What is BS EN 12150 glass?

Glass is one of the most widely used materials in construction and industrial applications. It offers transparency, durability, and aesthetic appeal. BS EN 12150 is a European standard that specifies the requirements for thermally toughened soda lime silicate safety glass. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of BS EN 12150 glass, its properties, manufacturing process, and various applications.

Properties of BS EN 12150 glass

BS EN 12150 glass is characterized by its exceptional strength and safety features. It undergoes a thermal toughening process that increases its resistance to mechanical stress, making it better suited for demanding environments. The glass breaks into small granules with dulled edges when shattered, reducing the risk of severe injuries. Additionally, BS EN 12150 glass offers high optical clarity, chemical resistance, and stability under exposure to varying temperatures.

Manufacturing Process

The production of BS EN 12150 glass involves several steps. First, sheets of soda lime silicate glass are cut according to specified dimensions. They are then thoroughly cleaned to remove any impurities. Next, the glass undergoes a heat treatment process called thermal toughening. The sheets are heated to high temperatures and rapidly cooled using air jets. This process induces compressive stress on the surface while maintaining tension in the inner layers, resulting in its increased strength and safety characteristics.

Applications of BS EN 12150 glass

BS EN 12150 glass finds wide application in both residential and commercial settings. Its strength and safety features make it suitable for use in doors, windows, partitions, and balustrades. In the automotive industry, it is used for windshields and side windows to ensure passenger safety during accidents. The high transparency and optical clarity of BS EN 12150 glass make it ideal for use in display cases, shelves, and tabletops. Additionally, its resistance to thermal stress allows its usage in ovens, cooktops, and fireplace doors.