As changing regulations, higher performance requirements, and shifting customer expectations continue to impact the insulated glass unit (IGU) market, it is essential that manufacturing technology keeps pace.
Triple glazing is becoming increasingly mainstream, and thinner, more thermally demanding units are placing greater pressure on manufacturers. All the while, a tough economic climate is squeezing operating costs and margins, with manufacturers facing increasingly competitive pricing and growing demand for higher-performing IGUs.
To meet these challenges efficiently and cost-effectively, IGU manufacturers must choose automated processes that work with their products, production volumes and existing infrastructure.
“This is where flexible spacer technology offers a significant advantage,” says Mark Hickox, Sales Director at Thermoseal Group.
“As IGUs become increasingly complex, in line with tightening regulations, integrating the right spacer system can make all the difference to productivity and finished-unit quality.”
Flexible spacer systems are applied continuously around the perimeter of the glass, which makes them particularly well-suited to automated production, while also giving manufacturers greater flexibility to handle various unit specifications.
Developed in-house in the UK, the Thermoflex foam spacer range is one example of Thermoseal Group’s long-standing investment in warm edge technology.
Designed specifically for use with hot melt systems, Thermoflex Premium Standard is ideal for manufacturers looking to introduce or expand automated processing. Alongside it, Thermoflex Premium Dual Seal is compatible with all sealant types, allowing processors to use the spacer alongside different production methods and secondary sealants.
For Thermoseal Group, this flexibility is something that is increasingly important to help manufacturers respond to changing market requirements.
“Dual Seal can be integrated into a wider range of manufacturing setups, which allows our customers to adapt production as market requirements change,” Mark says.
“It’s not ‘one-size-fits-all’ for every business, so having flexible and adaptable spacer technologies is becoming much more important for IGU manufacturers.
“Our high-performing Thermoflex range provides a route into automated production that can improve efficiency and consistency without requiring customers to completely change how they make IGUs, or to resort to a costly automation upgrade. That’s a big plus in a market where streamlined costs are critical.”
With its comprehensive product portfolio, comprising not just a broad range of rigid and flexible spacer bars but also sealants, accessories and associated tools and equipment, Thermoseal Group is well-positioned to support IGU manufacturers at every stage of their automation journey.
As a world-leading brand, Thermoseal Group products are tested above the market minimum EN1279 testing guidelines, allowing manufacturers to remain competitive and deliver performance simultaneously.
Combining its unrivalled product offering and technical expertise with the global reach and resources of the Fenzi Group, Thermoseal Group works with manufacturers in more than 30 countries, offering internationally trusted expertise.
“Automation is not necessarily about immediately implementing the most sophisticated or the most expensive option,” explains Mark.
“Some manufacturers might just want to automate a particular stage of production, as opposed to a complete overhaul. Existing machinery, product mix, budgets and growth plans will all have an influence on which technology makes the most sense.
“Automation should be an investment in the future of the business. It all hinges on what a manufacturer is producing today, where they want to go tomorrow and which products and processes align with that.”
This ‘bigger picture’ view is arguably one of Thermoseal Group's key strengths.
“We recognise that different manufacturers have different requirements. Our objective is to work with our customers on a case-by-case basis, to ensure the best possible outcome.”
“From our perspective, it’s all about assessing the customer’s needs and finding the right solution for them,” concludes Mark.
Visitors to Glasstec 2026, taking place in Düsseldorf from 20 - 23 October, can meet Thermoseal Group and Fenzi Group representatives on the Fenzi Group stand, Hall 16, Stand B12, to discuss flexible spacer technology, automation and the wide range of solutions available.
