Switchable Marine Glass:What is it And How Can I Get It?

February 18th 2019

“Magic Made Real: This switching technology can also be applied to existing glass using a film that incorporates the same liquid crystals.” 

From boardrooms to bathrooms, switchable glass, or ‘privacy glass’, is a modern alternative to blinds or curtains that can be used in a variety of applications. At Alfab, we’ve seen switchable glass utilised for boat windows as well as in bathrooms, entertaining areas and on partitions.

Switchable glass technology works by producing a laminated glass, which includes a layer of a material called Liquid Crystal Privacy Film that responds to electrical currents. Switchable glass technology can also be applied to existing glass using a film that incorporates the same liquid crystals.

Half Frosted over switchable glass on marine window

When power is sent to the glass through a hardwired switch, the crystals come into alignment and offer clear glass and unrestricted views. When the power is turned off, the glass returns to an opaque form, allowing for privacy.


Office wall made of frosted switchable glass
Office wall made of frosted switchable glass

 

Applying this film to existing glass can be seen as a cheaper alternative to installing new glass panels, however, it is important to have a professional complete the installation. Creases or bends in the film could damage the crystals, and result in patches where the glass remains clear even after the switch.

Watching this type of glass change is instantaneous and impressive. Switchable glass provides a clean, modern look to any window, onboard bathroom or glass wall that cannot be achieved otherwise. Additionally, you will gain back a tiny bit of space that is now not being taken up by blinds, curtains or an alternate window covering.

Contact the team at Alfab for a free quote on custom-made switchable glass today.


Looking for a Switchable Glass Quote?

At Alfab, our expert glaziers provide tailor-made glass solutions to customers on the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Melbourne. We take pride in helping you take your marine windows and other glass panels to the next level with the latest technology.

Call us today to talk to one of our friendly team about switchable glass for your vessel or office.

Contact us for a Quote >

Announcing the NewMaritimo X60 Motor Yacht

“Luxury on the Sea”

February 8th 2019

For the past two years, we have been working diligently with the innovative vessel designers and builders at Maritimo in order to achieve their desired outcome in a stunning piece of modern marine design and ingenuity.

Alfab’s team of glaziers and craftsmen are excited to announce the success of the recently launched, Maritimo X60 Motor Yacht.

For the past two years, we have been working diligently with the innovative vessel designers and builders at Maritimo in order to achieve their desired outcome in a stunning piece of modern marine design and ingenuity.

custom boat windows on maritimo x60 motor yacht

It has been a highly respected experience in our long term relationship to work with the vision of designer Tom Barry-Cotter, who spearheaded the X60’s development team from start to finish. Barry-Cotter states “The X Series is a result of an extensive customer-focused design and development process from our ongoing R&D program and the X60 design makes a statement, whether at sea or at anchor” and we couldn’t agree more.

Let’s dive into the design features that make the Maritimo X60 so unique!


haines centre console boat windshield
Interior of Maritimo X60, wooden kitchen

 

One of the X60’s greatest feat in luxury can be found in its stylish multi-functional saloon that quite literally “opens up” to let the outdoors in thanks to twin massive overhead sunroofs and large vista three stage side-opening windows. These sliding boat windows are manufactured with the highest quality, triple marine glass panels and were specifically designed to evoke the feeling that you are bringing the great outdoors right inside the vessel, each having a smooth fully-glass exterior for a clean seamless appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of the vessel. We utilise 90% new materials list for a contemporary solution to complement the vessels experience.

The X60’s game-changing “Beach Club” saloon design was fueled by the desire to keep all areas of the vessel open and connected – making it the perfect fit for those who love to entertain friends and family while enjoying life on the sea. It features water-level access, a full bar, kitchen with a large island bench, plenty of lounging space, dayhead, TV unit, 7.1 surround sound, LED lighting, storage, appliances and more!

Barry-Cotter explained, “The whole boat has been designed around that aft cabin…the engineering systems, the balance, everything – it’s all been tweaked to make that space work. By including the aft cabin in our initial plans, it has opened up so much extra accommodation space, and neutrally balanced the vessels planning characteristics for great performance.

Congratulations to everyone who participated in realising this exciting project and we look forward to continuing to push the limits and possibilities that come with custom designed marine windows and glazing solutions on future vessels.


Have questions about our work on the new Maritimo X60?

Contact the team at Alfab today to discuss how we can help you realise your custom marine glazing project.

Contact us for a Quote >