BULLET RESISTANT GLAZING MATERIAL

ABOUT BULLET-RESISTANT GLAZING MATERIAL PRODUCTS

Insulgard’s line of BULLETBLOCK glazing products offers a wide variety of glazing makeups meeting various levels of ballistic protection for use in an unlimited number of security applications. From interior to exterior applications, low level to the highest level of ballistic protection or enclosures to framed windows and doors, BULLETBLOCK Glazing products can offer the solution you’re looking for.

BULLETBLOCK Acrylics and laminated polycarbonate products are ideal for interior applications. These products offer a lighter weight option than glass while providing optimal clarity for a seamless appearance and ease of fabrication such as cutting, routing or polishing. Also, because these products come in standard sheet sizes they are readily stocked at Insulgard for fast turnaround.

BULLETBLOCK Glass Clad Polycarbonates and All Glass products can also be used in interior applications but they are better suited for exterior applications where the glass outer layer provides a better protection against weathering and cleaning. Because these products contain glass they must be manufactured to size and cannot be stocked but the benefit to “made to size” is no yield loss from stock sheets. Also, because of their glass makeup, many of these products can be insulated providing much better thermal performance for exterior applications.

Whatever your security project needs you can be confident Insulgard has a glazing solution that will work for you. You can also be confident that the product you choose will perform when called upon. All of Insulgard’s BULLETBLOCK glazing products are tested and certified to UL752 by Underwriters Laboratory and listed as such.

For more information about BULLETBLOCK products read our product data sheets or contact Insulgard today.

Types of Bullet Resistant Glazing  

Acrylic  

Bullet Resistant Acrylic is a durable monolithic plastic typically 1 ¼ to 1 ⅜ with high impact resistance. It can absorb and disperse the shock of a lower level ballistic threats (UL752 levels 1-3) preventing both penetration of the bullet and spall to the interior/ safe side.

Acrylic is desirable for several other reasons: it provides clear and transparent visibility similar to glass, making it ideal for windows, and is easily machinable, making it ideal for custom shapes, sizes, and unique applications.  

Our acrylic products are readily available in standard sheet sizes for fast turnaround. Acrylic bulletproof glass is available in UL levels 1, 2, and 3.   

Glass-Clad Polycarbonate  

The strongest type of bullet-resistant material is glass-clad polycarbonate, constructed from several layers of polycarbonate and glass that are bonded together. Glass-clad polycarbonate can be used for both interior and exterior applications, as the outer layer is weather-resistant and easy to clean.  

Because of the presence of glass on the exterior surface, these products can be insulated with specialty Low E coatings resulting in much improved thermal properties. Glass-clad polycarbonate also offers sound insulation for maximal security. Our glass-clad polycarbonate products are available up to a UL level 8.  

Laminated Polycarbonate  

Bullet-resistant laminated polycarbonate sheets are both a secure and lightweight option, ideal for interior applications. Laminated polycarbonate offers high clarity and is able to fit different shapes and sizes. Our laminated polycarbonate products range from UL level 1 to 3. 

All-Glass Laminate  

All-glass laminate products offer prime optical clarity and ease of maintenance, in addition to thermal and acoustic insulation. They can also be used for both interior and exterior applications, and is especially performant in outdoor conditions because of its weather and UV resistance. Our all-glass laminate products range from UL level 1, 2, and 3. 

Advantages of Bullet Resistant Glazing 

Increased Safety 

The primary function of ballistic glazing is to mediate bullets. This is an integral security feature in high-risk settings such as banks, government buildings, and schools. Bullet-resistant glazing is also tough enough to resist forced entry attempts such as breaking through windows or doors.  

Bullet-resistant glazing can also provide protection during natural disasters or accidents that can cause debris or shattered glass. Additionally, many bullet-resistant materials also enhance security by providing soundproofing. Glazed glass, unlike opaque protection barriers, maintains transparency, which is important for surveillance and visibility from the outside environment. 

Protection Against Ballistic Threats  

Insulgard’s bullet-resistant materials are designed to withstand multiple bullet impacts. In a scenario where multiple rounds might be fired, our glass will continue to perform even after the first shots are fired. When bullets impact traditional glass, it can shatter and pose additional safety risks. Our bullet-resistant glazing is designed to absorb shock and contain debris even when shattered. 

Retention of Structural Integrity 

Standard glass can shatter and collapse upon penetration, while bullet-resistant glass will stay in its frame even when impacted. This feature prevents openings that could allow attackers to enter. Bullet-resistant materials are also designed to withstand extreme environmental conditions such as wind, debrs from tornados or hurricanes, increasing structural security. 

Applications of Bullet Resistant Glazing 

Financial Institutions  

Bullet-resistant glazing is commonly used in banks and other financial institutions where there is a high risk of armed robbery. It protects employees and customers by providing a penetration barrier for teller windows and entrances. 

Government Buildings  

In government facilities, such as courthouses, embassies, and municipal buildings, bullet-resistant glazing is a main security feature protecting government officials, employees, and civilians against potential threats. Bullet-resistant infrastructure helps maintain the continuity of government operations by preventing disruptive and dangerous activities.  

Schools and Universities  

As schools have become an increased security risk, bullet-resistant glazing has been implemented for campus safety. It serves as a proactive measure to protect students and faculty from potential violent incidents, and is especially used in entrance areas and ground floor windows. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

What is bullet-resistant glazing material? 

Bullet-resistant glazing materials are plastics or a combination of plastic and glass designed to resist penetration by bullets and other projectiles. These materials are commonly used in areas where there is a need for heightened security, such as in military and government facilities, banks, and schools. 

How does bullet-resistant glazing differ from regular glass? 

Bullet-resistant materials are constructed from layers of glass and plastic, such as polycarbonate, which, when laminated together, absorb and dissipate the energy of ballistic impacts. Regular glass, on the other hand, shatters easily under stress and doesn’t provide protection against ballistic penetration. 

What are the main applications of bullet-resistant glazing? 

Ballistic glazing is commonly used in areas where there is a heightened security risk, such as military and government facilities, banks, schools, corporations, convenience stores, and ticket counters to protect employees and civilians. 

How effective is bullet-resistant glazing in protecting against various ballistic threats? 

Bullet-resistant glazing is highly effective in stopping or slowing bullets from a variety of firearms. The effectiveness varies according to the glazing’s rating, determined by standards like UL 752 or NIJ levels. This rating system matches the material with specific types of ammunition and firearm calibers it can withstand. If you’re wondering which material is appropriate for your security needs, contact us and we will be happy to advise you on the appropriate materials.  

Can bullet-resistant glazing be customized to fit specific security needs? 

Insulgard’s bullet-resistant glazing can be extensively customized to meet specifications. Our materials can be manufactured in various thicknesses, compositions, and sizes, accommodating the specific type of ballistic protection required by the facility. If you are looking for custom security solutions, please reach out to request a quote tailored to your configuration needs.  

Customizable Insulgard security products are available US-nationwide to serve your security needs.