Fenestration Launches Chromatics

Fenestration Ltd has launched Chromatics® cuttable, coloured, fully opaque glass panel for both exterior and interior use. As well as a wide range of plain colours, Chromatics® panels can have any digital image or printed texture encapsulated within the laminate, creating opportunities for unique designs with high visual impact.

Typical uses will include building claddings and interior walls to give a spectacular appearance with low maintenance. The visual appearance of a Chromatics panel is greatly enhanced by the fact that it lacks the 'roller wave' distortion normally associated with toughened glass.

Chromatics panels incorporate metal, glass and plastic, bonded together at a molecular level to create a tough laminate which offers all the performance of a laminated panel but with only half the weight. They can be supplied in a range of RAL colours or can have a digital image indelibly incorporated within the process.

Their laminate structure means Chromatics panels can be used for external non-vision glazing panels without risk of thermal fracture. A broken panel will not shatter but will remain intact as a single sheet which can safely and easily be replaced at a convenient time, obviating the need for boarding up or emergency repairs.

Breakage is, in fact, unlikely. Independent testing to BS EN 12600 has shown that when 4 mm thick Chromatics panels are struck from the glass face they often achieve 2(B)2 status. However, the panels are currently conservatively rated at 3(B)3.

Maximum panel sizes currently available are 3,000 x 1,300 mm on glass thickness from 4 mm to 10 mm. Panel sizes of 3,210 x 2,250 mm will be available from mid 2008.

A U value as low as 0.2 W/m2 is achievable in insulating glass units using a Chromatics panel with insulation material.

A major advantage of Chromatics is that it is supplied to glaziers and glass merchants in stock sheets which can be cut and edged like conventional glass to size as required. Chromatics can deliver the precise colour or print requirements of the architect as well as helping the contractor to complete the building on schedule.

David Horn of Fenestration Ltd said: 'The use of Chromatics laminates will enhance the appearance and performance of many buildings, old or new. The saving in time and wastage using a Chromatics coloured glass panel, cut to size from stock, will often deliver a financial benefit as well.'

For more information on Chromatics panels visit http://www.chromatics.co.uk.