Product Description:
When it comes to mirrors, there are many types and uses. Common types include aluminum mirrors, silver mirrors, safety mirrors, etc. Here, we will introduce to you the advantages and disadvantages of different types in terms of the definitions, characteristics and applications of these products, as well as how to choose a suitable mirror type.
Mirror Types
Aluminum mirror
This is a type of mirror where the reflective layer is made from aluminum rather than the more traditional silver. This aluminum layer is deposited onto the back of a glass substrate, typically through a process called vacuum deposition, where aluminum is vaporized and then condenses onto the glass, forming a thin, reflective coating.
Silver Mirror
This is a type of mirror that has a reflective surface made by depositing a thin layer of silver onto a glass substrate. The silver coating gives the mirror its high reflectivity and is often used in high-quality mirrors for decorative and optical purposes.
Safety Mirror
Safety mirrors are often made with a vinyl backing that helps hold the glass together if it breaks, reducing the chance of sharp shards flying off. There are two kinds of films for coated safety mirrors in MIGO GLASS, one is a smooth film backing CAT I, and the other is a non-smooth film backing CAT II.
Tempered Safety Mirror
This is a type of safety mirror that is made from tempered glass. Tempered glass is treated through a heating and cooling process to make it much stronger than regular glass. If it does break, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, which reduces the risk of injury. This type of mirror is often used in environments where safety is a concern, such as in public spaces or in homes with young children.
Differences Between Normal Mirror and Tempered Safety Mirror
Manufacturing Process
Normal Mirror: A normal mirror is made by applying a reflective coating, usually silver or aluminum, to the back of a sheet of regular glass. This glass is not treated or altered significantly after the reflective coating is applied.
Tempered Safety Mirror: A tempered safety mirror starts as a normal mirror but undergoes an additional tempering process. This involves heating the glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it, which changes the internal structure of the glass, making it much stronger.
Strength
Normal Mirror: Normal mirrors are relatively fragile and can break or crack under impact. The glass used is not strengthened, so it is more susceptible to damage.
Tempered Safety Mirror: The tempering process makes these mirrors several times stronger than normal mirrors. They are more resistant to impact and thermal stress, making them more durable and safer for use in various environments.
Features
Normal Mirror: When a normal mirror breaks, it shatters into large, sharp shards of glass, which can be very dangerous and cause serious injuries.
Tempered Safety Mirror: If a tempered safety mirror breaks, it shatters into small, blunt, pebble-like pieces that are much less likely to cause injury. This makes them safer, especially in environments where glass breakage could pose a significant hazard, such as in bathrooms, gyms, or public spaces.
Applications
Normal mirrors are commonly used in residential settings where the risk of impact is low, such as in bedrooms, and living rooms.
Tempered safety mirrors are used in locations where safety is a priority, including bathrooms, gyms, and public buildings. They are also often required by building codes in commercial and public settings due to their safety features.
Cost
Generally, normal mirrors are less expensive than tempered safety mirrors due to the simpler manufacturing process. But the increased safety and durability often justify the higher cost in many applications.
Mirror Glass Packing and Loading at MIGO GLASS
Mirror sheets packing and loading require careful handling to prevent damage during transportation.
Inspection
Before packaging, the mirrors are inspected for any defects, scratches, or chips to ensure only high-quality sheets are packed.
Protective treatment
A protective film or paper (such as polyethylene or kraft paper) is often placed between each mirror sheet to prevent scratches
during handling and transport. For edge and corner protection, foam strips, plastic corner protectors, or cardboard strips are
often placed along the edges of the mirrors to protect against chipping.
Stacking
Mirror sheets are stacked vertically or horizontally, depending on their size and the type of packaging used. For larger mirrors,
vertical stacking is common as it reduces the risk of breakage from weight pressure.
Strapping
The stack of mirror sheets is securely strapped together, often using plastic or metal bands, to keep them from shifting during transit.
Packaging Options
Wooden Crates: Mirror sheets are commonly packed in custom-made wooden crates. These crates are typically lined with foam or
other cushioning material to absorb shocks.
Foam Lining: Foam or other cushioning material may be used inside the crates to provide extra protection against vibrations and impacts.
Shrink Wrapping: In some cases, the entire package is shrink-wrapped to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture
and dirt.
Loading
Forklifts, cranes, or vacuum lifters are used to load the packed mirror sheets onto the containers. The equipment is chosen based on the
size and weight of the mirrors. Besides, inside the container, the crates are secured using straps or tie-downs to prevent movement during transit. Additional padding
may be used to fill any gaps and prevent the packages from shifting.
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At MIGOGLASS, we offer many types of mirrors, silver mirrors, aluminum mirrors, copper-free and lead-free mirrors, safety mirrors, laminated mirrors, tempered mirrors, etc. It is widely used in bathrooms, gyms, dance studios and other interior decoration places, as well as various types of home furnishings and furniture.
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