THERMOVIT© PRO A0 (heated fire-resistant glass) versus the conventional non-heated glass (photo: Vetrotech Saint-Gobain)

Manufacturer of fire resistant glass, Vetrotech Saint-Gobain, has introduced THERMOVIT© PRO A0, an electrically heated glass solution with A0 fire-resistance in line with IGC International Code for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Carriers.

With over 30 years of experience in producing fire-resistant and heated glass, Vetrotech has developed a glass solution specifically for wheelhouse applications, which offers 60 minutes of fire integrity resistance (A0) and an integrated heating function in just one single laminated glass. Assisting with the safety of crew and ship, the Vetrotech Saint-Gobain solution meets the requirements set out within the IGC International Code for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Carriers, which states wheelhouses in LNG carriers to be installed with A0 fire-protective glass.

Ruud van der Sterren, Business Manager Marine, says, “Having clear fire-safety guidelines for a fuel carrying ship, such as an LNG carrier, is crucial. When holding large volumes of fuel onboard, it is essential that the crew are protected in the event of a fire to the highest possible standard. Safety glass is an essential component in assisting with fire safety, providing additional time for the crew to evacuate or navigate the ship to a safe destination.”

When sailing in areas where temperatures can fall below freezing – such as the arctic areas – the defrosting of glass is required before setting sail. It is common practice to use blowers directed on the glass to defrost and obtain clear views. This technique has disadvantages, when using blowers the water does not evaporate and may seep into the interior. This can cause longer term negative effects on the vessel and only provides localised clearing on the glass, resulting in limited vision. With its conductive coating THERMOVIT© Pro A0 heats the entire surface of the glass and ensures the glass remains frost, snow, vapour or condensation free. The neutral coating eradicates external weather influences providing a clearer vision, particularly important for wheelhouses where binoculars may be used, as it causes, unlike conventional solutions, no visual disturbances of the heat conductive wires. The clear coating also improves outside views particularly for discoloured views of the traffic lights which can sometimes occur.

The coating applied on the new range of Vetrotech heated products has several features to create a comfortable living or working environment within the wheelhouse of the ship. The protective neutral coating improves the solar reflection, minimising solar heat gain and has an impressive g-value of 0.58, allowing easier regulation of temperatures within the ship. When heated the glass can also help control colder environments to ensure that a warm and comfortable temperature is available.

The glass is suitable for use in both extreme heat and humidity and freezing conditions up to -40° C. Controlled heating of the glass evaporates and clears condensation from the glass, even in high humidity environments.

To meet architectural and technical requirements the THERMOVIT© product range comprises three different solutions which can be customised to all project needs. The glass is available in sizes up to 5,500 mm and are in line with ISO614 and ISO21005 (standard for toughened glass), ISO3434 (standard for heated glass).

Tags: Vetrotech Saint-Gobain