Panelite, the leading developer of translucent honeycomb panels, is revolutionizing the glazing standard with its high-performance ClearShade IGU. The tubular polycarbonate honeycomb core allows full transparency when viewed frontally, but obscures the line of sight when viewed from oblique angles. Since the tubular cells act in the same way with the sun’s rays by blocking them when they are highest in the sky, the honeycomb core provides excellent shading coefficient and minimizes solar-heat gain, thereby reducing the energy requirements for heating and cooling interior spaces. The average Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of a Panelite ClearShade unit is 0.18 at midday, four times better than a typical IGU, representing significant energy savings over the lifetime of a building.
The first application of this unique panel was the entry façade of the McCormick Tribune Campus Center at the Illinois Institute of Technology designed by Rem Koolhaas/OMA and completed in June 2003. Exemplifying ClearShade’s potential for customization, the Panelite provided panels that met stringent wind and acoustical specifications. To achieve a bold aesthetic, the company created a custom-colored orange core, custom-tinted laminated glass, and in some locations, a custom ceramic-frit pattern.
Glazing for ClearShade IGU is currently being installed in a custom blue shade at JetBlue’s new terminal at JFK International Airport in New York, designed by Gensler, and scheduled for completion in 2008. After evaluating many glazing options, Gensler specified ClearShade for the west-facing ticketing hall, exploiting the superior shading properties of its integral core material. With energy costs rising daily, the product is exceptional at reducing long-term consumption in both small and large developments. ClearShade IGU has been specified for installed at the new Apple Computer headquarters in Cupertino, California, and the new Library at California State University Fresno Student Center at UCLA Fresno.
The complete unit is compatible with most commercial storefront and curtain-wall glazing systems, comes with a standard 10-year warranty, and is appropriate for use in interior and exterior glazing applications.
Through the use of translucent, transparent, and directionally transparent materials, architects and designers can allow daylight to reach into the depth of interior spaces, thereby reducing energy consumption for lighting while increasing the overall well-being of the occupants.
The Bonded Series Panels:
Panelite Bonded Series Panels use a UV-stabilized liquid adhesive technology to bond PETG, Polycarbonate, or Acrylic facings to the cell wall of a tubular polycarbonate core to create a directionally transparent, lightweight panel. Offered in a variety of colors, finishes and core options including the innovative random core, the Bonded Series allows for creativity, choice and customization of design.
Applications for the Bonded Series include partitions, sliding panels, suspended ceiling panels, backlit and feature walls.
Panelite panels, including the new Bonded Series, contribute to the following LEED credits:
Indoor Environmental Quality Credit: Daylight and Views
EQ 8.1 + 8.2 Daylight and views, 1 pt.
