Energy Swing Windows & Doors | Window & Door Encyclopedia | What is an insulated glass spacer system?

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Spacer systems hold the panes of insulating glass apart and provide an airtight seal. While the spacer system may seem like a minor component of the overall window, it can, in fact, be a key determinant of a window’s overall thermal efficiency and performance. The performance of a spacer system is determined by a variety of factors: Spacer: The spacer is the element that keeps the two pieces of glass uniformly separated at a fixed distance around the entire perimeter of the IG unit. A properly designed spacer also adds strength to the entire IG unit. The thermal conductivity of the spacer is the most critical element to the overall performance of the IG system, yet it must be sufficiently durable and flexible to withstand extreme temperature variations. Desiccant: This is an extremely porous crystalline substance used to adsorb moisture and volatiles from within the sealed air space of an IG unit. The desiccant can be embedded in the spacer prior to integration into the window. Sealant(s): Sealants can be used singly or in combination between and below the spacer to positively seal the IG unit by providing a moisture vapor barrier. The sealants used have been specially developed and formulated to provide the very best seal possible between the spacer material and two pieces of glass. Higher quality units utilize two sealant systems in combination. These units will perform better than single seal systems. Gas: Gas or “gas fill” is filling an IG unit with a gas that is heavier than air, such as argon or krypton, to achieve a lower heat transfer coefficient for the glazing. Gas retention is the ability of a sealed IG unit to retain its gas-filled composition. Over the long term, diffusion through window frame and edge-seal materials may allow air to progressively replace the original filled gas. 17. What is an insulated glass spacer system? WINDOW GLASS < back to list of questions about glass