Warm edge technology is a significant trend in insulating glass, or at least the hottest issue in the IG industry. Given the introduction and acceptance of coated glass and gas filling, the next frontier in the ongoing quest to improve the performance of an insulating glass unit is the edge. This focus has been exacerbated by the heightened concern over changing energy codes and regulations and their impact on window manufacturing as well as the positioning of this concept as a marketing tool by various window manufacturers.

As a leading spacer manufacturer, Hygrade is dedicated not only to improving window performance, but also to helping its customers gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Hygrade is interested in developing warm edge technologies that can be generally disseminated to our entire customer base. Additionally, Hygrade is interested in assisting individual customers in developing warm edge concepts for their proprietary needs.

Hygrade's development of warm edge alternatives is rooted in three premises: An effective warm edge technology must result in a product that will utilize an IG manufacturer's existing manufacturing equipment, not complicate the manufacturing process, and be cost effective.

In an attempt to come up with an even more efficient spacer and yet stay within the criteria of using an IG manufacturer's existing manufacturing equipment, not complicating the manufacturing process, and being cost effective, Hygrade has focused on two warm edge alternatives - HY-NZ™ Steel and HY-THERM™ air spacers. HY-NZ™ and HY-THERM™ address varying needs of IG manufacturers in terms of both energy efficiency and cost.