"Cracked Ice" laminate refers to the method of laminating one lite of tempered glass between two lites of annealed glass and then, after 24 hours of curing time, the center (tempered lite) is broken, creating a customized touch of elegance for almost any design application. Cracked Ice can be produced in a range of colors, tailored to the end user's taste and preference. The product is ideal for use in tables, shelving, bars, shower doors and many other specialty applications.
The breaking process can be done one of three ways:
If our customer wants the break pattern to begin in the center of the piece of glass, we drill through the bottom lite of annealed glass at the desired point of fracture. When the drill hits the tempered lite, it will break.
A center punch tapped on the edge of the tempered lite will also break the glass. This method is used mostly when the edges are going to be covered, either by banding or a frame.
If we are going to polish the edges for a table top or shelving, the center lite will break during the grinding process.
The tempered glass pieces will not fall out of the edges. PVB has an adhesion of 28 psi, while the interlayer we use has 500 psi of adhesion, making this system of laminating, superior for this type of product.
"Cracked Ice" laminate can be made with 3/16" + 3/16" + 3/16" or 1/4" + 1/4" + 1/4", with the latter being the most popular; because the break pattern of 1/4" tempered glass is smallest and most consistent. We can add a dye to the resin used for the bottom layer to give the table a tint of color or add a pigment to give a bold opaque look. Mirror can be used as the bottom lite of annealed to achieve a brilliant look.
Designed for the decorator who wants an entirely custom look.