The Lightway Crystal tube

The reflective surface of the Lightway Crystal tube piping light has the reflectance of 99,8% and a very low diffusion of the ray at multiple bounces along the entire length of the tubular skylight. The result is the fact that the transmitted rays of daylight do not lose the intensity even through maximum lengths of tubes and are deliberately spread in the end part of the tubular skylight – the diffuser.

The reflective surface of the Lightway Crystal tube is produced by a very sophisticated method of chemical vapour deposition in a vacuum. Single layers are gradually applied in very thin microscopic thicknesses. The process guarantees their excellent flexibility and the ability to be bound to the preceeding layers. The result is not only a high percentage of reflection at low diffusion but also a repeatedly bounced ray. The technology also guarantees mechanical and chemical resistance. The surface is stable at changing temperatures and it is not sensitive to humidity. The complex of properties results in a 25 year warranty for the reflective surface of the Lightway Crystal tube.

Standard tubular skylights work with the highest stated values of reflection exceeding 99%. It is not usually stated whether the value is the average of the reflection of all visible wavelengths of daylight or the highest attained on the colours of the spectrum. Then the modification colour output occurs and one of them dominates at the outlet of the tubular skylight. Due to the uneven surface of the reflective layer of the types with soft tube or with attached reflective foil the bounced ray is already diffused in the tube. A significantly reduced percentage of light comes to the diffuser at the end of the tubular skylight.
The microscopically uneven surface of the attached reflective foil on aluminium sheet metal showing 99% reflection is an example of the reduced percentage of light. In spite of the fact that the value of reflection is high, the ability to transmit light is significantly supressed. During a multiple bounce a strong beam is broken into many others.

The use of self – sticking reflective foil on aluminium sheet metal significantly reduces costs. In relation to the final price it is very benfitial. Common practice shows the problematic function of the gluu sensitive to expansion movements of aluminium. Humidity and temperature changes deteriorate the adhesion of the sheet metal. The foil is not resistant to scratching. The unevenness of the surface and air bubbles uder the foil surface are visible to the naked eye. The surface does not show even brightness. The result is lower performance, shorter lifespan and shorter guarantee.