What does “safety glass” mean?

Safety glass means that when broken, the glass does not shatter into large, sharp pieces, but rather into small, blunt granules. This significantly reduces the risk of injury—which is especially important for safety in your home or building.

  • Tempered glass (safety glass): When broken, it shatters into small, round pieces that are not sharp.
  • Non-tempered glass: breaks into large, sharp shards that can be dangerous.

At BENGglas, we take safety very seriously. That’s why our entire product line is tempered as standard and therefore shatter-resistant.

What is tempered vacuum glazing?

Tempered vacuum glazing is vacuum glazing in which both glass panes have been tempered. This makes it up to five times stronger than untempered glass and shatter-resistant: if it does break, it shatters into small, blunt pieces.

During the tempering process, the glass is first heated to a very high temperature and then cooled extremely quickly. It sounds simple, but the effect is significant: the glass can withstand much more—such as impacts, pressure differences, and extreme temperature fluctuations. That’s why tempered glass is also called safety glass.

Why is tempered vacuum glazing so much stronger?
During the tempering process, the following happens:

  • The glass is heated evenly to about 650 °C.
  • Then the surface cools down very quickly and hardens.
  • The core cools more slowly, shrinks, and pulls the surface taut.
  • The result? A surface that remains under tension, making it much stronger.

This produces glass that is:

  • is up to 5 times stronger
  • is much more resistant to impact and pressure
  • withstands temperature changes without breaking
  • remains stable and retains its shape—which is exactly what vacuum glazing requires

Did you know that… thermal breakage (glass breakage caused by temperature differences) is virtually impossible with tempered BENGglas?

How does tempered vacuum glazing break?
Don’t worry: if tempered vacuum glazing does break, it won’t produce sharp, dangerous shards. The glass breaks down into small granules, minimizing the risk of cuts. This way, you can be sure you’re safe—both at home and in your building.

Why do some brands still opt for non-tempered vacuum glazing?
Simple: non-tempered vacuum glazing is easier to produce. But it:

  • is more susceptible to thermal breakage
  • is not injury-resistant
  • can’t withstand as much pressure
  • is less suitable for large windows

In short: tempered vacuum glazing is truly a cut above the rest.

Is BENGglas tempered?
Absolutely! At BENGglas, tempered, safety-rated vacuum glazing (NEN 3569) is the standard, at no extra cost.

One exception: 6.7 mm BENGglas Single Coated is heat-strengthened. It’s stronger than regular glass, but not shatter-resistant. Do you need shatter-resistant glass? Then choose a variant starting at 8.3 mm. Not sure which option is best for you? Your dealer will be happy to help you decide!

When should I choose laminated glass?

Laminated vacuum glazing is used in locations where, in addition to insulation, extra safety, soundproofing, or structural strength are important. Examples include glass at heights, roof glazing, or situations with high noise levels.

In many cases, it is even required by law, such as when there is a risk of falling through or in roof applications. The film between the glass layers ensures that the glass does not shatter into sharp shards if broken—making it safer and more comfortable for everyday use.

  • Facades
    By default, BENGglas is safety-rated on both sides: if broken, it shatters into small granules. In facades with height differences, laminated glass is required to prevent the risk of falling through.
    Thanks to the built-in UV filter in the PVB film, furniture and floors fade less quickly.
  • Roof Glazing
    When it comes to glass overhead, safety isn’t a choice—it’s a requirement. Laminated vacuum glazing is the standard here: if broken, it stays intact and prevents shards from falling down. Daylight still streams in, while the UV filter prevents discoloration of floors and furniture.
  • Living near a busy area? Want more peace and quiet indoors?
    Noises from (air) traffic, neighbors, or a schoolyard can be disruptive. Acoustic laminated glass noticeably reduces noise levels. A special interlayer in the glass absorbs some of the sound vibrations—ideal for bedrooms, workspaces, or simply for more peace and quiet in the living room.

Will laminated glass fit in my existing window frames?

In most cases, yes. Laminated glass from BENGglas is available in thicknesses starting at 12 mm, which is thinner and lighter than triple-pane glass. Not sure if it will fit? We can help you check or refer you to an authorized dealer in your area.

What is the difference between EVA, PVB, and SGP in laminated glass?

At BENGglas, you can choose from three different interlayers between the glass panes: EVA, PVB, and SGP. They all ensure that the glass stays intact if broken, but each type has its own advantages.

  • EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) is versatile, highly resistant to moisture, clear, and suitable for most standard applications
  • PVB (Polyvinyl Butyral) is considered the industry standard in construction and within NEN standards.
  • PVB SoundControl, a variant of standard PVB, offers additional sound-insulating properties.
  • SGP (SentryGlas Plus) is the ultimate option: SGP can be up to five times stronger and up to 100 times stiffer than PVB, allowing for thinner glass structures that still meet the same safety standards. SGP is also more resistant to moisture and extremely clear.

We’d be happy to help you choose the right film for your project.

What is laminated glass?

Laminated glass is safety glass consisting of two or more panes of glass with a strong, transparent film (usually PVB) sandwiched between them. This film holds the glass together if it breaks. Instead of breaking into loose shards, the glass remains adhered to the film. This significantly reduces the risk of injury.