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General Sparklike FAQs
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What is the life expectancy of a Sparklike device?
Sparklike devices are built to last for many years of services. In fact, GED calibrates and maintains devices today that are sometimes up to 8 to 10 years old. As with any other products, careful handling and annual maintenance/calibration of the device prolongs the device(s) usability. There isn’t a specific number of years to expect as the life of a Sparklike device because that is mostly affected by how the device is used on daily basis, but a general recommendation is 8 to 10 years.
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Would I be able to use a Sparklike device to determine whether the IGU seal has failed?
Sparklike devices are quantitative tools that measure noble gases concentrations in insulating glass. The correlation of the measurement to a pass/fail criterion is entirely left to the user to conclude and cannot be made on the user’s behalf.
Sparklike devices can be used to determine a noble gas (Argon/Krypton, etc.) concentration as a percentage. Successive measurements taken from the same subject IG can quantify gas loss percentage. If rapid loss of gas is detected, it would mean the hermitic seal of the insulating glass unit has been breached either temporarily or permanently. Insulating glass units have an expected gas loss through permeability that is around 0-1-2% per year. Insulating glass units go through what is known as burst losses, that is when the environmental conditions surrounding the IG forces the gas to vent through the seal, and the seal would then reclose preventing further gas from escaping.
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Are there hazardous materials in any of the Sparklike measuring devices?
There is no MSDS sheet readily available for the Sparklike products. The only hazardous material contained in the devices is Li-Ion batteries (LP2.0 has 96Wh capacity and Handhelds have 29Wh capacity).
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Do any of the devices have any restrictions if I measure curved IGU glass?
The same as with any IG unit: we must get in with the laser and out with the reflection. This is a bit tricky as it depends on the bending radius. Based on my experience R6000mm and bigger radii (i.e., flatter) should be possible. Anything exact must be tested.
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Will I need more Argon tanks to use the Sparklike products?
An extra Argon tank is only necessary for non-manufacturers or those wishing to take measurements away from the manufacturing area. 21″ tall and 7″ diameter UN1006 ARGON, COMPRESSED 2.2 ARGON UHP GR 5.0 SIZE 35 DGA 580. Most manufacturing customers will not need an extra argon tank. They can use the supply of argon that they use to fill their IG units.
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What would be the recommended battery range to operate the Sparklike Handheld?
We recommend charging the Handheld once it drops below 14 V. The low battery message will show up once it goes below 13 V.
Sparklike Handheld™ 3.0 FAQs
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Can I use my Sparklike Handheld™ 3.0 device to measure laminated glass?
The handheld device is not designed to work with laminated glass. Laminates aren’t all built using the same glass types/substrates and aren’t all the same thickness. Because of that variability, it’s possible it would work with a few as an exception, but it generally will not work with most.
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Why do I need to calibrate my Sparklike Handheld™ unit?
It is recommended to have your device calibrated yearly to maintain accurate readings. GED offers Sparklike Handheld™ calibration service at the GED Sparklike Calibration Lab. Submit a calibration form here. Contact the GED Sparklike Calibration Lab at 440-600-8534 or sparklike@gedusa.com.
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Can I measure IG units out in the field?
Handheld device cannot be used in the field.
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Why am I not getting a measurement on my IGU?
If you have same coating in both glasses, then the spark will not go through the unit. In any case, if you have Handhelds, you can simply try to see if the spark goes through the unit. If the spark goes though, everything should be fine, and if the spark spreads to the surface, then it doesn’t work.
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Where can I go to access instructional videos for the Sparklike Handheld™ measuring devices?
The Sparklike YouTube channel contains many helpful how-to videos for all Sparklike IGU measuring devices. Here are the links to simple Handheld instructional videos:
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What is the certainty of measurements? (Example – if I am reading 80%, what is the probability that it is 90% or 70%?)
There are validations related to certainty of measurements, but no such criteria has been developed yet by Sparklike. The calibration report does not list the calculated measurement of uncertainty. Having the annual calibration service performed on your Handheld device gives a tolerance of +/- 2%.
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Can my Sparklike Handheld™ – Argon device be turned into an argon/krypton measuring device?
An Argon / Krypton device is different in firmware than an Argon only device. So, an Argon only device is not convertible to Argon/Krypton. We currently offer calibration of Argon-only devices at GED. Argon/Krypton devices still need to be sent to Finland. A brand–new device ships calibrated already for the first year. For future calibrations, we can covert an Argon / Krypton device into an Argon only device, so that we’re able to calibrate it at GED. It can be restored to Argon/Krypton in the next calibration, if it’s decided you want to test Krypton again.
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How can I purchase software (CDs or download) that comes with the Handheld unit so I can download the data to a computer?
This software is free and downloadable from the Sparklike website.
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What are the main differences in measuring technology between the Sparklike Laser Portable™ 2.0 and Sparklike Handheld™ 3.0?
The Laser Portable 2.0 uses a different technology than the Handheld.
The Handheld uses Spark Emission Spectroscopy (SES) to determine the gas levels. The instrument looks at the intensity and the color of the spark to make its measurements. Background lighting can be detrimental to the operation of the Handheld. Different algorithms are used for argon and krypton measurements. The ability to measure krypton is an option and is not normally included with most Handhelds.
The Laser Portable 2.0 uses Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) to determine the gas content. By measuring the amount of the laser signal that is absorbed by the oxygen within the IG unit, the instrument calculates the gas content. The Laser Portable does not determine the type of gas within the unit. It cannot determine whether the insulating gas is argon, krypton, or a mixture. The Laser Portable also measures the configuration of the unit and supplies the dimensions of the glass, cavity thickness and overall unit thickness
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How does the Laser Portable 2.0 compare to the Handheld 3.0 in terms of measuring accuracy?
The tolerance of the Laser Portable is much better than the Handheld. The readings are within +/- 1% to levels as low as 1%. The accuracy does not decrease with lower gas levels as does the Handheld.
Sparklike Laser Portable™ 2.0 FAQs
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Does Sparklike manufacture a device that is capable of measuring quad IG?
Yes, the Laser Portable™ 2.0 is capable of measuring Quad IGUs. The first measurement will be taken as if a triple, and the second measurement will be taken as if a double, from the opposite side.
Here is an illustration showing how 2 measurements can be taken to test gas concentration in a Quad pane IG.
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What’s the main difference between the original Sparklike Laser Portable™ and the Sparklike Laser Portable™ 2.0?
The Laser Portable 2.0 is more portable than the original laser portable while it’s in operating mode. The original Laser Portable was configured in a larger case with the measurement fitting inside for shipping and transport.
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What technical improvements does the Laser Portable 2.0 have over its predecessor?
The Laser Portable 2.0 is shipped in two cases with the measurement head having its own case. This results in a much smaller case when in the operating mode. In addition, the measurement head of the 2.0 is smaller with additional handles and additional measurement start pushbuttons. Sparklike has also made improvements with the cable connections by moving the connectors to the outside of this smaller case.
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Can I measure laminate glass using the Laser Portable 2.0?
The Laser Portable 2.0 will measure through most all low-e coatings/laminate. An IG unit with coatings on surfaces 1 and 2 could be measured if the opposite lite was clear and surfaces 3 and 4 had no coatings.
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How accurate are the Laser Portable 2.0’s measurements?
Regarding the air space thickness, the accuracy is the same as with the glass thickness measurement: 50 micrometers.
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How accurate are the Laser Portable 2.0’s measurements?
Regarding the air space thickness, the accuracy is the same as with the glass thickness measurement: 50 micrometers.
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If I have a triple glazed unit with a low-e on surface #2 and #4 would I be able to get a reading for both cavities?
Yes. The Laser Portable will measure both cavities through most all low–e coatings.
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Can the Laser Portable 2.0 retain and track readings like the in-line unit?
The Laser Portable unit can track results, which can be saved to a USB memory stick. It’s not integrated into your systems and will not have the report capability other than the .txt file.
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Can the barcode reader option be added to a Laser Portable at a later date?
Yes, the barcode reader can be added later, and remotely.
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How is measuring data extracted from the device and viewed?
The results of measurements taken with the Laser Portable can be downloaded and transferred using a USB memory stick that can be installed in the portable. The Wi-Fi option allows the results of the measurements to be immediately sent to the company’s information system. This eliminates the need to remove the USB memory stick and transfer the data to a computer. Wi–Fi can be added afterwards; we cannot do it remotely.
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What are the main differences in measuring technology between the Sparklike Laser Portable™ 2.0 and Sparklike Handheld™ 3.0?
The Laser Portable 2.0 uses a different technology than the Handheld.
The Handheld uses Spark Emission Spectroscopy (SES) to determine the gas levels. The instrument looks at the intensity and the color of the spark to make its measurements. Background lighting can be detrimental to the operation of the Handheld. Different algorithms are used for argon and krypton measurements. The ability to measure krypton is an option and is not normally included with most Handhelds.
The Laser Portable 2.0 uses Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) to determine the gas content. By measuring the amount of the laser signal that is absorbed by the oxygen within the IG unit, the instrument calculates the gas content. The Laser Portable does not determine the type of gas within the unit. It cannot determine whether the insulating gas is argon, krypton, or a mixture. The Laser Portable also measures the configuration of the unit and supplies the dimensions of the glass, cavity thickness and overall unit thickness.
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How does the Laser Portable 2.0 compare to the Handheld 3.0 in terms of measuring accuracy?
The tolerance of the Laser Portable is much better than the Handheld. The readings are within +/- 1% to levels as low as 1%. The accuracy does not decrease with lower gas levels as does the Handheld.
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How does the Laser Portable 2.0 take IGU measurements?
The Laser Portable measures the gas content of the first cavity and then the gas content of the entire unit. It then calculates the content of the second cavity. In most cases the instrument is not influenced by low–e coatings, laminations, or thicker commercial glass. Glass thickness “presets” can be entered into the instrument to assist in the measurement of thicker glas
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Does light exposure affect the Laser Portable’s measuring results?
The Laser Portable is not affected by background lighting and can be used in the field to measure the content of installed insulating glass units.
Intercept® Spacer System & Components FAQs
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What is Intercept®?
The Sparklike YouTube channel contains many helpful how-to videos for all Sparklike IGU measuring devices. Here are the links to simple Handheld instructional videos:
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How can I learn more about Intercept® spacer fabrication systems?
You can visit our product pages for Intercept® 2.5 and Intercept i-3 spacer fabrication systems to view equipment features and benefits, watch videos, and download sales literature sheets. To request technical specifications, fill out a form.
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What are the different spacer materials used with Intercept® spacer systems?
Intercept® BlackLine™, TinPlate™, and ThinPlate™ and ULTRA stainless steel material can be used with Intercept warm-edge spacer fabrication systems.
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How does the Intercept® system compare to competitive IGU lines regarding output per labor hour?
- Depending on the configuration for you, an Intercept® will produce 50 to 60 IGUs per person per hour
- Competitive lines may produce 23 IGUs per person per hour at best
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What products can be used with Intercept® spacer fabrication systems?
GED’s Intercept® 2.5 and Intercept i-3 spacer fabrication systems, together with SmartExtruder™+ sealant and desiccant application system, IG Oven & Roll Press, TurboCool™ IG cooling system, and RoboSeal™ gas fill, close, and seal system make up the complete line of IGU production equipment
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What parts and consumables work with GED IG fabrication systems?
GED has recently released the new Intercept LiteLock™ extruder tip for GED Extruders, as well as Intercept SureLock™ spacer locking technology for easy spacer folding.
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How does the Intercept® system save money?
- The spacer material is less expensive to source and produce per linear foot
- The Intercept® system is modular – you add equipment as you need it
- The Intercept® system is built for high capacity – you don’t have to add an new line to gain more units per shift
- Typical vertical lines requires 3x the equipment (and expense), 3x the labor, 3x the space, and 3x the cost of the IGU
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How do I get more information about Intercept®?
Contact a GED Salesman at 330-963-5401.
GED Training Courses FAQs
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Are training courses offered year-round?
Yes, courses are offered based on training staff and machine availability. Please see our training calendar or check with the Training Coordinator if you can’t find what you n
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What are the costs associated with training?
Costs vary with the type of training. Please contact the Training Coordinator for a quote. The cost of the classes includes training materials and manuals, safety glasses, refreshments and lunch.
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Will I need to make arrangements for lunch for my team?
No, lunch will be provided by GED. If there are dietary restrictions, please notify the Training Coordinator prior to your visit
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Will trainees need to bring their own laptop/tablet?
No, tablets with pre-loaded educational materials will be provided to trainees to use over the course of the training period. They will be used to complete daily homework assignments and aid in the learning process.
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Am I responsible for my own personal protective equipment (PPE)?
We recommend you wear work or casual clothes and bring safety shoes if you have them. All other safety equipment will be provided.
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Where do I park at the facility?
Parking is available at the visitor’s lot (entrance after the shipping entrance, on the right). Visitors will need to sign in at the lobby kiosk and obtain a name badge each day of training. An email invitation will be sent to each visitor prior to training day with instructions on how to log in.
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What are my options for hotels and dining?
We have great nearby options, all of which can be found on our website at www.GEDUSA.com/Training/local-information. Transportation and hotel accommodations are the customers’ responsibility.
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How can I get to the facility?
Turn into the Diamond Parkway Business area. The GED building will be on your right, just before the cul-de-sac. There’s a bus stop across from GED’s visitor parking lot if you choose to utilize public transportation. The current RTA bus schedule can be found here. Transportation and hotel accommodations are the customers’ responsibility.
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What is the daily schedule?
Each class has its own specific schedule. Refer to the Course Directory for schedules by course. Classes typically start at 8:00 AM.
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What is expected of trainees?
Trainees are expected to participate in all training activities and complete daily homework assignments. At the end of training, trainees will be asked to complete a short survey about their visit.
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What happens upon completion of a course?
Trainees who successfully complete each course are awarded a Training Course Certificate of Completion.
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Can training credits be used for on-site training?
Yes, one credit will cover the cost of 8 hours of training. Travel and expenses are billed at cost. 3 credits will be 3 days or a week of training. Travel . Additional training hours are billed at the current service rate per hour.
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Do training credits have a cash value?
No, but they do hold their purchased value and may depreciate in value if the cost of a course increases. In this case the difference would be billable.
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How long are training credits good for?
Credits that are included with some machine orders are only good for one year from the date of installation. Purchased credits are good indefinitely for the purchased value.
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