The similarity in the appearance between clear glass and low iron glass may mislead in choice of applications. But, glass experts can explain the differences between them and which kind might be the right choice depending on the circumstance.
Their properties differ because their ingredients aren’t the same, so one may be better suited than the other for certain design projects. As we say, “the use of right glass in the right place” is essential to achieve the expected results.
Low iron vs. Clear glass
The clear glass is not the clearest glass. as the name suggests. Design professionals and glass experts know that the clear glass isn’t completely clear. It has a distinct green hue when viewed under light. Whereas low iron glass gives it heightened levels of clarity and transparency compared to traditional clear glass.
Low iron Vs. Clear glass
The low iron glass is distinguished by their blue edges. Their high degree of clarity and color fidelity makes them best suited to achieve a truly transparent aesthetic. They can transmit more light compared to regular glass without the greening effect associated with clear glass panels. These remarkable features make this glass a stand alone type suitable for wide range of applications.
Applications
The interior applications of low iron glass include decorative glass, shelves, tabletops, backsplashes and doors. The decorative applications arise due to their color neutrality as they can showcase the items with their actual colors. The use of clear glass in these areas can dilute the colors due to the greening effect. For instance, in case of backsplashes, the clear glass hinders the color perception but low iron will ensure the desired outcomes.
Exterior applications like vision glazings, facades, skylights, entrances, etc., offer amplified daylighting with low iron glasses. They can offer undistorted natural light which other commercial glazing products cannot afford. Now a days, the use of jumbo sized glass commonly, “Jumbo glass” is used for daylighting. The use of low iron glass instead of conventional clear glass for jumbo sized insulated glass units (IGU) can offer optimum light transmittance and create astonishing outdoor views.
The above features are added with benefits like increased solar control performance and reduced dependence on artificial lighting in turn resulting in optimized energy usage. All these characteristics account to the vast applications of low iron glass.
