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Home / News / Industry News / Why do Insulated glass mostly use argon and krypton gas as fillers?
Insulated glass units (IGUs) predominantly use argon and krypton gases as fillers for several important reasons:
1. Low Thermal Conductivity: Argon and krypton gases have significantly lower thermal conductivities than air. This means they are less efficient at transferring heat, providing better insulation. As a result, they help reduce heat transfer through the IGU, which is crucial for maintaining indoor comfort and energy efficiency.
2. Cost-Effective: Argon is a cost-effective option for gas filling in IGUs. It is readily available and more affordable than some other alternatives, making it the preferred choice for many residential and commercial applications. This cost-effectiveness allows builders and homeowners to improve insulation without significantly increasing costs.
3. Krypton's Superior Insulating Properties: Krypton, while less commonly used than argon, offers superior insulating properties due to its heavier molecular weight. It has even lower thermal conductivity than argon, making it an excellent choice for situations where space constraints require a thinner IGU or where the highest level of thermal insulation is necessary.
4. Compliance with Energy Codes: Many building codes and energy efficiency standards require or incentivize the use of gas-filled IGUs to meet specific energy performance requirements. Argon and krypton fillings enable compliance with these codes while offering cost-effective solutions.
5. Sound Insulation: In addition to thermal insulation, argon and krypton gas filling also contribute to sound insulation. The heavier gases reduce the transmission of sound, creating a quieter indoor environment. This is particularly important in noisy urban areas or near transportation hubs.
6. Availability: Argon is widely available, making it a practical choice for manufacturers and builders. Krypton, although less common, is still available and can be sourced for specialized applications.
7. Environmental Considerations: Both argon and krypton are inert gases and are not harmful to the environment. Their use in IGUs does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions or pose environmental risks.
While argon and krypton are the most commonly used gases in IGUs, other gases, such as xenon and mixtures of gases, are also employed in specific applications where their properties are better suited. The choice between argon and krypton, or another gas, depends on factors like the desired level of thermal performance, budget constraints, and project requirements. In most cases, argon and krypton are selected because they strike a balance between effective insulation and cost-effectiveness.
