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Double Glazing Components / Pressure Control
Capillary Breather Tubes
Capillary breather tubes are a pressure regulation
device that allows the pressure inside an insulated
glass unit to be equalised with atmospheric
pressure. The tubes are developed for IG units that
are exposed to continuous pressure changes as a
result of variations in barometric pressure, altitude,
or temperature.
Usage
Capillary breather tubes should be used if there is a difference of 610m in
elevation between the final destination of the double glazed unit and where the unit
is manufactured OR if the transport of the unit will result in a change of elevation over
1220m.
Typically one capillary tube is installed in an IG unit by sliding the capillary tube
alongside a corner key into a spacer, or by inserting the capillary tube through a hole
punched in the spacer. Sealant is then applied around the capillary tube, and typically
the entire unit.
Why is it needed?
When pressure increases and temperature decreases this will cause a sealed unit to
bow inward, whereas pressure decreases and temperature increases will cause units
to bow outwards. The bowing causes visual distortion and can in some cases lead to
glass fracture and/or edge seal failure.
Features
• Automatically allows air to flow in or out of the unit thus regulating the pressure
• Maintains proper air space thickness resulting in higher insulating value of the IG unit
• Reduce risk of visual distortion, seal stress and glass fracture
• Not suitable for use in gas-filled units
• Quick and easy to install
Size: 0.5mm diameter x 300mm long
104 Product Catalogue For Glass Processors & IG Manufacturers