Southwall Technologies (SWTX)

[MWM]

XIR Laminated Glass
Even in cold weather, automobiles may overheat when exposed to direct sunlight. Excessive solar heat gain through clear or tinted glass results in occupant discomfort, excessive energy usage for cooling, and interior fading due to ultraviolet exposure.

XIR® is a transparent film that is encapsulated between layers of PVB (polyvinyl butyral) in laminated automotive glass to form a protective barrier against the harmful effects of the sun. Unlike other approaches that simply absorb and re-radiate heat, XIR film’s spectrally-selective metallic coating actually reflects destructive infrared and UV rays without impairing visible light transmission. XIR laminated glass reduces solar heat gain an average of 35% more effectively than tinted glass, increasing occupant comfort, improving fuel efficiency, and reducing interior fading.

See Clearly and Stay Cool
XIR film is virtually transparent, so it does not affect driver vision. XIR film also protects expensive upholstery and audio equipment by shielding it from over 94% of the sun’s destructive heat and 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays.

Improve Fuel Efficiency
XIR film helps to lower interior temperatures quickly, cooling the passenger cabin to minimize strain on the air conditioner and improve fuel efficiency. A July 2000 desert test program with the U.S Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) reported that a test vehicle equipped with XIR reflective film technology had significantly reduced interior cabin temperatures and improved fuel economy by 3%.

Benefits
High light transmission – Virtually transparent
Improves occupant comfort – Blocks 94% of infrared radiation
Increases fuel efficiency – Cooler cabin decreases air conditioner loading
Protects skin and reduces interior fading – Blocks 99% of UV rays
Reduces external noise
Applications
Windshields
Side Lights
Sunroofs