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IGMA: April 2016

Let’s take a look at some more of the technical documents available through IGMA that support glass design, specification, energy efficiency, glazing procedure, performance data, testing, certification and quality assurance, including field studies along with other guides relating to the manufacture, fabrication, design and end use of insulating glass units

Language of Sealed Insulating Glass Units, TR-1400
This report is intended to provide many of the terms and phrases that are used throughout the insulating glass industry. Since there are some words that have the same sounds and spellings their meanings may be different depending on the industry. As an example, the term “glazing” means one thing to the baker while it means something entirely different to a curtainwall contractor. Another example is the word “lite.” It means something significant to the beer industry, but it means something completely different to the insulating glass manufacturer. Other items specific to the insulating glass and glazing industry are noted in the document.

Guidelines for the Use of Capillary Tubes, TB-1601
This bulletin has been established to give the manufacturers of insulating glass units specific guidance on how to accommodate the changes in elevation when transporting or installing units when changes in elevation are critical to the performance of insulating glass. The function of the capillary tube and the differentiation of it from a breather tube are noted along with other considerations that are important during manufacturing, handling and glazing of units with capillary tubes. The design principles referencing aspect ratio, temperature differentials, barometric pressure changes and glass stresses are also important issues covered.

Minimum Sealant Dimensions Bulletin, TB-1201
The contents of this document represent a survey of information obtained from sealant suppliers for guidance toward minimum sealant dimensions for dual seal, single seal and other special spacer systems regarding the sealant types that are commonly used in insulating glass fabrication. Specific notes and physical dimensions along with diagrams are provided to assist the user on the minimum measurements to be used for the various configurations shown.

Preventing Insulating Glass Failures, TM-4100
This manual was developed as a series of best practices for insulating glass manufacturers with specific guidelines on fabricating, shipping and glazing insulating glass units. Listings of “Do’s and Don’ts” are provided for certification testing, cutting and washing, desiccant practices, spacer handling, primary and secondary sealant applications, material inspections and glazing and installation are among a few of the items covered in detail in this publication.

The four referenced documents are still only a few of the many that have been developed by IGMA over the past few years.  Stay tuned for additional information on the technical information available that should be in any manufacturers’ library. We also plan to provide updates on current publications as well as giving indications of what will be coming in the future. These publications are available from the IGMA online store at igmaonline.org.

Bill Lingnell has over 46 years of experience in the technical field of glass and architectural products. He holds three Masters of Science degrees in engineering: civil, mechanical and engineering science. Lingnell is the technical consultant for the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance.