The energy-saving and comfort-adding benefits of Suntuitive dynamic glass can now be enjoyed in a single-pane laminated glazing product, fitting smaller window sashes and retrofits thanks to a new purpose-made interlayer.
Suntuitive MonoLite joins Glassworks’ growing range of energy-saving glass products as a slimmer and more affordable dynamic glass than the existing Suntuitive Insulating Glass Unit (IGU), which also incorporates a dynamic laminated glass pane double glazed in an IGU together with a low-E coated glass for exceptional performance.
The premise of Suntuitive dynamic glass as a whole is that it self-tints based on the position and intensity of the sun to vary the visible light transmittance and solar heat gain according to the buildings’ needs. That is, the natural lighting and passive heat is optimized throughout the day and year, as opposed to fixed clear or tinted glass.
Given the volatility of weather in certain regions of Australia and the heat that can be experienced during the hotter months, Suntuitive has gained attention as an alternative to shades and overhangs for energy-efficient buildings. And until now, Suntuitive has only been offered as an Insulating Glass Unit, thereby ruling it out for some applications and projects.
“We are still seeing a need for monolithic glazing in the Australian market, especially in northern regions, which also experience warmer weather. So it’s exciting that the incredible benefits of dynamic glass are now accessible for single glazed as well as double glazed applications, fitting sashes as slim as 6.3 mm,” says Michael Gleeson of Glassworks.
In addition to regions where monolithic glazing is more prevalent, heritage buildings and older constructions don’t allow for the thickness of Insulating Glass Units. Suntuitive MonoLite is perfect for such retrofits looking to improve the overall energy efficiency of a building. Roof lights can also be a major source of heat during the day and don’t always require double glazing, so Suntuitive MonoLite will now be a viable option for these installations.
“Numerous studies support the notion that natural light and temperature control increases occupant comfort and well-being. Like the Suntuitive IGU, MonoLite offers constantly variable visible light transmittance and solar heat gain,” Gleeson explains.
Suntuitive MonoLite is exclusively laminated at Glassworks’ custom laminating line in Dandenong South and can include two panes of clear glass or crystal grey and clear with a hard coat low-E on surface 4 (room side) for improved insulation. Contact Glassworks on sales@glassworksaust.com or 03 8788 5888 for specific performance calculations or capabilities.
