Zenni’s Polycarbonate Lens Drop Ball Test: Ensuring Superior Safety and Durability
- BY Alyssa Buchanan
- IN Lenses
At Zenni, we’re committed to providing eyewear that not only looks stylish but also meets the highest safety standards. One of the key ways we ensure the durability and reliability of our lenses is through rigorous testing. Among the various tests we conduct, the drop ball test for polycarbonate lenses stands out as a crucial measure of impact resistance. Let’s dive into how this test works and why it matters for you.
Understanding the Drop Ball Test
The drop ball test, established by ANSI in 1968, assesses the impact resistance of protective eyewear. In this test, a 0.56-ounce steel ball is dropped from a height of 50 inches onto the lens. For the eyewear to pass, the lens must withstand the impact without chipping, cracking, or breaking. This procedure ensures that optical, sun, and safety lenses can handle everyday hazards and provide reliable protection for your eyes.
Zenni’s Enhanced Testing for Polycarbonate Lenses
At Zenni, we go beyond the basic requirements to offer enhanced safety. For our polycarbonate lenses, we use a more rigorous drop ball test to ensure superior impact resistance. We drop a 2.36-ounce, 1-inch steel ball from a height of 50 inches onto our lenses. This is approximately four times larger and heavier than the standard ball used in the ANSI test. Our 1.59 index polycarbonate lenses with a scratch-resistant coating successfully passed this enhanced test. This robust testing process verifies that our lenses are not only durable but also able to withstand more significant impacts compared to conventional standards.
Benefits of Polycarbonate Lenses
Polycarbonate lenses are renowned for their strength and durability. Here’s why they’re an excellent choice for your eyewear:
Superior Impact Resistance
Polycarbonate lenses are made from a high-tech plastic material known for its exceptional impact resistance. This makes them ideal for situations where your glasses might be subjected to accidental drops, knocks, or other impacts. Whether you’re involved in sports, working in a demanding environment, or simply want reliable everyday eyewear, polycarbonate lenses offer enhanced protection.
Lightweight Comfort
Despite their strength, polycarbonate lenses are incredibly lightweight. This ensures that your glasses are comfortable to wear throughout the day without causing strain or discomfort. The lightweight nature of polycarbonate lenses makes them a popular choice for both prescription and non-prescription eyewear.
Scratch Resistance
Zenni’s polycarbonate lenses come with a scratch-resistant coating, adding an extra layer of protection to maintain clear vision and extend the lifespan of your lenses. This coating helps prevent everyday wear and tear, ensuring your lenses stay in top condition.
UV Protection
Polycarbonate lenses naturally block 100% of harmful UV rays, protecting your eyes from the damaging effects of the sun. This built-in UV protection helps reduce the risk of eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Who Can Benefit from Polycarbonate Lenses?
Polycarbonate lenses are renowned for their exceptional durability and lightweight comfort. These lenses are particularly beneficial for a variety of individuals due to their impact resistance and safety features. Consider polycarbonate lenses if any of the following descriptions apply to you:
- Active Individuals: If you lead an active lifestyle, whether through sports or other high-impact activities, polycarbonate lenses offer the durability and impact resistance you need to keep your vision clear and protected.
- Workers in Hazardous Environments: For those working in environments where eyewear might be subjected to physical stress or potential impacts, polycarbonate lenses provide added safety and resilience.
- Children: Kids are often tough on their glasses, so polycarbonate lenses offer extra durability and safety to withstand their daily adventures.
- Individuals with Higher Prescriptions: If you have a higher prescription, polycarbonate lenses offer a lighter, thinner option that doesn’t compromise on strength or comfort.
- Anyone Seeking Lightweight Comfort and Durability: If you prefer glasses that are easy to wear and don’t cause discomfort over long periods, polycarbonate lenses offer a lightweight option without sacrificing strength.
Choose Zenni for Superior Lens Quality
At Zenni, we are dedicated to ensuring that our lenses meet and exceed safety standards. Our enhanced drop ball test for polycarbonate lenses is just one example of our commitment to providing you with high-quality eyewear that offers both style and protection. With superior impact resistance, lightweight comfort, scratch resistance, and UV protection, our polycarbonate lenses are designed to enhance your vision and safeguard your eyes.
