All exposure test samples are made by preparing 2" x 12" (50 x 305 mm) laminates with Saflex interlayer. The samples are flush trimmed to the aligned edges of the glass after tacking. These laminates are then put through the final bonding in an air autoclaved using a standard heat and pressure cycle. All edges tested for sealant compatibility are autoclaved. The laminates edges are no longer cut for sealant compatibility testing. It is generally accepted that an autoclaved edge will have the best stability on an overall basis regardless of sealant application. This is due to the various cutting methods employed by the industry. Solutia is unable to replicate the cutting techniques used in the field on a laboratory scale therefore we felt that reporting on cut laminate edges would not yield data that correlates to the industry. In considering cut laminated glass edges and sealant application it is prudent to assume that an increase in the depth and area affected by sealant incompatibility effects will be increased over the average data presented in this bulletin if the sealant is in intimate contact with the cut edge. The amount of increase is dependent upon the amount of stress and manipulation the interlayer undergoes during laminate cutting. If laminated architectural glass is to be used in an installation where edge defect must be minimized such as butt glazing, field cutting should be kept to a minimum. If field cutting is necessary, care should be taken to limit the degree to which the interlayer is stretched and special consideration should be given to compatibility during the sealant selection.
Sample retainer platforms are prepared with a taunt polyethylene covering to facilitate easy removal of the cured sealant product and allow movement of prepared samples to the designated curing location without disturbing. Sample dividers with non-stick tape applied to the edges that will come in contact with the sealant are laid on the retainer