Windows That Last Longer
TPS makes windows more durable, easier to maintain
How strong are windows with TPS technology?
In one test, a two-ton automobile was placed on insulated glass unit using TPS for 20 hours. The insulated glass unit compressed from 16 mm (0.63 inches) to 15 mm (0.59 inches) airspace under the weight of the car. Once the car was removed, the insulated glass returned to 16 mm airspace. There was no compression or glass breakage.
Many conditions can take a toll on windows and their appearance. Windows with warm edge thermoplastic spacer (TPS) technology are more durable because they stand up to the environment better.
TPS technology can prevent foggy windows, mold formation, and frame material deterioration caused by moisture and humidity seeping between the windows.
TPS has insulating properties that keep interior glass surfaces and window frames warmer, reducing the conditions that create condensation. TPS gas barrier technology prevents windows from fogging up by preventing air from entering between the glass panes. Windows will maintain their appearance longer than windows with other spacers.
Left: Window with TPS; Right: Window with Aluminum Spacer;
TPS helps protect windows against severe conditions such as high winds and other acts of nature. That's because TPS forms a flexible seal that moves with the bending action of glass during temperature changes and high winds. TPS also acts as a damper/stress distributor during earthquakes. During small tremors, windows with TPS are less likely to shatter, whereas glass panes with metal spacers are likely to break.
TPS® flexible seal protects glass from high winds and temperature changes
In laboratory tests, TPS outperforms other warm spacer technologies in P-1 test chamber conditions (140°F/60°C temperatures, 95 - 100% humidity levels and constant ultraviolet ray bombardment).
TPS technology has passed rigorous international certification requirements, including: HIGS, ASTM E2188-90, ASTM E 773 and E774 North America, EN 1279 European Union, DIN 1286 Germany, and NF P78-451, 452 France, JIS R 3209 Japan, UNI 10593 Italy, CAN 2-12.8-M76 Canada, SFS 4704 Finland, NEN 3567 Netherlands, NS 3212 Norway.
ADCO Global, a BASF customer and manufacturer that produces Thermoplastic Spacers (TPS), is a certified Energy Star® Partner Company. To learn about ADCO Global and TPS, click here.