breather tubes in windows
Capillary Breather Tubes A capillary breather tube is a small tube inserted into an insulating glass unit at the corner of the spacer to allow the unit to breathe during internal and external pressure changes. Method to Accommodate “High Elevation” Pressure Differences Units that arrive at their final destination at an altitude that is higher than their altitude at the time of manufacture, will show an increase in air space volume due to the drop in local barometric pressure (causing units to bow outwards), found at higher altitudes. The use of capillary breather tubes in insulated glass units is recommended to accommodate high elevation pressure differences if the change in altitude exceeds 800m between manufactured location & final destination. After 24 hours at the destination with an open capillary tube in the insulated glass unit and with the unit in a vertical position for pressure equalization, the tube must be properly sealed by applying a dollop of compatible silicone sealant to the end of the tube. The insulated glass unit must always be with the capillary tube at the top of the unit during transit and with the sealed tube at the top of the window when installed. Capillary tube in double glazed unit Seal end of tube Note: It is the responsibility of a customer to notify Viridian Glass if capillary tubes are required to be fitted when placing any orders, otherwise the warranty will be voided if there are any unit failures.
Introduction to Capillary Breather Tubes
In the realm of architectural design and window manufacturing, the concept of capillary breather tubes plays a pivotal role in maintaining the efficacy and longevity of insulated glass units. A capillary breather tube is a specialized component that is strategically inserted at the corner of the spacer in an insulating glass unit, facilitating air exchange during fluctuations in internal and external pressures.
Why Are Capillary Breather Tubes Necessary?
Insulated glass units are engineered to provide thermal insulation and energy efficiency. However, they are not immune to the challenges posed by altitude changes, particularly when they are transported or installed in high-elevation locations. One notable phenomenon is the variation in barometric pressure, which can lead to an increase in air space volume within the glass units. This is due to the drop in local barometric pressure at higher altitudes, which causes the units to bow outward, potentially compromising their structural integrity.
The implementation of capillary breather tubes becomes crucial in these scenarios. These small tubes allow the insulated glass unit to breathe, effectively maintaining an equilibrium between internal and external pressures. This ensures that as the pressure changes—whether due to altitude differences during transport or installation—the integrity of the unit remains intact and operational efficiency is safeguarded.
Application of Capillary Breather Tubes in High Elevation Installations
For buildings located at high elevations, the use of capillary breather tubes in insulated glass units is not just recommended, it is essential. When glass units arrive at a site that is at a different altitude than their point of manufacture, the pressure differences can lead to significant challenges. The capillary breather tube addresses these challenges by allowing for the necessary pressure relief.
In addition to structural benefits, the integration of these tubes also enhances the performance of thermal insulation, contributing to reduced energy costs over time. As air flows through the breather tubes, it helps balance the internal environment of the insulated glass units with that of the external environment, thereby preventing seal failure and condensation buildup that can lead to further complications.
Conclusion
Capillary breather tubes are a vital aspect of modern insulated glass design, especially in high-elevation applications. Their role in accommodating pressure differences not only protects the structural integrity of glass units but also contributes to their overall performance. As the demand for energy-efficient building solutions continues to grow, understanding the importance of components like capillary breather tubes becomes increasingly essential for architects, contractors, and manufacturers alike.