F.A.Q.
COMMON QUESTIONS:
CLiC is a powered switchable privacy glass that offers homeowners, window manufacturers, builders, designers, and architects an exciting new technology for creating privacy. CLiC combines the most advanced liquid crystal science with Cardinal’s proven expertise in glass manufacturing and fabrication. When it comes to privacy, clarity, switching speed and durability, CLiC stands alone.
CLiC is suitable for use in residential and commercial interior and exterior applications. Switchable privacy glass can be utilized in windows, doors, and wall systems. CLiC is not suitable for exposed edge applications.
CLiC’s unique application of liquid crystal technology is key to its performance. Liquid crystals can be manipulated to appear in an aligned or scattered pattern by applying an electrical signal to change their orientation. When CLiC is in the privacy state, the liquid crystals are scattered and random, diffusing the light. When liquid crystals are in alignment with each other CLiC appears clear just like traditional clear glass.
The CLiC unit in the privacy state has neutral translucent appearance which slightly reduces the overall visible light transmittance when compared to the clear state. Total reduction is dependent on the final overall construction of the CLiC unit.
The standard 11.5mm CLiC unit construction has a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of 37, which provides superior sound dampening properties.
In the 9.9mm thickness, CLiC is available in sizes up to a maximum 15 sqft (max length of 70”). At the 11.5mm thickness, maximum size is 59” x 96” (1498mm x 2438mm). Both configurations have a minimum size of 7” x 22” (178mm x 559mm).
CLiC is available in either 9.9mm or 11.5mm, monolithically dependent on the application and size requirements. Various thicknesses of insulating glass constructions can be achieved with a variety of spacer thicknesses and cover lites.
The proprietary controller allows for numerous ways to integrate CLiC into various applications. It can easily be controlled by a variety of switching devices including a basic light switch (unpowered), smart device, or building management system.
The CLiC unit defaults to a privacy state when there is no power applied.
CLiC is recognized by the National Electrical Code (NEC) as a Class 3 power-limited low voltage system. CLiC typically uses less than 1/2 watt per square foot when active in the clear state and CLiC requires minimal power while in the privacy state.
No special maintenance is needed. See National Glass Association (NGA) Glass Informational Bulletin FB01-00 (2016): Proper Procedures for Cleaning Architectural Glass Products
All materials are safe and non-toxic. Liquid crystal technology is all around us, from smart phones to flat screen TVs. CLiC incorporates this technology to achieve a vastly improved switchable privacy glass.
Cardinal Glass Industries is the nation’s largest manufacturer and fabricator of glass used in residential windows and doors. Cardinal Glass is the parent company of CLiC, a technology division.