CA1287999C - Multiple glazing - Google Patents
Multiple glazingInfo
- Publication number
- CA1287999C CA1287999C CA000501139A CA501139A CA1287999C CA 1287999 C CA1287999 C CA 1287999C CA 000501139 A CA000501139 A CA 000501139A CA 501139 A CA501139 A CA 501139A CA 1287999 C CA1287999 C CA 1287999C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- spacer frame
- spacer
- coating
- panels
- composition
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 claims abstract description 83
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 61
- 239000000565 sealant Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 51
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 3
- 239000004820 Pressure-sensitive adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920005549 butyl rubber Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001021 polysulfide Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000012943 hotmelt Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 125000002887 hydroxy group Chemical group [H]O* 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920002857 polybutadiene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000005062 Polybutadiene Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 claims 1
- 239000005056 polyisocyanate Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 229920001228 polyisocyanate Polymers 0.000 claims 1
- 238000001723 curing Methods 0.000 description 21
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 10
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 10
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 4
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 3
- VTYYLEPIZMXCLO-UHFFFAOYSA-L Calcium carbonate Chemical compound [Ca+2].[O-]C([O-])=O VTYYLEPIZMXCLO-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000002318 adhesion promoter Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 241000208140 Acer Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000905957 Channa melasoma Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004593 Epoxy Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910000019 calcium carbonate Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000006229 carbon black Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010348 incorporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000013008 moisture curing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004588 polyurethane sealant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004590 silicone sealant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
- E06B3/66—Units comprising two or more parallel glass or like panes permanently secured together
- E06B3/663—Elements for spacing panes
- E06B3/66309—Section members positioned at the edges of the glazing unit
- E06B3/66342—Section members positioned at the edges of the glazing unit characterised by their sealed connection to the panes
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Securing Of Glass Panes Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
MULTIPLE GLAZING
Abstract of the Disclosure A spacer frame for use in the manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together. The spacer frame comprises one or more spacer elements having bent corners or four hollow profiles joined at their ends by corner pieces or welding. The hollow profiles each have two parallel portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to and parallel with the transparent panels. A bridging portion extends between the parallel portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame and arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform thickness. A coating of a curing sealant composition is disposed on outer surfaces of the closed figure.
The coating of sealant composition extends along the parallel portions of the profiles and over the bridging portions of the profiles. The coating is of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and the transparent panels.
Abstract of the Disclosure A spacer frame for use in the manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together. The spacer frame comprises one or more spacer elements having bent corners or four hollow profiles joined at their ends by corner pieces or welding. The hollow profiles each have two parallel portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to and parallel with the transparent panels. A bridging portion extends between the parallel portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame and arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform thickness. A coating of a curing sealant composition is disposed on outer surfaces of the closed figure.
The coating of sealant composition extends along the parallel portions of the profiles and over the bridging portions of the profiles. The coating is of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and the transparent panels.
Description
7~
M[~LTI PLE GLAZ I l`lG
Background of the Invention Field of the Inventi_ This invention is concerned wit:~ improvements in or ~elating to multiple glazing.
Description of the Prior Art In the manufacture of multiple, e.g. double gla~ing units, it is a practice to insert a s~aced ~rame bet~een tWG glass panes somewhat inset from the edges thereof and to seal the unit by use o~ a sealant composition inserted between the spacer frame and the edges of the glass panes. Various methods have been proposed for manufacture of double glazing units. For example the sealant may be pumped into the U shaped gap between the spacer frame and the panes, or it may be applied as a preformed tape. Also using some varieties of sealant compositions which are to provide a tough impervious seal, it has been a practice to hold the sealed unit under pressure for a period of time during which the sealant composition becomes sufficiently cured so that handling and transport of the units may be effected without damaging the seal.
It has also been a practice to bond the spacer frame to the glass panes using a pressure sensitive adhesive in addition to the sealant composition. Various types o~ sealant compositions have been employed including for example two pàrt` epoxy polysulphides which can be mixed and pumped into place at room temperature between the panes and allowed to cure at room temperature, thermoplastic tapes for example based on butyl rubber compositions which require heating to soften them and application of pressure to compress them after insertion of the tape between the panes, and cold curing polyurethane compositions which can be mixed and extruded between the panes at room temperature and allowed to cure at room temperature.
- . .: ' . . .: . . ., ' .: . . ' , -.. ., : ' ~
:' ' ` ` ` . ' ' ` ' ' ,~
- , - : : :
,. :
. .
, : .. , . . . :
: - , . . . : ~. , : `
- :
, ~ ~37~9 t has also been proposed to employ spacers having a ~reapplied layer of thermoplastic sealant. These require heating a~ter insertion between the panes to cause the sealant to soften, ~low and adhere.
spacer frames used in the manufacture of multiple glazing units normally comprise lengths o~ hollow metal profile ~ormed or joined to provide a closed ~igure.
The process of manufacturing a double glazing unit normally involves inter alia preparing the glass panes and spacer, laying the spacer on one pane, laying the second pane onto the s~acer and applying the sealing composition. In those cases where a thermoplastic sealant composition is used it is also necessary to heat the composition to soften it and to press the panes together to a desired extent, with consequent risk of irregular sealant ~lo~. In those cases where a fluid sealant composition is e~truded into place, it is necessary to hold the assembly of panes and spacer frame in required location while the composition is applied and until the composition has set or cured to an adequate extent. In order to ensure adequate sealing it is not unusual to employ significant quantities of the sealing composition to compensate for irregular extrusion or flow of the composition or for moisture vapor transmission properties of the sealant composition.
Thus,`a number and variety of procedural steps, and significant handling of the assembly prior to and during the application and subsequent processing of the sealant are normal in manufacture of multiple glazing units. To some extent, mechanization of work handling and sealant application have been employed but in some respects such procedures reduce the ability o~ manu~acturers to produce a wide variety of sizes of double glazing units, and in any event render the economic manufacture of mulitiple glazing units less attainable to manufacturers who wish to manufacture a wide range of units in smaller quanities.
, ' .. . . : . ,.:
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Brief Summary of the Invention We have now found that by use of a spacer frame coated with curable sealant composition prior to insertion between the panes, one may provide a comparatively simple process for manufacture of multiple glazing units especially appropriate to manufacture of units of various sizes in comparatively small quantities, which does not require a significant amount of special heating or work handling machinery.
The invention provides in one of its aspects a spacer frame for use in manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together, the spacer frame comprising one or more spacer elements arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform thickness and a coating of a curing sealant composition disposed on outer surfaces of the closed figure and of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and glass panels.
According to a still further broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spacer frame for use in the manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together. The spacer frame comprises one or more spacer elements having bent corners or four hollow profiles joined at their ends by corner pieces or welding. The hollow profiles each have two parallel portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to and parallel with the transparent panels. A bridging portion extends between the parallel portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame and arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform , , - . . , - . - . .: ~ , - ' :" '' .,- .. ~' ., . : . ,:
thickness. A coating of a curing sealant composition is disposed on outer surfaces of 'che closed figure.
The coating of sealant composition extends along the parallel portions of the profiles and over the bridging portions of -the profiles. The coating is of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and the transparent panels.
_ ef Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a view of the illustrati~-e spacer frame, Figure 2 is a view of two transparent panels and the illustrative spacer frame ready for assembly, and Figure 3 is a view in section on an enlarged scale of a portion of the spacer frame taken on the line III-III of Figure 1.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments A spacer frame according to the invention comprises one or more spacer elements arranged to provide a closed figure of uniform thickness. The shape of the closed figure is chosen in accordance with the shape of the panels with which the spacer frame is intended to be used. Conveniently, the closed figure is of the same shape as the panels, and its outer dimensions a few millimeters less than the outer dimensions of the panels or of the smaller of them, so that the spacer frame is employed at or near the perimeter of the panels thus to allow maximum visibility through a glazing unit. Conveniently, the spacer f~ame is :
.: - . . , : , , : , : : : -... ,, . - . : : :
. - .: - . : . :, , . : ,.,: :' ' : ' provlde~ by a series o~ spacer elements at least one of which has a hollow proEile and contains a dessicant ef~ective to absorb moisture present in the air tra~?ed between the spacer frame and the panels when a unit is assembled. For a square or rectangular unit it is convenient to employ four hollow ~rofiles joined at their ends by corner pieces to provide the closed figure.
Preferably the four profiles are of the same cross sectional area and have two parallel side portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation and parallel with the panels, and a bridging portion extending between the side portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame. ~y this arrangement, the spacer elements are of at least substantially uniform thic~ness, and facilitate assembly of the unit and effective sealing thereof with a minimum of uniform sealing layer between the spacer element and panels and without unsightly seepage of sealant during assembly of the unit. Preferably the spacer frame has a uniform coating of sealant composition along the side portions of the spacer elements and this may entirely coat the side, or more preferably extends over the whole perimeter of the side portions and corner connectors to a depth of about two thirds of the height of the side portions. Preferably also the coating extends entirely over the bridging portions and corner connectors. The thickness of the coating is chosen so that adequate sealing is achieved with a minimum amount of sealant composition.
Preferably the coating on the side surfaces of the spacer element is somewhat triangular in section so that during assembly with the panels, line contact is first established between the sealant composition and panels as they are brought together and before the composition is deformed by assembly pressure. If desired, an adhesion promoter or primer composition may be applied to the spacer element prior to application of sealant composition thereto. The sealant composition is mixed and applied to the spacer element in any suitable manner for example by extrusion onto the spacer element through a nozzle of appropriate configuration. It is hi~hly preferred that the sealant comoosition is applied to the spacer elements after they have been assembled to provide the closed figure in order to minimize clean-up and touch-up operations.
.
- , . . , . :
- . . . : , .
..
- . .~, - :. .
': . - ~ ' :'` . ` ',,'' ' :
~ - ' ., , :
. .:
~ X~7~ 3 A spacer ~rame according to the invention has a coating of a curing sealant com~osition intended to provi~e a moisture proof seal between the transparent panels (which are preferably of glass) and the spacer elements. A curing sealant composition is used ~ith a view to ~roviding a sealed glazing unit of performance comparable with other high quality units. While double glazing units made by use of thermoplastic sealant compositions have been proposed, we have found that curing sealant compositions yield seals which develop strength and tenacity to provide units which retain their beneficial properties for substantial periods of time. Suitable curing sealant compositions include those based on cold curing polyurethanes, cold curing polysulphides and moisture curing silicones. The sealant composition selected for use according to the invention has a suitable blend of properties including appropriate flow characteristics at the time of application to the spacer element, ability to retain desired stability of configuration after application until assembly of the unit and appropriate curing speed as well as satisfactory adhesion, sealing and flexibility characteristics when cured.
Many curing compositions commence to curé as soon as the appropriate parts are mixed together, and continue to do so over a period from several seconds to many hours. The properties of viscosity and ability to be extruded and a]so the ability to form an adhesive bond by exertion of pressure alone generally decrease as curing proceeds. It is important therefore to select a curing sealant composition which cures at a rate compatible with the speed of production of spacer frames and multiple glazing units usin~ the spacer frame. It is envisaged that periods of from a few seconds to a matter of hours or even longer may elapse between extrusion of the composition onto the spacer element and assembly of the unit. It is also important to s01ect a composition which can be extruded onto the spacer element in the desired configuration and which will retain the configuration to .
: ' .. .,' ~ , - .
.,, ' -- ~ :- ' . :' '` ~.. '., ~` . .
a required e~tent while the composition remains in a somewhat ~lowable bond ~orming condition prior to assembly of the unit.
Desirably the composition has a degree of thixotropy greater than is normally demonstrated by double glazing sealants. This may be achieved by incorporation of thi~otropic ~illers e.g. carbon black, calcium carbonate, ~used silica into the composition. It is important to select a sealing composition having adequate adhesion to the spacer element and transparent panel, if necessary in conjunction with an adhesion promoter or primer, and adequate sealing properties. Sealing properties are frequently assessed in terms of Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate and other tests for flexibility and cohesion standard in the insulating glazing industry.
In order to manufacture a double glazing unit using a spacer frame according to the invention, two transparent panels of requirad size are ~repared for example by washing, and if necessary coated at their periphery with a primer. The panels may be single panels or double or multiple glazing panels and are preferably of glass. The spacer frame prepared as aforesaid is placed on one of the panels with its periphery adjacent to and slightly within the perimeter of the first panel. The second panel is then placed onto the exposed surface of the spacer frame in appropriate location. Pressure is then exerted on the assembly to a controlled extent sufficient to ensure both panels and sealant composition are in adhesive engagement throughout the length of the spacer elements on both sides thereof i.e. the sealant composition is subjected to squashing sufficient to cause it to assume conformity with the surfaces of the panels. The units thus assembled are stored in their bonded configuration for a time sufficient to ensure that adhesion between spacer frame and panels is sufficient to ~ermit handling of the unit. This storing may conveniently be done by stacking units one on top of the other and storing them for a time appropriate to the degree of cure of the sealant composition. Alternatively the individual units may be clamped for an appropriate period.
.
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9~3g We prefer to employ a spacer frame according to the invention which incorDorates on its side portions a coating o~ pressure sensi~ive adhesive composition. Conveniently this may be provided by a stripe of a butyl rubber based hot melt applied to the spacer element before or after extrusion of the coating of sealant composition. The adhsive composition is selected and used in a quantity with a view to providing sufficient adhesion to permit handling of the unit while the sealant composition contlnues to cure.
The invention provides in another of its aspects a method o~
making a multiple glazing unit comprising using two prepared transparent panels, and a spacer frame according to the invention described above, positioning the spacer frame between said two transparent panels, and then pressing the panels together with the spacer frame between them to ensure conformity of the coating of curing sealant composition with the panels, thereby forming a moisture proof seal.
The present invention thus provides through the use of a spacer frame bearing a curing sealant a method of making double glazing units which is flexible as to the size of units which may be made, and inexpensive in that a limited amount of sophisticated equipment is required.
` ~ The invention will be more readily understood if reference is made to the following description together with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate in further detail the invention by way of example and are not to be regarded in any way as limiting.
Figure 1 shows a spacer frame (9) made from four hollow proEiles tlO) joined at their ends by corner pieces (1~), as is common practice in the double glazing industry. As described above, the frame is coated with a curing sealant (1~) and contains in addition a pressure sensitive adhesive (11) which is often used in the manufacture of double glazing units to facilitate mounting and to serve as a water barrier.
, : . . . . . . :
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7~3~9 Figure 2 shows schematically the construction of a double glazing unit from a coated spacer frame (9) and two glass nanes (13).
As shown in Figure 3, ~he curing sealant (12) is coated on three sides o~ hollow profile (10). Following assembly of the two glass panes (l3) and the coated spacer frame (9), the double glazing unit is made by pressing the two glass panes (13) onto the curing sealant to form a tight seal. The use of the pressure sensitive adhesive may be avoided if a curing sealant with low moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR) is used, such, for example, as certain polyurethane sealants based on hydroxyl group bearing polybutadienes. Its use is, howevsr, indispensible if curing sealants with high MVTR are used, as e.g. one-part, cold-curing silicone sealants.
' ., ':; :- ,'' ,' . .'' ' .. . : : : ........... . . . : ., -, ~ '. ' . ~. ' . : ,:' . ; :
. : ............................... -
M[~LTI PLE GLAZ I l`lG
Background of the Invention Field of the Inventi_ This invention is concerned wit:~ improvements in or ~elating to multiple glazing.
Description of the Prior Art In the manufacture of multiple, e.g. double gla~ing units, it is a practice to insert a s~aced ~rame bet~een tWG glass panes somewhat inset from the edges thereof and to seal the unit by use o~ a sealant composition inserted between the spacer frame and the edges of the glass panes. Various methods have been proposed for manufacture of double glazing units. For example the sealant may be pumped into the U shaped gap between the spacer frame and the panes, or it may be applied as a preformed tape. Also using some varieties of sealant compositions which are to provide a tough impervious seal, it has been a practice to hold the sealed unit under pressure for a period of time during which the sealant composition becomes sufficiently cured so that handling and transport of the units may be effected without damaging the seal.
It has also been a practice to bond the spacer frame to the glass panes using a pressure sensitive adhesive in addition to the sealant composition. Various types o~ sealant compositions have been employed including for example two pàrt` epoxy polysulphides which can be mixed and pumped into place at room temperature between the panes and allowed to cure at room temperature, thermoplastic tapes for example based on butyl rubber compositions which require heating to soften them and application of pressure to compress them after insertion of the tape between the panes, and cold curing polyurethane compositions which can be mixed and extruded between the panes at room temperature and allowed to cure at room temperature.
- . .: ' . . .: . . ., ' .: . . ' , -.. ., : ' ~
:' ' ` ` ` . ' ' ` ' ' ,~
- , - : : :
,. :
. .
, : .. , . . . :
: - , . . . : ~. , : `
- :
, ~ ~37~9 t has also been proposed to employ spacers having a ~reapplied layer of thermoplastic sealant. These require heating a~ter insertion between the panes to cause the sealant to soften, ~low and adhere.
spacer frames used in the manufacture of multiple glazing units normally comprise lengths o~ hollow metal profile ~ormed or joined to provide a closed ~igure.
The process of manufacturing a double glazing unit normally involves inter alia preparing the glass panes and spacer, laying the spacer on one pane, laying the second pane onto the s~acer and applying the sealing composition. In those cases where a thermoplastic sealant composition is used it is also necessary to heat the composition to soften it and to press the panes together to a desired extent, with consequent risk of irregular sealant ~lo~. In those cases where a fluid sealant composition is e~truded into place, it is necessary to hold the assembly of panes and spacer frame in required location while the composition is applied and until the composition has set or cured to an adequate extent. In order to ensure adequate sealing it is not unusual to employ significant quantities of the sealing composition to compensate for irregular extrusion or flow of the composition or for moisture vapor transmission properties of the sealant composition.
Thus,`a number and variety of procedural steps, and significant handling of the assembly prior to and during the application and subsequent processing of the sealant are normal in manufacture of multiple glazing units. To some extent, mechanization of work handling and sealant application have been employed but in some respects such procedures reduce the ability o~ manu~acturers to produce a wide variety of sizes of double glazing units, and in any event render the economic manufacture of mulitiple glazing units less attainable to manufacturers who wish to manufacture a wide range of units in smaller quanities.
, ' .. . . : . ,.:
. . . ..
-:
.. . : - ; ~ - .
- .. : - , . .
:: ~........................ :
~.X~375~
Brief Summary of the Invention We have now found that by use of a spacer frame coated with curable sealant composition prior to insertion between the panes, one may provide a comparatively simple process for manufacture of multiple glazing units especially appropriate to manufacture of units of various sizes in comparatively small quantities, which does not require a significant amount of special heating or work handling machinery.
The invention provides in one of its aspects a spacer frame for use in manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together, the spacer frame comprising one or more spacer elements arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform thickness and a coating of a curing sealant composition disposed on outer surfaces of the closed figure and of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and glass panels.
According to a still further broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a spacer frame for use in the manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together. The spacer frame comprises one or more spacer elements having bent corners or four hollow profiles joined at their ends by corner pieces or welding. The hollow profiles each have two parallel portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to and parallel with the transparent panels. A bridging portion extends between the parallel portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame and arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform , , - . . , - . - . .: ~ , - ' :" '' .,- .. ~' ., . : . ,:
thickness. A coating of a curing sealant composition is disposed on outer surfaces of 'che closed figure.
The coating of sealant composition extends along the parallel portions of the profiles and over the bridging portions of -the profiles. The coating is of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and the transparent panels.
_ ef Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a view of the illustrati~-e spacer frame, Figure 2 is a view of two transparent panels and the illustrative spacer frame ready for assembly, and Figure 3 is a view in section on an enlarged scale of a portion of the spacer frame taken on the line III-III of Figure 1.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments A spacer frame according to the invention comprises one or more spacer elements arranged to provide a closed figure of uniform thickness. The shape of the closed figure is chosen in accordance with the shape of the panels with which the spacer frame is intended to be used. Conveniently, the closed figure is of the same shape as the panels, and its outer dimensions a few millimeters less than the outer dimensions of the panels or of the smaller of them, so that the spacer frame is employed at or near the perimeter of the panels thus to allow maximum visibility through a glazing unit. Conveniently, the spacer f~ame is :
.: - . . , : , , : , : : : -... ,, . - . : : :
. - .: - . : . :, , . : ,.,: :' ' : ' provlde~ by a series o~ spacer elements at least one of which has a hollow proEile and contains a dessicant ef~ective to absorb moisture present in the air tra~?ed between the spacer frame and the panels when a unit is assembled. For a square or rectangular unit it is convenient to employ four hollow ~rofiles joined at their ends by corner pieces to provide the closed figure.
Preferably the four profiles are of the same cross sectional area and have two parallel side portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation and parallel with the panels, and a bridging portion extending between the side portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame. ~y this arrangement, the spacer elements are of at least substantially uniform thic~ness, and facilitate assembly of the unit and effective sealing thereof with a minimum of uniform sealing layer between the spacer element and panels and without unsightly seepage of sealant during assembly of the unit. Preferably the spacer frame has a uniform coating of sealant composition along the side portions of the spacer elements and this may entirely coat the side, or more preferably extends over the whole perimeter of the side portions and corner connectors to a depth of about two thirds of the height of the side portions. Preferably also the coating extends entirely over the bridging portions and corner connectors. The thickness of the coating is chosen so that adequate sealing is achieved with a minimum amount of sealant composition.
Preferably the coating on the side surfaces of the spacer element is somewhat triangular in section so that during assembly with the panels, line contact is first established between the sealant composition and panels as they are brought together and before the composition is deformed by assembly pressure. If desired, an adhesion promoter or primer composition may be applied to the spacer element prior to application of sealant composition thereto. The sealant composition is mixed and applied to the spacer element in any suitable manner for example by extrusion onto the spacer element through a nozzle of appropriate configuration. It is hi~hly preferred that the sealant comoosition is applied to the spacer elements after they have been assembled to provide the closed figure in order to minimize clean-up and touch-up operations.
.
- , . . , . :
- . . . : , .
..
- . .~, - :. .
': . - ~ ' :'` . ` ',,'' ' :
~ - ' ., , :
. .:
~ X~7~ 3 A spacer ~rame according to the invention has a coating of a curing sealant com~osition intended to provi~e a moisture proof seal between the transparent panels (which are preferably of glass) and the spacer elements. A curing sealant composition is used ~ith a view to ~roviding a sealed glazing unit of performance comparable with other high quality units. While double glazing units made by use of thermoplastic sealant compositions have been proposed, we have found that curing sealant compositions yield seals which develop strength and tenacity to provide units which retain their beneficial properties for substantial periods of time. Suitable curing sealant compositions include those based on cold curing polyurethanes, cold curing polysulphides and moisture curing silicones. The sealant composition selected for use according to the invention has a suitable blend of properties including appropriate flow characteristics at the time of application to the spacer element, ability to retain desired stability of configuration after application until assembly of the unit and appropriate curing speed as well as satisfactory adhesion, sealing and flexibility characteristics when cured.
Many curing compositions commence to curé as soon as the appropriate parts are mixed together, and continue to do so over a period from several seconds to many hours. The properties of viscosity and ability to be extruded and a]so the ability to form an adhesive bond by exertion of pressure alone generally decrease as curing proceeds. It is important therefore to select a curing sealant composition which cures at a rate compatible with the speed of production of spacer frames and multiple glazing units usin~ the spacer frame. It is envisaged that periods of from a few seconds to a matter of hours or even longer may elapse between extrusion of the composition onto the spacer element and assembly of the unit. It is also important to s01ect a composition which can be extruded onto the spacer element in the desired configuration and which will retain the configuration to .
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.,, ' -- ~ :- ' . :' '` ~.. '., ~` . .
a required e~tent while the composition remains in a somewhat ~lowable bond ~orming condition prior to assembly of the unit.
Desirably the composition has a degree of thixotropy greater than is normally demonstrated by double glazing sealants. This may be achieved by incorporation of thi~otropic ~illers e.g. carbon black, calcium carbonate, ~used silica into the composition. It is important to select a sealing composition having adequate adhesion to the spacer element and transparent panel, if necessary in conjunction with an adhesion promoter or primer, and adequate sealing properties. Sealing properties are frequently assessed in terms of Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate and other tests for flexibility and cohesion standard in the insulating glazing industry.
In order to manufacture a double glazing unit using a spacer frame according to the invention, two transparent panels of requirad size are ~repared for example by washing, and if necessary coated at their periphery with a primer. The panels may be single panels or double or multiple glazing panels and are preferably of glass. The spacer frame prepared as aforesaid is placed on one of the panels with its periphery adjacent to and slightly within the perimeter of the first panel. The second panel is then placed onto the exposed surface of the spacer frame in appropriate location. Pressure is then exerted on the assembly to a controlled extent sufficient to ensure both panels and sealant composition are in adhesive engagement throughout the length of the spacer elements on both sides thereof i.e. the sealant composition is subjected to squashing sufficient to cause it to assume conformity with the surfaces of the panels. The units thus assembled are stored in their bonded configuration for a time sufficient to ensure that adhesion between spacer frame and panels is sufficient to ~ermit handling of the unit. This storing may conveniently be done by stacking units one on top of the other and storing them for a time appropriate to the degree of cure of the sealant composition. Alternatively the individual units may be clamped for an appropriate period.
.
- ,. ~ . ,.... . , ',:,,, ' , .
.
. - . : - , . . .
-' : ' - '1 .
9~3g We prefer to employ a spacer frame according to the invention which incorDorates on its side portions a coating o~ pressure sensi~ive adhesive composition. Conveniently this may be provided by a stripe of a butyl rubber based hot melt applied to the spacer element before or after extrusion of the coating of sealant composition. The adhsive composition is selected and used in a quantity with a view to providing sufficient adhesion to permit handling of the unit while the sealant composition contlnues to cure.
The invention provides in another of its aspects a method o~
making a multiple glazing unit comprising using two prepared transparent panels, and a spacer frame according to the invention described above, positioning the spacer frame between said two transparent panels, and then pressing the panels together with the spacer frame between them to ensure conformity of the coating of curing sealant composition with the panels, thereby forming a moisture proof seal.
The present invention thus provides through the use of a spacer frame bearing a curing sealant a method of making double glazing units which is flexible as to the size of units which may be made, and inexpensive in that a limited amount of sophisticated equipment is required.
` ~ The invention will be more readily understood if reference is made to the following description together with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate in further detail the invention by way of example and are not to be regarded in any way as limiting.
Figure 1 shows a spacer frame (9) made from four hollow proEiles tlO) joined at their ends by corner pieces (1~), as is common practice in the double glazing industry. As described above, the frame is coated with a curing sealant (1~) and contains in addition a pressure sensitive adhesive (11) which is often used in the manufacture of double glazing units to facilitate mounting and to serve as a water barrier.
, : . . . . . . :
, :, ' ' , ` ~ ~' ' - . ' ',' ' ' " `' ' .
-, ': .`` '` , : : `
7~3~9 Figure 2 shows schematically the construction of a double glazing unit from a coated spacer frame (9) and two glass nanes (13).
As shown in Figure 3, ~he curing sealant (12) is coated on three sides o~ hollow profile (10). Following assembly of the two glass panes (l3) and the coated spacer frame (9), the double glazing unit is made by pressing the two glass panes (13) onto the curing sealant to form a tight seal. The use of the pressure sensitive adhesive may be avoided if a curing sealant with low moisture vapour transmission rate (MVTR) is used, such, for example, as certain polyurethane sealants based on hydroxyl group bearing polybutadienes. Its use is, howevsr, indispensible if curing sealants with high MVTR are used, as e.g. one-part, cold-curing silicone sealants.
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. : ............................... -
Claims (7)
1. A spacer frame for use in the manufacture of a multiple glazing unit by a process in which the spacer frame is disposed between prepared transparent panels and the panels are pressed together, the spacer frame comprising one or more spacer elements having bent corners or four hollow profiles joined at their ends by corner pieces or welding, the hollow profiles each having two parallel portions intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to and parallel with the transparent panels, and a bridging portion extending between the parallel portions and located at the outer region of the spacer frame and arranged to provide a closed figure of at least substantially uniform thickness, a coating of a curing sealant composition disposed on outer surfaces of the closed figure, wherein the coating of sealant composition extends along the parallel portions of the profiles and over the bridging portions of the profiles, said coating being of sufficient thickness and distribution to form a moisture resistant seal between the spacer elements and the transparent panels.
2. A spacer frame according to claim 1 wherein the spacer elements comprise at least one hollow profile containing dessicant.
3. A spacer frame according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the sealant composition comprises a cold curing polyurethane composition, a cold curing polysulphide composition, or a cold-curing silicone composition.
4. A spacer frame according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the sealant composition comprises a polyure-thane compound of polyisocyanate and hydroxy bearing polybutadiene.
5. A spacer frame according to claim 1 comprising a coating of pressure sensitive adhesive composition disposed on surfaces of the spacer elements intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to the trans-parent panels.
6. A spacer frame according to claim 2 comprising a coating of pressure sensitive adhesive composition disposed on surfaces of the spacer elements intended to be located in juxtaposed relation to the trans-parent panels.
7. A spacer frame according to claim 5 or 6 wherein the coating of pressure sensitive composition is provided by use of a butyl rubber based hot melt.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB858502959A GB8502959D0 (en) | 1985-02-06 | 1985-02-06 | Multiple glazing |
| GB8502959 | 1985-02-06 |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000615845A Division CA1306346C (en) | 1985-02-06 | 1990-08-21 | Multiple glazing |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1287999C true CA1287999C (en) | 1991-08-27 |
Family
ID=10574019
Family Applications (2)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000501139A Expired - Fee Related CA1287999C (en) | 1985-02-06 | 1986-02-05 | Multiple glazing |
| CA000615845A Expired - Fee Related CA1306346C (en) | 1985-02-06 | 1990-08-21 | Multiple glazing |
Family Applications After (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000615845A Expired - Fee Related CA1306346C (en) | 1985-02-06 | 1990-08-21 | Multiple glazing |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0192363A1 (en) |
| CA (2) | CA1287999C (en) |
| GB (1) | GB8502959D0 (en) |
Families Citing this family (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2594479B1 (en) * | 1986-02-20 | 1991-05-31 | Saint Gobain Vitrage | MULTIPLE GLAZING, PROCESS FOR OBTAINING THE SAME, AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD |
| EP0286136A1 (en) * | 1987-04-08 | 1988-10-12 | T-Seal Enterprises, Inc. | Method and apparatus for constructing insulating glass units |
| US5088258A (en) * | 1990-09-07 | 1992-02-18 | Weather Shield Mfg., Inc. | Thermal broken glass spacer |
| GB9223778D0 (en) * | 1992-11-13 | 1993-01-06 | Ukae Limited | Insulated glass units |
| US7132059B2 (en) * | 2003-05-29 | 2006-11-07 | H.B. Fuller Licensing & Financing, Inc. | Ambient applied desiccant matrix composition |
| WO2006025953A1 (en) * | 2004-08-31 | 2006-03-09 | Dow Corning Corporation | Products having reduced permeability and methods for the preparation and use of the products |
| GB2432871B (en) * | 2005-11-21 | 2010-04-07 | Denis Augustine Carey | A Process for Producing Double Glazed Glass Panels |
| US20100139193A1 (en) * | 2008-12-09 | 2010-06-10 | Goldberg Michael J | Nonmetallic ultra-low permeability butyl tape for use as the final seal in insulated glass units |
| CN110388169A (en) * | 2018-04-16 | 2019-10-29 | 盘锦窗利来中空玻璃材料有限公司 | The compound spacer bar of hollow glass |
| CN116591584B (en) * | 2023-04-11 | 2025-12-09 | 盘锦窗利来中空玻璃材料有限公司 | Hollow glass flexible spacer bar and production method thereof |
Family Cites Families (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3280523A (en) * | 1964-01-08 | 1966-10-25 | Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co | Multiple glazing unit |
| LU65310A1 (en) * | 1972-05-08 | 1973-11-22 | ||
| DK138910B (en) * | 1973-05-23 | 1978-11-13 | Scanglas As | Thermovindue. |
| US4153594A (en) * | 1976-04-08 | 1979-05-08 | Wilson Jr Floyd | Insulated glass and sealant therefore |
| US4193236A (en) * | 1978-01-30 | 1980-03-18 | Ppg Industries, Inc. | Multiple glazed unit having an adhesive cleat |
| GB2023209A (en) * | 1978-04-05 | 1979-12-28 | Bostik Ltd | Spacer means |
| IT7921297U1 (en) * | 1979-04-06 | 1980-10-06 | F A S Snc | SPACER PROFILE FOR DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS, EQUIPPED WITH SEALING GASKETS |
| GB2064631A (en) * | 1979-12-03 | 1981-06-17 | Bayer F | Sealing Profile |
| DE3131677A1 (en) * | 1981-08-11 | 1983-02-24 | Perennatorwerk Alfred Hagen Gmbh, 6200 Wiesbaden | Adhesive bond to wall parts |
| DE3200430A1 (en) * | 1982-01-09 | 1983-07-21 | Bayer Ag | USE OF SINGLE OR MULTI-COMPONENT SYSTEMS AS OR FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOSITIONS FOR GLASS CONSTRUCTIONS |
-
1985
- 1985-02-06 GB GB858502959A patent/GB8502959D0/en active Pending
-
1986
- 1986-01-30 EP EP86300621A patent/EP0192363A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1986-02-05 CA CA000501139A patent/CA1287999C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1990
- 1990-08-21 CA CA000615845A patent/CA1306346C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA1306346C (en) | 1992-08-18 |
| EP0192363A1 (en) | 1986-08-27 |
| GB8502959D0 (en) | 1985-03-06 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |