As demand grows for higher productivity, consistent quality and more efficient manufacturing, automation is becoming an increasingly important consideration for insulated glass manufacturers.

Investing in automation can improve productivity, consistency and manufacturing efficiency, while also supporting future growth. However, every manufacturer has different production volumes, customer requirements, investment budgets and manufacturing processes.

Selecting the right spacer technology and sealant system is therefore key to achieving the best return on investment.

According to Mark Hickox, sales director at Thermoseal Group, understanding each manufacturer’s individual requirements should always come first.

“Every manufacturer has different priorities,” he explains. “Production volumes, customer requirements, available floor space and investment budgets all vary. The best investment is the one that supports your manufacturing process and delivers the greatest return over time.”

A broad portfolio of spacer technologies

As part of the Fenzi Group, Thermoseal Group offers one of the UK’s widest portfolios of warm edge spacer systems and compatible sealants. This enables the company to recommend solutions that align with each customer’s production objectives, product range and long-term plans.

“Our role is to understand the customer’s production requirements and recommend the solution that fits their business,” says Mark. “Having access to multiple technologies means we can focus on helping manufacturers achieve the results they’re looking for.”

Flexible spacer technology

For manufacturers interested in flexible spacer technology, Thermoseal Group offers the Thermoflex range.
Thermoflex Premium Standard has been developed for hot melt systems, while Thermoflex Premium Dual Seal is compatible with all sealant types. Together, they help manufacturers automate flexible spacer processing while delivering excellent thermal performance and efficient production.

Thermoplastic Spacer systems

For manufacturers seeking highest levels of automation, Thermoseal Group also offers a full range of Thermoplastic Spacer (TPS) systems.

The range includes Butylver TPS, Butylver TPS 2020 and Butylver TPS Anti-Fire, covering standard insulated glass production as well as specialist applications such as fire-rated glazing. Used with two-part polysulphide or silicone secondary sealants, these systems support the efficient manufacture of high-performance insulated glass units for a wide range of applications.

Warm edge spacer bar options

Warm edge spacer bars also remain an effective solution for many manufacturing environments. Thermobar and Multitech can be processed using conventional cutting equipment or integrated into automated spacer bending systems, helping manufacturers increase efficiency while building on established production methods.

For commercial glazing applications, Chromatech and Thermix combine plastic and stainless steel to deliver the structural performance required for larger glazed units. These systems are well suited to automated bending equipment used in high-volume production.

Supporting confident investment decisions

According to Mark, access to a complete portfolio of spacer technologies allows manufacturers to make investment decisions with greater confidence.

“Some manufacturers benefit most from flexible spacer technology. Others achieve the best results with TPS or warm edge spacer tube systems,” he says. “Our role is to help customers identify the solution that supports their products, manufacturing processes and future plans.”

This flexibility is becoming increasingly important as demand for triple glazing and thin triple glazed units continues to grow. Different applications benefit from different spacer technologies, giving manufacturers the opportunity to select the system that best supports their production methods, product range and future development.

“Having access to a complete range of spacer systems allows manufacturers to choose the technology that best suits their products today, while giving them flexibility as their business grows,” Mark explains.

Support throughout the automation journey

Backed by the technical expertise and global resources of the Fenzi Group, Thermoseal Group supports manufacturers at every stage of their automation journey, from upgrading individual processes to investing in fully automated production lines.

Visitors to Glasstec 2026, taking place in Düsseldorf from 20 to 23 October, will have the opportunity to explore the complete Thermoseal Group and Fenzi portfolio.

Technical specialists from across the group will be available throughout the exhibition to discuss spacer technologies, sealant systems and automation strategies. They will help insulated glass manufacturers identify the spacer technology and sealant system that best support their production requirements, investment plans and future growth.