In 2005, the UK glazing industry was on the brink of major change, driven by the need to dramatically improve the nation’s sustainability. The government’s introduction of Energy Performance Certificates and the emergence of Window Energy Ratings spurred insulated glass unit (IGU) manufacturers to embrace cutting-edge tech and push the sector forward.
Today, it’s the Future Homes Standard which will lead the industry to another technological shift as companies adapt. At Edgetech, we’re seeing many companies who invested in new machinery 20 years ago approach us about doing the same thing again. They’ve seen huge benefits from the Super Spacer automation equipment they invested in, which has helped them improve quality, thermal efficiency and given them two decades of reliable performance.
For all these reasons, they’re now looking to repeat that experience with the next generation of machinery that can help them meet today’s challenges.
Over 20 years, technology has progressed tremendously. Today’s fully automated Super Spacer application lines can make products more quickly, efficiently and to higher standards than ever before. Importantly, this applies to triple-glazed windows as well as double.
Currently, we don’t know exactly what shape the final Future Homes Standard will take. However, as performance requirements become even more stringent, the industry increasingly seems to be moving towards triple glazing as the most viable way of meeting stricter environmental requirements and consumer demand. I believe this could be the spur for the next wave of large-scale innovation.
Meanwhile, Super Spacer has stood the test of time. As performance requirements tighten significantly, Super Spacer continues to provide the fantastic energy efficiency the market demands.
By using Super Spacer technology, high-speed automated application and triple glazing, IGU solutions will be prepared for the net-zero age. However, to be prepared and to remain competitive for the decade ahead, companies must act now.
Lead times on next-generation spacer application machines can be as long as 12 months, and more companies are now looking to acquire them. To stay ahead of the curve, and be ready for the Future Homes Standard, companies should invest in the future today.
Chris Alderson
Managing director of Edgetech
