Testing argon gas in windows and insulating glass units (IGUs) is essential for verifying thermal performance, energy efficiency, and long-term product quality. Because argon is invisible and odorless, its presence and concentration cannot be confirmed visually. This is why non-invasive gas measurement is commonly used in insulating glass quality control.
Below is a practical explanation of how argon testing works, why it matters, and how it can be performed using Sparklike non-invasive gas measurement devices.
Why Is Argon Gas Testing Important?
Argon-filled IGUs provide better insulation than air-filled units, but only if the gas concentration is high enough. Over time, or due to manufacturing issues, argon can escape through seal imperfections, leading to reduced performance.
Argon testing helps to:
- Verify correct gas filling during production
- Detect gas loss caused by sealing defects
- Confirm that IGUs meet specified performance requirements
- Support quality control without damaging the glass
Because breaking an IGU for testing makes it unusable, non-invasive testing is preferred in both manufacturing and on-site inspection.
What Is Non-Invasive Argon Gas Testing?
Non-invasive argon testing measures the gas concentration through the glass, without penetrating the seals or damaging the insulating glass unit.
Sparklike devices use optical measurement technologies to analyze the gas composition inside the cavity and calculate the percentage of argon (or krypton). The IGU remains fully intact and can be tested multiple times if needed.
How to Test Argon Gas in IGUs Using a Sparklike Device
Testing argon gas with a Sparklike non-invasive gas measurement device is straightforward. The general process is as follows::
- Prepare the Glass Surface
- Ensure that the glass surface is clean and dry before measurement. Remove dust, moisture, or labels that could interfere with accurate readings.
- Power On the Device:
- Turn on the Sparklike device and allow it to initialize. Follow the model-specific instructions before starting the measurement.
- Manual for Sparklike Handheld
- Manual for Sparklike Laser Portable
- Turn on the Sparklike device and allow it to initialize. Follow the model-specific instructions before starting the measurement.
- Place the Device on the insulating glass unit or window:
- Gently place the device on the insulating glass unit at the desired measurement point. Good contact between the device and the glass surface is required for reliable results.
- Initiate the Measurement:
- Start the measurement according to the device instructions. The device analyzes the gas content non-invasively, without affecting the integrity of the IGU.
- Watch how to measure with Sparklike Laser Portable (you can find it below)
- Read a recap of How do I perform a measurement with Sparklike Handheld?
- Start the measurement according to the device instructions. The device analyzes the gas content non-invasively, without affecting the integrity of the IGU.
- Review the Results:
- The device displays real-time measurements of the argon (or other insulating gas) concentration. This allows manufacturers or inspectors to react quickly to potential quality issues.
- Here is FAQ about understanding the Sparklike Laser Portable results
- The device displays real-time measurements of the argon (or other insulating gas) concentration. This allows manufacturers or inspectors to react quickly to potential quality issues.
- Repeat if Necessary:
- For a more comprehensive assessment, measurements can be taken at multiple locations on the same unit. This is particularly useful for large or high-performance IGUs.
Which Sparklike Devices Can Be Used for Argon Testing?
- Sparklike Handheld™
Spark-based non-invasive device for measuring argon and krypton gas concentration in double glazed IGUs. - Sparklike Laser Portable™
Laser-based non-invasive device for measuring gas concentration in double and triple glazed IGUs, including units with coatings and lamination. - Sparklike Laser Integrated™
Automated laser-based gas measurement system integrated into the IG production line for continuous quality control.
Each device supports accurate argon testing without breaking the insulating glass unit.
Summary
Argon gas testing is a critical step in verifying the performance of insulating glass units. Non-invasive measurement allows manufacturers, installers, and inspectors to confirm gas concentration accurately without damaging the IGU.
By using Sparklike non-invasive gas measurement devices, argon testing becomes a repeatable, reliable part of IGU quality control—both during production and after installation.