Thanks to the technologies of the twenty-first century, multifunctional protective films have appeared, which have found application in many areas of industry, as well as in everyday life. Screen protectors are based on polyester and pressure sensitive adhesive.
Thanks to vacuum deposition, microscopic particles of metals (steel, titanium, copper) can be applied to the film. As a result, it acquires a variety of useful properties. After metallization, additional layers of polymer are applied to the film in order to give it the desired color. The multi-layered film does not affect its thickness. The thickness of the film is set according to the technological parameters and ranges from 100 to 300 microns.
The film is mainly used to protect glass in insulating glass units, cars, airplanes, as well as in many industries and mechanical engineering. It is produced in sheet or roll versions..
All films can be divided into four groups according to the degree of light absorption – transparent reflective, tinted reflective, transparent non-reflective and tinted non-reflective.
According to the degree of strength, protective films are divided into three classes. Class A – the film can withstand impacts from small objects. Class B – the film can withstand impacts from stones, bottles and other rather heavy objects. And what is characteristic is that when a particularly strong blow is applied, a hole in the glass, which is covered with a film, is formed only at the point of impact. In order to break such glass, you need to work hard. Class C – bulletproof film. The name speaks for itself. These films are perfect for shop windows, offices, banks. And at home behind such a film you will be like a stone wall, in the truest sense of the word.
All types of films protect the room from the scattering of broken glass fragments.
Separately, there are films for special applications – films with one-sided visibility or with eavesdropping protection.
Almost all films have a second class of fire resistance. When exposed to open fire on the film, it can hold it back for up to 40 minutes. In this case, toxic compounds are not formed.
In rooms facing the sunny side, furniture, wallpaper, carpets often fade. The protective film applied to the glass of windows or showcases will block up to 99% of UV radiation.
High performance protective films are used in PVC windows to reduce heat loss.
In winter, depending on the type of film, the heat loss in the room is reduced by 35%. In the summer heat, a heat-reflecting film will trap infrared rays and prevent the room from heating up. Plus, it saves energy from the unused air conditioner.
Along with many useful qualities, protective films have excellent decorative properties, since they can be given any degree of tinting.
The service life of protective films depends on many factors, but the service life declared by manufacturers is at least seven years.
Caring for windows, after installing protective films, is very simple. It is enough to use soft cloths or sponges and any detergents.
I would like to know what factors should be considered while choosing a protective film for windows. Are there any specific types of films that offer better protection against UV rays, scratches, or privacy concerns? How effective are these films in reducing heat and increasing energy efficiency? Additionally, how challenging is it to install these films? Any tips or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
What factors should one consider when selecting a protective film for windows?