The ASTM C1249 “Standard Guide for Secondary Sealing of Sealed Insulated Glass Units for Structural Sealing Applications,” developed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) , describes design and manufacturing considerations for edge seals in conventionally sealed insulated glass units (double glazing units). These double glazing units are used in structural silicone-filled glass systems . Structural silicone-filled glass systems are typically two-sided or four-sided and glazed with structural sealant.
This standard does not cover double glazing units other than those of conventional edge seal design, but the information contained herein may be useful to designers of such double glazing units.
In a structural silicone-filled glazing system, the double-glazed units are attached to a metal framing system by a structural gasket. The size and shape of this gasket, as well as many other structural silicone-filled glazing system design considerations, are not covered in this guide.
It is important to remember that the design of an insulated glass unit edge seal for use in structural silicone sealant glazing systems is a collaborative effort between, at a minimum, the insulated glass unit manufacturer, the sealant manufacturer, and the design professional.
This standard provides information on silicone sealants used in the secondary seal of insulated glass units glazed in structural silicone-filled glazing systems. It also provides information on the other key components of the insulated glass unit edge seal, including component compatibility, durability, and quality assurance.
The edge seal of a structural silicone-filled glazing system insulated glass unit consists of two layers of glass, a spacer, a desiccant, a primary sealant, and a secondary sealant. This type of insulated glass unit is often referred to as a double-sealed unit because it has separate primary and secondary seals. A single-sealed insulated glass unit is currently not suitable for structural silicone-filled glazing systems and should not be used.
ASTM C1249 is widely used in the construction industry to improve the quality and reliability of glazing systems in buildings. This standard focuses on the edge seal of traditionally sealed glazing units, which typically consist of two or more glass panels separated by an interframe, filled with desiccant and sealed with primary and secondary sealants. These units are often used in structural silicone-filled glazing systems, where the insulated glass units are attached to a metal frame system with a structural sealant.
This sealant is typically applied on two or four sides, although one-, three-, five-, or six-sided configurations are also possible. The guide does not cover non-traditional edge seal designs but notes that its principles benefit designers of such units. It emphasizes the collaboration required between insulated glass unit manufacturers, sealant manufacturers, and design professionals to ensure a robust edge seal design.
Designing an insulated glass unit edge seal for structural silicone-filled glazing systems is a complex process that requires coordination among multiple stakeholders, including insulated glass unit manufacturers, sealant manufacturers, and design experts. ASTM C1249 also addresses key aspects such as component compatibility, durability, and quality assurance. These factors are crucial to preventing issues such as adhesive or cohesive failure that could compromise the performance of the glazing system.
The key components of this standard are:
The guide emphasizes that to ensure long-term performance in structural silicone sealant glazing systems, the design of the edge seal must account for factors such as adhesion, compatibility and durability.
While ASTM C1249 does not cover non-traditional edge seal designs, it notes that its principles may still be useful for such applications. Furthermore, it does not address the size, shape, or other design considerations of the structural seal in structural sealing glazing systems and focuses solely on the secondary seal of the double-glazed grid unit. Because this standard does not address these concerns, users are responsible for establishing appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices.
As a result, ASTM C1249 is the essential guide for professionals involved in the design, manufacture, and installation of double-glazed grid units in structural silicone-filled glazing systems. By providing detailed guidance on secondary sealants, particularly silicone sealants, it ensures the durability and performance of glazing systems in modern construction. Its emphasis on collaboration, component compatibility, and adherence to relevant testing standards make this standard a valuable resource for achieving high-quality, reliable double-glazed units.
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