Clear vs Low Iron Tempered Glass: What’s the Difference?

Introduction

Clear tempered glass and low iron tempered glass both belong to float glass family,they are most popular choices in many applications Each of them has its own special features and uses.

It is important to know the differences between them .In this article, we will explore the features, benefits, and best uses of both types of glass. This knowledge helps you make better choices for your specific projects

While both low iron and clear tempered glass undergo same manufacturing processes, they differ significantly in characteristics:

1：Composition and Transparency

The most notable difference lies in their composition.

Low iron tempered glass contains lower iron levels, which results in a virtually colorless appearance,The iron content of clear glass approximately 1000 ppm.

While low iron glass is controlled to have an iron content of less than 150 ppm,whereas clear tempered glass typically exhibits a slight green tint due to higher iron content.

That is why called lo rion glass also ultra clear glass or ultra white glass,clear glass transmittance is around 90%,but low iron glass can reach to 92%

2：Different self explosion ratio

Definition of self-explosion: The self-explosion of tempered glass is a shattering phenomenon that occurs without external force.

Self-explosion rate of low iron tempered glass is much lower than clear tempered glass.

Because ultra clear glass uses high-purity raw materials, the impurity composition is reduced to a minimum, and the corresponding NiS composition is also much lower than that of ordinary clear glass, so its self-explosion rate can reach within 2 ‱,around 15 times lower comparing with 3‰ self-explosion rate of ordinary clear glass

3：Aesthetic Differences

Clear glass and low iron glass bring with different aesthetic results.

Low iron tempered glass offers remarkable clarity, making colors appear more vibrant. This advantage becomes especially relevant when using glass in spaces where natural light is important, such as sunrooms or art galleries.

Or when be printed by light color expecially for white color,white printing on clear glass will makes whites looks dark or distored due to the green hint of clear glass, Only when silk screen printing is done on low iron glass will it not cause color distortion, showcasing the true color of itself

4：Cost Considerations

During the raw material glass production,Low iron glass has high quality requirements for its ingredients also include the high requirements for iron content.

This make low iron glass has relatively higher technological content and production control more difficult than clear glass.the cost is around 2 times higher than clear glass

Low iron tempered glass brings several advantages to the table:

1. Enhanced Clarity and Color Fidelity: With its almost colorless appearance, low iron glass allows for true color representation, making it a favored choice for artworks and interior designs.
2. UV Resistance and Benefits: Lower UV rays impact allows for better protection of furnishings and artworks from fading, which is particularly beneficial for clients looking to showcase valuable items.
3. Ideal Applications: Its superior visibility,transmittance and aesthetic appeal make low iron tempered glass perfect for high-end applications, including lighting,solar panel,railing,or UV room etc

Low iron tempered glass has some benefits, but clear tempered glass is still a good option in many situations.

Ideal situations for using clear tempered glass include:

1. Budget-Friendly Projects: When cost is a significant factor, clear tempered glass provides a suitable solution for various applications
2. Functional Areas: In places where visibility isn’t very important, like utility rooms or less noticeable areas outside, clear tempered glass can work well.
3. Widespread Applications: From residential to commercial properties, clear tempered glass fits a multitude of glass design requirements.

As professionals in glass design or purchasing, knowing the differences between low iron and clear tempered glass helps us make better choices for our projects.

By considering factors like clarity, performance, and budget, we can select the most suitable glass for our clients’ requirements.

For further exploration into custom tempered glass options that can elevate your designs, we invite you to learn more about what Hopesens Glass offers. as custom low iron tempered glass factory from china,Let’s get engaged to create most suitable custom glass solution for you projects!