and ensuring a strong bond.
  • Autoclave Process: The assembled glass is then placed in an autoclave, where it is subjected to high pressure and heat. This process fully bonds the interlayer to the glass sheets, enhancing their integrity and safety features.
  • Cooling and Trimming: After the autoclave, the glass cools down gradually to prevent thermal stress. Any excess material from the edges is trimmed, ensuring each panel is clean and smooth.

How is Laminated Glass Cut Down to Size?

It’s essential to understand that laminated glass is typically cut to the specific measurements required for an application before undergoing the lamination process. Cutting laminated glass is akin to cutting standard glass—using a glass cutter to score the surface and then applying pressure to break the glass along the score line cleanly.

Can I Cut Laminated Glass Myself?

While cutting laminated glass might sound straightforward, it requires precision, expertise, and specialised equipment. It’s advisable to leave this task to professionals to ensure the cut is accurate and the glass’s integrity isn’t compromised. Moreover, since laminated glass is custom-made to specific dimensions, there should rarely be a need to cut the glass post-manufacture.

Order Laminated Glass Products Online!

At Express Toughening, we provide a wide array of laminated glass options, tailor-made to meet your specific requirements. Whether you’re looking for enhanced safety features for your building project or need custom-sized glass for a personal design, we can help. Get in Touch: For more information or to discuss your bespoke laminated glass needs, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in selecting the perfect glass solution for your project.