EP3020908A1 - Spacer for spacing glass sheets of a multiple glazed window, a multiple glazed window, and a method for the production of a spacer - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a spacer (1) for the spacing of glass panes (5) of a multi-glazed window. The spacer (1) has a substantially rectangular cross-section and is provided with a first, substantially flat base surface (20) and a second, substantially flat opposite base surface (21). The first base area (20) is substantially permeable to water vapor and the second base area (21) is substantially impermeable to gases, in particular to water vapor and noble gases, in particular argon and krypton. The second base (21) comprises at least one vapor barrier (4) for preventing water vapor diffusion through the vapor barrier (4). The vapor barrier (4) is in the form of a sputter-coated metallic or glassy layer.

Description

The invention relates to a spacer for the spacing of glass panes of a multi-glazed window, a multi-glazed window, and a method for producing a spacer with the features of the preambles of the independent claims.

Multi-glazed windows are colloquially called multi-pane insulating glass. This type of glazing is primarily used for thermal insulation, that is, the prevention of heat loss to a cold environment or the prevention of heating of the interior by a relatively warmer environment.

Multi-glazed windows usually consist of at least two glass panes arranged in parallel, which are spaced from a spacer. The result is between the glass panes, a space between the panes, which, filled with air or gas, represents an insulating layer.

Are known spacers made of aluminum, stainless steel or plastic, which are connected to a thermoplastic sealant by pressing firmly with the glass surfaces.

Furthermore, it is customary to provide spacers with a cavity which contains a desiccant for drying the trapped air in the space between the panes.

Spacers are usually designed so that they prevent the diffusion of water vapor from outside the space between the panes in the space between the panes and at the same time Ensure gas and water vapor exchange between the atmosphere of the space between the panes and the desiccant.

As is known, plastic spacers are manufactured in one piece by profile extrusion. The cavity is then subsequently filled with a desiccant.

However, this method is expensive because it requires a further step outside the production line. A finished spacer with desiccant also has only a short shelf life, since the absorption capacity of the drying agent is increasingly exhausted in contact with the water vapor of atmospheric air.

DE 10 2006 024 402 A1 describes a spacer which is coextruded in one step from silicone and a desiccant mixture containing core. In this case, the base of the spacer, which faces the space between the panes on the mounted window, is provided either with an open-pored silicone or with slots, so that a gas exchange can take place.

However, this solution does not solve the problem of the limited storage time of the thus produced spacer. As before, the water absorption capacity of the desiccant is exhausted.

Since silicone has the tendency to outgassing, there is also the problem that form with rapid use in the space between the panes rainfall ("fogging"). Silicone has a high water vapor penetration rate and is not suitable for protecting the loading of the desiccant matrix.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome the disadvantages of the known and to provide a spacer, a multi-glazed window and a method for producing a spacer, which is inexpensive and efficient to produce and has an improved shelf life.

In particular, a spacer is to be provided, which has improved properties with respect to outgassing of the plastic material and improved UV and thermal insulation properties.

According to the invention these objects are achieved with a spacer, a multi-glazed window and a method for producing a spacer having the features according to the characterizing part of the independent claims.

An inventive spacer for the spacing of glass panes of a multi-glazed window comprises an outer shell. This outer shell at least partially encloses the desiccant and the desiccant is enclosed on all sides by the outer shell at least in a first crude product. In the end product, the drying agent is at least partially enclosed by the silicone-free outer shell.

In a first variant of the invention, the outer shell is produced by coextrusion of a plastic matrix with the desiccant. Production by coextrusion allows a flexible choice of material: the material can be chosen freely in terms of color or in terms of properties for the vapor barrier function or for adhesives for contact with glass panes.

In a second variant, a spacer comprises a desiccant with an outer shell and an inner structure which is more porous than the outer shell. The outer shell and the inner structure are made of a component, typically of a polymer matrix, in which a desiccant is incorporated. It has been found that in a mono-extrusion automatically forms an outer shell, which encloses the porous inner part. The outer shell has a smooth, less porous surface. The outer shell has a lower water vapor permeability due to their low porosity and thus protects the desiccant during storage. The smooth exterior structure thus has a certain protective function against the passage of water vapor. In order not to exhaust the water absorption capacity of the porous inner structure, the component compound of plastic and desiccant after monoextrusion but also additionally packed vacuum, be present in airtight containers.

In the end product in both variants between the porous internal structure and the ambient atmosphere in at least one region, preferably one side of the spacer, a gas and water vapor connection with an outside which is zuwendbar a space between the panes. Such gas and water vapor communication may be facilitated by means of a porous material or perforation or other openings in said region, preferably said side, of the spacer in an end product. The drying agent in the inner structure is held in both variants in a polymer matrix which is porous. Porous means in particular porous and water vapor permeable than the outer shell of the spacer.

The inventive spacer also preferably has at least one primary seal for cohesive connection the spacer with at least one glass sheet, namely a highly adhesive glue. Optionally, the adhesive adhesive may be covered with a protective film. To improve the adhesion of the strongly adhesive adhesive, a surface treatment on the profile can take place, for example, by the corona or plasma process.

In the first variant, at least the silicone-free outer shell and the drying agent of the spacer are present as a composite by coextrusion. Due to the coextrusion of the outer shell with the desiccant this is present as a multi-layer composite of the two components.

In a preferred embodiment of this first variant of the spacer is made entirely of materials that have no or only a negligible outgassing after molding, in particular, the spacer is completely silicone-free.

To make silicone safe against so-called "fogging", the material is usually refined by tempering after extrusion. There is a risk of loading the drying agent. This is another benefit of not using silicone.

This composite eliminates the need for a later assembly of the spacer with a desiccant. In addition, the drying agent can be enclosed as far as desired low diffusion of the outer shell during manufacture. This allows storage of the inventive spacer at atmospheric conditions without exhausting the water absorption properties of the drying agent by the water vapor present in the atmospheric air. The inventive Spacer thus allows the storage of the same until the production of insulating glass.

In the second variant, the outer shell substantially has a low water vapor permeability and is present as a composite by mono-extrusion with the porous inner structure. By using a monoextrusion which results in a component compound having two different structures, spacers can be produced cost-efficiently since, unlike coextrusion, only one material mixture is used.

By directly extruding a polymer structure containing the desiccant, there is no need to subsequently load the spacer with a desiccant. Since the outer shell has a substantially low water vapor permeability also storage under atmospheric conditions is possible.

The moisture absorption of desiccants is typically standardized. Zeolite desiccants typically have a water holding capacity of 20%. Due to the protective function of the outer shell, the initial load of the desiccant with water remains small and this value is also retained during storage or water cooling in the profile extrusion process. It has been shown that, especially in the case of monoextrusion of a desiccant matrix of TPE, the absorption of water vapor into the desiccant present inside the outer shell takes place much more slowly than with known spacers. In the case of standard loading, the water vapor absorption after one month is 5% for a TPE spacer according to the invention, while the same value for known silicone-based spacers is more than 8%. The inventive spacers are therefore in terms of Water vapor absorption during production and storage much less critical.

The production method for inventive spacers can be made more efficient. In particular, it is possible by simple Wasserbadkühlung to increase the extrusion rate, without significantly damaging the water absorbency of the desiccant.

In a preferred embodiment of the first variant, the spacer is present as a composite by coextrusion of a thermoplastic material with a plastic matrix enriched with the desiccant.

In a preferred embodiment of the second variant, the spacer is present as a monoextrusion of a drying agent contained in a plastic matrix, which results in an outer shell and a more porous internal structure in comparison.

In a further preferred variant of both embodiments, the at least one primary seal is also present as a composite by coextrusion with the outer shell. Preferably, the primary seal extends longitudinally along the entire length of the profile. The thus configured primary seal can thus fulfill a dual function: connect the spacer cohesively with a glass pane and at the same time prevent the diffusion of water vapor from outside a space between panes in the space between the panes as a seal. It goes without saying that a primary seal having such a dual function, ie a material which at the same time has sufficient adhesive properties between the spacer profile and a glass pane and also has sufficient sealing properties, is associated with other types of spacers and may not be advantageous in coextruded form. To produce such a double function, for example, an adhesive butyl is used.

Alternatively, however, it is also conceivable to use, in a manner known per se, an adhesive film (preferably an acrylate adhesive tape) which serves for positioning and fixing the spacer in relation to a glass pane during the production of an insulating glass. In order to improve the adhesion of the adhesive tape, the spacer can also be subjected to a corona treatment at least in the region which is provided with the adhesive tape. The adhesive tape may be provided with a cover sheet which may be peeled off before use of the spacer.

Preferably, the spacer according to the invention has an essentially four-edged shape in profile. In a preferred embodiment, the profile cross section of a spacer according to the invention has a substantially rectangular shape with a first side length of between 6 and 24 mm, and particularly preferably 12 or 16 mm side length. The page length also depends in particular on the intended application: in applications for triple glazing, overall widths of 12-30 mm are typically preferred. Preferably, a second side has a side width of between 6 to 16 mm, more preferably 6 to 8 mm.

The materials of the spacer are preferably selected to provide a substantially flexible spacer that allows for automated production of multi-glazed windows and can be reeled on rolls for storage. The production of multi-glazed windows can then be done by robot.

In a further preferred embodiment, the spacer has at least one vapor barrier to prevent water vapor diffusion on one side of the spacer. Preferably, the vapor barrier is intended to prevent the diffusion of water vapor through the side facing the outside during assembly, i. the frame faces prevent. A vapor barrier according to the invention may be a film which is adhered after extrusion. The vapor barrier is preferably produced by producing a vapor-impermeable plastic by coextrusion with the outer shell and the drying agent or the polymer matrix as a composite. Alternatively, the vapor barrier may be in the form of a metallic rolled foil and / or sputter-coated metallic or glassy layer. Particularly preferred is a vapor barrier, which is present as a laminate, in particular of a PE layer, on which at least one PET-SiOx layer is applied. Preference is given to two PET-SiOx layers. The PE layer can be easily connected to the outer shell of a TPE spacer, in particular welded. At the same time, the PET-SioX layer forms good contact for commonly used primary seals, e.g. Butyl adhesive. Such a vapor barrier can be applied in particular immediately after or during the extrusion. The welding is preferably carried out immediately after the extrusion of the profile.

This can be done, for example, a weld on three flanks using a Leister hot air device.

Alternatively, for example, the extrusion die itself may be provided with a feed for the vapor barrier. In particular, film thicknesses below a permissible stress limit can be connected directly to the plastic melt within the tool. In another alternative, the film is direct passed to the extruded profile after the nozzle during the relaxation phase.

In a preferred embodiment, the spacer has a first, substantially flat base surface and a second, substantially flat opposite base surface. Preferably, the first base in the final product is substantially permeable to water vapor and the second base is substantially impermeable to water vapor. During assembly, the first base is aligned so that it faces the space between the panes and the second base faces the window frame.

For the purposes of the present invention, a distinction between a tradable crude product and a tradable end product of the inventive spacer takes place. In the crude product, the diffusion of water vapor to the internal structure, which includes the desiccant, difficult. This is done by a diffusion-tight outer shell in the first embodiment or by a less porous, smooth outer shell in the second embodiment. The final product, i. The "activated" at or shortly before mounting spacers allows on at least one side, which faces a disc space between two glass panes, the diffusion of water vapor into the interior of the spacer better.

In a preferred embodiment, the first base area has at least one opening, in particular one or more perforations.

In a further preferred embodiment, the second base has the vapor barrier. The vapor barrier is preferably a laminate of PE and at least one PET-SiOx layer. alternative However, metallic rolled foils are also conceivable, in particular rolled foils comprising aluminum or a stainless steel foil. Also conceivable is a vapor-deposited metal layer.

In a preferred embodiment of the first variant, the outer shell co-extruded with the desiccant matrix has no silicone, in particular it comprises or consists essentially of a thermoplastic elastomer selected from the group consisting of: TPS (styrene block copolymers), TPC ( thermoplastic polyester elastomers), TPV (crosslinked thermoplastic olefin elastomers), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers) and TPA (thermoplastic polyamide elastomers).

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the outer shell, in particular TPV, additionally tempered chalk and / or talc is added. This can reduce the Shore hardness.

Preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer has at least one, preferably all of the following properties: The Shore hardness is between 60 ShA and 75 ShA, preferably between 65 ShA and 70 ShA.

It is processable by extrusion.

It has only a minimum, or negligible outgassing and / or is substantially free of solvent. Acceptable outgassing and fogging values can be found in the DIN standard EN 1279-6,

It is compatible with the known insulating glass sealants, in particular with butyl, polyurethane, polysulfides, silicone or hotmelt.

It has a temperature resistance of -20 ° C to 80 ° C.

It has a low, respectively negligible thermal expansion and heat conduction.

It is essentially UV resistant.

It is essentially color-stable over a period of up to 20 years and under the influence of UV light.

It has a low, respectively negligible water vapor permeability.

It has a low, respectively negligible gas absorption, in particular argon absorption.

It preferably has a lifetime of more than 20 years.

Particularly suitable are UV-stabilized, organic materials such. As TPE olefins and TPU elastomers exposed. They are characterized by a low water vapor permeation. More preferably, TPA polyamides or adapted biopolymer compounds can be used which satisfy the above conditions.

In a preferred embodiment of the second variant, the polymer matrix for the drying agent consists of components of the Olefinic TPE group, in particular from Infuse 9007 of the manufacturer DOW.
In a particularly preferred embodiment, the polymer matrix (in particular from Olefic TPE) is mixed with chalk and / or talc. This can reduce the Shore hardness.

• Die Shore Härte liegt zwischen 60 ShA und 75 ShA, bevorzugt zwischen 65 ShA und 70 ShA.

Preferably, the mono-extruded polymer matrix has at least one, preferably all, of the following properties:

• The Shore hardness is between 60 ShA and 75 ShA, preferably between 65 ShA and 70 ShA.

It can be processed by extrusion.

It is compatible with the known insulating glass sealants, in particular with butyl, polyurethane, polysulfides, silicone or hotmelt.

It has a temperature resistance of -20 ° C to 80 ° C.

It has a low, respectively negligible thermal expansion and heat conduction.

It is essentially color-stable over a period of up to 20 years and under the influence of UV light.

It contains an outer shell created by mono-extrusion, which has a low, respectively negligible water vapor permeability.

It has a low, respectively negligible gas absorption, in particular argon absorption.

It preferably has a lifetime of more than 20 years.

In both variants, it is also conceivable to add further components to the desiccant matrix, for example to increase the UV stability. Conceivable, for example, Desmopan DP 9370AU of the manufacturer Bayer.

In a preferred embodiment, the primary seal is selected from the group consisting of butyl, acrylate and hot melt adhesives. If the primary seal is designed as an adhesive, it can simultaneously perform two functions: on the one hand, the seal is useful for sealing in a manner known per se. At the same time it assumes a positioning function in the insulating glass assembly. Instead of two different materials (acrylic for positioning and butyl for sealing), the primary seal can fulfill both functions. Of course, this solution can also be used advantageously in connection with other spacers.

A spacer according to the invention can be adapted according to the contour of the glass. The spacer is preferably formed in one piece. This facilitates all handling during assembly. In addition, a particularly cost-effective production is possible by the integral formation of the spacer.

In a further preferred embodiment, the spacer, in addition to its substantially rectangular basic shape, has a recess, in particular a groove, for receiving a glass pane. A spacer designed in this way is particularly suitable for receiving the middle glass pane of a triple-glazed window. Preferably, such a spacer also has a portion of the primary seal in this groove.

In connection with triple glazing in particular a spacer can be used, which has a basic shape as in WO 2010/11545 has shown. By co-extruding or mono-extruding, it is also conceivable to provide the spacer in a simple manner with further shape features.

Particularly preferably, the spacer may have a shape characteristic, which has a precisely defined position relative to the central receptacle of the spacer and which serves for positioning the spacer when inserting the middle pane. This shape feature may typically be formed as a track groove on the side facing away from the side for receiving the middle disc. While such a shape feature is particularly preferred in connection with inventive spacers, it goes without saying that it can also be advantageous for other spacers for triple glazing.

In a preferred embodiment of the first variant of these spacers suitable for triple glazing, the outer shell has two chambers with desiccant which are present as a composite by coextrusion with the outer shell.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the spacer has at least one weakening point on the first flat base surface, which is perforated at or shortly before the production of insulating glass, thereby ensuring gas and water vapor permeability of the first planar base to the desiccant. Such a weakening point can be achieved by a thinner compared to the surrounding wall thickness wall thickness of the outer shell. Such a weakening in the first variant is particularly preferred. But it can also be advantageous in the second variant.

This has the advantage that the drying agent is protected during and after the preparation of the spacer from the outer shell and the water absorption capacity of the drying agent is not prematurely exhausted.

The drying agent may preferably be present as a matrix in a plastic. Particularly suitable are drying agents based on molecular sieves, in particular silica gels and zeolites.

The outer shell ensures UV resistance, elasticity and a high dimensional stability in the first place. In a preferred embodiment, the desiccant may comprise up to 40, preferably up to 70%, more preferably up to 90%, of the cross-section of the spacer. The outer shell has a wall thickness of 1 ± 0.5mm.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing a spacer, in particular a spacer as described above.

A silicone-free outer shell and a more porous in comparison to the outer shell inner structure containing the desiccant are extruded, so that the porous inner structure is completely enclosed by the outer shell.

In a first variant, a silicone-free outer shell and a drying agent are coextruded by means of a profile multi-nozzle, so that the drying agent is enclosed by the outer shell completely and diffusion-tight.

A suitable profile nozzle is for example in US 5851609 shown. A suitable profile nozzle has multiple channels to extrude the individual components.

In a second variant, the outer shell and the inner structure are mono-extruded, that in comparison to the outer shell more porous interior structure is formed, which is completely enclosed by the outer shell.

After extrusion, in both embodiments, the outer shell is preferably rendered air and vapor permeable at at least one point. In the second variant, this step can be dispensed with depending on the porosity of the outer shell.

This step can be postponed until the production of insulating glass.

By means of the method according to the invention, the extrusion can take place with water cooling, without the drying agent being exhausted in its water absorption capacity even before assembly, because at that time the drying agent is completely enclosed by the outer shell. This makes it possible to extrude much more efficiently and with higher throughput.

In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell is perforated after the extrusion at least one point, so that an opening is formed.

In a further preferred embodiment, the outer shell is extruded with a weakening point, which is opened at least one point after the extrusion, so that an opening is formed.

Such a weakening point can be produced, for example, by a profiled nozzle which is designed such that a weakening point, in particular a point with reduced wall thickness, is extruded. This makes it easier to perforate the corresponding point of the outer shell.

In a preferred embodiment, the extrusion additionally comprises the extrusion of a seal, in particular a seal comprising a butyl, acrylate, or hot melt adhesive.

In a particular embodiment, the part of the outer shell which faces the space between the panes is rendered air and vapor permeable only during assembly, for example by perforating the said part during processing by means of a production robot. This can happen at weak points.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a multi-glazed window having at least two spaced-apart parallel glass panes and a spacer disposed between the panes of glass for spacing as previously described.

The spacer is preferably fixed directly to a primary seal with the glass.

Preferably, the gap between the first and the second glass sheet which is formed by the spacer and outside the space between the panes is sealed with a further secondary seal. Such secondary seals are known in the art. Polysulfites, polyurethanes and silicones have proved to be particularly suitable.

In a preferred embodiment, the outer shell encloses the drying agent at the time at which the spacer is fixed on a glass pane, still completely. As a result, especially in the first variant, the outer shell encloses the inner structure which contains the desiccant airtight and vapor-tight.

The edge of the spacer facing the space between the panes can be rendered permeable to air and steam in both embodiments, for example by being perforated or a part of the outer shell being loosened at a weakening point.

In a preferred embodiment, the multi-glazed window is assembled in an automated process with a robot. Particularly preferred is perforated only in the production of insulating glass by an application robot, so that the desiccant load is small and thus the water absorption capacity remains as high as possible.

The multi-glazed window comprises, in a preferred embodiment, at least two panes of glass spaced apart by a spacer defining a disc space therein, and an outer space located externally on the spacer between the panes. Preferably, said outer space is sealed diffusion-tight with a secondary seal. The spacer comprises no silicone and in particular comprises an outer shell which at least partially encloses a desiccant matrix.

In both variants, the outer shell is preferably designed such that vapor diffusion between the space between the panes and a drying agent embedded in the drying agent matrix is made possible.

Due to the outer shell of the spacer, the initial loading of the desiccant with water is very low. This also increases the life of a multi-glazed window, which is equipped with the inventive spacer. The conditions according to standard EN1279 part 2 and part 3 are more reliable and longer fulfilled. The argon loss off the gap between the panes is less than 1% per year.

In a preferred embodiment of both variants, the internal structure has at least one cavity. The at least one cavity leads to a reduction of the PSI value. Interior structures without cavities are also conceivable. However, due to the material and cost savings, an embodiment with cavities is preferable.

• Figur 1 zeigt ein schematisches Profil eines Abstandhalters aus dem Stand der Technik.
• Figur 2 zeigt ein weiteres schematisches Profil eines Abstandhalters für mehrfachverglaste Fenster.
• Figur 3 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• Figur 4 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• Figur 5 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung zwischen zwei Glasscheiben.
• Figur 6 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht einer weiteren alternativen Form eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• Figur 7 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht einer weiteren alternativen Form eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• Figur 8 zeigt eine schematische perspektivische Darstellung eines Abstandhalters teilweise im Querschnitt gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• Figur 9 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht einer weiteren alternativen Form eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfinding
• Figur 10 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht einer weiteren alternativen Form eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung
• Figur 11 zeigt eine schematische Profilansicht einer weiteren alternativen Form eines Abstandhalters gemäss der vorliegenden Erfindung

In the following the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to drawings and specific embodiments, but without being limited to these.

• FIG. 1 shows a schematic profile of a spacer from the prior art.
• FIG. 2 shows another schematic profile of a spacer for multi-glazed windows.
• FIG. 3 shows a schematic profile view of a spacer according to the present invention.
• FIG. 4 shows a schematic profile view of another embodiment of a spacer according to the present invention.
• FIG. 5 shows a schematic profile view of a spacer according to the present invention between two glass sheets.
• FIG. 6 shows a schematic profile view of another alternative form of a spacer according to the present invention.
• FIG. 7 shows a schematic profile view of another alternative form of a spacer according to the present invention.
• FIG. 8 shows a schematic perspective view of a spacer partially in cross-section according to the present invention.
• FIG. 9 shows a schematic profile view of another alternative form of a spacer according to the present invention
• FIG. 10 shows a schematic profile view of another alternative form of a spacer according to the present invention
• FIG. 11 shows a schematic profile view of another alternative form of a spacer according to the present invention

All figures are not true to scale, in particular, the wall thickness of the outer shells 7 and 12 may be variable depending on the choice of material. In the FIGS. 5 to 9 the outer shell 7 or 12 is now shown as an example.

FIG. 1 shows a spacer 1 of the prior art with a substantially rectangular profile cross-section. On the two narrow sides of a primary seal 3 is attached. Usually, butyl compounds are used as the primary seal used. The spacer 1 also has a vapor barrier 4. Usually, aluminum, aluminum alloys, stainless steel or plastic films are used as a vapor barrier 4.

FIG. 2 shows a further spacer 1, which is adapted for use with multi-glazed windows with three or more panes. The spacer 1 has a vapor barrier 4 and two primary seal 3 on the respective narrow sides of the spacer 1. The spacer also has a groove with a further sealant 6, which usually Acrylatadhesive or hot melts are used. In the groove, a glass pane 5 is materially connected by the seal 6 with the spacer 1. On the side facing away from the third disc 5 side of the spacer is also provided with a track groove, which indicates the position of the groove. The track groove is used in the production of insulating glass, the positioning of the spacer. In Fig. 2 the track groove is shown in connection with a conventionally made spacer. It goes without saying that such track grooves are particularly easy to produce in connection with the coextruded or monoextruded spacers described below.

FIG. 3 shows a spacer 1 according to the invention with a thermoplastic sheath 7, which encloses a drying agent 8. The spacer 1 has a sheath 7 with a thickness of 1 mm. In addition, the spacer 1 has a height H of 6.5 mm, a height h of 3.5 mm, a width B of 9.8 mm and a width b of 0.8 mm. The spacer 1 also has a sputtered surface 4, which prevents the passage of gas and water vapor as a vapor barrier. The narrow sides of the spacer 1 are coated with an acrylic elastomer (VAMAC; Typon) as a strong adhesive adhesive (positioning adhesive) 3 provided. The sheath 7 also has on one side perforations 9, so that a gas exchange between the desiccant and the disc space (not shown) can take place.

The sheath 7 consists of a flexible, hand-bendable thermoplastic elastomer. The elastomer has a Shore A hardness of over 60 ShA, is fogging safe and diffusion-tight for water vapor and argon gas. Particularly preferably, the sheath 7 from the product group Saran and is coextruded together with the desiccant matrix.

The vapor barrier 4 to the secondary seal preferably consists of a composite functional film. Particularly suitable are diffusion-tight films sputtered with SiO ₂ . Particular preference is given to a PE / PET-SiOx / PET-SiOx laminate which has been welded on after the extrusion, wherein the PE layer can be turned towards the spacer and the PET-SiOx layer can be turned towards the glass. Alternatively, films based on EVOH are conceivable. Alternatively, a glass, aluminum, stainless steel or plastic film can be glued after the coextrusion of the sheath 7 and the desiccant matrix 8. The primary seals (positioning adhesive) 3 can also be attached to the spacer 1 in an attached manufacturing step. It is also conceivable to integrate the provision of a suitable vapor barrier in the coextrusion process. The vapor barrier 4 may be a rolled metal foil, which may be chosen between 10 and 30 mm (aluminum) or 6 and 12 mm (stainless steel) thick depending on the material used. The rolled foils can also be made corrugated. The corrugation takes place transversely to the longitudinal direction of the spacer. As a result, the spacer is more flexible and can be wound up better. Of course, in this case, the plastic material applied to the film is also corrugated accordingly.

FIG. 4 shows an alternative embodiment of the spacer 1 from FIG. 3 , The spacer 1 has a thermoplastic sheath 7 of Saran ™ Barrier Films from DOW, which includes a desiccant matrix 8 (described above) in two separate chambers. For example, Infuse 9007 DOW can be used as the desiccant matrix. The jacket 7 is provided with perforations 9 at two points 9, so that water vapor exchange between the desiccant matrix and the space between the panes (not shown) is made possible. Figure 4 schematically shows a central disc 5 of a triple-glazed window, which is embedded in a groove and is adhesively bonded by means of an Adhesivklebers 6 with the spacer 1. The spacer also has a track groove for positioning relative to the center disc. The spacer 1 also has a vapor barrier 4. The vapor barrier preferably has a film coated with SiOx, for example a PET-SiOx film. A laminate of PE / PET-SiOX / PET-SiOx from the manufacturer AMCOR is preferred. The PET-SiOx layer is a PET carrier, which is coated with silicon in a high vacuum. Alternatively, however, vapor barriers from a subsequently attached stainless steel foil, aluminum roller foil or other metal foil or vapor-deposited metal are conceivable.

The spacer also has two primary seals 3 made of an acrylate adhesive, which were also attached later. Alternatively, TPU foam, butyl, hotmelt or EPDM would also be well suited.

As desiccant matrix was used for FIG. 3 and 43A zeolite having a volumetric fraction of 25 to 60% in a matrix of an olefin block copolymer (eg, INFUSE ™ 9700 from DOW®) or a polyolefin elastomer (eg, ENGAGE ™ from DOW®).

The thermoplastic sheath 7 and the desiccant matrix 8 are coextruded in one process step. Alternatively, the seal 6 can be coextruded with the desiccant matrix 8 and the thermoplastic jacket 7.

FIG. 5 shows a spacer 1 mounted between two panes 5. The spacer 1 has a thermoplastic jacket 7 in combination with a drying agent 8. The thermoplastic sheath consists of TPU or olefins. The spacer also has on both sides an adhesive tape 11, which was previously coated with a film and wherein the film was detached before the application of the spacer 1 on the glass sheets 5. The spacer 1 also has primary locks 3 made of butyl adhesive. A secondary seal 10 of polysulfide-thiover or polyurethane-polyver additionally seals the spacer 1 from the outside atmosphere. The desiccant 8 is extruded as a matrix of desiccant and a plastic, the materials of the Figures 3 and 4 be used.

FIG. 6 shows a spacer 1, in which, unlike FIG. 5 the adhesive tape and the primary barrier have been replaced by a primary barrier 3 made of Adhesiv Hotmelt or butyl (adhesive). The primary barrier 3 thus performs a dual function: cohesive bonding of the glass panes and prevention of vapor diffusion. The primary barrier 3 can be coextruded with the remaining components of the spacer. For application of the adhesive tape is in FIG. 6 (not shown in detail) similar as in the Figures 2 or 3 a deposition or a groove provided (which is also already used in these figures for receiving the primary seals 3. Depending on whether a design with a barrier film (comparable to the illustrations in Figures 3 and 4 ) or a rolled stainless steel foil is used, a deposition (in a barrier film) or a groove (between the stainless steel foil and the profile) is provided for receiving the Adhesivbands.

The FIG. 7 is different from the FIG. 5 by a welded to the thermoplastic elastomer 7 vapor barrier 4 made of a SiO x coated film or a bonded film of aluminum or stainless steel. The thermoplastic elastomer 7 encloses a drying agent 8.

It goes without saying that all of the abovementioned embodiments according to the invention can be combined with one another as desired.

FIG. 8 shows in perspective a cross section of a portion of a spacer 1 which is present as a band cutout. The spacer 1 has a first flat base surface 20 which, when mounted, faces a space between the panes (not shown) and a second flat base 21 which faces a window frame (not shown) during assembly. The spacer 1 has perforations 9 along the entire length of the side 20 to allow gas exchange with the desiccant. The base 21 is limited by a diffusion-tight film.

FIG. 9 shows in perspective a cross section of a spacer 1, which is present as a band cutout. The spacer 1 has an outer shell 12 and a porous inner structure 13. The outer shell 12 and the inner structure 13 are mono-extruded as a component compound of a plastic matrix and desiccant. The desiccant preferably used is zeolite and preferably constitutes 50% of the desiccant matrix. The plastic for the matrix is Infuse 9007 from Dow. alternative For example, HTC8312 / 59 can also be used by KRAIBURG TPE GmbH & Co. KG. This embodiment can also be used for triple glazing and provided with a track groove as described above. Likewise, this embodiment may be provided as described above with adhesive tape and vapor barriers, in particular a vapor barrier made of a PE / PET-SiOx / PET-SiOx laminate film.

The extrusion takes place at a temperature of 130 ° C (in the extrusion die) to 160 ° C (in the forerun) and an extrusion speed of 5 to 30 m / min.

FIG. 10 shows in perspective a cross section of a spacer 1. In this case, the drying means 8 has two cavities 14. The drying agent is surrounded by a jacket 7. The desiccant 8 with the cavities 14 is coextruded with the jacket 7.

FIG. 11 differs from FIG. 10 in that the spacer 1 as a whole is mono-extruded from a plastic matrix. In this case, the spacer 1 has an outer shell 12 and an inner structure 13. The inner structure also shows two cavities 14.

In FIG. 10 and in FIG. 11 is reduced by the cavities 14 on the one hand, the PSI value, on the other hand material savings can be achieved. It is understood that these embodiments are also used for triple glazing and can be provided with a track groove as described above. Likewise, these embodiments may be provided as described above with adhesive tape and vapor barriers, in particular a vapor barrier made of a PE / PET-SiOx / PET-SiOx laminate film.

For all the embodiments mentioned, it is possible in the production process to cool the extrusion with water.

Thus, a high extrusion speed is possible and at the same time the drying agent is less stressed in the extrusion process. The spacers thus produced have a longer shelf life.

By choosing a thermoplastic elastomer in the Figures 3-8 and 10 the spacer outer skin also has a lower water vapor permeability. This significantly increases the service life of multi-glazed windows with the spacers according to the invention.

In the FIG. 9 and 11 The life is increased with an outer shell with lower water vapor permeability, which results from monoextrusion also.

1. 1. Abstandhalter (1) für die Beabstandung von Glassscheiben (5) eines mehrfachverglasten Fensters, umfassend: eine silikonfreie Aussenhülle (7; 12), welche eine Innenstruktur (8; 13) umschliesst
   dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
   die Aussenhülle (7; 12) durch Extrusion als Verbund mit einer Innenstruktur (8; 13) vorliegt
2. 2. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 1
   dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
   die Aussenhülle (7) und das Trocknungsmittel (8) als Verbund durch Coextrusion vorliegen und dass bevorzugt die Aussenhülle (7) im Vergleich zum Trocknungsmittel (8) weniger porös ist.
3. 3. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 1
   dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
   die Aussenhülle (12) und die Innenstruktur (13) als Verbund durch Monoextrusion vorliegen wobei die Aussenhülle (12) im Vergleich zur Innenstruktur (13) weniger porös ist.
4. 4. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss einem der Aspekte 1-3, weiter umfassend mindestens eine primäre Dichtung (3), zur stoffschlüssigen Verbindung des Abstandhalters (1) mit mindestens einer Glasscheibe (5), insbesondere wobei mindestens eine primäre Dichtung (3) als Verbund durch Coextrusion mit der Ausenhülle (7; 12) vorliegt; wobei insbesondere der Abstandhalter mit einer Nut oder einer Absetzung zur Aufnahme der primären Dichtung (3) versehen ist.
5. 5. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss einem der Aspekte 1-4, wobei der Abstandhalter (1) einen im wesentlichen rechteckigen Querschnitt aufweist mit einer ersten, im wesentlichen ebenen Grundfläche (20) und einer zweiten, im wesentlichen ebenen gegenüberliegenden Grundfläche (21) versehen ist und wobei die erste Grundfläche (20) im wesentlichen durchlässig ist für Wasserdampf und die zweite Grundfläche (21) im wesentlichen undurchlässig ist für Gase, insbesondere für Wasserdampf und Edelgase, insbesondere Argon und Krypton.
6. 6. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 5, wobei die zweite Grundfläche (21) mindestens eine Dampfsperre (4) umfasst, zur Verhinderung von Wasserdampfdiffusion durch die Dampfsperre (4) und wobei die Dampfsperre insbesondere direkt im Extrusionsprozess oder unmittelbar nach dem Extrusionsprozess aufgebracht ist, insbesondere durch Co-Extrusion.
7. 7. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 5 oder 6, wobei die erste Grundfläche (20) mindestens eine Öffnung (9), insbesondere Perforationen (9), aufweist.
8. 8. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 6, wobei die Dampfsperre (4) aus einer als Laminat aufgebauten Folie aus einer PE Schicht und wenigstens einer PET-SiOx Schicht oder aus einer metallischen Walzfolie (21; 4), insbesondere umfassend Aluminium oder vorzugsweise Edelstahl, gebildet ist.
9. 9. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss einem der Aspekte 2 oder 4-8, wobei die Aussenhülle (7) ein thermoplastisches Elastomer/TPE aufweist oder im Wesentlichen daraus besteht, ausgewählt aus der Gruppe bestehend aus: TPS (Styrol-Block-Copolymere), TPC (Thermoplastische Polyesterelastomere), TPV (Vernetzte Thermoplastische Olefinelastomere), TPU (Thermoplastische Polyurethanesalstomere) und TPA (Thermoplastische Polyamidelastomere).
10. 10. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 9, wobei das thermoplastische Elastomer keine oder eine vernachlässigbare Ausgasung aufweist und, insbesondere, eine Shore Härte von zwischen 60 ShA und 75 ShA aufweist
11. 11. Abstandhalter (1), insbesondere gemäss Aspekt 4 oder 5, wobei der Abstandhalter mindestens eine primäre Dichtung (3) aufweist, welche gleichzeitig Adhesiveigenschaften gegenüber Glas aufweist, insbesondere eine Dichtung aus einem Klebstoff ausgewählt aus der Gruppe der Butyl-, Acrylat und Hotmelt-Klebstoffe, bevorzugt ein Adhesivbutyl.
12. 12. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 3 oder 4-8, wobei der Abstandhalter im Wesentlichen aus einer Trocknungmittelmatrix besteht, ausgewählt aus der TPE Gruppe, insbesondere aus der Olefin Gruppe.
13. 13. Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 13, wobei die Trocknungsmittelmatrix eine Shore Härte von zwischen 60 ShA und 75 ShA aufweist.
14. 14. Abstandhalter, insbesondere nach einem der Aspekte 1 bis 13, mit wenigstens einer Nut zur Aufnahme einer mittleren Scheibe, dadurch gekennzeichnet dass der Abstandhalter ein Formmerkmal, insbesondere eine Spurrille zur Ausrichtung des Abstandhalters bezogen auf die mittlere Scheibe aufweist.
15. 15. Abstandhalter (1), gemäss einem der Aspekte 1 bis 14, wobei die Innenstruktur (8; 13) mindestens einen Hohlraum (14) aufweist.
16. 16. Verfahren zur Herstellung eines Abstandhalters (1), insbesondere eines Abstandhalters nach Aspekt 1-15, für die Beabstandung von Glassscheiben (5), umfassend die Extrusion einer silikonfreien Aussenhülle (7; 12) und einer Innenstruktur (8; 13), so dass die Innenstruktur (8; 13) durch die Aussenhülle (7; 12) vollständig umschlossen wird.
17. 17. Verfahren gemäss Aspekt 16 dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Aussenhülle (7) und die Innenstruktur (8) coextrudiert werden und die Aussenhülle (7) im Vergleich zur Innenstruktur (8) weniger porös ist.
18. 18. Verfahren gemäss Aspekt 16 dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Aussenhülle (12) und die Innenstruktur (13) monoextrudiert werden und die Aussenhülle (12) im Vergleich zur Innenstruktur (13) weniger porös ist.
19. 19. Verfahren gemäss Aspekt 16 bis 18, wobei die Aussenhülle (7; 12) im Anschluss an die Extrusion an mindestens einer Stelle luft- und dampfdurchlässig gemacht wird, so dass Luft oder Dampf das ummantelte Trocknungsmittel erreichen kann.
20. 20. Verfahren gemäss Aspekt 16 bis 18, wobei die Aussenhülle (7; 12) im Anschluss an die Extrusion an mindestens einer Stelle perforiert wird, so dass eine Öffnung (9) entsteht.
21. 21. Verfahren gemäss Aspekt 16 bis 20, wobei die Aussenhülle (7; 12) mit einer Schwächungsstelle extrudiert wird, die im Anschluss an die Extrusion an mindestens einer Stelle ausgelöst wird, so dass eine Öffnung (9) entsteht.
22. 22. Verfahren gemäss einem der Aspekte 16 bis 21, wobei die Extrusion zusätzlich die Extrusion einer Dichtung (3, 6; 11), insbesondere einem Butyl-, Acrylat oder Hotmelt-Klebstoff, umfasst.
23. 23. Verfahren gemäss einem der Aspekte 16 bis 22, Aussenhülle (7; 12) erst bei einer Montage luft- und dampfdurchlässig gemacht wird.
24. 24. Verfahren gemäss einem der Aspekte 16 bis 23, wobei die Extrusion wassergekühlt ist.
25. 25. Verfahren nach einen der Aspekte 16 bis 24, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass bei oder unmittelbar nach der Extrusion eine Wasserdampfsperre auf das extrudierte Profil aufgebracht wird, insbesondere durch Coextrusion im Extrusionswerkzeug selbst oder durch Zuführung einer Folie im Extrusionswerkzeug selbst oder durch Zuführung einer Folie unmittelbar nach der Extrusionsdüse.
26. 26. Mehrfachverglastes Fensters umfassend mindestens zwei voneinander beabstandete, parallele Glassscheiben (5) und einem zwischen den Glassscheiben (5) zur Beabstandung angebrachten Abstandhalter (1) gemäss Aspekt 1-14.

Other novel and inventive aspects of the invention are set forth in the following sections:

1. A spacer (1) for the spacing of glass panes (5) of a multi-glazed window, comprising: a silicone-free outer shell (7; 12) enclosing an internal structure (8; 13)
   characterized in that
   the outer shell (7; 12) is in extrusion as a composite with an inner structure (8; 13)
2. 2. Spacer (1) according to aspect 1
   characterized in that
   the outer shell (7) and the drying agent (8) are present as a composite by coextrusion and that preferably the outer shell (7) is less porous compared to the desiccant (8).
3. 3. Spacer (1) according to aspect 1
   characterized in that
   the outer shell (12) and the inner structure (13) are present as a composite by mono-extrusion, wherein the outer shell (12) is less porous compared to the inner structure (13).
4. 4. Spacer (1) according to one of the aspects 1-3, further comprising at least one primary seal (3), for the material connection of the spacer (1) with at least one glass pane (5), in particular wherein at least one primary seal (3) as Composite by coextrusion with the outer sheath (7; 12) is present; wherein in particular the spacer is provided with a groove or a shoulder for receiving the primary seal (3).
5. 5. Spacer (1) according to one of the aspects 1-4, wherein the spacer (1) has a substantially rectangular cross section with a first, substantially flat base (20) and a second, substantially flat opposite base (21) provided and wherein the first base (20) is substantially permeable to water vapor and the second base (21) is substantially impermeable to gases, in particular to water vapor and noble gases, in particular argon and krypton.
6. 6. spacer (1) according to aspect 5, wherein the second base (21) comprises at least one vapor barrier (4), for preventing water vapor diffusion through the vapor barrier (4) and wherein the vapor barrier in particular directly in the extrusion process or applied immediately after the extrusion process, in particular by co-extrusion.
7. 7. Spacer (1) according to aspect 5 or 6, wherein the first base (20) has at least one opening (9), in particular perforations (9).
8. 8. Spacer (1) according to aspect 6, wherein the vapor barrier (4) comprises a laminated film of a PE layer and at least one PET-SiOx layer or of a metallic rolled foil (21; 4), in particular comprising aluminum or preferably stainless steel , is formed.
9. 9. A spacer (1) according to any of aspects 2 or 4-8, wherein the outer shell (7) comprises or consists essentially of a thermoplastic elastomer / TPE selected from the group consisting of: TPS (styrene block copolymers), TPC (Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers), TPV (Crosslinked Thermoplastic Olefin Elastomers), TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane Alstomers) and TPA (Thermoplastic Polyamide Elastomers).
10. 10. Spacer (1) according to aspect 9, wherein the thermoplastic elastomer has no or negligible outgassing and, in particular, has a Shore hardness of between 60 ShA and 75 ShA
11. 11. Spacer (1), in particular according to aspect 4 or 5, wherein the spacer has at least one primary seal (3) which at the same time has adhesive properties relative to glass, in particular a seal made of an adhesive selected from the group of butyl, acrylate and hotmelt Adhesives, preferably an adhesives butyl.
12. 12. Spacer (1) according to aspect 3 or 4-8, wherein the spacer consists essentially of a drying agent matrix selected from the TPE group, in particular from the olefin group.
13. 13. A spacer (1) according to aspect 13, wherein the desiccant matrix has a Shore hardness of between 60 ShA and 75 ShA.
14. 14. Spacer, in particular according to one of the aspects 1 to 13, with at least one groove for receiving a middle disc, characterized in that the spacer has a shape feature, in particular a track groove for aligning the spacer relative to the central disc.
15. 15. Spacer (1) according to one of the aspects 1 to 14, wherein the internal structure (8; 13) has at least one cavity (14).
16. 16. A method for producing a spacer (1), in particular a spacer according to Aspects 1-15, for the spacing of glass sheets (5), comprising the extrusion of a silicone-free outer shell (7; 12) and an inner structure (8; that the inner structure (8; 13) is completely enclosed by the outer shell (7; 12).
17. 17. The method according to aspect 16, characterized in that the outer shell (7) and the inner structure (8) are coextruded and the outer shell (7) compared to the inner structure (8) is less porous.
18. 18. The method according to aspect 16, characterized in that the outer shell (12) and the inner structure (13) are mono-extruded and the outer shell (12) compared to the inner structure (13) is less porous.
19. 19. A process according to aspects 16 to 18, wherein the outer shell (7; 12) is rendered air and vapor permeable at least at one point following extrusion, so that air or steam can reach the jacketed desiccant.
20. 20. Method according to aspects 16 to 18, wherein the outer shell (7; 12) is perforated at least at one point after the extrusion, so that an opening (9) is formed.
21. 21. The method according to aspect 16 to 20, wherein the outer shell (7; 12) is extruded with a weakening point, which is triggered at least one point after the extrusion, so that an opening (9) is formed.
22. 22. Method according to one of the aspects 16 to 21, wherein the extrusion additionally comprises the extrusion of a seal (3, 6; 11), in particular a butyl, acrylate or hotmelt adhesive.
23. 23. Method according to one of the aspects 16 to 22, outer casing (7, 12) is rendered air and vapor permeable only during assembly.
24. 24. The method according to any one of aspects 16 to 23, wherein the extrusion is water cooled.
25. 25. The method according to any one of aspects 16 to 24, characterized in that at or immediately after the extrusion, a water vapor barrier is applied to the extruded profile, in particular by coextrusion in the extrusion tool itself or by feeding a film in the extrusion tool itself or by feeding a film directly after the extrusion nozzle.
26. 26. A multi-glazed window comprising at least two mutually spaced, parallel glass sheets (5) and between the glass sheets (5) for spacing mounted spacers (1) according to aspect 1-14.

Claims (7)

Spacer (1) for the spacing of glass panes (5) of a multi-glazed window, wherein the spacer (1) has a substantially rectangular cross-section with a first, substantially flat base surface (20) and a second, substantially flat opposite base surface (21 ) is provided and wherein the first base (20) is substantially permeable to water vapor and the second base (21) is substantially impermeable to gases, in particular for water vapor and noble gases, in particular argon and krypton characterized in that the second base (21 ) comprises at least one vapor barrier (4) for preventing water vapor diffusion through the vapor barrier (4), and wherein the vapor barrier (4) comprises a sputter-coated metallic or vitreous layer. Spacer (1) according to claim 1, wherein the vapor barrier (4) comprises aluminum, aluminum alloys or stainless steel. Spacer (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the vapor barrier (4) comprises a composite functional film. Spacer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vapor barrier (4) comprises a diffusion-sputtered with SiO ₂ film. Spacer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vapor barrier (4) comprises a glass film or plastic film. Spacer (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vapor barrier (4) with a thermoplastic elastomer (7) is welded. Spacer according to claim 7, wherein the thermoplastic elastomer (7) encloses a desiccant.

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