High-Tech Laser Cutting for Coated & LOW-E Glass

Low-e glass isa type of energy-efficient glass with a thin, transparent metallic coating that reflects heat. This coating helps windows block unwanted heat from entering during the summer and keeps heat from escaping during the winter, leading to reduced energy costs and a more consistent indoor temperature. While visible light can pass through, the coating reflects infrared and UV light, which also helps prevent furniture and décor from fading.

How it works

Invisible coating: A microscopically thin, transparent metallic or metallic oxide coating is applied to the surface of the glass, often to a double-glazed unit.

Heat reflection: This coating lowers the glass's emissivity, meaning it's better at reflecting heat energy rather than emitting it.

Two main types: Low-e coatings can be designed to be either "insulating" (to keep heat in) or "solar control" (to keep heat out), depending on the climate and window placement.

In the modern architectural and interior design market, coated glass and LOW-E (Low Emissivity) glass have become essential for energy-efficient, stylish, and high-performance buildings. LOW-E glass features a microscopically thin metallic coating that reflects infrared light, reducing heat transfer while maintaining excellent transparency. Coated glass provides additional benefits such as UV protection, glare reduction, and enhanced aesthetic appeal.

However, working with these high-tech glass types requires precision and care. Traditional mechanical cutting methods can cause chipping, cracking, or damage to the coating, compromising both performance and appearance. This is where laser cutting technology shines.

Low-E Glass Types – Soft Coat vs Hard Coat

Low-E (Low Emissivity) glass is a key material for energy-efficient and modern building designs. By reflecting infrared light while allowing visible light to pass through, Low-E glass reduces heat transfer, enhances insulation, and improves comfort. There are two primary types of Low-E glass: Soft Coat (Sputtered) and Hard Coat (Pyrolytic), each with unique properties and applications.

1. Soft Coat (Sputtered) Low-E Glass:

• Structure: A microscopically thin metallic coating applied in a vacuum chamber.

• Performance: Excellent thermal insulation and superior solar control.

• Application: Often used in double-glazed windows, high-performance façades, and architectural projects requiring maximum energy efficiency.

• Handling Consideration: The coating is delicate and can be damaged if not handled carefully. Laser cutting must be precise to avoid affecting the coating.

2. Hard Coat (Pyrolytic) Low-E Glass:

• Structure: Coating applied during the float glass manufacturing process at high temperatures.

• Performance: Durable and scratch-resistant, suitable for single-glass applications or glass that will undergo further processing.

• Application: Common in retrofitting, DIY glass projects, and laminated glass panels.

• Handling Advantage: More robust than Soft Coat, easier to process and transport.

Advantages of Laser Cutting for Coated and LOW-E Glass:

• Non-contact precision: The laser beam cuts without physically touching the glass, preventing chipping or micro-cracks.

• High accuracy and repeatability: Ideal for intricate patterns, decorative panels, and custom shapes.

• Preserves coatings: Laser cutting minimizes damage to reflective or anti-glare coatings.

• Faster production: Automated laser systems increase throughput while reducing waste.

• Versatile applications: Works with tempered, laminated, and various thicknesses of coated and LOW-E glass.

Applications:

• Architectural and building façades: Energy-efficient windows, curtain walls, and skylights.

• Interior design: Customized glass partitions, decorative panels, and furniture inlays.

• Automotive and transportation: High-performance coated glass for vehicles.

• Solar and photovoltaic panels: Precision-cut glass for energy devices.

By combining advanced CO2 and fiber laser technology with high-precision motion systems, manufacturers can produce clean, flawless cuts in coated and LOW-E glass, reducing production time and enhancing overall quality.

Laser cutting is revolutionizing the way high-performance glass is fabricated, providing unmatched flexibility for architects, designers, and manufacturers alike.