NEG Argon Gas Filling

Insulating glass manufacturers are realising that the new Building Regulation Amendments (Part L in England and Wales; Part J in Scotland) require a radical re-think of manufacturing methods. It is clear that to meet the mandatory U-Value requirements, many people are deciding that low-E glass to the inside pane and argon gas filling an optimum 16mm cavity are essential elements in meeting the standards.

The explanation is simple. Clear glass lets long wave radiation, as from interior heating, pass readily. This accounts for up to 50% of energy loss. A further 25% of energy loss is due to conduction. Low E glass effectvely blocks radiant heat transfer, while allowing shortwave solar radiation through. Filling the cavity with argon gas reduces considerably the conductive loss from inside, resulting in a substantially higher performance IG unit.

So why Argon Gas? What is it and what does it do?

Here are some of the main points

* Argon gas is colourless and odourless, and does not block light, so houseplants are not affected. It exists in the atmoshpere, so supplies are plentiful.

* Argon is stable, inert and non-toxic.

* Long term studies show that a well constructed gas filled window will stave 80% of the gas trapped inside 20 years after installation.

* Argon gas increases the window's ability to insulate. It generates a warmer surface on the inside pane, eliminating or substantially reducing condensation and increasing interior comfort. It helps keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer.

Gas filling is a low cost procedure, which provides a major improvement in an IGU's thermal performance.