Evaluating the Benefits and Testing of Vacuum Glass | A Superior Alternative to Traditional Glazing

Recently Azuma was engaged to employ its testing methods for Vacuum glass. Adhering to AS/NZS2208 Safety Glazing Materials in buildings Azuma applied fragmentation & impact testing to number of samples. Vacuum Glass being relatively new to the Australian market is yet to be covered by Australian Standards, or the IGMA technical committee – this is all but sure to change, with the suggestion it should be mentioned in AS4666, AS1288, and AS2208.

So, what are some of the benefits to Vacuum insulated glass compared to more traditional glazing methods?

Vacuum glass is an advanced technology that offers several benefits over traditional double glazing, making it suitable for modern homes, apartments, and commercial buildings. Panasonic pioneered the development of Vacuum Insulated Glass Units with the aim of creating more energy-efficient glass and reducing emissions. Although the concept of a vacuum is not new and is commonly found in items like thermoses, the engineering required to make Vacuum glass structurally stable in a depressurized state is notable. Both vacuum glass and double-glazing aim to enhance energy efficiency, insulation, and noise reduction; however, vacuum glass performs better in several important aspects.

One of the most significant advantages of vacuum glass over traditional double glazing is its superior thermal insulation properties. VIG’s consists of two glass panes separated by a vacuum gap as thin as 0.1 mm. Vacuum Glass incorporates structural micropillars to provide load strength which in tangent with its molten sealed edge stop it from collapsing inwards. The vacuum effectively eliminates heat transfer through conduction and convection, resulting in excellent insulation performance. In contrast, double glazing uses an air or gas-filled space (usually argon) between two panes of glass, which is less effective in preventing heat transfer.

The vacuum gap’s insulating ability helps maintain indoor temperatures more effectively, leading to lower energy consumption for heating and cooling. This increased thermal efficiency can result in energy savings of up to 30% compared to double glazing, making vacuum glass a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Vacuum glass is significantly thinner and lighter than traditional double glazing. While double-glazed windows typically have a thickness of 24mm to 28mm, vacuum glass can be as thin as 6mm to 8mm. This slim profile makes vacuum glass an ideal solution for buildings with space limitations or older structures that may not support the weight of thicker double-glazed units. The reduced weight also makes vacuum glass easier to install, handle, and transport, potentially reducing labour and installation costs. This thinner design doesn’t compromise performance or structural integrity.

Noise pollution is common issue in urban areas, and vacuum glass offers superior noise reduction compared to traditional double glazing. The vacuum gap effectively blocks sound waves, preventing them from passing through the glass and into the building. This makes vacuum glass an excellent choice for residential or commercial properties located near busy roads, airports, or railway lines, where noise reduction is a priority.

While double glazing does provide some level of sound insulation, the vacuum glass’s ability to create a near-total barrier against sound waves makes it more efficient in creating a quieter indoor environment.

Vacuum glass boasts a longer lifespan and higher durability compared to traditional double glazing. The vacuum-sealed gap is less prone to moisture infiltration, which is a common issue with double glazing that can lead to condensation, mold growth, and reduced insulation performance over time. Since there is no gas inside the vacuum gap, there’s no risk of leakage, ensuring consistent performance throughout the glass’s lifespan.

Additionally, vacuum glass is more resistant to temperature fluctuations, pressure changes, and external impacts, making it a more durable and reliable option for long-term use.

Choosing vacuum glass over traditional double glazing also contributes to environmental sustainability. The superior thermal insulation of vacuum glass means reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling, which translates to lower carbon emissions.

The increased energy efficiency can make buildings more environmentally friendly, helping to reduce their overall carbon footprint. Moreover, vacuum glass’s longevity means fewer replacements over time, reducing waste and the demand for new materials. This makes it an eco-friendlier option for homeowners and businesses aiming to adopt sustainable building practices.

Vacuum glass offers numerous advantages over traditional double glazing, including superior thermal insulation, a thinner and lighter design, enhanced noise reduction, longer lifespan, and environmental benefits. While the initial cost of vacuum glass may be higher, the long-term savings on energy bills, reduced maintenance, and increased durability make it a worthwhile investment.