What is Bullet Proof Glass and How Does it Work?

Due to the threat of businesses and government facilities around the globe, there has been a heightened awareness in protecting employees, property and customers. More businesses are utilizing the effectiveness of bullet proof glass in doors and windows.

What is Bullet Proof Glass?

Bullet proof glass, also referred to as bullet resistant glass, is any type of glass which has been designed to withstand the penetration of most bullets. It is important to understand there is no possible way to create consumer level glass that is completely resistant to bullets. There are two primary types of bullet-resistant glass; glass which uses layers of laminated glass and glass that is made with a polycarbonate thermoplastic. Bullet proof glass has been commonly used since around World War II and it is extremely thick and heavy. Typically it is about four inches thick; however, in some uses the glass may be as much as 8-inches thick.

How Does Bullet Proof Glass Work?

The glass, which is available under several trade names, is made by laminating thin sheets of glass with a bonding agent, generally ethylene-vinyl or polyurethane. The polycarbonate thermoplastic layer used between the sheets of glass is designed to withstand a blunt force and will easily repel objects, such as a hammer, ax or fist. Alone, the polycarbonate layer may be easily penetrated by a flying bullet; however, when it is layered with glass it becomes much more effective against penetration. As a bullet hits the layer of glass, it causes the bullet to flatten out while it is breaking the glass, which will not stop it from passing through, but once the bullet has been flatten, the polycarbonate layer is able to repel it. The outside layer of the window or door is made with brittle glass, which will shatter on impact and the inside layers are made with more flexible layers. If a bullet is fired from the inside, it will penetrate the flexible layer, shatter a small area in the outer layer and finally make its way through the glass. In order for the glass to be effective against a bullet, there must be multiple layers of plastic and glass, which adequately flattens the bullet and slows or completely stops it.

Where is Bullet Proof Glass Used?

There is a range of uses for bullet proof glass; however, it is most commonly used in commercial and federal buildings, such as:

 * Banks
 * Convenience stores
 * Schools
 * Government buildings
 * Churches
 * Liquor stores
 * Post offices
 * Check cashing stores
 * Art galleries
 * Jewelry stores

There are constantly new developments in bullet proof glass. One of the most common projects is to create a lighter, more resistant glass which can be used in aircraft and military assault vehicles. Homeowners who live in high crime areas may also benefit from bullet proof glass, however, the glass is extremely heavy and thick, so in most situations adjustments must be made to the framing for the glass. For more information contact the experts over at Armortex.