ToughSwitch™

ToughSwitch™ is a switchable privacy glass that changes from transparent to opaque at the flick of a switch.

Glazed office partition providing partial visual privacy.

ToughSwitch™

Manufactured by laminating a Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) film between two panes of Ultra Clear Glass , ToughSwitch™ delivers exceptional clarity when transparent while providing instant privacy when switched off. Designed for modern architectural spaces, ToughSwitch™ combines privacy, functionality and contemporary design in a single glazing solution. While ToughSwitch™ is manufactured as standard using Ultra Clear Glass for optimum clarity, alternative glass types and configurations are available to suit specific project requirements.

How Does ToughSwitch™ Work?

ToughSwitch™ uses an advanced Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) film laminated between two panes of glass.

When an electrical current is applied, the liquid crystals align to create a clear, transparent appearance.

When the power is switched off, the crystals disperse, causing the glass to become translucent and provide privacy.

This simple technology allows privacy to be controlled instantly while maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

Features & Benefits

  • Changes from transparent to opaque at the flick of a switch.

  • Manufactured using Ultra Clear Glass for exceptional clarity and colour neutrality.

  • Alternative glass configurations available to suit project requirements.

  • Available in annealed or toughened configurations depending on the application.

  • Provides instant privacy without blinds or curtains.

  • Can also be used as a high-definition rear projection screen.

  • Manufactured as custom laminated safety glass.

Specifications

Interlayer

EVA with PDLC Film

Standard Glass

Ultra Clear Glass

Available Configurations

Annealed or Toughened

Maximum Size

1800mm x 5000mm

Standard

AS/NZS 2208 – Grade A Safety Glass (where applicable)

External Glazing

When ToughSwitch™ is specified for external glazing applications, it should be incorporated into a ToughEco Plus Insulated Glass Unit (IGU).

Combining ToughSwitch™ with ToughEco Plus provides enhanced thermal performance while protecting the switchable interlayer within the insulated glazing system.

Our team can assist in selecting the most appropriate ToughEco Plus configuration to suit your project's performance requirements.

Product Considerations

  • ToughSwitch™ is manufactured to order and supplied as a custom laminated glass product.

  • For external glazing applications, ToughSwitch™ should be incorporated into a ToughEco™ Plus Insulated Glass Unit (IGU).

  • Electrical wiring and transformer requirements should be considered during the design stage.

  • Only neutral cure, non-acidic silicone sealants are recommended, as some alternative sealants may cause delamination of the laminated glass.

  • All fabrication, including holes, cut-outs and edgework, must be completed prior to lamination.

  • Technical support is available to assist with product selection and system integration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When power is applied, the liquid crystals align, allowing light to pass through and creating a clear appearance. When the power is switched off, the crystals disperse, making the glass translucent and providing privacy.

Yes. ToughSwitch™ is manufactured to order and can be customised to suit your project's requirements. Custom sizes, shapes, holes, cut-outs and polished edges can all be incorporated during the manufacturing process.

When power is removed, ToughSwitch™ automatically changes to its translucent (privacy) state . This "privacy by default" operation provides an added level of discretion when the system is not energised.

Yes. When switched to its translucent state, ToughSwitch™ can be used as a high-definition rear projection screen , making it an ideal solution for boardrooms, presentation spaces and multimedia environments.

Yes. ToughSwitch™ can be incorporated into a ToughEco™ Plus Insulated Glass Unit (IGU) for external glazing applications. Our team can also assist with selecting the most suitable glass configuration to achieve the required privacy, thermal and safety performance for your project.

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