Sparklike uses non-invasive technology in its device to enable comprehensive quality control of IGUs. This allows our customers to deliver tested IG units, test already installed units or perform long term automated testing to their production. The gas concentration analysis can be done for double and triple glazed insulating glass units. Therefore, Sparklike devices suit multiple purposes of insulating glass manufacturers, window and door manufacturers, and construction inspectors.
The technology for Sparklike Handheld™ devices is based on Plasma Emission Spectroscopy. Sparklike Laser™ devices, on the other hand, are based on Laser Technology (TDLAS).
Sparklike Handheld™ uses plasma emission spectroscopy in its measurement technology. In its simplicity, it means that a high voltage spark is launched in the IG unit’s cavity causing a light emission which is observed and analyzed further. Based on the color of the ionized gas, the argon content is calculated automatically.
This method is fast and accurate and used widely on double glazed units as measuring can be done from monolithic glass side for the non-coated surfaces. The non-invasive method can be repeated as many times as the quality system or the end-user requires. The limitation of spark technology is that it can measure double-glazed units with just one low-e coating.
All devices within the Sparklike Laser™ product line, are based on TDLAS (Tuneable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy) that allow the measurement of insulating gas fill without breaking the insulating glass unit or without having any extra components inside. By using this technology, the device measures oxygen and from there, the amount of argon, krypton, or other insulating gas, can be calculated. TDLAS enables non-invasive gas concentration measurement even through coating and laminated glasses.
When measuring the gas concentration inside an IG unit, the laser beam goes through the first pane and is reflected to the detector from the first surface of the second pane. In addition, with a triple insulating glass unit, the laser beam goes through two panes and is reflected from the third pane. Finally, to get the focused laser beam to the correct measuring point, the IG dimensions are first scanned. This is done by moving the focused laser beam through the IG and collecting the reflected signal to obtain accurate dimensions of the IG. This, in return, enables the calculation of the gas concentration(s).
Insulating gas measurement can be conducted either with an invasive or non-invasive method. The invasive method penetrates through the sealing of the IGU and the gas sample is calculated automatically. These are generally affordable and robust technologies with good accuracy but require breaking the IG structure. In practice this means that the IGU cannot be delivered to the customer or retested to assure the correct gas fill.
The non-invasive method allows measuring the glass without breaking the IGU which for example reduces production costs since all IGUs can be used and delivered to the customers. Also, the non-destructive method enables full quality control as you are sure that all IGUs measured have the accurate gas concentration which can be used as a proof in product quality negotiations.
The technology is able to measure argon (krypton as option) concentration of double-glazed units with one low-e coating. If that is enough for your needs, please choose Sparklike Handheld™ 3.0
It can measures the amount of argon, krypton, or other insulating gas inside triple and double-glazed IGUs. The technology enables non-invasive gas concentration measurement even through coating and laminated glasses.
Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency in the Insulating Glass Industry
