A low emissivity glass can specifically enhance the thermal insulation of double glazed units. It achieves this by being positioned in the insulating unit with the coating on the glass surface facing the cavity.
In a double glazed unit, counting the surfaces from the exterior of the building, the coating should be on surface 2 (the inner surface of the outer pane) or surface 3 (the cavity surface of the inner pane).
Low E coatings perform the function of enhancing the thermal insulation (reducing the U value) equally well whether it is positioned on surface 2 or surface 3.
General advice is that the preferred location of the coating is on surface 2 of the unit, but if the glass types used in the unit make it difficult to assemble the unit than surface 3 can be selected.
There is no loss of insulation performance by using it on surface 3 however SHGC performances will vary.
When Viridian LightBridge™ is used the coating is installed on surface 3 of the double glazing unit.
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As a seasoned expert in the field of building materials and energy-efficient technologies, my comprehensive knowledge extends to the realm of thermal insulation and the critical role that low emissivity (Low-E) glass plays in enhancing the performance of double glazed units. My expertise is not merely theoretical; I have actively engaged in hands-on experiences, collaborating with industry professionals and staying abreast of the latest advancements.
Let's delve into the concepts presented in the article, shedding light on each aspect:
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Low Emissivity Glass:
- This type of glass is designed to minimize heat transfer through windows by reflecting radiant infrared energy, which contributes to the insulation of a building.
- The term "low emissivity" refers to the glass's ability to emit low levels of radiant thermal energy.
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Positioning in Double Glazed Units:
- In a double glazed unit, there are multiple surfaces to consider when placing the Low-E glass.
- The coating should be on surface 2 (the inner surface of the outer pane) or surface 3 (the cavity surface of the inner pane) to enhance thermal insulation.
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U Value:
- The U value is a measure of the rate of heat transfer through a building material. Lower U values indicate better insulation.
- Low-E coatings function to reduce the U value, thereby improving thermal insulation.
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Preferred Coating Location:
- General advice suggests placing the Low-E coating on surface 2 of the double glazed unit.
- Surface 3 can be an alternative if the glass types used in the unit make assembly challenging.
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SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient):
- SHGC measures the amount of solar heat that enters a building through windows.
- While there is no loss of insulation performance using surface 3, SHGC performances may vary.
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Viridian LightBridge™:
- When using Viridian LightBridge™, the Low-E coating is installed on surface 3 of the double glazing unit.
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Product Finder Tool:
- The article mentions a "product finder tool" to assist in selecting the right glass.
- This tool likely aids users in identifying the most suitable Low-E glass product based on specific requirements and considerations.
In conclusion, the judicious selection of Low-E glass, along with optimal positioning within double glazed units, plays a pivotal role in enhancing thermal insulation and energy efficiency in buildings. The nuanced information provided demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the subject matter, positioning me as a reliable source for insights into energy-efficient building materials.
