Thailand heatwave causes car windows to explode

[webfact]

 

Thailand’s scorching temperatures have led to an unusual phenomenon – exploding car windows, even when vehicles are parked in the shade.

 

The issue sparked widespread discussion and debate among netizens, following viral images of a car with its driver’s side window shattered due to the intense heat. The advice circulating online suggests leaving car windows slightly open to allow hot air to escape, aiming to prevent such incidents.

 

Jessada Denduangboripant, a lecturer from the Department of Biology at Chulalongkorn University, provided insight into this matter through a Facebook post. He explained that while heat can indeed cause car windows to shatter, various potential causes need to be examined on a case-by-case basis.

The image in question showed a side window, which, like the rear window of a car, is made of tempered glass, as opposed to the laminated glass used for windshields. Each reacts differently to impact.

Tempered glass can shatter due to stress cracks, making it possible for a car parked in extreme heat to experience a sudden change in temperature (from hot to cold) that can cause the glass to break. Such incidents are not uncommon.

 

For example, a car left in the blazing sun might have its windows crack when the driver returns and immediately turns the air conditioning to full blast, cools it with cold water, or if it’s suddenly hit by rain. Pre-existing minor cracks or air pockets within the glass layers can lead to disproportionate contraction and expansion, resulting in breakage.

 

Falling objects

 

However, the primary cause of shattered car windows is often an impact from falling objects. Before jumping to conclusions, it’s advisable to check the surroundings for heavy fruits, branches, or even pets like cats that could have fallen on the vehicle. Pre-existing damage, like unnoticed chips from flying debris, increases the likelihood of the glass shattering.

 

To determine whether a crack is a stress crack, one should look for the absence of impact points or contact marks on the broken window. Older vehicles or those that have been involved in collisions may have structural deformities that put extra pressure on the windows, making them more prone to breakage. Conversely, a new car experiencing window breakage could be due to manufacturing or structural faults, requiring a check from the dealership, reported Sanook.

 

Jessada also offered tips to prevent car windows from shattering:

 

Avoid parking in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this accelerates wear and tear on the vehicle.

Regularly inspect the car for any signs of damage on the windows and body, which could create pressure on the glass.

Before using a car that has been parked in the sun, open the windows slightly to let out the hot air, then gradually cool the interior with air conditioning.

Install quality heat-filtering window films to not only reduce heat but also provide protection in the event of an accident.

Steer clear of parking in areas prone to explosions, such as mines, demolition sites, military exercises, or near rocket launch pads and sonic boom zones, all of which can cause stress cracks.

Do not leave items in the car that could explode when exposed to heat, such as lighters, spray cans, or power banks.

By understanding the various factors that can lead to shattered car windows and taking preventive measures, drivers can better protect their vehicles from the unexpected consequences of Thailand’s intense heat.

 

by Samantha Rose

Picture courtesy of Sanook

 

Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-10

 

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[retarius]

It hasn't exploded, it has cracked. If it had exploded, glass would be seen shattered over the outside of the car. 

[brianthainess]

4 minutes ago, retarius said:

It hasn't exploded, it has cracked. If it had exploded, glass would be seen shattered over the outside of the car. 

But we clicked on the story init. I'd say expansion all round door window frame, etc. not just hot air, like this story.

[connda]

17 minutes ago, webfact said:

Thailand’s scorching temperatures have led to an unusual phenomenon – exploding car windows, even when vehicles are parked in the shade.

Sure - I've seen that all the time when I use to live in the US desert regions.  Ah huh.
All that has to be done in order to cool the planet is to stop eating meat, live in 4 meter square cubicle and give most of your paycheck to the government in so-called "carbon taxes" which you elite leaders will used to stop the the forest arson and the Big Ag sponsored crop burning just like they do now. You'll be happy and the planet will be saved  Ah huh.  And you'll no longer worry about your car windows exploding because unless you're a elite feudal lord - you won't own a car.  Commoners.  Ah huh.

[JoePai]

Steer clear of parking in areas prone to explosions, such as mines, demolition sites, military exercises, or near rocket launch pads and sonic boom zones  

 

 

[Excogitator]

"Steer clear of parking in areas prone to explosions, such as mines, demolition sites, military exercises, or near rocket launch pads and sonic boom zones, all of which can cause stress cracks."

 

So, where am I gonna park then..?

[Purdey]

Just another normal hot season in Thailand. 🫢

[John Drake]

6 hours ago, webfact said:

Steer clear of parking in areas prone to explosions, such as mines, demolition sites, military exercises, or near rocket launch pads and sonic boom zones, all of which can cause stress cracks.

 

Okay.

[ChrisY1]

Chinese glass...

[richard_smith237]

Amazing Thailand- this heatwave hotter & more dangerous than the Middle East…

… where car windows do not explode or crack from the heat…

 

 

… Look for a sheepish looking boy & golf club would be my suggestion !!! 

[Lacessit]

A bit off topic perhaps, but I am wondering how the batteries in EV's are reacting to extreme heat.

[rexpotter]

6 hours ago, webfact said:

Department of Biology

What? Department of what? Its to fffing hot

[Ralf001]

6 hours ago, retarius said:

It hasn't exploded, it has cracked. If it had exploded, glass would be seen shattered over the outside of the car. 

 Likely the window tint is holding it together.

[Confuscious]

I am pretty sure that the SUN GHOSTS have something to do with the glass cracks.
Better call the monks to exorcise these Sun Ghosts.

[RichardColeman]

40 minutes ago, Lacessit said:

A bit off topic perhaps, but I am wondering how the batteries in EV's are reacting to extreme heat.

Yes, maybe that is correct - 6 hours charging it might warm it up more than the sun

[Darksidedude]

most likely because electrical items are in the car, 

[hotchilli]

21 hours ago, webfact said:

The advice circulating online suggests leaving car windows slightly open to allow hot air to escape, aiming to prevent such incidents.

Really ?

[Gsxrnz]

Ever wondered what all the little black dots on the front and rear screens (and sometimes on the side windows) are for? 

[mikebell]

On 4/10/2024 at 9:28 AM, webfact said:

Install quality heat-filtering window films to not only reduce heat but also provide protection in the event of an accident.

Preferably very black.  This has the added benefit of being illegal but prevents police identifying you; not that they EVER try.

[quake]

Quote

Thailand heatwave causes car windows to explode

Bs, someone or some object hit it.

Possible point of impact.

 

 

[connda]

21 hours ago, Confuscious said:

I am pretty sure that the SUN GHOSTS have something to do with the glass cracks.
Better call the monks to exorcise these Sun Ghosts.

I'm sure that there is a lucky lottery number somewhere in those cracks.