INSULATING GLASS SPACER Systems
Quanex is a global leader in warm edge spacer systems for insulating glass (IG) units, delivering proven thermal performance, long-term durability, and production flexibility for window and door manufacturers. Our flexible spacer technologies, including Super Spacer®, Duralite®, and Duraseal®, are engineered to improve energy efficiency, reduce seal failures, and support both automated and manual IG production environments.
Warm Edge Insulating Glass Spacers from Quanex
Warm edge spacers play a critical role in overall window performance by reducing heat transfer at the edge of the glass, the area most vulnerable to energy loss, condensation, and seal stress. Quanex warm edge spacer systems are trusted by manufacturers worldwide and have been tested in extreme climates and real-world applications for more than 35 years.
Whether you are producing a few hundred IG units per day or running high-volume automated lines, Quanex offers flexible spacer solutions designed to enhance IGU longevity, streamline production, and meet today’s energy efficiency expectations.
Selecting the right warm edge spacer system can directly impact IGU quality, warranty performance, and manufacturing efficiency. Viwinco partnered with Quanex during a major expansion of its insulated glass operations, relying on Quanex’s expertise, technical support, and spacer system performance to meet growing demand without compromising quality.
Hear how Viwinco leverages Quanex warm edge spacers to support high expectations for energy efficiency, durability, and long-term reliability.
“Quanex played a role in helping us establish our needs, set up our equipment, and make sure it was running properly. We view it as a true partnership.” – Viwinco
When manufacturers evaluate warm edge spacer systems, they look beyond individual products to the performance factors that impact IGU quality, production efficiency, and long-term field results. Quanex spacer systems are engineered around these core benefits:
- Helps manufacturers meet ENERGY STAR® targets by delivering superior thermal performance for high-efficiency window designs.
- Protects seals and glass from stress and failure by flexing with environmental movement instead of resisting it.
- Extends the service life of IG units by reducing seal failures and premature unit breakdown.
- Improves production efficiency and consistency by seamlessly integrating with both manual and automated IG lines.
- Supports healthier indoor environments by minimizing condensation that can lead to mold and bacteria growth.
- Reduces heat transfer at the window edge compared to traditional metal spacers, improving overall window performance.
- Ensures reliable long-term performance in the field with proven durability and strong adhesion over time.
Super Spacer® is Quanex’s pioneering dual-seal warm edge spacer system and remains one of the most durable solutions on the market today. Designed for residential and light commercial IG units, Super Spacer uses a flexible structural foam construction that naturally expands and contracts with temperature changes—helping reduce cracks, seal stress, and premature failures.
A secondary sealant, such as hot melt butyl, is required on the back of the spacer to support gas retention and long-term structural performance.
Benefits of Super Spacer:
- Keeps the home or building warmer and reduces energy bills by maintaining higher edge-of-glass temperatures and minimizing heat loss.
- Prevents fogging and condensation for years thanks to superior moisture absorption that protects and extends the life of your insulated glass unit.
- Performs reliably in all climates, flexing with temperature changes to maintain a tight seal even in extreme weather.
- Delivers lasting comfort, clear views, and peace of mind, ensuring windows look great and perform efficiently over the long term.
- Silicone-based material
- Sightlines: 3/16″ (Premium) & 1/4″ (Premium Plus)
- Applications: Residential (Premium), Residential & Light Commercial (Premium Plus)
- Colors: Aluminum, Black, Grey, White
- Custom colors available with minimum order requirements
- Compatible with manual and high-speed automation
- EPDM-based material
- Sightline: 3/16″
- Applications: Residential
- Colors: Black, Charcoal, Light Grey
- Compatible with manual and high-speed automation
Duralite® and Duraseal® are single-seal warm edge spacer systems engineered for OEMs seeking reliable performance, increased production throughput, and excellent overall value. These one-step application spacers integrate spacer, sealant, and desiccant into a single system—eliminating the need for a secondary sealant while supporting efficient manufacturing processes.
Heat is required during the wet-out process to activate adhesion and ensure long-term performance.
- Non-metallic spacer with polycarbonate shim core
- Superior thermal performance and warmer edge-of-glass temperatures
- Integrated desiccant
- Smooth surface appearance
- Available colors: Black or Grey
- Accommodates airspaces from 1/4″ (6mm) to 13/16″ (20.5mm)
- Metal shim core for added rigidity
- Improved thermal performance compared to traditional metal spacers
- Integrated desiccant
- Clean sightlines and cost-effective value
- Available colors: Black or Grey
- Accommodates airspaces from 1/4″ (6mm) to 13/16″ (20.5mm)
Choosing the right warm edge spacer systems depends on your performance requirements, production setup, and long-term goals. Quanex specialists work directly with window and door manufacturers to evaluate IG line capabilities, recommend the right spacer solution, and support successful implementation.
- Request technical guidance
- Ask for product samples
- Get a spacer system assessment tailored to your production line
Frequently Asked Questions About Warm Edge Spacers
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Q: What is a warm edge spacer?
A: A warm-edge spacer is a flexible or low-conductivity spacer system used between glass panes in insulating glass units. It reduces heat transfer at the glass edge, improving energy efficiency, condensation resistance, and overall window performance.
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Q: Do warm edge spacers perform better than traditional metal spacers?
A: Yes. Warm edge spacers offer lower thermal conductivity than traditional aluminum spacers, resulting in warmer glass edge temperatures, improved condensation resistance, and reduced stress on seals.
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Q: Can warm edge spacers be used in automated IG production?
A: Yes. Quanex warm edge spacer systems are compatible with both manual and fully automated IG production lines, making them suitable for manufacturers of all sizes.
Warm edge spacer performance starts with the right solution and the right partner. Quanex combines proven spacer technologies with deep industry expertise to help manufacturers improve thermal efficiency, reduce failures, and optimize IG production.
Fill out the form to connect with a Quanex expert and take the next step toward a smarter, more reliable insulating glass spacer system.