Tempered Mirror

Overview

Tempered Mirror, also known as safety mirror, is a type of mirror that undergoes a thermal tempering process to enhance its strength and safety. The mirror starts as a regular float glass with a reflective coating, which is then heated to approximately 620°C and rapidly cooled, creating surface compression and internal tension. This process increases the glass's impact resistance by up to five times compared to annealed glass, and its resistance to thermal stress by four times.

When broken, tempered glass shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury—hence its classification as safety glass. The reflective coating on tempered mirrors is applied after the tempering process to ensure durability and clarity, maintaining the same high-quality reflection as standard mirrors.

Features

Superior Impact Resistance: Tempered Mirrors can withstand heavy impacts, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or applications where accidental collisions are likely, such as in commercial spaces or households with children.

Thermal Stability: They can tolerate temperature changes up to 200°C, making them suitable for use in environments with fluctuating temperatures, such as bathrooms with hot showers or sunlit rooms.

Safety Compliance: Tempered Mirrors meet international safety standards (e.g., EN 12150, CPSC 16 CFR 1201), making them a mandatory choice in many architectural and commercial applications where safety is a priority.

Customization Options: Despite the tempering process, these mirrors can be cut, edged, and drilled before tempering to fit specific design requirements, allowing for custom sizes and shapes while maintaining their safety properties.

Application

Bathrooms: A popular choice for bathroom mirrors, as they resist thermal shock from steam and are safer in case of accidental breakage.

Commercial Spaces: Used in offices, hotels, and retail stores, especially in areas with high foot traffic, such as lobbies, changing rooms, and stairwells.

Automotive Industry: Employed in rearview mirrors and side mirrors for vehicles, where safety and durability are critical for driver visibility.

Architectural Features: Used in glass railings, shower enclosures, and interior partitions that incorporate mirrored surfaces, combining functionality with safety.

Faq

Q: Can a Tempered Mirror be repaired if it gets a chip or crack?

A: No, once tempered glass is chipped or cracked, it cannot be repaired. The stress within the glass will cause it to shatter completely, so it must be replaced immediately.

Q: Does tempering affect the mirror's reflectivity or clarity?

A: No, the tempering process is applied to the glass substrate before the reflective coating is added, so it does not impact the mirror's optical properties.

Q: How can I identify a Tempered Mirror?

A: Look for a small etched mark (e.g., "CPSC 16 CFR 1201" or a CE mark) on the edge or corner of the mirror, which indicates it meets safety standards.

Q: Can Tempered Mirrors be used outdoors?

A: Yes, they are suitable for outdoor use in protected areas, as the tempering process also enhances their resistance to weathering. However, prolonged exposure to moisture may affect the reflective coating, so proper sealing is recommended.