Date: 3 February 2014
This state-of-the-art facility houses the world’s first fully automated suspended-film IG manufacturing line, which began full production in January 2013.Next-generation Heat Mirror technology leverages advanced production automation to bring “beyond triple-pane” performance to the broader market.
Next-generation Heat Mirror IG will be showcased at the International Builder’s Show in Las Vegas at the Eastman Chemical Company booth, number C1053,
February, 4-6.
Windows that Insulate Like Walls
By suspending from one to three clear films in the airspace of insulating glass, Heat Mirror technology creates multiple insulating spaces — without adding weight — that buffer against heat loss or heat gain. The result is center-of-glass thermal performance, or R-value, of up to R-20 (U-value down to 0.05) — insulation that equates to a typical wall. Such performance can significantly lower energy bills and give architects, builders and homeowners the freedom to use glass however and wherever desired while still meeting aggressive energy efficiency goals.
Because of its super-insulating capabilities, Heat Mirror IG has been specified for some of the highest performance net-zero energy and LEED-certified buildings, such as the retrofit of the 6,514 windows in the landmark Empire State Building. And now next-generation manufacturing automation makes this performance practical for broader adoption in the Residential market.
Automation Enables Lightweight, Multi-Cavity Alternative to Triple-Pane
Current ENERGY STAR® rated windows that use dual-pane IG with low-emissivity (“low-e”) coatings have reached fundamental performance limits. This is driving a shift from “coatings to cavities” in which “multi-cavity” IG technologies — such as triple-pane that uses three layers of glass to create two airspaces— are required to achieve the next level of performance. However, triple-pane technology is heavy, typically limited to smaller sizes, and requires costly reinforcement to window frames and sashes to handle the added weight.
Unlike glass, suspended film is practically weightless, making Heat Mirror IG an ideal drop-in performance upgrade for windows without the size and weight limitations of triple-pane. And state-of-the-art manufacturing now makes this performance more accessible to consumers who want to enjoy large, beautiful views without sacrificing energy efficiency. Heat Mirror IG also blocks +99.5% of ultraviolet radiation to prevent premature fading of drapes, carpet, furniture, floors, and photographs, and can reduce outside noise up to five decibels better than standard dual-pane IG.
Backed by automated manufacturing and a 20-year warranty, next-generation Heat Mirror IG enables the next generation of energy-efficient windows. Heat Mirror technology has been recognized by Popular Science as one of the “100 Best Inventions of the Millennium”, and has also been voted a “Best Green Building Product” by readers of ARCHI-TECH magazine.
For additional information, visit www.HeatMirror.com.
About Eastman Chemical Company
Eastman is a global specialty chemical company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in approximately 100 countries and had 2012 pro forma combined revenues, giving effect to the Solutia acquisition, of approximately $9.1 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA and employs approximately 14,000 people around the world. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.
Add new comment