Pilkington has introduced K Glass™ A, an online-coated low-emissivity glass designed to improve the thermal insulation properties of insulating glass units. The pyrolytic coating is applied during the float process and forms a permanent bond with the glass surface. In double glazing, K Glass™ A is intended to reduce heat loss through glazing and thus support the energy efficiency of building envelopes. The robust coating allows handling, processing, and storage similar to standard float glass, in accordance with common practices in the glass industry.
Pyrolytic online coating for permanent low-E function
K Glass™ A uses a pyrolytic low-emissivity coating applied during flat glass production in the float process. This online coating differs from vacuum-sputtered offline layers through its firm bond with the glass surface and higher mechanical resistance. This enables processing in conventional glass processing and window manufacturing facilities without special protective measures. The low-E layer reduces the emission of long-wave thermal radiation, resulting in better insulation values when installed in insulating glass units.
Processing and handling properties
A key feature of K Glass™ A is its ease of processing. The pyrolytic coating allows handling and storage similar to conventional float glass, processing in standard glass processing equipment, and cutting, edge grinding, and drilling according to standard practice. The glass is compatible with various insulating glass configurations. Manufacturers of PVC-U, wood, and aluminum windows can process the material without additional protective equipment, provided they follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Pilkington provides handling and processing guides.
Applications
K Glass™ A is designed for various applications in the window and facade industry: double-glazed window units in residential construction, replacement glazing in existing residential buildings, PVC-U, wood, and aluminum window systems, new residential facilities, as well as renovation and retrofit of glazing. The product is targeted at applications requiring reliable thermal insulation and robust handling properties in the window manufacturing supply chain.
Technical documentation and contact
The Declaration of Performance (DoP) is accessible at www.pilkington.com/ce. Proof of compliance with the DoP as well as technical advice, test reports, and sample requests can be obtained through your local Pilkington representative or by email at [email protected].
