The existing design of glazing system edge-seals creates increased edge-glass heat transfer at the perimeter of sealed glazing units. This thermal short-circuit caused by edge-seal conduction results in added mechanical stress. condensation problems in cold climates and augments the building energy load. New edge-seal designs are being marketed but very few data are available regarding the thermal resistance of any of the various edge-seal configurations that are available. An experimental procedure hos been devised whereby the thermal resistance of an edge-seal can be directly measured using a guarded heater plate apparatus. Results for nine edge-seal test samples are reported and discussed. A variety of conclusions and design guidelines are presented.
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