Glass Unit Process
What you
should know
Robover now offers two spacer systems : the Intercept® system and the Swisspacer® system.
WHAT YOU ALREADY KNOW:
Insulating glass units contain two panes of glass separated by a spacer. The resulting space provides a gas chamber between the panes, which improves the insulating properties of the window. This space can be filled with air or argon gas. The double panes and the spacer form a hermetically sealed unit that prevents the passage of air and humidity.
A desiccant is applied to the spacer in order to absorb the humidity trapped between the two panes of glass during assembly and also to prevent condensation. Desiccants are often used in the packaging of electronic equipment in the form of small packs filled with pellets.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT INTERCEPT® :
The Intercept® Spacer System is now at work on more than 600 million windows in North America.
It’s the choice you can rely on.
- For the Intercept® spacer system, a desiccant paste has been developed. The paste has the benefit of not generating any dust particles.
- A sealant is also applied in order to seal the panes of glass onto the spacer.
- The type of glass used to make insulating glass units varies: clear, tinted, reflective, self-cleaning and low-e glass may all be used. For more details, see our section on glass.
You can now choose between two types of Intercept® spacer systems—tin plated steel or our new Ultra stainless version. Both deliver these important features:
Patented U-Shape Design
This unique design offers superior flexibility to adjust to temperature variations, reducing stress on the sealant.
At low temperatures, the air or argon gas between the two panes of glass contracts, causing the panes to bend inward.At higher temperatures, the gas expands, forcing the panes to bend outwards.
You can also see on video.
Best Gas Retention
The ultimate in argon gas retention with a loss of less than 0.1% per year.
Longest Moisture Transmission Path
This one-piece spacer with no notched corners forms the most reliable seal in the industry.
Intercept® Ultra Stainless
Intercept® Ultra Stainless spacers are made from stainless steel, an alloy known for its unsurpassed strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. For optimum long-term performance, choose Intercept® Ultra Stainless spacers for your new windows, the strongest choice for thermal efficiency and structural integrity.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SWISSPACER® :
As a member of the Saint-Gobain Group, Swisspacer® has access to global knowledge transfer on an international level. Engineered in Switzerland since 1998, Swisspacer® is sold worldwide!
- The desiccant in the Swisspacer® system is made of small beads that absorb moisture.
- A primary sealant is applied in order to seal the gas in preventing moisture penetration and gas leakage.
- A secondary sealant is also applied in order to seal the panes of glass onto the spacer.
- The type of glass used to make insulating glass units varies: clear, tinted, reflective, self-cleaning or low-e glass. For more details, see our section on glass.
Energy Saving
Swisspacer® is made from a highly insulating composite material reinforced with fiberglass. Heating and cooling needs are reduced through better insulation.
Comfort
Due to the superior insulating characteristics of the Swisspacer®, higher temperatures are maintained on the glass panes and cold radiation is diminished. The risk of condensation and harmful mold is therefore reduced. Swisspacer® provides a healthier environment for enhanced comfort in your home.
Aesthetics
Robover’s standard colors include black, light gray, white and dark brown to blend with all types of window frames. The matte finish ensures an attractive look without any shiny metallic effect.
Reliability
An extremely thin aluminum or stainless steel membrane is applied to the back of the composite material, which guarantees leaktightness for the filling gas and the water vapor. It also offers an excellent adhesive surface for the sealant. Swisspacer® is mechanically and thermally resistant up to a temperature of 100 ° C. Moreover, at Robover the corners of the Swisspacer® are bent instead of notched, which further enhances reliability.
| Material | Thermal conductivity (W/mk)* |
| Aluminium | 160 |
| Stainless steel | 17 |
| Float glass | 1 |
| Swisspacer® composite material | 0,142 |
