Automotive Glazing Systems Processes

Increasingly, glazing systems rather than a simple piece of glass are being supplied to the vehicle manufacturers. Much of this value-added activity is undertaken once the glass has been laminated or tempered. Glazing systems help to simplify the vehicle assembly process. Modular systems such as encapsulation and extrusion are designed to facilitate adhesive bonding of the glazing to the vehicle.

Encapsulation

Encapsulation involves the injection moulding of a polymer trim, shaped precisely to fit the vehicle body, to the periphery of the glazing. It also provides the opportunity to incorporate within the moulding additional styling features, fixing mechanisms and even hinges for opening windows in minivans and estate cars.

Extrusion

An alternative glazing system is provided by the robotic extrusion of a polymer profile to the periphery of the glazing, with the extruded profile or seal being precisely shaped to the vehicle.

Assembly

Fixing of certain glazings within a vehicle can also be achieved through the application of locator clips to the glass. The attachment of such clips, together with other hardware, is most commonly referred to as assembly.