If you build insulating glass units (IGUs), you already know the spacer isn’t just a frame; it’s the moisture manager for the cavity. Spacer filling stations drill the frame, dose it with a moisture‑absorber and close the holes (often with butyl) so the unit stays clear for years. Modern stations can drill from the back of the spacer, fill both vertical legs simultaneously, monitor fill level with sensors and vacuum away excess beads, keeping things clean and consistent. Many also handle different spacer materials (aluminum, steel, stainless steel, plastics) and even bent or curved frames.
Manual style – Hands-on flexibility, smart assistance
A manual-style station still does heavy lifting automatically (drill, fill, close), but the operator typically hooks the frame and sets the working height. It’s a great fit for mixed batches and smaller teams:
- Drilling, filling and sealing of two frame members simultaneously
- Sensor-controlled monitoring of the filling process guarantees an optimum filling degree
- Moisture‑absorbing feeding by 200-liter big bags
- Removal of excess moisture‑absorbing grains by suction
- Automatic sealing of the filling holes with butyl
- The feeding unit can be infinitely adjusted pneumatically
Best when: You run varied orders, want straightforward operation, and value a lower entry cost while still automating drilling/filling/closing.
Automatic stations: Line-speed consistency with minimal touch
- Automatic stations integrate tightly with your IG line to cut cycle times and labor:
- Parallel operations for speed: Drilling, filling, and transport can run simultaneously, helping you achieve short cycle times and keep the line moving.
- Quality by design: Sensor-controlled filling helps ensure the correct fill level; excess granules are removed via suction, and holes are automatically closed, cleaned and repeatable.
- Ready for variety: Many systems processes stretched or curved frames and multiple spacer materials without fuss. Bulk moisture‑absorbing feed (e.g., drums or big-bag systems) reduces the need for refills.
Best when: You prioritize uptime, consistency, and high throughput and want spacer filling to match the pace of a fully automated IGU line.
Bottom line
Both manual and automatic spacer filling technologies deliver clean, accurate moisture‑absorbing dosing. Manual-style stations shine for flexibility and budget, while automatic systems unlock the shortest cycle times and the most consistent, hands-off flow. Choose based on your throughput, product mix, and how tightly you want spacer filling synchronized with the rest of your line.