Different Types of Glasses Frames Materials
There are various materials used to create glasses frames, each with its unique properties and benefits. The most common materials can be broadly categorized into two groups: metal and plastic. Here’s a detailed list of the different types of glasses frames materials:
Metal Frames
- Magnesium Frames: Strong and can be welded, brazed, and soldered. However, they may suffer from surface discoloration and pitting when exposed to atmospheric conditions or saltwater[1].
- Beryllium Frames: These frames are lightweight and corrosion-resistant[1].
- Pure Aluminum Frames: Aluminum frames are lightweight and durable but may not be as strong as other metal options[1].
- Titanium Glasses Frames: Titanium is a lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant material, making it a popular choice for eyeglass frames[1][2].
- Ticral Eyeglass Frames: These frames are made from a titanium-based alloy and offer similar benefits to pure titanium frames[1].
- Stainless Steel Frames: Stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material, making it suitable for eyeglass frames[1].
- Nickel Titanium Frames: Also known as Flexon, these frames are lightweight, strong, and flexible, making them ideal for people with an active lifestyle[1][3].
- Monel Frames: Monel is a metal alloy that is commonly used in eyeglass frames due to its strength and flexibility[1][3].
Plastic Frames
- Zyl (Zylonite, Acetate, Cellulose Acetate) Frames: Zyl is a lightweight and relatively inexpensive type of plastic, available in a wide variety of colors and designs[4][5].
- Propionate Frames: This nylon-based plastic is strong, flexible, lightweight, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sports frames[4].
- Polyamide and Nylon Frames: These materials are lightweight and durable, but may have limited adjustability[6][7].
- Optyl Frames: Optyl is a brand of epoxy resin that becomes malleable when heated, allowing the optician to mold the frame to the shape of your face[7].
Combination Frames
Combination frames are made from both metal and plastic components, offering the sleek sophistication of metal with the colors and thickness of plastic[1]. These frames have gained popularity in recent years and are available in a wider variety of colors than the classic models[4].
Unusual Materials
Some eyeglass frames are made from unique and sometimes pricey materials, such as wood, silver, and gold[6]. Wood texture frames are designed to look like wood without the drawbacks of actual wood, typically achieved with acetate or plastic[5]. Solid silver or sterling silver is not commonly used as a principal frame material but may be used as a trace element in metal alloy frames or as a jewelry-like accent on plastic frames[6].
When choosing the right material for your glasses frames, consider factors such as durability, lightness, hypoallergenic properties, uniqueness, and price[6]. Consult with your optician for advice on the best material to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
Citations:
[1] https://www.boisevisioncare.com/resource/lenses-frames/eyeglass-frame-materials/
[2] https://titaniumoptix.com/2022/05/25/a-complete-guide-to-eyeglass-frame-materials/
[3] https://theeyewearforum.com/frame-materials/
[4] https://www.universityoptometry.com/eyewear/prescription-eyeglasses/eyeglass-frame-materials/
[5] https://marveloptics.com/blog/eye-health/what-are-the-different-types-of-eyeglass-frames/
[6] https://www.allaboutvision.com/eyeglasses/eyeglass_frame_materials.htm
[7] https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/eyeglass-frame-materials
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