Electric Heated Glass

Description:

Electric heated glass consists of a double glazed unit of which one pane has a thin metal oxide coating connected to an electrical power source using electrodes. These electrodes run along each side of one of the panes making up the sealed unit. When switched off, the glazing behaves as standard insulating glass. When switched on, the conductive coating converts electrical energy into heat. Depending on the intended use, the conductive coating can be applied to surface 2 or 3 of the pane (see figure 1)so as to radiate heat to the interior or exterior of the room.

Characteristics:    

• Comfort : Because the temperature of the interior pane can be adjusted close to room temperature, Electric heated glass eliminates the discomfort often felt near cold glass. Electric heated glass also eliminates the thermal radiation and convection that creates the sensation of a cold draft. This means that you won’t need to raise the room temperature to feel comfortable next to a window when it’s cold outside.
•   Heating : In temperate climates, Electric heated glass can be an effective heat source, alone or along with another type of heating such as radiant floor heating system or convection heaters.
•   Condensation and Frost Control : Condensation on the inside of windows occurs when their temperature is below the dew-point of the air indoors. When damp indoor air cools, it reaches the saturation point. This is the dew-point of air indoors. If the window surfaces get colder, the moisture in the air condenses on the cold surfaces in the form of water that will become frost if the temperature drops below freezing. When kept above the dew-point of air indoors, Electric heated glass completely eliminates condensation and frost on inside panes.
•   Snow Control : By placing the heated side to the exterior of the sealed unit, Electric heated glass controls snow and ice build-up on sloped glazing.
•   Safety : Electric glass is tempered, heat strengthened or laminated for greater impact and thermal shock resistance. The conductive coating is sealed inside the double-glazing to prevent short circuits in case of water infiltration and to protect occupants from accidental contact with the electrified surface.
•   Energy Consumption : Tests conducted in a bi-climatic room by the Energy Technologies Laboratory (a Hydro-Québec research institute) the us