When it comes to energy-efficient windows, Low-E glass is a popular choice among homeowners and builders. However, with various types of Low-E glass available in the market, it can be confusing to decide which one to choose. Two of the most commonly used Low-E glass types are Low-E 180 and Low-E 272. In this article, we will delve into the world of Low-E glass and explore the differences between Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass.
What Is Low-E Glass?
Low-E glass, also known as low emissivity glass, is a type of glass coating that reduces heat transfer between the inside and outside of a building. This coating is applied to the glass surface using a process called sputtering, which involves bombarding the glass with metal ions to create a thin, transparent layer. The Low-E coating helps to reflect radiant heat rather than absorb it, keeping the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
How Does Low-E Glass Work?
Low-E glass works by reducing the amount of heat that is transferred through the glass. There are three types of heat transfer:
- Conduction: heat transfer through direct contact
- Convection: heat transfer through the movement of fluids
- Radiation: heat transfer through electromagnetic waves
Low-E glass reduces radiant heat transfer by reflecting the heat rather than absorbing it. This helps to keep the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
Low-E 180 Glass
Low-E 180 glass is a type of Low-E glass that is designed for warm climates. It has a lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) than Low-E 272 glass, which means it allows less solar heat to enter the building. This makes it ideal for buildings in warm climates where the primary concern is keeping the building cool.
Features Of Low-E 180 Glass
- Lower SHGC: reduces the amount of solar heat that enters the building
- Higher visible transmittance: allows more natural light to enter the building
- Lower U-factor: reduces heat transfer through the glass
Low-E 272 Glass
Low-E 272 glass is a type of Low-E glass that is designed for cold climates. It has a higher SHGC than Low-E 180 glass, which means it allows more solar heat to enter the building. This makes it ideal for buildings in cold climates where the primary concern is keeping the building warm.
Features Of Low-E 272 Glass
- Higher SHGC: allows more solar heat to enter the building
- Lower visible transmittance: reduces the amount of natural light that enters the building
- Higher U-factor: increases heat transfer through the glass
Comparison Of Low-E 180 And Low-E 272 Glass
| Feature | Low-E 180 Glass | Low-E 272 Glass |
| ———– | ——————- | ——————- |
| SHGC | Lower | Higher |
| Visible Transmittance | Higher | Lower |
| U-factor | Lower | Higher |
Choosing The Right Low-E Glass
When choosing between Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass, it’s essential to consider the climate and the building’s energy efficiency goals. If the building is located in a warm climate, Low-E 180 glass may be the better choice. If the building is located in a cold climate, Low-E 272 glass may be the better choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass are two types of Low-E glass that have different features and benefits. Low-E 180 glass is designed for warm climates and has a lower SHGC, while Low-E 272 glass is designed for cold climates and has a higher SHGC. By understanding the differences between these two types of Low-E glass, builders and homeowners can make informed decisions about which type of glass to use in their buildings.
What Is Low-E Glass And How Does It Work?
Low-E glass, short for low emissivity glass, is a type of energy-efficient glass that reduces heat transfer between the inside and outside of a building. It works by applying a thin, metallic coating to the glass surface, which reflects radiant heat rather than absorbing it. This coating allows visible light to pass through while minimizing the transfer of heat, keeping the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
The low-E coating is typically applied to the glass surface using a process called sputtering, which involves bombarding the glass with metallic ions. This creates a thin, uniform layer that is highly effective at reducing heat transfer. Low-E glass can be used in a variety of applications, including windows, doors, and skylights, and is a popular choice for energy-efficient building design.
What Is The Difference Between Low-E 180 And Low-E 272 Glass?
Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass are two different types of low-E glass that offer distinct performance characteristics. The main difference between the two is the type of coating used and the level of solar control provided. Low-E 180 glass has a more reflective coating that is designed to provide high levels of solar control, while Low-E 272 glass has a less reflective coating that allows more visible light to pass through.
In terms of performance, Low-E 180 glass has a lower solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) than Low-E 272 glass, which means it is more effective at blocking solar radiation and keeping the building cooler. However, Low-E 272 glass has a higher visible transmittance (VT) than Low-E 180 glass, which means it allows more natural light to enter the building. The choice between Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass will depend on the specific needs and goals of the building project.
Which Type Of Low-E Glass Is More Energy-Efficient?
Low-E 180 glass is generally more energy-efficient than Low-E 272 glass, particularly in warm climates where solar control is a major concern. The more reflective coating on Low-E 180 glass is highly effective at blocking solar radiation and reducing heat gain, which can lead to significant energy savings. However, in cooler climates where heat gain is not as much of a concern, Low-E 272 glass may be a better choice.
It’s worth noting that the energy efficiency of low-E glass can vary depending on a number of factors, including the climate, building orientation, and window size. In general, low-E glass is a highly effective way to reduce energy consumption and improve building performance, regardless of the specific type or coating used.
Can Low-E 180 And Low-E 272 Glass Be Used In The Same Building?
Yes, it is possible to use both Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass in the same building, depending on the specific needs and goals of the project. For example, Low-E 180 glass might be used on south-facing windows where solar control is a major concern, while Low-E 272 glass might be used on north-facing windows where natural light is more important.
Using a combination of low-E glass types can help to optimize building performance and meet specific design goals. However, it’s worth noting that using multiple types of glass can also increase complexity and cost, so it’s essential to carefully consider the benefits and trade-offs before making a decision.
How Do Low-E 180 And Low-E 272 Glass Compare In Terms Of Cost?
Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass are generally similar in terms of cost, although prices can vary depending on the manufacturer, size, and other factors. In general, low-E glass is more expensive than standard glass, but the energy savings and other benefits can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
It’s worth noting that the cost of low-E glass can vary depending on the specific type and quality of the coating, as well as the manufacturing process used. In some cases, Low-E 272 glass may be slightly less expensive than Low-E 180 glass, although the difference is typically relatively small.
Can Low-E 180 And Low-E 272 Glass Be Used In Historic Preservation Projects?
Yes, low-E glass can be used in historic preservation projects, although it may require special consideration and approval. In general, historic preservation projects aim to maintain the original character and integrity of the building, which can make it challenging to incorporate modern materials like low-E glass.
However, many manufacturers offer low-E glass products that are specifically designed for historic preservation projects, with features like traditional profiles and glass textures. In some cases, low-E glass may be used in conjunction with other materials, like wood or metal, to create a more traditional look and feel.
What Are The Maintenance Requirements For Low-E 180 And Low-E 272 Glass?
Low-E 180 and Low-E 272 glass have similar maintenance requirements, which are generally minimal. The low-E coating is highly durable and resistant to scratches and corrosion, and the glass can be cleaned using standard glass cleaning products.
However, it’s worth noting that the low-E coating can be damaged by certain types of cleaning products or materials, so it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and cleaning. In general, low-E glass is a low-maintenance option that can provide long-term performance and energy savings with minimal upkeep.