We are pleased to announce a major upgrade to our manufacturing capabilities with the addition of a new IGU line and high-performance spacer system. The expansion features a range of advanced processing technologies, significantly boosting IGU capacity into Western Australia and eastern states markets.
Included is the integration of Western Australia’s first Kommerling KÖDISPACE 4SG system. The keenly anticipated upgrade arrives ahead of the October 2024 update to national building standards, and ballooning national demand for residential double-glazed units.
Forel: Italian engineering delivers superior productivity and flexibility
The new IGU line is sourced from Forel, an Italian manufacturer renowned for exceptional quality of machinery and high technological solutions for the glass processing industry. Forel units are designed, developed, and produced in Italy and shipped to over 70 countries globally. Cooling Brothers has been partnering with Forel for 15 years, with an existing Forel IGU line and custom laminating line in operation as well as a range of other processing equipment.
Announcing the launch, managing director Paul King said, “Due largely to ongoing code changes, double-glazing is now widely accepted as one of the most efficient ways to improve energy ratings and increase thermal performance of a home. With the addition of a new Forel IGU line we are well positioned to service increased demand and supply the market with Australian made, high quality, high performance double glazing.”
“Our clients will benefit from huge efficiency improvements – we can now configure production for residential IGUs while also accommodating the high performance commercial and niche speciality IGUs, such as stepped or shaped units, point fixed and units with custom laminated soft coat Low-Es.”
“For fabricators, architects and engineers this translates to faster, more efficient production with advanced glass scanning, and CNC spacer extrusion for perfect spacer placement. Combined with the 4SG spacer, every IGU we produce will represent a new standard for quality and performance.”
Upgraded features:
- CNC spacer extrusion for millimetre precision
- Advanced glass scanning system
- Automated stepped unit processing
- Thermoplastic spacer applicator
- Double or triple glazing
New IGU specifications:
- KÖDISPACE 4SG spacer
- Permanent argon gas tightness
- Maximum panel size: 2480 x 4000mm
- Spacer thickness: 6mm to 20mm
- Argon or air filled
- Achieves complex shaped IGUs
Perth’s first KÖDISPACE 4SG warm-edge spacer system
At the heart of the upgrade is Western Australia’s first 4SG spacer system. German designed and engineered by global leader Kommerling, the KÖDISPACE 4SG spacer is a chemically bonded, reactive thermoplastic spacer designed for structural glazing applications. The spacer is directly extruded to the glass via CNC and chemically bonded for permanent Argon gas tightness. Globally, the 4SG system is regarded as the benchmark standard for thermoplastic sealing.
Sales and marketing director Vince Bianchini comments, “While there are a range of warm edge spacers available, this is the first 4SG system for the WA market. As well as improved thermal benefits, 4SG spacers are the optimal choice for structural glazing design. The chemical bonding process is designed to outperform in high deflection environments, offering incredible durability and gas tightness. Combined with our Ultra Series Soft Coat IGUs, we aim to establish a new benchmark for double glazing thermal outcomes, durability and aesthetics.”
Compared to conventional thermoplastic spacer (TPS) types, the 4SG system features a polymer matrix that incorporates the desiccant. The matrix bonds chemically to the glass surface and silicone sealant, resulting in an integrated edge seal that prevents any dislocation of the spacer during deflection. In addition, the matrix has an extended service temperature range up to +90°C, as well as excellent UV and weathering resistance.
KÖDISPACE 4SG Spacer availability
The 4SG spacer replaces all aluminium spacers, and will be included as standard for residential and commercial IGUs manufactured at Cooling Brothers Perth and supplied nationally.
Cooling Brothers Melbourne will continue to supply Victorian customers with the high performing Quanex warm-edge Super Spacer.
We invite you to contact our team to learn more about the benefits and features of the 4SG system, or to discuss any specific requirements.
