The aluminum used in the Hygrade’s spacer and muntin products is predominantly 3105 alloy. 3105 aluminum contains approximately 75% recycled aluminum and 25% prime aluminum ingot. 100% of 3105 aluminum is recyclable.
The Aluminum and steel scrap produced during machine set up as well as products that are not manufactured to Hygrade’s exacting quality standards are recycled. Scrap is sorted by material and finish and is baled to facilitate recycling.
Hygrade’s Thermal Edge helps window manufacturers achieve 30/30 to meet stimulus package requirements.
Architectural Testing, Inc. in York, PA conducted computer simulations to see if low profile, Thermal Edge spacer could be used to help the window manufacturers meet the efficiency requirements of the new stimulus package -an overall U-Factor less than .300 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient less than .300.
The results of the simulations indicated that when Hygrade’s Thermal Edge warm edge spacer is used in conjunction with Argon and certain Low-e glass, meeting the requirements of the stimulus package is achievable. The Thermal Edge combination allowed all tested glass permutations to achieve the required U-factor. However, meeting the SHGC requirement is primarily dependent on the Low-e glass used. When coupled with appropriate Low-e glass and argon, using Thermal Edge results in meeting the SHCG requirements, as well.
While preliminary testing indicates that the Thermal Edge can be used successfully in windows that meet the stimulus requirements, it is the responsibility of the window manufacturers to have their particular window design, vinyl framing materials and glass packets simulated to assure that their specific window products meet the requirements.
In March 2008, Hygrade purchased selected operating assets of Saint Gobain’s Bayform Division.
The purchased assets have provided Hygrade with an expanded line of screen frame and screen component offerings, the Thermal Edge Spacer – a warm edge spacer product line that helps customers achieve 30/30, additional stiffener and cladding profiles and the ability to produce patio door screens well regarded in the industry. These new products, coupled with Hygrade’s traditional product lines, makes Hygrade uniquely suited to be the preeminent “one stop” shop for IG and window and door components. Former Bayform customers should contact Hygrade to assure continued product availability.
Hygrade annouces the opening of its third manufacturing and distribution faciliy in Milwaukie, Oregon outside of Portland. The Oregon facility complement’s Hygrade’s other manufacturing facilities in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee. Hygrade has had West Coast distribution for over 30 years, but the addition of a West Coast manufacturing facility allows Hygrade to even better meet the needs of its West Coast customers, by reducing lead times and shipping costs.
Conveniently located near Interstate 5, Hygrade’s Oregon facility will improve shipping and product pick up for customers from Vancouver, BC to San Diego.