Ballistic glass: from definition through to installation

09/11/2022

 

Also known as “transparent armour”, ballistic or bulletproof glass is created specifically to resist the penetration of blunt objects and projectiles.

The creation of ballistic glass usually follows a very precise formula, combining two or more types of glass depending on the level of protection required.

Those who know us also know that few companies in the world can offer top-of-the-range, sophisticated and highly durable glass surfaces.

Although, by its very nature, glass will never be completely unbreakable, through our technologies and ongoing research we can offer products that exceed normal market standards.

 

From car manufacturers to installers: our most loyal customers

 

Who installs ballistic glass? And above all, who requires it? We are proud of our collaboration with some of the world's most important car manufacturers, such as Audi, Mercedes and BMW. These are just some of the high-profile brands that offer armoured vehicles built in our very own factories.

For some time now, we have also been working closely with body shops specialising in the armour plating of vehicles (including standard aftermarket cars). When it comes to choosing “external” collaborators, we are very demanding.

All the armour plating specialists we turn to are OEM certified and must leave the basic characteristics of the vehicle unchanged.

 

The levels of protection we ensure

 

The ballistic regulations VPAM, EN1063 and STANAG 4569 are our standards of reference for the production of ballistic glass for the automotive industry, both civil and military.

As far as the civil market is concerned, we supply products under two regulations: VPAM, with ballistic levels of protection of up to PM10 (7.62x54R, with an incendiary/armour-piercing bullet); and EN:1063 (the most used on the Italian market), with all levels of protection, from the well-known ammunitions .44 Rem.Mag. and 7.62x39mm, to the more powerful BR7 (7.62x51mm NATO).

In the military sphere, the reference standard is STANAG 4569, and our products are designed to withstand the threat of both hard metal and tungsten carbide (WC) projectiles and of fragments simulating the projection of shrapnel (FSP).

Our customers do not merely turn to us for ballistic glass; they also require products that can withstand certain temperatures. Especially under the STANAG 4569 ballistics legislation, military vehicles must ensure the protection of occupants in extreme temperatures of -32°C and +50°C.

A real challenge that requires innovation, technology and expertise.