Energy ratings are currently a hot topic for the window industry, with companies developing strategies to show how they'll market their products under the BFRC's rating scheme. From April 2007, IGU manufacturers will need to comply with EU standards & the new Part 3 of EN 1279, which covers testing procedures & accreditation for gas concentration & gas loss. Bystronic recognises that methods of IGU gas filling needs to be examined so that the ratings required under the BFRC's scheme & future standard changes can be met. To comply with the new testing procedures, the construction methods for IGUs, using edge seals & perimeter spacers will need to be reconsidered. It is estimated that as many as 3000 firms manufacture IGUs, most of which are likely to produce units with gas filling, yet only a small number have sought approval under EN1279-3.
