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Blast Resistant Windows: Made For Your Safety

January 26, 2023
Hallway with large glass windows

For business property owners, safety and security should always be top of mind. With the threat of natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other potentially hazardous events, having the proper safety measures in place is essential. One such measure that can make a major difference when it comes to safety is blast resistant windows. Let’s explore how blast resistant windows work and why you should consider investing in them for your business property. 

What are Blast Resistant Windows? 

Grid of window panes

Blast resistant windows are specially designed to protect against the effects of explosions. The windows are made from materials that can absorb impact from blast pressure and resist high temperatures associated with explosions. These materials usually consist of multi-layer glass laminates such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). When an explosion occurs near these windows, the shockwave is absorbed by the laminate layers instead of being transferred inside through the glass. This helps keep occupants safe from potential harm caused by flying debris or other threats associated with an explosion. It also helps to prevent contact and injury from dangerous glass fragments.

Blast Resistant Glazing

Row of glass positioned like dominoes

Blast resistant windows are typically reinforced through glazing techniques. Glazing is a technique that binds multiple layers of glass together using interlayers or sealants to create a single, strong unit. It is often used in the construction of windows and doors to help make them more durable for security and defense. The glazing process also helps insulate homes or buildings from external temperatures and noise, as well as providing increased protection for occupants from outside forces such as heavy winds or debris flying at high speeds. 

Mushroom Cloud

The most commonly used method for reinforcement is the use of multi-layer laminates such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). These materials are designed to absorb and deflect shockwaves from explosions while also providing additional protection against projectiles and other debris. Additionally, blast resistant windows may also be reinforced with steel frames or reinforced concrete walls to add an extra layer of protection.

Are Blast Resistant Windows Bullet Resistant/ Bulletproof?

Bullets stacked

Even though blast resistant windows are meant for blast protection from bombs and natural disasters, they are not bullet resistant. While they can protect against the effects of an explosion, they are not designed to withstand gunfire. If you’re looking for a window that can resist bullets, you should look into purchasing bulletproof glass or other ballistic-rated products. 

How Do Blast Resistant Windows Work? 

A building with bulletproof windows

Blast resistant windows work by utilizing a combination of science and engineering principles to absorb and deflect the pressure wave from explosions. The key to this process is understanding how different materials react under extreme force and temperature conditions. The best blast resistant windows will also include additional features such as steel frames or reinforced concrete walls that add extra protection from threat sources like projectiles or shrapnel from bombs or other explosive devices. By using these materials in combination, businesses can create an effective barrier against potential dangers associated with explosive events. 

Treebranches on a road.

Blast resistant windows are also designed to protect against the effects of natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes. The materials used in these windows can help absorb the shockwaves from seismic activity caused by earthquakes and high winds created by hurricanes and tornadoes. In addition, the reinforced frames or walls may help protect against flying debris or shrapnel associated with these types of disasters. The windows can also help reduce the amount of noise experienced during storms and other natural disasters, which can be beneficial for those inside. 

Window panes

At the end of the day, blast resistant windows are an important piece to any business’s safety plan. They help keep building occupants safe and secure during times of increased danger due to natural disasters or terrorist attacks, providing peace of mind during otherwise chaotic times. Investing in quality blast resistant window products will give your business an extra layer of protection against potential threats while also helping you save money in the long run on repairs and replacements due to damage caused by explosions. Contact the professionals at Atlantic Glass if you’re thinking of adding blast resistant windows to your building for added peace of mind and enhanced safety for your business property!

1 Comment
  1. Aharon Ben

    Wow! its really great initiative

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