Thermal spacer bars play a key role in today’s double glazing systems. The science behind them helps improve energy efficiency in double glazing. It’s important to know what thermal spacer bars are and how they impact a window’s performance. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know.

Making the smart choice: Selecting the right thermal spacer bar

In today’s world, energy costs are going up. People also care more about the environment. Because of this, window insulation technology is important. A key part of this development is the spacer bar. This smart component changes how modern windows work. It makes windows much more energy-efficient and comfortable for occupants.

Understanding thermal spacer bars

Thermal spacer bars are thin, flat bars that hold two panes of glass apart in an insulating glass unit (IGU). An IGU has two glass panes, a spacer, and sealed edges. These spacer bars keep the vital sealed area between the glass panes in double glazing systems apart. They also lower heat transfer at the edges of the window.

How do thermal spacer bars transform window performance?

The primary function of thermal spacer bars is to interrupt the thermal bridge between glass panes. By incorporating materials with low thermal conductivity, these spacers create what’s known as a “warm edge” – a higher internal surface temperature at the glass edge compared to conventional spacers.

This significantly reduces heat loss and improves overall window performance.

The evolution from aluminium to warm edge technology

While aluminium spacer bars were once the industry standard, as a highly conductive metal they can cause a thermal bridge between glass panes, resulting in significant heat loss and condensation issues. Unlike traditional aluminium spacer bars, modern thermal spacers are engineered with advanced materials that combine structural strength with superior thermal insulation properties.

The science of heat transfer in window systems

Heat naturally flows from warm to cold areas, and windows can lose a lot of heat. Thermal spacer bars work by creating a barrier that helps to reduce this heat transfer at the edge of the sealed unit, which is where heat loss happens the most, and can lead to impressive energy savings.

Thermal spacer bar technology

Modern thermal spacers have several key features:

       Structural foam or composite materials with low thermal conductivity
       Integrated desiccant keeps moisture from getting between the panes.
       Precision-engineered surfaces for optimal sealant adhesion
       Flexible materials that can change according to thermal expansion

The revolutionary impact of warm edge spacer bars

superspacer

Warm edge spacers, such as Edgetech’s Super Spacer®, offer many advantages. They help reduce heating bills because they have better thermal insulation. They also lower the chances of condensation. These spacers create a more comfortable environment by keeping a consistent temperature at the window. They improve overall U-Values and help reduce carbon emissions in buildings, which supports sustainability.

Combating condensation

Fighting condensation is very important and thermal spacer bars help a lot with this by reducing moisture build-up. This helps to lower condensation problems in buildings. One big advantage of thermal spacer bars is that they help reduce condensation at the glass edge by keeping the surface temperatures higher. This lowers the risk of moisture forming and stops mould from developing.

Measuring the energy efficiency benefits

Our Super Spacer® warm edge technology provides excellent thermal performance and is 950 times less conductive than traditional alternatives, making it a fantastic choice for energy-efficient windows. It can lower U-Values by up to 0.2 W/m²K and, because of this, windows can achieve maximum Window Energy Ratings. This means energy savings for homeowners.

Selecting the right thermal spacer bar

When selecting thermal spacer bars, there are several important things to keep in mind. First, think about the climate in your area. Next, look at the type and size of your windows. It’s also important to consider your energy efficiency goals. Make sure your choices follow building rules. Lastly, ensure that the spacer bars are durable and can last a long time.

Maximising efficiency with triple glazing

In triple glazed units, thermal spacer bars play an even more crucial role in energy performance. With two spacer bars creating two separate insulating cavities between three panes of glass, these units provide superior thermal barriers against heat transfer. The quality of these spacer bars directly impacts overall efficiency, as they must maintain the integrity of both cavities while preventing thermal bridging at multiple connection points.

Three men in safety vests at an Edgetech factory, reviewing plans while surrounded by machinery and safety signage.

Modern window insulation technology

Edgetech offers a modern variety of warm edge spacer solutions. These are perfect for homes and businesses. The Super Spacer®, introduced in 1989, was the first flexible foam spacer bar. It transformed the industry by boosting thermal performance and simplifying installation.

Super Spacer® has been a leader in the industry for more than thirty years. It offers great UV resistance and lasts longer than standard spacers. This strong performance and high thermal efficiency help many buildings reduce their carbon footprint. It also keeps energy performance high in different architectural uses.

TriSeal™ is perfect for commercial projects because it has a special triple-seal design. First, it features an inner acrylic adhesive, so you can handle it easily right from the start. Next, it has a polyisobutylene primary seal that helps keep gases inside better. Finally, there’s an outer silicone seal for extra strength.

As energy costs rise and concerns for the environment grow, it’s important to invest in the highest quality thermal spacer bars for sustainable building design. Contact our friendly team and start using Edgetech technology today.