Polyvision® Privacy Glass is a multi-purpose glass that offers the end user the ability for open concept and privacy that can be controlled by electrical power. The most common application for smart glass is in exterior and interior building windows. In recent years, there has been an increase in interest towards smart glass due to their ability to block direct sunlight exposure and improve energy efficiency.
To enjoy the benefits of Polyvision®, it is important that you know how your smart glass will work before turning it on for the first time.
What to Expect before Turning on of Polyvision® Privacy Glass?
You may be wondering about the cleaning, maintenance, power consumption requirements of your Polyvision® smart glass. Here are some top things you should know before switching on Polyvision®.
Cleaning
Polyvision® Switchable Smart Film is protected from the elements when it has been laminated between two pieces of glass or Insulated Glass unit (IGU) for exterior applications. You can clean smart glass like regular windows with Ammonia-Free window cleaner or even isopropyl alcohol (IPA) solution on a microfiber cloth.
Do not user any abrasive material like sandpaper or scrubbing brushed as they may scratch the surface of the panel and reduce its clarity, while increasing the overall haze of the glass. With Polyvision®, the end user can eliminate the need for dust and bacteria collecting draperies, blinds, or shutters. This is important especially in healthcare applications, since a survey submitted to the National Library of Medicine found 42% of hospital privacy curtains were contaminated by deadly pathogens. All our products are more hygienic than curtains, while still providing the option for privacy when needed, the panels offer a great barrier to help stop the spread of pathogens. Learn More from our Hospital Guide.
Maintenance
If you want your smart glass to last longer, then make sure that you keep them well maintained. Consult with a professional to ensure proper installation, for most framing it is recommended to not apply more than 4 ft-lb of force when tightening screws on the frame.
Avoid plugging the glass directly into an outlet or using unapproved mounting methods. Make sure your power supply can handle the energy demands of the smart glass, one provided power supply can power up to 60 sqft of Polyvision® Panels. It may require a dedicated power source.
Clean the panels regularly using an IPA solution and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight by making sure exterior applications are using a IGU made with Low E. Smart glass needs to be off, opaque, for four hours a day to prevent the liquid crystals from permanently aligning to the electric field and extend its lifespan.
Power
Privacy glass consumes less power than solar panels. However, just like any other electronic device, smart glass does consume some amount of power. Polyvision consumes about 0.5 watts of power per square foot of the panel, this will help your monthly electricity bill significantly while also reducing your need for air conditioning during hot days.
Polyvision® Smart Glass has been tested to endure temperature extremes, currently to extend the panels lifespan, Polytronix, Inc® recommends for all exterior applications that the weather is between -10C to 70C. It is also recommended if the glass is not ready to be installed, to store it within the crate that the glass was shipped in to prevent accidental breakage and with storage temperatures between 10C to 40C.
