FAQ's | Hybrid Panels Smart Glass
What is UCEF Switchable Privacy Glass and how does it work?
UCEF Switchable Privacy Glass is produced by laminating polymer-dispersed liquid crystal film with architectural grade EVA between two layers of customer-specified glass. The glass can transform from cloudy-white, translucent barrier to an optically clear state with the flick of switch.
Is the glass transparent with the power ON or OFF? Can it be reversed?
The glass is transparent when the power is ON. No, the mechanism cannot be reversed.
Can the Switchable Privacy Film be ordered separately without the glass?
Yes, with limited warranty.
What are the various glass types?
Annealed, tempered, heat- and chemical-strengthened.
What is laminated glass?
Laminated glass consists of two panes of glass adhered together with by an interlayer, typically EVA, and is considered safety glass. The interlayer holds the entire piece together if the glass ever gets broken so there will be no holes, large or sharp shards.
What is the difference between laminated and toughened glass and which should I use?
UCEF privacy glass is considered a laminated glass or safety glass, which means that the risk of injury is minimal because it breaks into small, dull shards. Toughened glass that is not laminated has a higher risk of injury because it has the potential to break into large, sharp shards. What type of glass one would use depends on the application.
How is UCEF priced and what is the cost?
It is priced in square-meter (sq. ft.). Cost varies depending on the design and the glass type.
What is the operational voltage?
60VAC, provided with our transformer.
What are the available glass colors?
Clear, gray and dark grey tint.
Is it energy efficient?
Yes, the electric consumption is less than 5W/sq.ft.
Can multiple glass panels be connected together?
Yes, glass panels need to be connected in parallel.
Does it come in any other shapes?
Custom shapes and sizes are available at no additional cost.
What is the percent transmission (%VLT) of the glass?
The transmission in the clear state is approximately 75% when viewed straight on.
Are there any requirements regarding the framing (aluminum or non-aluminum) ?
No, any frame would be suitable.
What is in a typical order package?
The UCEF privacy glass, 60 VAC transformer, silicone sealant if needed.
What types of professionals are required for the electrical and glass installations?
Certified electricians and glaziers are required.
How much shipping time should be allocated domestically and internationally?
Usually within 1 week domestically. Shipping times tend to vary more internationally.
Where are the busbar and wires used to power the film located?
Busbars are located at the long or short edges of the film. Please contact us for configuration options.
Can UCEF glass panels be butt-joint?
Yes, but ONLY with other UCEF panels.
Why is UCEF not as clear as regular glass?
It contains liquid crystal materials that optically manipulate light; therefore, it will naturally have some level of haziness to it. This haziness effect is magnified at larger viewing angles and with certain high-intensity lighting conditions
What type of silicone to be used?
Neutral cure silicone ONLY.
Does the UCEF privacy glass have a remote control?
No, but a remote control can be used.
What is the lifetime of the UCEF privacy glass?
Indoor use lasts 10 years or more.
Can logos or patterns be etched into the UCEF privacy glass?
Yes.
Can the wires attached to the glass support the weight of the glass?
The wires are for powering the glass and cannot handle the stress, which means you cannot pull on the wires to move it or use it to hang the glass. For mounting purposes, you will need to utilize a frame or allow us to drill holes into the glass.
Can the wire leads be connected to only one point of the glass?
No. Typically wire leads are connected at 2 corners of the glass.
What is the viewing angle?
Approximately 150o. Which means the transmission will be reduced to less than half when viewed at a 75o degree angle.
What is the operating temperature range?
-20F - to -140F