Glass Prisms for Cast Iron Panel Illumination

Glass prisms have been used since the 1800’s to transmit light through cast iron panels and by the turn of the century the New York City subway system had used vault lights extensively to illuminate underground subway stations with natural light. Richmond Iron has designed glass prisms using industrial quality glass molding to replicate historic glass for restoration or new installations. A lighted vault panel, stair tread or riser really starts with the glass and Richmond Iron offers a wide range of design options.

Glass Prism Options

Richmond Iron has three different glass prism designs for cast iron stair treads, risers and panels. These prisms are molded by Gillinder Glass with dies designed by Richmond Iron for a perfect integration of glass and cast iron.

2 inch cast iron glass prism with pebbled domed top.

2" dia. Pebbled Top Prism Glass

2 inch dia. prism glass with domed pebbled top. The pebbled surface adds scatters backlighting and adds brilliance.

2 inch dia. cast iron glass bullet with smooth flat top.

2" dia. Flat Top Prism Glass

2 inch dia. prism glass with flat smooth top. Flat top glass installed flush for a walkable surface.

1.75 inch dia. cast iron glass bullet with smooth top.

1.75" dia. Flat Top Prism Glass

1.75 inch dia. prism glass with smooth top. Flat top glass installed flush for a walkable surface.

Historic Examples of Glass Prisms in Cast Iron

Projects with Glass Prism Cast Iron from Richmond Iron