What is the difference between tempered glass and ceramic glass?

Tempered vs. Ceramic Glass

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is regular glass that has been heat treated to increase strength and thermal shock resistance to prevent injury by changing the break pattern. Tempered glass is used in applications where heat, mechanical strength and safety are a factor. For example, the glass on motor vehicles is tempered to make it strong and less dangerous when it shatters or breaks. Tempered glass is also used in fireplace doors, on masonry and prefabricated fireplaces equipped with a grate to hold the burning wood.
Tempered glass can withstand constant temperatures of 470 deg F. If tempered glass is exposed to higher temperatures, it gradually weakens the structure of the glass thus making it more susceptible to breakage. If a piece of tempered glass is exposed to continuous temperatures of 600 deg F or more, the glass will shatter into small pieces.

Ceramic Glass

Ceramic Glass commonly referred to as glass but it is actually a transparent ceramic. Unlike true glass, Ceramics can withstands continuous exposure to high temperatures without fear of destruction. It is also resistant to failure due to temperature variation. It is the ideal solution for many wood stoves and fireplaces where glass panels are less than 6 inches from the flames. We carry two different types of ceramic glass. PyroCeram(R) can withstand long term temperatures up to 1256 deg F. NeoCeram(R) can withstand long term temperatures up to 1470 deg F.

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