During a power outage, Smart Glass automatically switches to its default opaque/frosted state, ensuring complete privacy. This is a built-in safety feature - the glass requires power to be transparent, so any loss of electricity instantly activates privacy mode. For applications where maintaining transparency during outages is critical, we can integrate battery backup systems or connect to UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) solutions.
Pricing is influenced by factors such as size, specifications, and overall project requirements. Smart Glass is positioned as a premium solution, while Smart Film offers a more cost-effective alternative. Key elements that affect final costs include glass thickness, tint options, custom shapes, order volume, and installation complexity. We provide free, detailed quotations for every project. Share your specifications with us to receive an accurate estimate tailored to your requirements. Get in touch today to discuss your project and discover the best smart glazing solution for your space.
Yes, Smart Glass requires a low-voltage electrical connection to switch to the transparent state. When power is applied, the glass becomes clear. When power is disconnected, it defaults to the opaque/frosted privacy state. This fail-safe design ensures privacy is maintained even during power outages. The power requirement is minimal, operating on 48-65V AC through a small transformer connected to standard mains power.
Smart Glass and Smart Film are incredibly versatile and can be used in virtually any interior application: office partitions, conference rooms, hospital patient areas, bathroom windows and shower enclosures, residential windows, storefronts, museum displays, luxury vehicles, yachts, and aircraft. For exterior applications, we offer specialized weather-resistant laminated Smart Glass designed to withstand outdoor conditions. It's also popular for projection screens, as the opaque state creates an excellent rear-projection surface.
Smart Glass can be cleaned just like regular glass using standard glass cleaning products and a soft cloth or squeegee. For Smart Film, use a mild soap solution or ammonia-free glass cleaner with a soft microfibre cloth. Avoid abrasive materials, harsh chemicals, or ammonia-based cleaners on Smart Film surfaces. Never use razor blades or scrapers. The smooth surface of both products actually makes them easier to clean than textured privacy glass alternatives.
We offer a comprehensive range of control options to suit any preference: wall-mounted switches, remote controls, smartphone apps via WiFi integration, voice control through Alexa/Google Home, occupancy sensors, timers and schedules, and integration with building management systems (BMS). Multiple panels can be grouped for synchronized control or operated independently. Our technical team can recommend the ideal control solution based on your specific requirements.
Yes! Our Smart Film product allows you to retrofit existing glass with switchable privacy technology. The self-adhesive film is professionally applied to the interior surface of your current glass, transforming it into smart glass without the need for complete replacement. This is an excellent cost-effective solution for upgrading office partitions, storefronts, or any existing glazing. The film provides the same instant privacy switching as laminated Smart Glass.
Smart Glass technology works through a special interlayer containing liquid crystals (PDLC - Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal). When no electrical current is applied, the liquid crystals are randomly oriented, scattering light and creating an opaque, frosted appearance. When an electrical current passes through the conductive layers, the crystals align in a uniform direction, allowing light to pass through and making the glass transparent. The switching happens almost instantaneously, typically within milliseconds.
Smart Glass is designed for long-term durability with an expected lifespan of 20+ years under normal use conditions. The PDLC technology is rated for over 1 million switching cycles. The laminated glass construction provides excellent durability and safety characteristics. Smart Film typically has a lifespan of 7-10 years depending on environmental conditions and usage. Both products are backed by comprehensive warranties to ensure your investment is protected.
Yes! While the standard Smart Glass has a clear/white frosted appearance, we offer several tint options to suit your design requirements. Available tints include grey, bronze, blue, and green. The PDLC interlayer itself can also be tinted. Additionally, Smart Glass can be combined with coloured or patterned interlayers, back-painted options, or decorative films to achieve virtually any aesthetic. Contact us to discuss custom colour requirements for your project.
Smart Glass is a complete glazing unit with the PDLC technology laminated between two layers of glass during manufacturing. Smart Film is a self-adhesive switchable film that can be applied to existing glass surfaces. Smart Glass offers superior optical clarity, durability, and is ideal for new construction or complete glass replacement. Smart Film is a cost-effective retrofit solution for upgrading existing windows and partitions without removing the current glass. Both provide the same privacy-switching functionality.
Our Smart Glass panels can be manufactured up to 1500mm x 3200mm (approximately 5ft x 10.5ft) in a single piece. For larger installations, multiple panels can be seamlessly joined together with minimal visible seams. Smart Film is available in widths up to 1500mm and can be supplied in custom lengths. For oversized projects, our technical team can design solutions using multiple panels with synchronized switching for a unified appearance.
Smart Glass allows natural light to pass through in both states while providing UV protection. In the transparent state, it transmits approximately 75-80% of visible light. In the opaque state, it still allows diffused light through (around 50-60%) while blocking direct views. It blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays in both states. For applications requiring solar heat control, we offer tinted options and can combine Smart Glass with low-E coatings to significantly reduce heat gain.
Smart Glass is remarkably energy-efficient, consuming only about 5-7 watts per square metre when in the transparent state. For a typical 1 square metre panel running 8 hours daily, the annual electricity cost is less than £5. When in the opaque state (power off), it consumes zero energy. Additionally, Smart Glass can reduce overall building energy costs by blocking solar heat gain, potentially decreasing air conditioning expenses by up to 30%.
Yes, all our Smart Glass products come with comprehensive warranty coverage. Laminated Smart Glass panels carry a 5-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, including the PDLC switching functionality. Smart Film products are covered by a 2-year warranty. Transformers and control systems are warrantied for 2 years. Extended warranty options are available upon request. Our warranties demonstrate our confidence in the quality and reliability of our products.
While DIY installation is possible for experienced individuals, we strongly recommend professional installation to ensure optimal results and warranty coverage. Smart Film application requires a dust-free environment, specialized tools, and expertise to avoid bubbles and ensure proper electrical connections. Smart Glass installation involves handling heavy laminated panels and precise electrical wiring. Our certified installation team or approved partners ensure perfect results, and professional installation maintains your full warranty coverage.
Smart Glass Technologies is headquartered at 58 Royal William Yard, Plymouth PL1 3GD, United Kingdom. Our showroom is open for appointments where you can see working demonstrations of all our Smart Glass and Smart Film products. We serve clients throughout the UK and internationally, with a network of certified installers across Europe. Free visitor parking is available on-site. Contact us to schedule a showroom visit or consultation.
Getting a free estimate is easy! Simply contact us via our online quote form, email at info@smartglassinnovations.co.uk, or call +44(0) 1752 916 121. To provide an accurate quote, we'll need your panel dimensions, quantity, glass type preference (Smart Glass or Smart Film), any special requirements (tints, shapes, fire-rating), and your project timeline. We typically respond within 24 hours with a detailed quotation. For complex projects, we can arrange a site survey at no additional cost.
Switchable privacy Smart Glass, also known as PDLC glass, is an innovative glazing solution that can instantly change from transparent to opaque with the flip of a switch. It uses Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal technology sandwiched between two layers of glass or applied as a film. When electricity is applied, the crystals align to allow light through (clear state). When power is off, crystals scatter randomly, creating privacy (frosted state). It's perfect for conference rooms, bathrooms, storefronts, and anywhere instant privacy is needed.
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