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Ask the Doctor
pros who know
Acoustic Windshields
by Korey Gobin
Acoustic windshields are designed to reduce the amount of noise that
is heard inside the cabin of modern vehicles without adding mileage-robbing
weight to the glass. Acoustic windshields are more expensive than traditional
laminated windshields, and this fact can be used as a selling point for
repair techs.
As acoustic windshields become more popular, I continue to receive an
increasing number of calls from windshield repair technicians wanting
to know if such windshields are repairable and, if so, if there are any
special precautions that they need to be aware of.
One Difference
Regardless of brand name, acoustic windshields currently are no different
any other windshields with one exception: the polyvinyl butyral (PVB).
In an acoustic windshield, the PVB inner-layer is enhanced acoustically
for more efficient sound reduction. This does not affect the ability of
a technician to repair the windshield and does not affect the quality
of a successfully completed windshield repair.
So, the simple answer is: yes, acoustic windshields are repairable and
require no special precautions.
Although acoustic windshields pose no new problems for windshield repair
technicians, I recommend checking the identification markings on a windshield,
often called the “bug.” In most cases the bug will identify the glass
manufacturer, the American Standard number, the DOT number, the M number
and as shown in the photo to the XX, a name or logo identifying the glass
as acoustical-grade. You may see the word acoustic (or simply an “A” for
acoustic) and sometimes manufacturers get creative, so you may have to
use your imagination. The vehicle manufacturer, an E Code (required to
identify the country in European Union), solar control identification,
and heated identification are also typically found in the bug.
The bug can be found on the bottom center or bottom passenger-side of
the windshield.
However, glass replacement and repair technicians should not rely on the
bug to identify acoustic windshields.
Korey Gobin is an account executive with Delta Kits in Eugene,
Ore. Mr. Gobin’s opinions are solely his own and not necessarily those
of this magazine.
AGRR
© Copyright 2009 Key Communications Inc. All rights reserved.
No reproduction of any type without expressed written permission.
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