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Home / News / Industry News / How do the thickness and composition of a coating on low E insulated glass affect its effectiveness in controlling heat transfer?
The thickness and composition of a coating on low E insulated glass play a crucial role in controlling heat transfer. Let's discuss them one by one:
Thickness: The thickness of the coating affects both the emissivity and reflectivity of the glass. Emissivity refers to the ability of a surface to emit radiant heat, while reflectivity relates to the ability of a surface to reflect heat. A thicker coating can reduce the emissivity of the glass, making it less capable of emitting heat to the environment.
When heat is generated indoors (e.g., from heating systems or electrical appliances), it tries to escape through the glass. However, a thicker low E coating can restrict the amount of heat that can escape by reducing the emissivity. This enhances the insulating properties of the glass, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency.
Composition: The composition of the coating influences its reflectivity, transmittance, and emissivity. The coating typically consists of microscopic layers of metallic oxides, such as silver or tin oxide. These thin layers selectively reflect and transmit specific wavelengths of light.
The composition determines the ability of the coating to reflect infrared radiation (heat). A low E coating is designed to reflect the longer wavelength infrared radiation while allowing shorter wavelength visible light to pass through. This means that the coating reflects the heat from the interior back into the room while still allowing natural light to enter.
Additionally, some low E coatings have multiple layers, including a top layer of silicon nitride or similar material, which protects the underlying layers from scratching, chemical damage, and deteriorating effects of the environment.
A well-designed low E coating with the appropriate thickness and composition can significantly reduce heat transfer through the glass. It restricts the emissivity, preventing heat loss during cold weather and heat gain during warmer conditions. As a result, it enhances insulation, helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes the need for heating or cooling systems.
