How to Contact Us

Dow Corning has sales offices, manufacturing sites, as

well as science and technology laboratories around the
globe. Telephone numbers of the locations near you are
available on the www.dowcorning.com

Shanghai Korea Malaysia

1077 Zhangheng Road Zhangjiang 16F Trade Tower 511 Young-dong Suite E603, 6th Floor East Tower Wisma
Hi-Tech Park, Shanghai, 201203 Dae-ro Kangnam-gu, Seoul Consplant 1, No. 2 Jalan SS 16/4 47500
Tel: +86 21 3899 5500 Korea, Rep of 135-729 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Eshan
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Nei Hu District, Taipei, 11493 Vietnam Unit 507 5th Floor Saigon Jalan M.H. Thamrin Kav. 3 Jakarta 10250
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Japan Thailand India

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East Tower 23F, 5-1, Otemachi Soi Anumarnrajthon 1, Surawong Rd Hiranandani Business Park
1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Suriyawong, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Powai, Mumbai 400076
Tokyo Japan 100-0004 THAILAND Maharashtra. INDIA
Tel: +81 3 3287 1011 Tel: +662 634 6700 Tel: +91 22 66946868
Fax: +81 3 3287 1201 Fax: +662 634 6798-9 Fax: +91 22 66946848

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Cover : AV19783 We help you invent the futureTM is a trademark of Dow Corning Corporation.
© 2014 Dow Corning Corporation. All rights reserved.

Form NO. 63-6132-01

Structural Sealant Glazing Technical Manual — ASIA

SSG Manual
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The information contained herein is offered in good faith based on Dow Corning's research and is believed to be
accurate. However, because conditions and methods of use of our products are beyond our control, this information
shall not be used in substitution for customer’s tests to ensure that Dow Corning's products are fully satisfactory for
your specific applications. Dow Corning's sole warranty is that the product will meet its current sales specifications.
Your exclusive remedy for breach of such warranty is limited to refund of purchase price or replacement of any product
shown to be other than as warranted.

Dow Corning specifically disclaims any other express or implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose or
merchantability. Unless Dow Corning provides you with a specific, duly signed endorsement of fitness for use, Dow
Corning disclaims liability for any incidental or consequential damages. Suggestions of use shall not be taken as
inducements to infringe any patent.
 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual
Contents

1. Introduction............................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 Project Management Service.................................................................................................................................................7
1.1.1 Print Review..................................................................................................................................................................................7
1.1.2 Substrate Testing and Material Approval...........................................................................................................................7
1.1.3 Quality Assurance.......................................................................................................................................................................8
1.1.4 Documentation...........................................................................................................................................................................8
1.1.5 Warranty.........................................................................................................................................................................................8
2. Dow Corning Product Offering........................................................................................................................... 9
2.1 Structural Glazing Silicone Sealants.....................................................................................................................................9
2.1.1 Dow Corning® 983 Structural Glazing Sealant..................................................................................................................9
2.1.2 Dow Corning® 993N Structural Glazing Sealant...............................................................................................................9
2.1.3 Dow Corning® 795 Structural Glazing Sealant............................................................................................................... 10
2.1.4 Dow Corning® 995 Silicone Structural Sealant.............................................................................................................. 10
2.2 Insulating Glass Silicone Sealants...................................................................................................................................... 11
2.2.1 Dow Corning® 982 Insulating Glass Silicone Sealant................................................................................................... 11
2.2.2 Dow Corning® 3362N Insulating Glass Silicone Sealant............................................................................................. 12
2.2.3 Dow Corning® 3362HD Insulating Glass Silicone Sealant.......................................................................................... 12
2.2.4 Dow Corning® 3-0117 Insulating Glass Sealant............................................................................................................. 12
2.3 Weatherproofing Sealants.................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.3.1 Dow Corning® 991 Silicone High Performance Sealant.............................................................................................. 13
2.3.2 Dow Corning® 791 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant................................................................................................ 14
2.3.3. Dow Corning® 790 Silicone Building Sealant................................................................................................................. 14
2.3.4 Dow Corning® 789 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant................................................................................................ 14
2.3.5 Dow Corning® 688 Silicone Glazing and Cladding Sealant....................................................................................... 14
2.3.6 Dow Corning® 977 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant................................................................................................ 14
2.4 Cleaners and Primers.............................................................................................................................................................. 14
2.4.1 Dow Corning® 3522 Concentrated Cleaning Solvent.................................................................................................. 15
2.4.2 Dow Corning® 1200 OS Primer............................................................................................................................................ 15
2.4.3 Dow Corning® Primer C and Dow Corning® Primer C OS............................................................................................ 16
2.4.4 Dow Corning® Primer P.......................................................................................................................................................... 16
3. Project Management Service.............................................................................................................................17
3.1 Product Recommendation................................................................................................................................................... 17
3.1.1 Print Review............................................................................................................................................................................... 17
3.1.2 Substrate Testing And Material Approval....................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.2.1 Adhesion Testing...................................................................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.2.2 Compatibility Testing............................................................................................................................................................. 19
3.1.2.3 Non-stain Testing..................................................................................................................................................................... 19
3.1.2.4 Other laboratory Testing....................................................................................................................................................... 19
3.1.2.5 Sample Submission................................................................................................................................................................. 19
 3.2. Quality Assurance.................................................................................................................................................................... 20
3.3. Warranty...................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
3.4. Project Management Service Workflow Diagram........................................................................................................ 21
3.5. Quality Bond Program............................................................................................................................................................ 22
4. Structural Glazing Design and Material Considerations..........................................................................24
4.1 Structural Glazing Design..................................................................................................................................................... 24
4.1.1 Structural Glazing Terminology.......................................................................................................................................... 24
4.1.1.1 Structural Bite............................................................................................................................................................................ 24
4.1.1.2 Glueline Thickness................................................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.1.3 Factory Glazing vs Site Glazing........................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.1.4 L-Joint VS Split Joint................................................................................................................................................................ 26
4.1.2 Structural Glazing Joint Dimensioning Guidelines...................................................................................................... 27
4.1.3 Windload and Glass Dimension.......................................................................................................................................... 28
4.1.4 Structural Bite Calculation for Windload......................................................................................................................... 29
4.1.5 Structural Bite Calculation for Deadload......................................................................................................................... 29
4.1.6 Glueline Thickness................................................................................................................................................................... 31
4.1.7 Structural Silicone Used In Shear....................................................................................................................................... 33
4.1.8 Splice Joints in Curtainwalls................................................................................................................................................. 33
4.1.9 International Structural Sealant Glazing Design Guidelines.................................................................................... 34
4.1.10 Finite Element Analysis of Structural Glazing Design................................................................................................. 35
4.2 Structural Glazing System Types........................................................................................................................................ 36
4.2.1 Four-Sided Structural Glazing............................................................................................................................................. 36
4.2.2 Two-Sided Structural Glazing.............................................................................................................................................. 37
4.2.3 Slope Glazing............................................................................................................................................................................. 37
4.2.4 Stepped Glass............................................................................................................................................................................ 38
4.2.5 U-Profile Systems..................................................................................................................................................................... 38
4.2.6 Total Vision Systems................................................................................................................................................................ 39
4.2.7 Point Bonding System............................................................................................................................................................ 41
4.2.8 Structural Attachment of Non-Glass Materials............................................................................................................. 41
4.2.9 Protective Glazing.................................................................................................................................................................... 42
4.3 Substrates and Materials for Structural Glazing Applications................................................................................. 43
4.3.1 Aluminium Profiles.................................................................................................................................................................. 43
4.3.2 Stainless Steel............................................................................................................................................................................ 43
4.3.3 Laminated Glass....................................................................................................................................................................... 43
4.3.4 Insulating Glass......................................................................................................................................................................... 44
4.3.5 Coated, Spandrel and Tinted Glass.................................................................................................................................... 44
4.3.6 Self-Cleaning and Easy-To-Clean Glass............................................................................................................................ 44
4.3.7 Gaskets and Rubber Materials............................................................................................................................................. 45
4.3.8 Steel and Galvanized Steel................................................................................................................................................... 45
5. Product Quality.......................................................................................................................................................46
5.1 General Considerations......................................................................................................................................................... 46
5.1.1 Material Storage and Handling........................................................................................................................................... 46
5.1.2 Shelf Life...................................................................................................................................................................................... 46
5.1.3 Joint Preparation and Sealant Application..................................................................................................................... 46
5.1.4 Factory vs. Site Glazing.......................................................................................................................................................... 46
5.2 Quality Control.......................................................................................................................................................................... 47
 5.2.1 One-Component Sealants.................................................................................................................................................... 47
5.2.1.1 Storage Temperature and Conditions.............................................................................................................................. 47
5.2.1.2 Skin-Over Time/Elastomeric Test........................................................................................................................................ 47
5.2.2 Two-Component Sealants.................................................................................................................................................... 49
5.2.2.1 Storage Temperature and Conditions.............................................................................................................................. 49
5.2.2.2 Glass Test..................................................................................................................................................................................... 51
5.2.2.3 Butterfly Test.............................................................................................................................................................................. 52
5.2.2.4 Snap Time Test.......................................................................................................................................................................... 53
5.2.2.5 Mixing Ratio Test...................................................................................................................................................................... 54
5.2.2.6 Pump Seal Maintenance Check (Snake Test).................................................................................................................. 55
5.2.2.7 Peel Adhesion Test................................................................................................................................................................... 56
5.2.2.8 H-Piece Test................................................................................................................................................................................ 57
5.2.2.9 Deglaze Test............................................................................................................................................................................... 60
5.2.2.10 Two-Component Dispensing Equipment Guideline................................................................................................... 67
5.3 Surface Preparation and Sealant Application................................................................................................................ 68
5.3.1 Substrate Cleaning Procedure............................................................................................................................................ 69
5.3.1.1 Non-porous substrates - Solvent Consideration.......................................................................................................... 70
5.3.1.2 Porous Substrates- Solvent Consideration..................................................................................................................... 70
5.3.1.3 Two-Cloth Cleaning Method............................................................................................................................................... 70
5.3.2 Substrate Priming Procedure............................................................................................................................................... 72
5.3.3 Masking....................................................................................................................................................................................... 73
5.3.4 Placing the panel..................................................................................................................................................................... 73
5.3.5 Site Glazing Considerations................................................................................................................................................. 74
5.3.6 Sealant application procedure............................................................................................................................................ 74
5.3.7 Sealant Cure Requirement.................................................................................................................................................... 76
5.3.7.1 Site Glazing Cure Requirement........................................................................................................................................... 76
5.3.7.2 Factory Glazing Cure Requirement................................................................................................................................... 77
5.3.8 Re-glazing Procedure............................................................................................................................................................. 77
5.3.8.1 Reglazing Due to Glass Breakage....................................................................................................................................... 77
5.3.8.2 Reglazing Due to System Failure........................................................................................................................................ 79
5.3.9 Maintenance.............................................................................................................................................................................. 79
5.4 Documentation........................................................................................................................................................................ 80
5.4.1 Sealant Production Quality Control log........................................................................................................................... 81
5.4.2 Sealant adhesion Quality Control log (peel adhesion Test)...................................................................................... 82
5.4.3 Sealant Production Quality Control Log (H-Piece Test & Elastomeric Test)......................................................... 83
5.4.4 Deglaze Test Report Form..................................................................................................................................................... 84
5.5 Production and Quality Control Audit............................................................................................................................. 85
 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

1.0 Introduction
Silicone structural glazing is a method utilizing a silicone adhesive to attach glass, metal, or other panel material
to the structure of a building. Windload and other impact loads on the façade are transferred from the glass or
panel, through the structural silicone sealant to the structure of the building. The silicone sealant must maintain
adhesive and cohesive integrity as the façade is subjected to windload and thermal stresses.

Fig. 1 Structural silicones are bonding the exterior glass lites of IGU and whole IGU to the supporting frame.

Structural Sealant Glazing (SSG) is a high performance application and not all silicone sealants are suitable
for this use. Only silicone sealants which have been developed and tested specifically for structural glazing
applications should be used. The Dow Corning structural glazing sealants recommended for this application are
identified in the next section of this manual.

This manual is intended to give guidance on the proper design and use of Dow Corning silicone sealants in
structural glazing applications. The recommendations made in this manual are based on the experience of Dow
Corning supporting structural glazing projects for over 40 years. Because structural glazing projects differ in
building design, environment and customer requirements, this manual cannot address all possible situations.
Dow Corning Technical service engineers are available to assist you in your specific project needs.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

1.0 Introduction
The success of every silicone structural glazing project is dependent on a partnership between the design
professional, sealant user and Dow Corning.

A very important part of this partnership is the implementation and use of the Dow Corning Project Management
Service (PMS) which are detailed below.

1.1 Product Management Service

Because joint designs and materials may vary considerably Dow Corning offers a range of technical services
commonly referred to as project management service which allow these variations to be considered prior
to the sealant application. Successful structural glazing projects management service contains the following
elements:

1.1.1 Print Review

Dow Corning has professional chemists and engineers that are available for consultation on sealant design
requirements and product selection. Detailed drawings should be submitted together with project design
details (panel size, windload etc) in order that a print review can be completed. The structural bite & glueline
thickness will be recommended together with comments on weatherseals or other details as required for
each project in a written print review report.

Dow Corning must review and approve the structural joint design on every project before commencement of
sealant application.

1.1.2 Substrate Testing and Material Approval

Substrates samples to which the structural and weathersealing silicone sealants are required to adhere,
including glass, aluminium and stone, should be submitted for adhesion testing. An adhesion report detailing
surface preparation and sealant recommendations will be provided.

Glazing accessories which are in direct contact with the silicone sealants, including spacers, gaskets &
setting blocks, should be submitted for compatibility testing. A report will be issued detailing whether tested
materials are compatible or not.

Note: The supplier of each structurally glazed substrate and spacer must be contacted to approve the use of
its material in structural applications. Dow Corning verifies only the adhesive characteristics and compatibility
of the silicone sealant to those materials through laboratory testing. A sealant recommendation will be based
on this review and results of our laboratory testing. Details of laboratory tests can be refer to clause 3.1.2 in
this manual.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

1.0 Introduction
1.1.3 Quality Assurance
Dow Corning technical service engineers are also available to conduct training sessions covering all aspects
of structural glazing from technical considerations through to sealant application techniques, quality control
procedures and glazing quality assurance checks and evaluation. Dow Corning will also assist the sealant
user in the development of a comprehensive quality control program as required.

1.1.4 Documentation
Quality control procedures and results must be documented in an easily retrievable fashion. Quality control
log templates are provided in the Documentation section of this manual. In subsequent sections of this
manual, each of these important elements will be discussed in detail.

1.1.5 Warranty
Subject to satisfactory completion of testing, compliance with recommendation, and satisfactory in house
quality assurance, a performance warranty can be issued for structural sealant glazing applications or
projects.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

Dow Corning offers a full range of high performance structural silicone sealants. Each sealant is developed
and tested for a specific application and should only be used as intended unless specifically approved by Dow
Corning. Specific product information is available at www.dowcorning.com.

2.1 Structural Glazing Silicone Sealants

When compared to conventional one-component silicone sealants, the fast cure properties of
Dow Corning two component silicone sealants allow for increased production of structurally glazed curtain
wall units.

The following Dow Corning silicone sealants are offered for structural glazing applications:

2.1.1 Dow Corning® 983 Structural Glazing Sealant

Dow Corning® 983 Structural Glazing Sealant is a two-component, fast cure, neutral curing silicone sealant
intended for structural bonding of glass, metal and other panel materials. It is a high modulus sealant with
excellent adhesion to a wide range of materials.

Dow Corning ® 983 has been tested and passed to ASTM C1184 and GB16776-2005 Structural Sealant
Specifications and it has ±25% movement capability in accordance with ASTM C719 test. This higher
movement ability allows it be used for both factory-glazed structural and weatherseal joint applications. It is
available in both black and grey colors.

2.1.2 Dow Corning® 993N Structural Glazing Sealant

Dow Corning® 993N Structural Glazing Sealant is a two-component, fast cure, neutral curing silicone sealant
intended for structural bonding of glass, metal and other panel materials. It is a high modulus sealant with
excellent adhesion to a wide range of materials.

Dow Corning ® 993N has been tested and passed ASTM C1184, ETAG-002 and GB16776-2005 Structural
Sealant Specifications and it has ±25% movement capability in accordance with the ASTM C719 test. This
higher movement capability allows it be used for both factory-glazed structural and weatherseal applications.
It is available in both black and grey colors.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

Fig. 2 Two component sealant (i.e. Dow Corning® 983 or Dow Corning® 993N) requires (adequate air-seal dispense)
specialized dispensing equipment to mix the material prior to use. Application is usually limited to factory applied environments.

2.1.3 Dow Corning® 795 Structural Glazing Sealant

Dow Corning® 795 Structural Glazing Sealant is a one-component, neutral-curing silicone sealant intended
for structural bonding of glass, metal and other materials. It is a medium modulus structural sealant with
excellent adhesion to a wide range of materials. Dow Corning ® 795 has been tested and passed ASTM
C1184 Structural Sealant Specification and it has ±50% movement capability in accordance with the ASTM
C719 test. It is available in black, white, bronze and grey colors.

2.1.4 Dow Corning® 995 Silicone Structural Sealant

Dow Corning® 995 Silicone Structural Sealant is a one-component, neutral-curing silicone sealant intended
for structural bonding of glass, metal and other materials. It is a medium modulus structural sealant with
excellent adhesion to a wide range of materials. Dow Corning ® 995 has been tested and passed ASTM
C1184 and GB16776-2005 Structural Sealant Specifications and it has ±50% movement capability in
accordance with the ASTM C719 test.

When used in a properly design system, it also passed missile impact test and bomb-blast test in
accordance with the related test method for protective glazing applications. The available colours are black,
white and grey.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

 
Fig. 3 One component sealants (i.e. Dow Corning® 795 or Dow Corning® 995) can be used in both factory and jobsite applications

2.2 Insulating Glass Silicone Sealants

Dow Corning insulating glass silicone sealants are recommended for insulating glass units which are
structurally glazed with Dow Corning Structural Glazing Silicones. Dow Corning insulating glass silicone
sealants are designed and intended for insulating glass applications only and should never be used as
structural glazing adhesives. For more information on the correct use of silicone sealants in insulating glass
applications, please refer to the “Dow Corning insulating glass manual” which is available at
www.dowcorning.com
The following Dow Corning silicone sealants are offered for structurally glazed insulating glass applications.

2.2.1 Dow Corning® 982 Insulating Glass Silicone Sealant

Dow Corning® 982 insulating glass sealant is a two - component, fast cure, neutral-curing silicone sealant
intended for use as a secondary seal in dual or triple glazed insulating glass units.

Dow Corning® 982 has been tested and passed ASTM C1369 Standard Specification for Secondary Edge
Sealants for Structurally Glazed Insulating Glass Units.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

2.2.2 Dow Corning® 3362N Insulating Glass Sealant
Dow Corning® 3362N insulating glass sealant is a two-component, fast cure, neutral¬ curing silicone sealant
intended for use as a secondary seal in dual or triple glazed insulating glass units. Dow Corning® 3362N has
been tested and passed GB16776-2005 Structural Sealant Specifications, GB24266-2009 and EN1279
Parts 4, the China and Europe standards respectively for insulating glass sealants.

2.2.3 Dow Corning® 3362 HD Insulating Glass Sealant

Dow Corning ® 3362 HD Insulating Glass Silicone Sealant is a special higher modulus grade of sealant
specifically designed for IG units. The higher modulus properties of the sealant limit the deflection of the
primary seal of the IG unit increasing the probability for the IG system to pass gas loss tests (e.g. EN
1279/3).

2.2.4 Dow Corning® 3-0117 Insulating Glass Sealant

Dow Corning® 3-0117 Insulating Glass Sealant is a one component, neutral curing silicone sealant intended
for use as a secondary seal in dual sealed IG units. Dow Corning® 3-0117 is appropriate for use in IG units
used in structural glazing applications.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

2.3 Weatherproofing Sealants
Dow Corning offers a full range of high performance sealants for weatherproofing applications. Following is
a brief description of Dow Corning Weatherproofing Sealants. These sealants are designed and intended to
weatherseal building joints and should never be used as structural glazing or insulating glass adhesives. For
more information on the correct use of silicone sealants in weatherproofing applications, please refer to the
“Dow Corning® Weatherproofing Guide” which is available at your local Dow Corning offices.

2.3.1 Dow Corning® 991 Silicone High Performance Building Sealant

Dow Corning® 991 H.P sealant is a one¬ component, low modulus, neutral-curing silicone sealant designed
specifically for weathersealing of sensitive substrates such as natural stone and aluminium panels systems
where the aesthetic performance of the sealant is important. Based upon numerous project experiences and
in house laboratory testing we are able to confirm this sealant has a much lower potential of staining natural
stone and to attract less dirt and atmospheric contaminants that conventional silicone building. It is available
in black, white, grey, bronze, limestone and charcoal colours. Custom color is possible. Please check with
Dow Corning representative for details.

Fig. 4 Dow Corning® 991 HP sealant was used on the stone cladding project has shown no stain onto white and red color granite
stones after 24 months exposed. Another project application is to crystallized glass cladding in Taipei city; it maintains a cleaner façade
with visibly less dirt pick up after 24months exposure (right side photo).

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

2.3.2 Dow Corning® 791 Silicone Weather¬proofing Sealant
Dow Corning ® 791 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant is a one-component, low modulus, neutral-curing
silicone sealant with an excellent unprimed adhesion to most building substrates and is suitable for general
weathersealing applications. Available in a wide variety of colors.

2.3.3 Dow Corning® 790 Silicone Building Sealant

Dow Corning® 790 Silicone Building Sealant is a one-part, low modulus, neutral curing silicone sealant for
use in high movement weathersealing applications. It has excellent primerless adhesion to concrete and
most porous substrates. Available in a wide variety of colors.

2.3.4 Dow Corning® 789 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant

Dow Corning ® 789 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant is a one-component, medium modulus, neutral-
curing silicone sealant for general weathersealing applications that has small expected joint movement. This
product is mainly marketed in India and Korea. Available in a wide variety of colors.

2.3.5 Dow Corning® 688 Silicone Glazing and Cladding Sealant

Dow Corning® 688 Silicone Glazing and Cladding Sealant is a one-component, high modulus, neutral-curing
silicone sealant for general weathersealing applications that has small expected joint movement. Available in
semi-translucent and other pigmented colors.

2.3.6 Dow Corning® 977 Silicone Weather¬proofing Sealant

Dow Corning® 977 Silicone Weatherproofing Sealant is a one-component, medium modulus, neutral-curing
silicone sealant with an excellent unprimed adhesion to most building substrates and is specifically designed
for weatherproofing sensitive porous substrates to reduce substrate staining potential caused by fluid bleed.

2.4 Cleaners and Primers

Dow Corning offers a range of primers that are developed specifically for use with Dow Corning sealants.
In some instances, a specific cleaner or primer will be required for the silicone sealant to achieve optimal
adhesion to a specific substrate. The following Dow Corning Cleaner and Primers are offered for this purpose.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

2.4.1 Dow Corning® 3522 Concentrated Cleaning Solvent
Dow Corning ® 3522 Concentrated Cleaning Solvent is a cleaner designed for the purging of two
component meter mix equipment used in structural glazing and IG production. The product does not
contain halogenated solvent and has been specifically developed to digest cured silicone sealant present in
equipment hoses and mixers.

2.4.2 Dow Corning® 1200 OS Primer

Dow Corning® 1200 OS Primer is a one-part chemical treatment primer designed for use with Dow Corning
sealants in a variety of applications to promote sealant adhesion. It is formulated for low toxicity and meets
VOC emission regulation around the world. With newly UV tracer added to this primer it will help the QA
inspector visually check the correct application of the priming with the use of a 365nm long waves UV lamp.
Please contact Dow Corning for the UV lump details. Note the UV-tracer will be visible for some days and
will automatically disappear with time.

 
® ®
Fig. 5 Dow Corning 1200 OS Primer or Dow Corning Primer C OS is applied by cloth wiping onto the substrate.
With proper UV lamp which can help the QA inspector visually check the correct application of the UV traceable priming.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

2.0 Dow Corning Product Offering

2.4.3 Dow Corning® Primer C and Dow Corning® Primer C OS
Dow Corning® Primer C and Dow Corning® Primer C OS are a one-part chemical treatment primer designed
for painted and plastic surfaces to promote sealant adhesion development. Primer C is manufactured in
Japan and Primer C OS is manufactured in the US. Adhesion development was consistently faster with
these Primers. Dow Corning Primer C OS VOC content meets the green building norm and it had a UV
tracer that allows a QA inspector to visually check the correct application of the priming with the use of a
365nm long waves UV lamp.

Dow Corning® Primer C or Dow Corning® Primer C OS is not recommended for EIFS as the carrier solvent
(ethyl acetate or methyl acetate) dissolves the EP board beneath the EIFS basecoat. It is also not suitable for
the substrates without organic coated finish such as clear glass, tinted glass, natural anodized aluminium,
stainless steel or galvanized mild steel.

2.4.4 Dow Corning® Primer P

Dow Corning ® Primer P is a one-part film forming primer designed for use on porous substrates (i.e.
Concrete or stone) in weathersealing applications.

Fig. 6 Dow Corning® Primer P is a film forming primer which can be applied onto concrete substrates with a brush.

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 Asia Structural Sealant Glazing Manual

3.0 Project Management Service

Dow Corning professionals are available to assist you in selecting the best sealant for your specific application.
All silicone structural glazing applications using Dow Corning® adhesive or sealants must be reviewed on a
project-specific basis by our technical service staff prior to any product selection. The review and testing must be
successfully completed, along with factory or site QA documentation, before Dow Corning will issue a warranty.
A project submission form is included with this manual for your use. Additional forms are available from any Dow
Corning Representative. The following services are offered by Dow Corning. For an overview of the process
steps, please refer to the 3.4 Dow Corning Project Management Service Workflow Diagram later in this section.

3.1 Product Recommendation

Dow Corning will make a project specific product recommendation once the following steps have been taken:

3.1.1 Print Review

Dow Corning must review all structural details before approving the use of our structural sealants in all
structural glazing applications. Typical horizontal and vertical details, plus any non-typical details should be
submitted for review. Also provide elevation drawings indicating glass dimensions and design windload
values for the building. Dow Corning has found that a few underlying principles are critical to consider in
virtually all joint designs using silicone sealants. Dow Corning will review joints for compliance with these
underlying design principles, provide suggestions or changes and/or identify limitations of the designs. It
will also allow Dow Corning's technical staff to check that all components that will need to be tested as
part of the project review have been supplied. This will include bonding substrates, spacers, setting blocks,
gaskets etc.

The joint design data can be provided either through a fill-in hardcopy Project Checklist or enter it through
the Dow Corning Construction Online (COOL) system which can be accessed through Dow Corning
premier website. Please contact your local Dow Corning Construction Office for more information.

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Dow Corning will review your Project Checklist (refer to 5.4 Documentation of this manual) and structural
joint dimensioning within 14 working days if provided electronically or through Dow Corning COOL system
described above. 7 working days respond time is committed for our Quality Bond Customers.

 
Fig. 7 Construction Online (COOL) Home Page.

3.1.2 Substrate Testing and Material Approval

Dow Corning must approve the use of our sealants on all substrates and materials which contact the
structural silicone sealant. The supplier of each structurally glazed substrate and spacer must be contacted
as well to approve the use of its material in structural applications. Dow Corning verifies only the adhesive
characteristics and compatibility of the silicone sealant to those materials through below laboratory testing.

3.1.2.1 Adhesion Testing

Dow Corning will evaluate the adhesion of our product to materials representative of those to be used on
the project (i.e., glass, metal, masonry, composites, etc.) using a modified ASTM C794 peel adhesion test.
All samples submitted for testing should be a minimum of 200mm in length. For example, for aluminum
extrusions, supply one 200mm sample for each sealant to be tested. For glass, one standard 300mm
by 300mm sample is sufficient. Upon completion of testing, Dow Corning will provide a written product
recommendation, surface preparation and priming recommendations. Testing takes four (4) weeks from
receipt of samples.

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3.1.2.2 Compatibility Testing
Chemically incompatible glazing accessories (gaskets, spacers, setting blocks, etc.) can lead to sealant
discoloration and/or loss of sealant adhesion to the substrate. To ensure a product's suitability, Dow Corning
tests the compatibility of job site representative accessory materials with its silicone sealants using ASTM
C1087. For each sealant to be tested, supply 100 mm minimum length of the gasket, spacer or setting
block. Results of the compatibility test will be forwarded in writing. Testing takes four (4) weeks from receipt
of samples.

3.1.2.3 Non-Stain Testing

If natural stone is being used on the project, Dow Corning can test and evaluate the performance of its
sealants to determine if fluid in the sealant has the potential to migrate into porous substrates such as
granite, marble, travertine and limestone. Job site representative samples of the stone need to be tested
using a modified ASTM C1248 procedure. For each stone type and sealant to be tested, supply two
samples of the dimension 25mm by 75mm. Larger samples should be cut to proper size for testing to avoid
testing delay. Testing takes six (6) weeks from receipt of samples.

3.1.2.4 Other Laboratory Testing

Dow Corning may provide non-standard testing such as analytical testing or H-piece testing of production
samples. In such cases, a service fee may be charged. Prior to beginning the project, please contact your
local Dow Corning Construction Office for a service fee schedule.

3.1.2.5 Sample Submission

For prompt processing of all testing requests, enter materials for testing through Dow Corning Construction
On-Line system (COOL) which can be accessed through Dow Corning premier website. Please contact your
local Dow Corning Construction Office for more information. A Structural Glazing Project Testing Submission
form is available in the Documentation section of this manual. Testing samples should be sent to the
following location that at your convenience:

Dow Corning (China) Holding Co, Ltd

1077 Zhangheng Road Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park
Pudong District, Shanghai
Attention: Construction Sealants Testing Lab

Dow Corning India Private Limited

6th Floor, Scorpio House Opp Galleria Hiranandani Business Park
Powai, Mumbai 400076 Maharashtra. INDIA

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3.2 Quality Assurance
Dow Corning performs extensive quality assurance testing in our manufacturing facilities in accordance
with rigid ISO 9000 standards. Product COA (certification of Analysis) done by our Dow Corning quality
assurance engineer is available when requested by an end user to enable traceability of each batch of
silicone sealants that we supplied.

Dow Corning also provides applicator and quality assurance training plus any routine sealant enquires
throughout the project. In order for a silicone sealant to perform as designed it must adhere to the building
substrates. It is recommended that regular jobsite adhesion testing be performed to confirm that good
adhesion is obtained consistently on actual job site substrates. Information and literature on field adhesion
testing and Dow Corning application procedures are also covered in this manual in the later section.

Additionally, throughout the project, Dow Corning suggests that random deglazing be carried out to confirm
that good adhesion and joint fill are achieved in practice. A deglaze involves cutting through the cured
structural silicone sealant in order that the glass and frame can be separated. This allows adhesion to both
glass and aluminium frame to be tested, and the structural bite and sealant glueline joint dimensions to
be measured. This quality assurance test is particularly important at the start of the project to identify any
workmanship, application or substrate issues. Details of deglaze testing is mentioned in the 5.0 Quality
Control section later in this manual.

3.3 Warranty
Dow Corning offers a project specific Structural Adhesion Limited Warranty for projects using Dow Corning
Structural Glazing silicone sealants. Please contact your Dow Corning Construction Office for more
information on the warranties available. To obtain a warranty, the following steps must be completed:

1. Dow Corning must approve in writing all materials which contact the Dow Corning Structural Glazing
Sealant for adhesion and compatibility.

2. Dow Corning must approve in writing the structural glazing joint design.

3. All daily quality control logs must be submitted and approved by Dow Corning.

4. The sealant users must fill-in and submit the warranty request form to your local Dow Corning Contact
or enter such request through Dow Corning COOL system.

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3.4 Project Management Service Workflow Diagram

SG Applicator completes SG Project

Checklist via DC COINS to Dow Corning
for Approval.
SG Applicator identifies aluminum
system name or provides SG Joint Dow Corning reviews SG design and
details electronically or via E-fax to dimensioning. Dow Corning approval
Dow Corning. letter is provided to SG Applicator
within three (3) business days for all
requests submitted via DC COINS
SG Applicator completes submission
of SG Sample Submission via DC
COINS. Representative substrate
samples are submitted to Dow Corning Dow Corning tests substrates for
for adhesion, compatibility and adhesion, compatibility and non-
non-stain testing. staining. Dow Corning provides an
approval letter to the SG Applicator
SG Applicator fabricates SG units within four (4) weeks with specific
in compliance with Dow Corning Asia surface preparation procedures
SG Manual. Recommended surface
preparation and sealant application
procedures are followed during
production. Dow Corning provides periodic training
and/or auditing of SG Applicator’s
  sealant production and quality control
procedures to ensure compliance with
SG Applicator completes Sealant DC requirements
Production, Adhesion and Cure Quality
Control Procedures as outlined in SG
Manual. Results are documented in
Quality Control and Traceability Logs.

 
DC Reviews documentation and
SG Applicator completes warranty warranty request and issues warranty
request via DC COINS. Completed QC to SG Applicator if the warranty
logs are submitted to DC. requirements are satisfied.

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3.5 Quality Bond Program
Quality Bond is designed to enhance your partnership with Dow Corning, bringing tangible business
benefits to you. Quality Bond members will be fabricators and OEM’s of structural and insulating glazing
who will be expected to employ best practice and quality workmanship through high level support from
Dow Corning in terms of training, audits and certification.

A key objective of Quality Bond is that members will be able to differentiate themselves in the market
through the use of the tools that Quality Bond will provide. First launched in Europe and then in Korea,
India, Greater China and in ASEAN.

The table below gives a brief introduction to some of the benefits.

QB Element Before Quality Bond After Quality Bond

Formal training by Dow Corning

1. Raising Industry Experience gained on each job
once a year to ensure transfer of
Standards-know how remains with OEM
best practices

OEM must pass mandatory

2. Safety Product review only upon request annual formal audit to maintain
certification

I m p ro ve d q u a l i t y a s s u r a n c e
3. Project testing Minimum standard met through more rigorous testing
protocol

Includes production and

4. Reliability Standard Warranty
application coverage

Active promotion of certified QB

5. Promotion at specifier level Limited
members

Focus on members and featured

6. Specific marketing support Dispersed
projects

To become a QB member there is a need to pass an audit which is carried out at the OEM’s premises.
Prior to which training will be given on all aspects of the audit which will include but will not be limited to
quality assurance, traceability and application. The audit is typically conducted through the use of an audit
checklist, which will be the basis for an official evaluation report accompanied by comments and potential
suggestions for improvement.

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If the audit is not passed, there will be a re-audit based upon suggestions within this report for
improvement. Certification will follow a successful audit, valid for one year. At least 2 audits generally will be
conducted by Dow Corning in order to validate this one year certification.
For more information about Quality Bond please contact your Dow Corning® local representatives or visit
www.qualitybond.com

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4.1 Structural Glazing Design
A structural glazing joint must be properly designed for the sealant to function as intended. If a joint is
improperly designed, the sealant stresses may be excessive potentially causing failure. Therefore, all SSG
joint dimensioning must be approved by Dow Corning.

Fig. 8 Joint Composition

4.1.1 Structural Glazing Terminology

4.1.1.1 Structural Bite

Structural bite, shown in above and following Figs 8 & 9, is the minimum width or contact surface of the
silicone sealant on both the glass panel and the frame. The design windload, glass panel dimensions,
impact loads, dead load and thermal dilatation stresses must be considered in the determination of the
structural bite dimension.

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4.1.1.2 Glueline Thickness
Glueline thickness, as shown in above and following Figs 8 & 9, is the distance from the panel to the frame.
Proper thickness facilitates the installation of the sealant and allows reduced sealant stress from differential
thermal movement between the glass panel and frame. Thickness in a structural silicone joint is often
referred to as glueline thickness.

 
Fig. 9 Sketch showing structural sealant bite and glue line thickness.

4.1.1.3 Factory Glazing vs. Site Glazing

Factory glazing refers to the construction of the structurally glazed components within a controlled
environment which is protected from the weather and site debris. This is generally referred to as a unitized
glazing system. Glass (or other) panels are bonded to a frame within the factory; then the frames are
transported to site after full cure and are mechanically fastened to the curtainwall.

Site glazing refers to a curtainwall system that panels are glazed on to mullions and transoms which are
already fixed to the building frame. The fixing method can be by mechanical support in glazing channels or
by bonding with silicone sealant or a combination of both.

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Since structural glazing applications can also take place at the building site, environment conditions must
be suitable at the time of glazing. Panels that are structurally glazed to the curtainwall or window frame
must be secured mechanically until the structural joint has fully cured and adhered.

4.1.1.4 L-Joint vs. Split Joint

There are two popular joint designs the first being a split joint and the second an L joint. Whilst both designs
are acceptable their performance in structural application is not.

By definition split joints are defined as structural joints where the structural joint is separated from the weather
seal on the glass edge by either a glazing tape, spacer or backing rod. (Refer to Fig. 10) In a L-joint the
structural joint and weatherseal are a continuous joint around the edge of the glass panel, (Refer to Fig. 11)

G G

Fig. 10 Split joint configuration design Fig. 11 L-Joint configuration

L-joints are not a good joint configuration especially for insulating glass units and hence are not recommended.
Firstly the joint is deep and difficult to completely fill with structural silicone.

Secondly, the movement of the insulating glass unit is limited and the long-term performance of insulating
glass unit may be affected when additional stress is induced by direct contact with another sealant. This is
why many insulating glass unit manufacturers recommend that the weatherseal do not or only partially contact
the secondary seal. If the system designer requires the use of an L joint with insulated glass units they must
consult with the insulated glass manufacturer to confirm that their warranty will not be affected.

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4.1.2 Structural Glazing Joint Dimensioning Guidelines
Following are guidelines that apply for all Structural Glazing projects. Dow Corning must review and approve
all SSG joint dimensioning. All exceptions must be handled on a project-specific basis and documented in
writing by the Dow Corning Technical Service Representative.

• The structural bite must be a minimum of 6 mm.

• The glueline thickness must be a minimum of 6 mm.

• The bite-to-thickness ratio should be between 1:1 and 3:1 See Fig. 12.

• The structural bite must be equal to or greater than the glueline thickness. See Fig. 13.

• The SSG joint must be able to be applied and tooled using standard sealant application procedures.

• The SSG joint design must allow the sealant exposure to air so that it can cure and achieve full physical
properties.

• Medium/High modulus neutral curing silicone sealant is more suitable for the SSG use. See Fig. 13.

The above guidelines are minimum requirements and exclude any application tolerances.

Fig. 12 indicates Structural Bite: Glueline Thickness from 1:2 (right)

to 1:3 (bottom) will allow for ease of access to ensure a complete
joint fill. The poor joint fill for 1:4 & 1:5 can be seen in the above fig.

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Setting
No Windloading Block Under Windloading

Fig. 13 Low modulus Sealant has excess movement and could lead to the glass jumping out the support
frame underneath, this is why Medium/High modulus sealant is more suitable for the SSG use.

4.1.3 Windload and Glass Dimension

The structural bite requirement is directly proportional to the windload on the building and the dimension of
the glass. The higher the windload and the larger the dimensions of the glass are, the greater the amount
of structural bite required. The structural bite must be sized appropriately to allow the windload on the glass
or panel to be transferred to the structure. The structural bite for windload (live load) is calculated using the
specified windload, glass or panel dimension and sealant design strength of 20 psi (or 138 kPa).

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4.1.4 Structural Bite Calculation for Windload

glass short span Dim. (mm) x windload(kPa) x 0.5

minimum structural bite (mm) =
138 kPa or 140 kPa

Glass Short Span Dimension (SSD) is the shorter of the two dimensions of the rectangular glass panel for
example, on a 1.5 m by 2.5 m glass panel, the SSD is 1.5 m.

• Windload is the maximum wind pressure in Kilo Pascal (kPa) for a return period of 10 years based on
local regulations. (Note: Some countries may have different rule or regulation for windload value, such as
Australia is using 100 years weather data to determine windload). This value is provided by the design
professional to Dow Corning.

• 138kPa (or 140kPa depend on local building code) is the maximum allowable live load design stress
used by Dow Corning for our Silicone Structural Glazing Sealants.

4.1.5 Structural Bite Calculation for Deadload

In unsupported SSG designs, the deadload weight of the panel is supported by the structural silicone joint,
see Fig. 14. This situation commonly occurs when structural glazing is used on monolithic glass. Dow Corning
Structural Glazing Silicone Sealants can support the weight of the glass provided stresses do not exceed
the allowed design stress for deadload.

Provided the horizontal frame members are as rigid as the vertical members, Dow Corning will
consider both the vertical and horizontal or long edges of the frame in the deadload calculation. If the
horizontal frame members will not support the glass under windload, only consider the vertical frame
members in the calculation.

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Fig. 14 The deadload weight of the upper glass panel is supported by the structural silicone joint.

Structural Bite Calculation for Deadload

2,500 kg/m3 x 9.81 m/s2 x Glass Thickness (m) x Glass Cross Area (m2)
Min. Bite (m) =
[2 x Height (m) + 2 x Width (m)] x Allowable Design Stress (Pa) for DL

• 2,500 kg/ m3 is the specific mass of float glass corresponding to approximately 25,000 N/m3 of specific weight.

• 9.81 m/s2 is a factor for gravity.

• The max allowable design stress for deadload for Dow Corning® 983, Dow Corning® 993N, Dow Corning®
795 and Dow Corning® 995 are 7,000 Pa.

• If the horizontal frame members will not be supporting the glass or will deflect under the deadload of the
glass, just consider 2 x Height (m) in the denominator of the calculation.

For example, a 1.219 meter by 2.438 meter lite of monolithic glass at a weight of 14.8 kg/m2 will have a weight
of 43.97 kg and a glass perimeter of 7.314 meters. Based on 7,000 Pa (or 703 kg/m 2) deadload design
strength, a bite of 9 mm is required.

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4.1.6 Glueline Thickness
Proper glueline thickness facilitates the installation of sealant and allows reduced stress on the structural
joint resulting from differential thermal movement. A minimum glueline of 6mm is required, but as the
structural bite increases, the glueline should be increased to allow the sealant to be applied easily and the
panel to expand and contract when subjected to thermal movement. If structural bite requirements exceed
19mm, the glueline thickness should be increased to a dimension greater than 6mm. To facilitate filling of
the structural joint, the bite to glueline thickness ratio should be maintained at 3 to 1 or less.

All panels that are structurally glazed undergo repeated expansion and contraction due to variation in
temperature. See below Fig. 15. Glueline thickness must be properly designed to accommodate these
movements. The thermal movement can be calculated for any panel or framing member if the length of the
material, material type, (e.g. glass, aluminum) and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) is known.

NORMAL HOT COLD

Fig. 15 Panel expansion/contraction due to temperature variation.

The resulting joint distortion induces shear stress in the structural sealant.

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Joint movement for a particular panel can be calculated as follows:

Movement (mm) = panel length (mm) x CTE (mm./mm./ ℃) x temperature change (℃)

For example, for a 2000mm by 2000mm high lite of glass fixed at the sill and a temperature change of 60℃,
glass with a CTE of 9 x 10 -6 will show movement of 1.08 mm. Aluminum with a CTE of 23.2 x 10 -6 will move
2.78mm Differential movement between the glass and aluminum will be 2.78mm minus 1.08mm or 1.7mm.

The dimension of glueline required (a) for the differential movement (b) can be calculated using the Pythagoras
Theorem. Likewise, the allowable movement (b) for a particular glueline dimension (b) can also be calculated.
The new glueline thickness (c) is limited by the movement capability of the sealant in shear in a structural joint
configuration.

For the example discussed above where differential movement of 1.7mm (b) is expected, and the sealant has
an original glueline thickness of 6mm (a), the sealant will elongate to a new glueline thickness of 6.236mm (c).
Extension of the sealant from 6mm to 6.236mm will be 4%.

For Dow Corning® 795, Dow Corning® 995, Dow Corning® 983 and Dow Corning® 993N, maximum extension
from thermal expansion are 15% in any structural silicone joints. The lower allowable movement capability
in structural joints is due to the joint design, where the joint width, or glueline is less than the joint depth or
structural bite. This is the reverse situation to weatherseals, which have higher movement capability.

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Note: The direction of the panel movement would also need to be considered. Consider whether thermal
movement will take place in one direction due to the setting blocks preventing any downward movement
of the glass panel or in the case of an unsupported system where the thermal movement can be taken by
the glass in both directions. This will need to be taken into consideration when designing the sealant joint
dimensions.

4.1.7 Structural Silicone Used in Shear

Structural silicone can be used in shear for live load applications at the same design strength (138 kPa) as it
is used in tension. This application encompasses Total Vision Systems (Fin Glazing), some skylight designs
and the use of the silicone to reinforce the structure through diaphragm loading.

The modulus of the structural silicone in shear is lower than in tension (consider the calculations through
the Pythagorean Theorem from the “Glueline Thickness” section of this manual). Therefore, combinations
of shear and tension loading cannot be added without understanding the stress-strain relationship of each
joint. Contact Dow Corning Technical Service for more information.

4.1.8 Splice Joints in Curtainwalls

Splice joints in aluminum curtainwall framing are the highest-movement, fastest-moving joints on a
curtainwall system. Splice joints absorb the thermal expansion of 4 m to 5 m of aluminum framing exposed
to the building’s exterior on a daily basis. Field-installed stick curtainwalls use splice joints to also absorb
building deflection, live loads and wind sway.

It is best to avoid splice joints within a structural joint. Placing 4 m to 5 m of aluminum frame thermal
movement and live load deflection of the floor into the shearing of a 6 mm wide structural silicone joint will:

1) Exceed the design stress of the silicone, causing fatigue;

2) Place excessive loading onto glass, causing possible failure; or 3) cause premature fogging of the
insulating glass unit.

If splice joints cannot be avoided within a structural silicone joint due to the requirements of field-applied
structural silicone in a stick system, then the splice joint should be applied to within 25 mm of the head of a
piece of glass. If silicone failure occurs due to excessive joint movement, a minimum of forces will be placed
onto the glass due to the placement.

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4.1.9 International Structural Sealant Glazing Design Guidelines

Below are international standards or guideline that related to structural sealant glazing design.

-- ASTM C1401-14 Standard Guide for Structural Sealant Glazing

-- ASTM C1249-06a (2010) Standard Guide for Secondary Seal for Sealed Insulating Glass Units for
structural Sealant Glazing Applications

-- ETAG002 – 2005 Guideline For European Technical Approval For Structural Sealant Glazing Kits (SSGK)

-- EN13022-1 Glass in Building –Structural Sealant Glazing –Part 1: Glass Products For Structural Sealant
Glazing Systems for Supported and Unsupported monolithic and multiple glazing

-- EN13022-2 Glass in Building –Structural Sealant Glazing –Part 2:Assembly rules

-- EN15434 Glass in Building –Product Standard for Structural and/or ultra-violet resistant sealant (for use
with structural sealant glazing and/or insulating glass units with exposed seals

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-- JGJ102-2013 Technical Code For Glass Curtain Wall Engineering

-- Hong Kong Architectural Service Department General Specification For Building,

2012 version: Section 16 Curtain Wall & Section 20 Glazing.

-- ISO 28278-1: 2011 Glass in Building – Glass Products For Structural Sealant Glazing –
Part 1: Supported and Unsupported monolithic and multiple glazing

-- ISO 28278-2: 2010 Glass in Building – Glass Products For Structural Sealant Glazing –
Part 2: Assembly Rules

-- ASTM C1564-04 (Reapproved 2009) Standard Guide for Use of Silicone Sealants for Protective Glazing
Systems

-- ASTM C1392-00 (Reapproved 2014) Standard Guide for Evaluating Failure of Structural Sealant Glazing

-- ASTM C1394-03 (Reapproved 2012) Standard Guide for In-situ Structural Silicone Glazing Evaluation

-- ASTM C1487-02 (Reapproved 2012) Standard Guide for Remedying Structural Silicone Glazing

-- ASTM C1564-04(2009) Standard Guide for Use of Silicone Sealants for Protective Glazing Systems

4.1.10 Finite Element Analysis of Structural Sealant Glazing Design

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is commonly used as an engineering tool for many industries. Benefits of
FEA include increased accuracy, enhanced design and better insight into critical design parameters, virtual
prototyping with increased productivity and reduced design risk.

In a structural simulation, FEA allows detailed visualization of where structures bend or twist, and indicates the
distribution of stresses and displacements that allows entire designs to be constructed, refined, and optimized
before the design is manufactured. This powerful design tool has significantly improved both the standard of
engineering designs and the methodology of the design process in many industrial applications.

Dow Corning first published an FEA study back in 1998, titled “Finite Element Analysis of a Structural Silicone
Shear Bead used in Skylight Applications”. In that article, FEA (ANSYS) 3D and 2D models were used in
predicting stresses and strains in a 6mm x 6mm Dow Corning® 795 structural silicone joint on the edge of a
glass skylight.

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In recent years, FEA model were used in supporting many special construction applications or projects with
Dow Corning construction products such as cold bent glass sealant joint stress evaluation, U-type bonding
joint, trapezoidal silicone joint geometry, seismic SSG performance and crystal clear silicone adhesive point
bonding studies.

Please contact Dow Corning local office or Dow Corning representative should you have any questions related
to above studies or FEA application with structural sealant joint design.

4.2 Structural Glazing System Types

There are many different types of structural glazing systems available. Common to all of these
systems are that structural silicone sealant is used to structurally attach glass or another material to the
building structure. Some of the more common types of systems are discussed in this section.

4.2.1 Four (4) Sided Structural Glazing

4-sided structural glazing is the most common and usually most cost efficient type of structural glazing
system used in Asian countries where glass is supported on all four edges of the glass with structural silicone.
See Fig. 17. 4-sided Structural Sealant Glazing (SSG) systems are typically fabricated in a production facility
and erected at a jobsite.

   

Fig. 17 Typical Four (4) sided structural glazing transom and mullion details.

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4.2.2 Two (2) Sided Structural Glazing
2-sided structural glazing systems use structural silicone on two of the four sides of the glass. The other two
sides of the glass are either mechanically supported or are not structurally supported by a frame. 2-sided SSG
systems are fabricated in a production facility or at the jobsite.

   

Fig. 18 Typical two (2) sided structural glazing system where mullion details (right side) using structural sealant
glazing with mechanical captive at glass head/sill.

4.2.3 Sloped Glazing

Sloped glazing is a form of structural glazing used in skylights and similar non-vertical applications.
Conventional structural glazing guidelines can be followed for slope glazing with few modifications.
The structural glazing calculation takes into account the weight of the glass counteracting the negative design
windload on the building (inward sloping). The flatter the slope of the glazing system the greater the reduction
in the windload effect on the structural joint.

Glass that is sloped outward from vertical, such as is common in airport control towers, imposes a deadload
upon the glazing that must be added to the windload when there is intimate contact with setting blocks. If
the outward slope is greater than 15 degrees from vertical, it is prudent to perform your calculations as if the
entire weight of the glass is supported by the silicone. If there are no setting blocks, the entire lite is supported
by the structural silicone. The design load on the silicone for live and deadload must be determined and the
bite dimension sized appropriately. For these designs, contact your Dow Corning construction professional for
further information.

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4.2.4 Stepped Glass
Many SSG systems install the SSG joint on the internal surface of the outboard pane. In these systems, the
insulating glass units are produced in a step fashion which allows glazing to the outboard pane, as shown in
Fig. 19. more traditional SSG systems install the structural joint to the internal surface of the inboard pane of
the insulating glass unit. Please refer to below Fig. 16 “Typical Structural Glazing Detail” for an example of a
typical stepped glass SG system.

Fig. 19 Stepped IGU structural glazing design that structural silicone is used to bonding outer longer glass lite.

4.2.5 U-Profile Channel Systems

There are many proprietary systems that allow insulating glass units to be attached mechanically to the
structure by a U-profile in the cavity between the two panes of glass. See Fig. 20 an example of U profile
channel system. Depending on the nature of the system, the silicone sealant may or may not be performing as
a structural glazing sealant in the design. These unique systems must be approved by Dow Corning Technical
service Engineers on a system specific basis.

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Fig. 20 An example of U profile channel system

4.2.6 Total Vision Systems

Total vision systems, which are commonly used at the front of a building to maximize vision area, use a glass
fin to structurally support the vision glass. In such cases, the 2-sided SSG system may use the structural
silicone in shear from the glass edge to the glass fin. Dow Corning permits shear beads to perform structurally
provided they are independent of a tension bead. Dow Corning® 795 or Dow Corning® 995 is our preference
products used in this structural application, note that translucent color is not available in these two products.

Fig. 21 Typical Total Vision System at building lobby

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In a total vision system (TVS) or glass wall the glass fin or mullion is normally 90 degrees to the face glass,
as shown in Fig. 23 is one of most often TVS joint designs for reference. Variations of up to 10 degrees from
90 degrees (90˚±10˚ or 80˚ to 100˚) are acceptable. Larger angles require additional support, as the degree of
stiffening provided by the glass mullion decreases, as the angle increase. The glass manufacturer should be
asked to comment this. Our requirement is that the load on the silicone sealant should not exceed 138 kPa.
Also for optimum performance a structural joint should be as close as possible to rectangular.

Facial Glass

bite

Glass Fin

Fig. 22 First example of TVS Design - Glass Fin Set Behinds the Facial Glass Units

Fig. 23 2nd example of TVS Design - Glass Fin Set between Facial Glass Units

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4.2.7 Point Bonding Systems
TSSA is a crystal clear film adhesive recently invented by Dow Corning that allows for point bonding of the
glass panel, that can improve both aesthetic and thermal efficiency of glass façade by facilitating a sleek
design without the need to drill holes on the glass. Its use therefore in Insulated glass units will greatly
improve the longevity and durability of the units. For detail product and design information please contact
your local Dow Corning Offices.

Fig. 24 Crystal Clear Silicone Adhesive Tape is used in point bonding the glass units that gives
un-interrupted, uniform & sleek facade design.

4.2.8 Structural Attachment of Non-Glass Materials

Structural silicone sealant can be used to attach materials other than glass. Dow Corning must test and
approve these materials on a material specific basis. Examples of such materials include aluminium composite
materials, metal panels and epoxy-backed thin stone panels.

Certain materials such as plastics may have high coefficients of thermal expansion that may cause undue
stress on the structural silicone and/or bowing of the panels. Dow Corning must review all designs whether
glass or non-glass materials where its sealants are used as structural adhesives.

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For aluminum composite materials that are mechanically attached around the perimeter and the sealant
is used to attach an aluminum stiffener, Dow Corning permits glueline thickness dimensions of less than
6 mm. In this application, there is a negligible amount of differential movement between the two aluminum
components and shear stress on the sealant is minimal.

4.2.9 Protective Glazing

Structural silicone sealants are commonly used in window systems which are designed to mitigate the effects
of bomb blasts or storms. In some cases, these systems are also structurally glazed. The use of structural
glazing in bomb blast protective window designs is appropriate and has been done successfully on numerous
projects.

In these designs, the sealant is only one element of a complex glazing system which includes the frame, glass
and laminate. The structural silicone sealant plays an important role by “anchoring” the laminate glass in the
frame during a bomb blast or missile impact. Due to the unique physical and chemical properties of silicone
(i.e. viscoelastic properties, long term adhesion and durability) which organic sealants do not provide, high
performance structural silicone sealants are the material of choice for these applications. For assistance in
protective glazing designs, please contact your Dow Corning Technical service engineer.

 
Fig. 25. Protective Glazing bomb blast test photos Glass units after Bomb blast testing in UK.

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4.3 Substrates and Materials for Structural Glazing Applications
It is important in the design of an SSG system that the proper materials be used. Although Dow Corning
requires approval of substrates and materials on a project by project basis, certain general recommendations
can be provided during the design phase of the project.

4.3.1 Aluminium Profiles

When selecting aluminum substrates for structural glazing, the joint design and adhesion of the structural
silicone must be considered. A flat surface with no gasket races, key slots, serrations or other irregularities is
required. Some off-the-shelf extrusions may not be suitable for all structural glazing applications. The width
of the extrusion must be adequate to achieve the calculated minimum structural bite with a suitable spacer
attached.

Extruded mill finish aluminum is not an appropriate surface for structural silicone application due to poor
adhesion. The graphite lubricant used in the extrusion process causes a highly variable surface to which
adhesion is not always predictable. Therefore, aluminum must have a minimum of a chromate finish for
structural glazing applications. There are several commercial Chromium-free conversion coatings in the market
currently, however, due to insufficient information and lack of durable study on its long term performance we
are still in doubt and not able to support this coating for structural sealant glazing unless adhesion build up
sufficient satisfactory laboratory test and coating durable test data. Please contact Dow Corning Technical
Department for details. Anodizing and thermal set paints such as fluorocarbon and polyester powder coat are
also suitable aluminum finishes.

4.3.2 Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has been used successfully as a structural glazing substrate. The stainless steel must be of an
architectural grade quality and should be submitted to Dow Corning for adhesion and compatibility testing.

4.3.3 Laminated Glass

Laminated glass with polyvinyl butyrol (PVB) interlayer may delaminate at the edges. This phenomenon is only
an aesthetic concern and does not affect the performance of laminated glass in structural glazing applications.
For specific compatibility results and recommendations, please refer to the Dow Corning adhesion/
Compatibility guide which is available at www.dowcorning.com or contact your laminated glass supplier.

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4.3.4 Insulated Glass
Insulating glass units are widely used in structurally glazed facades to improve the thermal performance of
a facade. When using IG units in any structurally glazed façade, specifically developed silicone IG sealants
should be used and proper bite contact must be given to meet maximum windload effect.

4.3.5 Coated, Spandrel and Tinted Glass

There are many types of coated, spandrel and tinted glass materials available to the systems designer.
There are many important considerations for the selection of glass. Following are a few of the general
recommendations:

• Soft coating must be completely removed from all glass surfaces to receive structural silicone sealant. These
coatings do not provide adequate strength and durability for long term stability of the structural bond. Soft
coatings are often very difficult for silicone sealant to adhere to. Residual soft coating on the glass surface may
cause sealant adhesion failure initially or after ageing (silver corrosion).

• Hard coatings are acceptable surfaces for structural glazing if these products have demonstrated long term
stability and sealant adhesion has been verified through testing.

• Ceramic enameled spandrel coatings which are baked onto the glass during glass production and which meet
required surface quality criteria are acceptable surfaces for structural glazing. Some patterned glasses are
difficult to adhere to and must be submitted for laboratory testing by Dow Corning prior to use.

• Tinted glass, clear float glass, tempered glass and heat strengthened glass, are acceptable for structural
glazing. Sandblasted or acid etched glass may be difficult to adhere to and must be submitted to Dow Corning
for testing prior to use.

4.3.6 Self-Cleaning and Easy-to-Clean Glass

These newer glass types provide lower maintenance solutions for the building owner and have grown
in popularity in recent years. For current recommendations on these glass types, please ask the glass
manufacturer and refer to the Dow Corning adhesion/Compatibility guide or contact your Dow Corning
Technical service engineer.

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4.3.7 Gaskets and Rubber Materials
There are many types of rubber materials that are available for use in a window or curtain wall design and
some may not be appropriate for structural glazing applications. An incompatible rubber material may
be formulated with excessive levels of plasticizers that may leach into the structural silicone and cause
discoloration, softening and potentially sealant adhesion loss to a substrate. Dow Corning recommends
testing and approval of materials on a project by project basis. Some SSG Systems have qualified and pre-
tested their specific rubber materials. Historically, certain material types have proven to be appropriate for
structural glazing.

Following are some general guidelines for gaskets and rubber materials:

-- A structural spacer material in direct contact with the structural silicone must be fully compatible.
Materials such as silicone extrusions, polyurethane or polyethylene foam tape as well as certain high
quality vinyl and PVC materials have been tested and found to be acceptable for this application. 100%
silicone polymer extrusions and gaskets provide the best overall compatibility with silicone sealants.

-- Highly plasticized gaskets and extrusions which cause sealant adhesion loss will not be approved for
any contact with Dow Corning structural silicone sealants.

-- Gaskets and setting blocks made of neoprene or EPDM typically discolor lighter colored silicone
weatherseal sealants. These materials should not be used in full contact with the structural silicone but
may have incidental contact without having an impact on the performance of the sealant. Project specific
compatibility testing will determine the suitability of these materials for the application.

4.3.8 Steel
Carbon steel and galvanized steel are not appropriate surfaces for structural silicone glazing due to substrate
durability concerns when exposed to corrosive agents. Painted steel is generally not acceptable for silicone
structural glazing for the same reason. On an exception basis, steel components painted with high-
performance industrial-grade coatings have been approved upon testing and review by Dow Corning, the
substrate manufacturer and the coating manufacturer.

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This section of the manual is intended to provide the sealant user with procedures and recommendations for
the proper storage, handling, use and quality control of Dow Corning Structural Glazing Silicone Sealants.
As a sealant user, you must read, understand and closely follow the procedures and recommendations set
forth in this section of the manual. If you have any questions regarding any of the following procedures or
recommendations, please contact your local Dow Corning Construction Office or your Dow Corning Technical
Service Engineer prior to using the Dow Corning Sealant.

5.1 General Considerations

5.1.1 Material storage and handling

Dow Corning sealants must be stored at the recommended temperature and environment. Excessive
temperatures or moisture may cause a sealant to be damaged. Sealant cure, adhesion and physical
properties could be harmed if the sealant is not handled and stored properly. The sealant user must
understand and follow the recommendations on the proper use of dispensing equipment for two-component
silicone sealants.

5.1.2 Shelf life

Dow Corning sealants must be used within their stated shelf life. Sealant that is used beyond its stated shelf
life may not cure properly to its full physical properties and must not be used.

5.1.3 Joint Preparation and Sealant Application

Specific procedures and recommendations on joint preparation and sealant application are made later in
this section. These procedures and recommendations will help to ensure proper sealant adhesion, cure and
joint fill. Ignoring or skipping a step in the process could have an adverse effect on the performance of the
structural silicone. These procedures should be understood and completely followed by the sealant user.

5.1.4 Factory vs. Site Glazing

Structural Glazing fabrication may occur in a production facility or at the job site. Two-component structural
silicone sealants are typically applied in the controlled environment of a production facility. One-component
structural silicone sealants may be used in a production facility environment or at the job site. All parties
involved with a project, including the architect, engineer and control bodies must support site glazing for a
specific project. Specific local requirements may not permit site glazing in some instances. Cure requirements
and considerations for site glazing are discussed later in this section.

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5.2 Quality Control
A comprehensive Quality Control program is the most critical element of a successful structural glazing
project. Dow Corning provides procedures and recommendations that must be completely understood and
followed by the sealant user. These procedures are proven to be effective and reliable. In the Documentation
section of this manual, Dow Corning provides quality control logs which can be used by the sealant user. Dow
Corning will assist you in the development of a comprehensive quality control program. Dow Corning will also
audit a production facility and make recommendations for improvement if necessary.

5.2.1 One-Component Sealants

The following procedure outlines a series of steps to ensure that the quality of the Dow Corning ® 995
Silicone Structural Sealant or Dow Corning® 795 Structural Glazing Sealant is adequate for structural sealant
applications.

5.2.1.1 Storage Temperature and Conditions

Dow Corning® 795 and Dow Corning® 995 Structural Glazing Silicone sealant must be stored at temperatures
as stated in Product Data Sheet. An expiry date is clearly marked on the product packaging. Sealant should
only be used if it is within the expiry date shown on the package. The sealant should be kept in its original
unopened package until the sealant is to be used. Sealant should be stored indoors in a dry environment.

5.2.1.2 Skin-Over Time/Elastomeric Test

A skin-over time and elastomeric test should be performed once per day and on each new lot of sealant to be
used. The purpose of this test is to ensure that the sealant cures fully and has typical elastomeric properties.
Any variation such as excessively long skin-over time may indicate that the sealant is out of shelf life or has
been stored at excessively high temperature. Skin-over time will vary with temperature and humidity. Higher
temperature and higher humidity will cause the sealant to skin-over and cure faster.

The following procedure must be performed before any material is used in production. Production quality
control procedures, such as adhesion tests on production materials, are described later in this section.

Skin-Over Time Test Procedure:

1. Spread a 1 mm thick layer of sealant on a polyethylene sheet.

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2. Every few minutes, touch the sealant film lightly with your finger.

3. When the sealant no longer adheres to your finger, the skin-over time has been reached.
If the skin-over time is greater than 3 hours, do not use this material and contact your local Dow Corning Office.

Sealant not formed skin yet hence will adhere to finger.

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Good condition sealant should formed a skin and not adhere to the finger within 3 hours after application.

Elastomeric Test Procedure:

1. Allow the sealant to cure for 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove the sealant from the polyethylene sheet.
Stretch the sealant slowly to determine whether it has cured to normal elastomeric properties. a control
sample of “good sealant” can be used for comparison. If the sealant has not cured properly, do not use
the material and contact your local Dow Corning Office.

2. Record results in your quality Control log. a sample quality Control log is available in the Documentation
section of this manual. The completed log should be retained and be available for review by Dow Corning
upon request.

5.2.2 Two-Component Sealants

5.2.2.1 Storage Temperature and Conditions

Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N Structural Glazing Silicone Sealant must be stored at
temperatures below those stated in Product Data sheet. An expiry date is clearly marked on the product
packaging for the curing agent and base. The sealant should only be used if it is within the expiry date shown
on the package. The sealant should be kept in its original unopened packages until the sealant is to be used.

Sealant should be stored indoors in a dry environment. Containers of curing agent and base are not lot-
matched. For practical purposes it is best to use the oldest container of material first.

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When opening a new pail of catalyst, check for any dents that may prevent the follower plate from working
properly, also check for any clear fluid separation on the top. If present, this fluid should be lightly remixed
with a long spatula in a motion from bottom to top, similar to how a paint is remixed. The remixing should take
1 to 2 minutes to complete for a homogeneous catalyst. Place the pail immediately underneath the follower
plate of the pail pump and bleed off any residual air according to pump instructions. Do not leave opened for
extended period of time, because the catalyst will react with air and moisture and start to form a cured crust.
Pumps that sit idle for greater than 7 days should have the pail of curing agent inspected for separation and
remixed by the above method if separation occurred.

When opening a new drum of base, remove the top plastic disc or film prior to placing underneath the follower
plate of the drum pump and bleed off any residual air according to pump instructions. There is no need to
remix the base. An opened drum of base alone will not cure but may become dirty on the top surface.

It is recommended that Dow Corning ® 983 Structural Glazing Sealant and Dow Corning ® 993N Structural
Glazing Sealant be applied between temperatures of 12 to 35˚C. In winter, the product should not be used
in unheated shops if temperature is below 12˚C. If this is the case the material should be brought inside and
warmed for a few days before using to help maintain consistency of cure and adhesion times. Cold base and
cold catalyst will cure slower even if the shop temperatures are warm.

During production, several quality control procedures have to be carried out to ensure the two-component
sealant is being properly mixed at the correct ratio. These tests and their recommended frequency are shown
in the following table:

Frequency of Test
Sealant Production
After Each Pump After Each Diagnostic
QC Test
Start-Up Container Change Investigation
Glass Test required1 required1 required
Butterfly Test required1 required1 required
Snap Time Test required required required
Snake Test not required not required required
Mixing Ratio Test not required not required required

1 Either the glass test or butterfly test must be performed at the scheduled frequency. It is not required that
both tests be performed.

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With both Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N black is the most common colour but they are also
available in grey. If required, performing the glass test and butterfly test will be slightly more difficult and so
please refer to the section related to this below. Please contact a Dow Corning technical engineer for any
sealant specific quality control recommendations with regards to Dow Corning® 983 or 993N grey.

5.2.2.2 Glass Test

The glass Test is a procedure used to evaluate the mix of Dow Corning® 983 and Dow Corning® 993N silicone
Structural Glazing Sealant. This test is performed each time a pump starts-up and after either the curing
agent or base containers are changed. The purpose of this test is to determine whether the two-component
dispensing equipment is adequately mixing the sealant base and curing agent.

For standard Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N Black, the sealant base is white and the curing
agent is black. When properly mixed, the finished sealant is uniform black, with no grey or white streaks.
Improper mixing can be the result of a damaged check valve, a clogged hose, a clogged mixer etc. Regular
equipment maintenance will help to ensure proper sealant mixing. Please consult with your dispensing
equipment manufacturer for maintenance guidelines. If grey colored Dow Corning ® 983 or 993N silicone
Structural Glazing Sealant is being used, please contact your Dow Corning Technical service engineer for
recommendations.

To perform the glass Test method, apply a bead of sealant to a clean, clear glass sample which is
approximately 100 mm x 100 mm. Place another clean, clear glass sample on top of the silicone, pressing
the two pieces of glass together. Please refer to the diagram on this page. The resulting sandwiched sealant
should then be visually inspected for grey or white streaks. The sealant should appear completely uniform and
black. If results are negative, perform the test again after additional material is processed through the machine.
it the results are negative again, equipment maintenance may be required. If additional assistance is required,
please contact your Dow Corning Technical service engineer.

Glass test indicated proper mixing (left) and improper mixing (right side)

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5.2.2.3 Butterfly Test
The Butterfly Test is a procedure that is similar to the glass Test. This test is performed at each pump start-
up and after either the curing agent or base containers are changed. The purpose of this test is to determine
whether the two-component dispensing equipment is adequately mixing the sealant base and curing agent.
For standard Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N Black, the sealant base is white and the curing
agent is black. When properly mixed, the finished sealant is uniform black, with no grey or white streaks.
Improper mix can be the result of a damaged check valve, a clogged hose, a clogged mixer, etc. regular
equipment maintenance will help to ensure proper sealant mixing. Please consult with your dispensing
equipment manufacturer for maintenance guidelines.

If grey colored Dow Corning ® 983 or Dow Corning ® 993N Silicone Structural Glazing Sealant is being used,
Please contact your Dow Corning Technical service engineer for recommendations.

Following is the procedure for performing a Butterfly Test:

1. Fold a sheet of stiff, white A4 paper in half.

2. Apply a bead of sealant to the fold in the paper.

3. Press the sheet of sealant into a thin film.

4. Pull the paper apart and visually inspect the sealant for indications of mixing

   
Apply a sealant bead onto paper Homogeneous mixing Inhomogeneous mixing

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5.2.2.4 Snap Time Test
Once proper mixing of the sealant is established by the Glass Test and/or Butterfly Test, a Snap
Time Test must be performed. This test is performed each time a pump starts-up and after either the curing
agent or base containers are changed. The snap time test helps to determine if the mix ratio is correct and
whether the sealant is curing properly.

Following is a procedure for the Snap Time Test:

1. Fill a small container with mixed Dow Corning® 983 or Dow Corning® 993N Structura Glazing sealant.

2. Place a small stick or spatula into the sealant. Record the time.

Every few minutes, pull the stick out of the sealant. Do not stir or agitate the sealant. As the sealant becomes
more cured, the sealant will become stringy. Once the sealant tears cohesively and snaps back once it is
pulled, this is the “snap time”. Note the snap time in a log or record onto the label of sample.

The snap Time Test will vary depending on temperature and humidity. Higher temperatures and higher
humidity will cause the sealant to snap faster. Colder temperatures and lower humidity conditions will slow the
snap time.

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Snap time will also vary from tester to tester depending on how the results are interpreted. Also, there will be
variation from lot to lot of material and as the sealant ages. However, In general, snap time should be no less
than 20 minutes even when tested in summer. Too short a snap time would not only imply a shorter working
time but also that excessive catalyst is being included in the mixing of the material.

Note the most important determination from snap time is that the sealant does cure. If the sealant does not
cure, then further investigation is required.

5.2.2.5 Mixing Ratio Test

The mixing ratio test is not required by Dow Corning on a daily basis. This test is useful to determine whether
the sealant is mixing at the recommended ratio. For instance mix ratio of Dow Corning® 983 should be 10:1 to
13:1 by weight (or 8:1 to 10:1 by volume), and Dow Corning® 993N should be 9:1 to 12:1 by weight (or 7.5:1 to
9.5:1 by volume). Most two-component silicone dispensing machines provide a set of valves which allow the
mixing ratio to be checked.

Dow Corning® 993N Dow Corning® 983

Property
Structural Glazing Sealant Structural Glazing Sealant
Mix ratio (by volume) 7.5:1 – 9.5:1 8:1 – 10:1
Mix ratio (by weight) 9:1 – 12:1 10:1 – 13:1
Snap time 30-40 minutes* 40-50 minutes*

*Snap time data listed above is based on 12: 1 mix ratio by weight under 23˚C and 50% relative humidity

Following is a procedure to perform the Mixing Ratio Test:

1. Pressure valves must be adjusted in such a way that the pressure is equalized for both components.

2. Hold a disposable cup underneath each valve outlet on the pump. Open the valve for 10 seconds or at
least 3 strokes of both the base and curing agent pump.

3. Weigh the two cups, minus the weight of the cup itself. The weight ratio between the two-components
should be within the above listing.

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The mix ratio test should be carried out whenever there are concerns with either the mixing of the sealant or
with variations outside of the allowable limits for the snap time. When combined with the butterfly and snap
time test it becomes a very useful diagnostic test that can assist with the investigation of equipment problems.
Dow Corning Technical service engineers are available to assist you if there is concern with mixing or cure of
Dow Corning® 983 or Dow Corning® 993N Structural Glazing sealant.

5.2.2.6 Pump Seal Maintenance Check (Snake Test)

Worn seals on the volumetric (dual-action) catalyst displacement cylinders can cause an inconsistent cure and
should be checked when a pump is started up for the first time or if soft spots are noticed in the sealant bead.
When cylinder seals wear, they can allow an inconsistent amount of catalyst to be mixed into the sealant. This
typically occurs as the catalyst volumetric cylinder cycles from one direction to the other and allows back
pressure to let catalyst escape from one side. This is a typical maintenance item that should be added to the
overall Quality Control program.

1. Turn on the pump and lay a continuous bead back and forth in a “snake-like” pattern on a piece of
cardboard. Allow the pump to extrude for 3 to 5 minutes so that 2 complete cycles of the catalyst
cylinder are completed.

2. Let the sealant cure for 3 hours.

3. Check the entire bead by pressing your finger into the surface every 2" to 3" and ensuring the entire
sealant bead is fully cured along the entire length.

If soft spots are present, it is likely the problem

needs to be addressed with a pump technician
who will replace the pump seals. The soft spots will
typically occur in a consistent fashion (or specified
length) along the extruded bead of sealant. Some
pump inspector also uses this test method to check
sealant full length mixing is homogeneous or not (like
butterfly).

Snake Test to help identify pump mixing quality is

consistently good or not

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5.2.2.8 Peel Adhesion Test
Peel adhesion test is the most effective daily test to verify sealant adhesion to a substrate. This simple
screening test should be used as the daily test to verify adhesion of sealant to a substrate. This test should be
performed on all substrates to which the sealant is expected to have adhesion at the following intervals:

• After each pump start-up or after extended breaks

• After a change of the curing agent or base container
• For each new lot of substrate

Following is a description of the peel adhesion test:

1. Clean and prime the substrate as recommended by Dow Corning.

2. Place a piece of polyethylene sheet or bond breaker tape across the flat surface.

3. Apply a bead of sealant and tool it to form a strip approximately 200 mm long, 15 mm wide and 6 mm
thick. At least 40mm of the sealant should be applied over the polyethylene sheet or bond breaker tape.

4. It is best to imbed a wire mesh halfway within the body of the sealant. For best results, solvent clean and
prime the screen to ensure good adhesion to the wire mesh. If wire mesh is not available, reliable results
can still be achieved.

5. After sealant cure, grasp the 4 cm tab of sealant which overlays the polyethylene sheet. Pull the sealant at
a 180° angle. Peel back only 10 to 20 mm of sealant leaving the remainder in place for additional testing.

6. If the sealant tears within itself and remains fully bonded to the substrate, this is called “cohesive failure”.
100% cohesive failure is desirable since this indicates that the strength of adhesion is greater than the
strength of cohesion.

Photo left hand side demo a daily adhesion test performed on the off cut aluminium frames, right hand side photo shown
a sealant bead applied onto a hidden area of glazed unit for verifying adhesion can be build up or not.

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7. If the sealant releases from the substrate, the sample indicates 100% adhesive failure (or 0% cohesive
failure) since sealant adhesion develops over time, repeat the test after an additional 24 hours of cure.
Continue until 100% cohesive failure is achieved. If adhesion does not develop as expected, contact your
local Dow Corning Construction Office.

Following are some additional recommendations for peel adhesion testing:

• Peel adhesion tests must be run on production samples from the exact same lot of substrate or profile.

• The substrate should be cleaned exactly the way the production units are cleaned.

• The peel adhesion samples must be cured in the same temperature and humidity that the production
units are stored.

• Samples should be tested periodically, for example 1, 2, 3 days cure for Dow Corning ® 983 and
Dow Corning® 993N. Testing can conclude once the peel adhesion test shows full adhesion or 100%
cohesive failure. For Dow Corning ® 795 and Dow Corning ® 995, peel adhesion tests should be
performed at 7 day intervals.

• For the wet adhesion test required for the adhesion on anodized aluminium substrate, no specific
reconditioning required before the peel test.

• Local authorities may required specific and additional testing procedure such as: Once samples achieve
full adhesion, immersed them in room temperature water for one day to seven days and test them again
for cohesive failure.

• Important: SSG production units can only be shipped to the jobsite once full adhesion has been verified
by successful peel adhesion tests under dry and wet conditions (for anodized aluminium). 100%
cohesive failure required.

5.2.2.7 H-Piece Test

The H-piece test is the primary test used to evaluate sealant cure properties. This test should be performed
once for every combination of base and curing agent. If a container is changed, an H-piece test should
be used to confirm that the sealant cure properties are acceptable. In some instances, Dow Corning may
not require H-piece testing as a part of a comprehensive quality control program if other procedures such
as peel adhesion and deglaze testing are performed at an appropriate frequency and if local standards
and regulations do not require H-piece testing. The H-piece test can be used as a daily adhesion quality
control test but because the peel test is less complicated to perform, the peel test is the recommended daily
adhesion quality control test.

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Every time a container is changed, two H-piece test samples should be produced. Samples should be made
using actual production substrates (aluminium profile and glass, typically). The substrates should be cleaned
and primed in the same manner as production units are prepared. The test samples should be stored in the
same temperature and humidity environment as the actual production units.

The first H-piece sample should be tested when production units are to be shipped to the jobsite. The peel
adhesion tests should be used to verify full adhesion (100% cohesive failure). Full adhesion typically occurs
after 1 to 3 days of cure for Dow Corning ® 983/Dow Corning® 993N and 7 to 14 days for Dow Corning ® 795/
Dow Corning ® 995, depending on joint geometry, spacer type, temperature and humidity. Dow Corning ®
795 or Dow Corning® 995 must have full adhesion and cure in the actual production units before the units are
shipped to the jobsite. If properly cured, the sealant should have a minimum strength of 0.70 MPa with 100%
cohesive failure. If results are not acceptable, a second H-piece is available for additional testing.

Below is a detail of showing the dimensions of an H-piece sample:

Test samples can be prepared using a wooden block which has been cut to allow a cavity to be filled with
sealant in the dimension shown. The wooden block should be pre-treated with a soap solution or paraffin
wax to provide a bond-broken surface for the sealant. Alternatively, a polyethylene bondbreaker tape can be
applied to the wooden surfaces to contact the sealant. A polyethylene U-channel specifically designed for
this test method can also be used.

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Two H-piece samples should be produced for every combination of curing agent and base used in
production. Test samples should be stored in the same conditions as the actual production units. One
sample should be tested at the same time that production units are to be shipped to the jobsite. Separately,
peel adhesion testing should verify full adhesion (100% cohesive failure) at the same time.

H-piece samples can be tested with either a instron tensile tester or through the use of a “Roman Scale”. A
Roman Scale as represented below will allow the silicone user to test sealant cure and adhesion with a low
cost piece of equipment.

The weight applied to the silicone joint is equal to the weight (W) on the Roman Scale plate times the ratio of
b/a. The H-piece sample should be tested to rupture. The tensile strength at rupture should be a minimum
of 0.70 MPa. This value corresponds to strength of 12 * 50 * 0.7 = 420 N applied to the test piece. This
strength corresponds to a load of 42 kg. If the Roman Scale is designed to have a b/a ratio of 10, a weight of
4.2 kg should be applied to the plate (W). The load should be applied for a maximum of 10 seconds with no
adhesive or cohesive failure of the H-piece. If no rupture occurs, incrementally add 0.5 kg to the scale until
the H-piece ruptures. Record the load at rupture and percent cohesive failure observed on the test sample.

In absence of local standards, H-piece testing of Dow Corning ® 795, Dow Corning ® 995, Dow Corning ® 983
or Dow Corning ® 993N should meet a minimum strength of 0.70 MPa with 100% cohesive failure to actual
production substrates. Results of H-piece testing should be recorded in a quality control log. A sample copy
of an SG Quality Control Log is included in the Documentation section of this manual.

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5.2.2.9 De-Glaze Test
Deglazing is a method of quality inspection used to confirm sealant adhesion, joint fill and quality in actual SG
production units. Once the glass or panel is removed, the silicone sealant is inspected for cure, mix, uniformity
of fill, lack of bubbles or air entrapment and most importantly, to verify sealant adhesion. Deglazing is very
useful to production personnel as a form of feedback on their performance. Production personnel should be
present during the inspection.

Deglaze tool –Glazer Deglaze tool –steel wire with handles

Workers put steel wire to glazed structural joint through cut open weatherseal joint (L joint design). If structural joint can be access
directly then knife or glazer can be used in cut open the sealant joint right photo).

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Workers using steel wire to cut open the glazed structural sealant and glaze tape (weatherseal need to remove first with knife). It can be
operated at either way (both on top or one top one down)

After structural joint cut open the un-glazed glass can be removed from the support frame. Right side photo shown the glass was
removed then the joint fill (right photo shown excellent joint fill) and sealant mix quality can be visually check.

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Left side photo shown incomplete joint fill (big cavity between glaze tape and sealant). Right side photo had complete joint fill (no cavity).

Sealant poor mixing (white streaking pattern) found in the deglazed units.

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Good adhesion was found between structural sealant onto alum. frame and glass surface. Right side photo shown a large area of
sealant lost adhesion onto alum frame.

Sealant can be tested by Durometer to see its cure status (shore A hardness should fallen into 20-50 reasonable range), Measured
sealant bite (both on the alum frame and glass surface) and check whether match as design bite and min. bite requirement as stated in
written print review report. Note that durometer test is very subjective but can be used as an indicator if sealant hardness reading is out
of 20-50 range.

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An example of deglaze report or form listed below can be used as reference.

Dow Corning Deglaze Inspection Form

Project number/name: _14-00123_ABC Building, Central, Hong Kong

Deglaze date_2014-03-20__________________ Deglaze place: Customer factory at South China

Glazing System Description: □ 2 sided □ 4 sided □ Other

Frame description: Silver Grey PVDF coated Alum extrusion_

Glass description:_ 8mm+12mm air+8mm IGU _(Unit 53#-5UN-068)_ □ Vision □ Spandrel □ Other
Glass description:_12mm monolithic glass (Unit 53#-5UN-057)_ □ Vision □ Spandrel □ Other

Temperature /humidity during curing: ___19°C, 62%RH

Primer（lot number): _ Primer 1200OS (0007182665) Cleaning Solvent: ____MEK__________________
Dispensing pump type: □ CYH □ Graco □ Reinhardt □ Lisec □ H&G □ Other

Structural Measured Measured Measured

Dow
Panel size Sealant structural structural glueline
Frame ID Corning Lot number
(mm) application bite (frame) bite (glass) (mm)
Product
date (mm) (mm)
53#-5UN-068 1470x2254 DC983 B: 0007622971 2014-3-14 29mm 29mm 8 mm
C: 0007489014
29#-5UN-057 1522x2254 DC983 B: 0007622971 2014-3-14 29mm 29mm 8 mm
C: 0007489014
Comments on Adhesion, Joint Fill, Sealant Cure Uniformity and Air Entrapment or Bubbles and other observations:

1. Good adhesion and joint fill was found at both tested units (refer to photos #2 to #4 for unit 53#-5UN-068 and
photos #10 to #12 for unit 29#-5UN-057 in appendix A).

2. Adequate sealant hardness of Shore A 32 and 34.5 was found respectively, please refer to photos #7 for unit
53#-5UN-068 and photo # 16 for unit 29#-5UN-057 in appendix A.

3. Mixing quality of the sealant was found adequate. Refer to photo #8 in appendix A for butterfly test and snap
time test. No micro bubble presented in the snap time sample and two glazed units.

Fabricator Name/Representative: _____________________________________

Dow Corning Representative: ___________________________________

Distributor: N/A Report Issue Date: 2014-03-23

_______________________

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During De-glaze inspection, the following elements should be evaluated:

• Measured dimension of the structural bite. The minimum structural bite as determined in the project
review must be satisfied. An underfilled joint may affect the performance of the SSG system.

• Measured dimension of the glueline thickness.

• Adhesion of the structural sealant to the substrate and panel.

• Sealant uniformity of cure and sealant mix.

• Lack of air entrapment and bubbles in the sealant.

• Substrates details (color and coating type of alum, glazing accessory…etc) should be reviewed to ensure
they are representative samples and been tested to verify suitability for structural glazing application.

Any deficiencies observed should be reported in the structural glazing quality control log.

Deglazing should be performed as a regular quality control procedure in a production operation. This test
can be performed randomly on any production sample. Additionally, this test should always be performed on
units where the glass is damaged or for some other reason needs to be replaced. When replacing the glass,
a deglaze inspection can easily be performed. Glass can be effectively removed using a knife or piano wire. It
is best to cut the sealant mid-way in the joint so that enough sealant is left on the frame and panel to allow an
adhesion test to be performed. A peel adhesion test, as described earlier in this manual, can be performed on
the remaining sealant.

Following is a recommended frequency for deglaze testing to be performed on a project:

First Deglaze – 1 unit out of first 10 units manufactured (1/10)

Second Deglaze – 1 unit out of next 40 units manufactured (2/50)
Third Deglaze – 1 unit out of next 50 units manufactured (3/100)

Through the remainder of the project, 1 unit of every 100 units manufactured. Additional units (previous or
following units made at the same date will be preferred) may be deglazed if previously inspected units show
any signs of concern. This could helps identify if the quality issue or concern is incidental or a continuous
defect. Please be aware of Dow Corning requires satisfactory de-glaze test log to be submitted prior to issue
structural performance warranty.

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For the field applied structural sealant glazing projects, de-glaze test or an alternative non-total destructive
field adhesion test (similar to ASTM C1521 Standard Practice for Evaluating Adhesion of Installed
Weatherproofing Sealant Joints) should be performed to verify good adhesion and joint fill are obtained
in practice. The minimum one test per elevation per floor is recommended. Please contact Dow Corning
technical engineer for details.

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5.2.2.10 Two-Component Dispensing Equipment Guidelines
Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N Structural Glazing Silicone Sealant is a high performance
material, which is certificated and approved by official authorities and test institutes for structural glazing
applications. Properly applied, the sealant provides excellent long-term adhesion and durability, which is
necessary for structural glazing applications.

Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N Structural Glazing Silicone sealant requires correct pumping
and mixing by the sealant user to achieve its intended performance. State of the art technology for the
application of two-component sealants uses a sophisticated pumping, metering and mixing machine with
either a dynamic or static mixer. There are several different suppliers for such equipment. The dispensing
machines available in the market are all different in design, so therefore Dow Corning strongly recommends
that the sealant user follow the guidelines provided by the equipment supplier regarding the proper use and
maintenance of the dispensing equipment. In addition to the guidelines from the equipment supplier, Dow
Corning recommends that the sealant user understands and complies with the following best practices:

• Sealant must be dispensed free from exposure to air. Dow Corning ® 983 and Dow Corning ® 993N
Structural Glazing silicone sealant must be processed in a closed system free from exposure to air. Air
incorporated into the sealant may have a severe detrimental effect on the adhesion and performance of
the sealant. Air trapped during the change of sealant containers must be completely bled out or flushed
out of the system prior to use.

• Regularly inspect and maintain components of the dispensing equipment. Air can be incorporated into
the sealant if the pump is defective or gaskets have hardened or are damaged allowing air ingress into
the system. When using high pressure pumping equipment with a follower plate system, regularly check
the follower plate to ensure that it is moving smoothly and will not be blocked by a damaged drum or
pail or by a damaged or brittle gaskets. Proper maintenance and cleaning of the mixer helps to ensure
properly mixed sealant. Filters and gaskets should be regularly inspected and replaced as necessary.

• Ensure that there is no contamination of sealant components. Sealant must not come in contact with
machinery oils from the equipment. Pumps must be checked for tightness and oil should not be used
on the follower plates.

• When using a solvent such as Dow Corning ® 3522 Concentrated cleaning solvent for cleaning or
flushing of the mixing line, the sealant lines must be completely closed against the solvent lines to avoid
contamination of the sealant with solvent. All gaskets must be compatible with the cleaning solvent.

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• Regularly maintain gaskets. Some gaskets, especially those in direct contact to the sealant
components, could become brittle or will show a volume increase after prolonged exposure.
Deteriorated gaskets must be immediately replaced. Please request from your equipment supplier
gaskets and other components, which are compatible and recommended for use with Dow Corning ®
983 and Dow Corning ® 993N Structural Glazing silicone sealant. The equipment supplier should also
provide a schedule for regular replacement of gaskets. Please contact your Dow Corning Technical
service engineer if you need specific recommendations.

5.3 Surface Preparation and Sealant Application

Every structural glazing project requires a diligent and thorough procedure to ensure that substrates are
properly cleaned prior to sealant application. The following procedures should be followed for every structural
glazing application. Further description of the cleaning, priming and placing procedures are included in the
subsequent section.

1. Inspect substrates and materials prior to use. The materials used in production must be representative
of the materials that were tested and approved by Dow Corning. The substrates, i.e. aluminium profiles,
should be in good condition and not damaged by outdoor weathering.

2. Clean substrates as recommended in the Dow Corning written approval for the project. Joint surfaces
must always be clean, dry, dust free and frost free. Moisture or contaminants on the surface may have
an adverse effect on sealant adhesion to a substrate.

3. Prime the surface to receive sealant if required by the Dow Corning written approval for the project.

4. Place the glass or panel to be glazed. Care must be taken to not contaminate cleaned surface during
any phase of production. If contamination occurs, surfaces must be recleaned.

5. Apply sealant into the Structural Glazing joint cavity. The joint must be completely filled with sealant by
“pushing the bead” of sealant into the joint in a continuous manner, air entrapment can be avoided.

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6. Tool or strike the sealant joint surface with a tooling device such as a spatula. The sealant must be
pushed into the joint with a tool. Scooping excess sealant from the joint is not acceptable tooling.
Tooling helps to ensure that the sealant wets out the joint surfaces and completely fills the joint without
air entrapment.

7. Inspect the finished Structurally Glazed units. Determine whether the entire Structurally Glazed joints
have been properly filled and tooled. Determine whether the Structurally Glazed units are stored in
proper way in racks or by other means and inspect whether the sealant is curing properly. Ensure that all
of the recommended quality control tests are being performed.

5.3.1 Substrate Cleaning Procedure

This section provides information on cleaning solvents and general cleaning procedures for porous and
non-porous substrates. One of the key requirements of good sealant adhesion is a clean surface. Proper
cleaning is accomplished through the use of the “two-cloth” cleaning method, see later section for details.
Always confirm with the supplier of each substrate that the cleaning procedures and solvents are compatible
with their material.

The proper use of solvents is an important part of the surface preparation requirements for substrates that
are to be structurally bonded. Solvents all differ in their effectiveness in removing certain contaminants. Dow
Corning will test with the specific solvents selected, and cleaning and priming recommendations will be
based on the use of this solvent. Dow Corning recommends caution when using denatured alcohol due to
potential contamination from the denaturants.

Please be aware that certain aggressive solvents can adversely affect finishes such as polyester powder-
coated aluminum. However, milder solvents such as IPA (isopropyl alcohol) may not effectively remove the
wax of coating hence it could lead to poor adhesion. Always check with the substrate supplier for solvent
compatibility with their materials and sealant supplier’s solvent recommendation for optimum adhesion prior
to sealant application.

Please follow the solvent manufacturer’s safe handling recommendations and local, state and national
regulations regarding solvent usage.

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5.3.1.1 Non-Porous Substrate – Solvent Considerations
Non-porous surfaces must be cleaned with a solvent before the sealant is applied. The solvent used will
depend on the type of dirt or oil to be removed and the substrate to be cleaned. Non-oily dirt and dust can
usually be removed with a 50% solution of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water (or 75/25 Ethanol with water
mixture) or methylated spirit. Oily dirt or films generally require a degreasing solvent such as xylene or methyl
ethyl ketone (MEK).

5.3.1.2 Porous Substrates – Solvent Considerations

Porous stone substrates such as granite or marble might not be sufficiently cleaned by solvent cleaning.
Depending on the condition of the surface, porous substrates may require abrasion cleaning, solvent
cleaning or both. Laitance and surface dirt must be completely removed.

High pressure water blasting is an effective cleaning method, or a bristle brush with running water may
suffice. Porous materials may absorb water or solvents after cleaning or priming. Hence, water or solvents
used for cleaning must be allowed to evaporate completely before sealant is applied.

5.3.1.3 Two-cloth cleaning method

The “two-cloth” cleaning method consists of a solvent wipe followed by a dry cloth wipe to lift and remove
the solvent and contaminants suspended in the solvent. See below photo. Note that multiple cleanings may
be required to properly clean a substrate.

   
Applicator demo two-clothes cleaning method

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Following is the procedure described in greater detail:

1. Pour or dispense an acceptable cleaning-grade solvent onto the cloth. A plastic (solvent-resistant)
squeeze bottle works best for organic cleaning solvents. Do not dip the cloth into the container of
solvent, as this will contaminate the cleaning agent.

2. Wipe vigorously to remove contaminants. Check the cloth to see if it has picked up contaminants.
Rotate the cloth to a clean area and re-wipe until no additional dirt is picked up.

3. Immediately wipe the cleaned area with a separate clean, dry cloth before the solvent has evaporated.
This technique will allow dirt and contaminants suspended in the solvent to be lifted and removed with
the second dry cloth.

4. Visually inspect the second cloth to determine if contaminants were effectively removed. If the second
cloth remains dirty, repeat the “two-cloth cleaning method” until the second cloth remains clean. For
each subsequent cleaning, rotate each cloth to a clean portion of the cloth. Do not clean with the dirty
portion of the cloth. For best results, replace used and dirty cloths frequently.

 
A solvent resistant buffer container should be used for substrate cleaning.

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5.3.2 Substrate Priming Procedure
Dow Corning® Primer sometimes is required to optimize sealant adhesion for an application which has been
confirmed as a result of Dow Corning adhesion testing or customer testing.

The following procedure describes how to properly prime surfaces with Dow Corning Primer:

1. Before using, verify that the Dow Corning primer is within it stated shelf life. The primer should be stored
below 25°C in its original unopened container. The primer should be clear and water-like in appearance.
If the primer is milky white in appearance, do not use the primer. Red colored primer is also available to
give a visual identification for priming work.

2. Joint surface must first be clean and dry. The step of priming should begin within four (4) hours after the
cleaning step. If there is a greater time delay, joint surfaces must be re-cleaned prior to priming.

3. P
our a small amount of primer into a clean, dry container. Do not pour more than a 10 minute supply
of primer into the working container. Replace and tighten the cap on the container immediately after
dispensing the primer. Excessive exposure of the primer to atmospheric moisture will cause it to
deteriorate and turn milky white in the container.

4. Pour a small amount of primer from the working container onto a clean, dry, lint-free cloth and gently
wipe a thin film on all joint surfaces requiring primer. Apply only enough primer to wet the surface. Over-
priming can cause adhesion loss between the sealant and the substrate. If too much primer is applied, a
powdery white film will form on the substrate. Over-priming is not an acceptable practice and should be
stopped immediately. Over-primed surfaces must be re-cleaned and primed in a proper manner.

5. Allow the primer to dry until all of the solvent evaporates. This typically takes from 5 to 30 minutes
depending on temperature and humidity.

6. Inspect the surface for dryness and for the appearance of over-priming. A primed non¬porous surface
will have a slight haze. If red colored primer is used, the primed surfaces will appear red in color. Some
newly formulated primer (Dow Corning® 1200OS UV Traceable Primer and Dow Corning® C OS Primer)
contains UV indicator that allows for inspection to trace the priming condition by 365nm long waves
UV lamp. You can contact Dow Corning Technical Engineer for the UV tracer details. Sealant must be
applied the same day the surfaces are primed. Any surfaces primed but not sealed on the same day
must be covered to prevent contamination or re-cleaned and re-primed before applying sealant.

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Fig: Primer with UV tracer indicator can be easily identified by UV Lamp. The upper area has primed and a blue mark confirms this when
in the presence of long waves UV.

5.3.3 Masking
If aesthetics are important, surface adjacent to the SSG joint can be protected by masking. Prior to sealant
installation, a masking tape can be applied to the surface adjacent to the joint. Test the tape prior to use to
ensure that it can be easily removed and does not damage the substrate. During application of the tape, do
not apply the tape to joint surfaces since residual adhesive from tape may harm sealant adhesion. Immediately
after the sealant has been applied and tooled, remove the tape.

5.3.4 Placing the Panel

The glass or panel can be placed once the profiles have been cleaned and primed if necessary. The same
cleaning and priming procedures should also be performed at the same time to the glass or panel. Care must
be taken to not contaminate cleaned and primed surfaces that are to be sealed. Finger prints can cause
adhesion loss. Dow Corning recommends the use of powder free latex gloves to handle glass panels if there
is concern about physical contact with the joint surfaces.

The size and number of setting blocks required to support the glass weight should be advised by the glass
supplier. It is normal to use setting blocks in most glazing designs, but it is possible to use the silicone sealant
in the weatherseal as a “liquid setting block”. Please be aware of that if the silicone is used as a setting block
the sealant must be 100% cured in the horizontal before shifting to vertical racks. If not fully cured the weight
of the glass will cause sealant to deform.

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5.3.5 Site Glazing Considerations
Most of the substrate cleaning and priming procedures described above apply to both site glazing and
factory glazing. Key considerations for structural glazing on site include:

• Sealant must be stored away from excessive heat. Exposure of the sealant to high temperatures would
cause the sealant to degrade and cure improperly.

• An application temperature range of 10°C to 35°C is recommended. At lower temperatures, the

substrate must be kept free of condensation or moisture. Substrate temperatures in excess of +50°C
will adversely affect the cure and adhesion of the sealant to the substrate.

• Because environmental conditions cannot be controlled on a jobsite, joint surfaces must be cleaned and
primed and the panels must be placed and sealed in one (1) hour or less.

• Temporary fasteners must be used to keep the Structurally Glazed joint stable during cure of the sealant.
Dow Corning ® 795/Dow Corning ® 995 requires 1 to 4 weeks or longer for full cure. Sealant cure rate is
influenced by the SSG joint geometry, spacer tape type (open or close cell) temperature and humidity.
Temporary fasteners may only be removed once the sealant has developed full cure and adhesion.

• A comprehensive quality control program which includes the skin-over time, elastomeric test, peel
adhesion test and deglaze test must be followed. Dow Corning can assist in the development of a
comprehensive quality control program for structural glazing on site.

The recommend practices for the site glaze application of sealant is to assemble all substrates in their final
position, then apply the sealant into the joint. Squeeze glazing or so called delayed glazing techniques,
where apply sealant first in the joint then press glass onto the joint, is not recommended unless pre-view by
Dow Corning technical service engineer and being verified by satisfactory field deglaze test result.

5.3.6 Sealant Application Procedure

Sealant should only be applied in Structural Glazing joints which have been cleaned and primed by the
recommended procedures. Sealant must be applied to clean, dry, dirt-free and frost-free surfaces and the
joint surfaces must be primed if recommended by Dow Corning for the specific project. Sealant adhesion
may be harmed by an improperly cleaned or primed Structural Glazing joint. Sealant must also completely
fill the Structural Glazing joint. The performance of the structurally glazed system is dependent on having
appropriate structural bite. An underfilled Structurally Glazing joint may jeopardize the performance of the
structural glazing system.

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The following procedures describe the proper procedures to apply sealant:
1. Apply sealant in a continuous operation using an application gun or dispensing equipment. A positive
pressure, adequate to fill the entire joint, should be used. By “pushing the bead” of sealant into the joint
in a continuous manner, air entrapment can be avoided.

2. Tool the sealant with light pressure before a skin forms on the sealant. This is typically within 5 to 10
minutes.

3. Avoid the use of wet tooling aids such as soaps or solvents during tooling. Dry tooling is recommended.
Do not scoop sealant since this does not effectively push sealant into the joint causing the sealant to
fully wet out the sides of the joint.

4. If the surface adjacent to the SSG joint has been masked, remove the masking at this time.

Note: Pre-coat or skim coat a thin layer structural sealant on the clear glass to hidden the sealant joint or
glaze tape is becoming more and more popular glazing practice for improving joint appearance. Please note
that skim coat at the adhesive tape side will inhibit the tape adhesion to the glass surface. Proper temporary
fixing devise will be required to ensure good joint fill and wet out the joint surface in order to optimum sealant
adhesion build up and provide glass fixing prior to structural sealant cured fully. Adequate structural sealant
must be used in the skim coat and pre-coated sealant surface must be clean prior to apply new structural
sealant onto it.

The thickness of skim coat should be 1-3mm, if one component structural sealant is used as skim coat (i.e.
Dow Corning® 795 grey as skin coat and Dow Corning® 983 black is used rest of the joint) it must be allowed
skin coat sealant to cured sufficiently (at least 48 hours) prior to apply new structural silicone, otherwise
considerable longer time will be required for skin coat sealant curing and adhesion build up.

According to our past experience, it is known that Dow Corning ® 983 can bond well to cured Dow Corning®
795, see below photos. However, it may had inconsistent adhesion to pre-coat Dow Corning® 995. Therefore,
please always perform adhesion test to verify good adhesion can be obtained prior to skim coat application.

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5.3.7 Sealant Cure Requirements
All room temperature cure (RTV) silicone sealants whether one-component or two-component require
exposure to atmospheric moisture to cure. For one-component structural silicone sealant (i.e. Dow Corning®
795 and Dow Corning® 995) the material will cure from the area that is exposed to air into deeper section,
since air moisture and sealant by-product need to migrate through this cured layer of the sealant, the full cure
time will be highly dependent upon the joint size and the ambient temperature and humidify during the cure.

In a closed environment or concealed joint that is not exposed to atmospheric moisture the sealant cure will
be slow or may even be nonexistent.

5.3.7.1 Site Glazing Cure Requirements

Temporary support of adjoining materials must be used during the cure of structural sealant for site glazing.
The SSG joint must be static during cure to prevent stress on the sealant as it cures and develops full
adhesion and strength.

The curing time of a one component silicone sealant, such as Dow Corning® 795, in structural joints, is related to
1. Joint depth
2. Temperature and humidity
3. Spacer type (open cell or close cell)

Cure Time Dow Corning® 795 Dow Corning® 995

1st Day 2.3 mm 2.5 mm
2nd Day 3.1 mm 3.6 mm
3 rd Day 4.3 mm 4.5 mm
7 days 6.1 mm 6.6 mm
14 days 9.7 mm 9.8 mm

It appears that the joint depth increases the cure rate decreases. In order to optimize the sealants cured
strength to ensure its satisfactory performance, sealant joint depth should be limited to 15mm and 20mm
for Dow Corning® 795 and Dow Corning® 995 respectively when the sealant is applied on site and exposed
to air from one side only. This means if open cell spacer is used a max 30mm and 40mm deep joint can
be applied respectively. If these products can be used in the shop where glazed units can be stored indoor
without heat exposure during sealant cure, deeper joint may be supported by Dow Corning.

Note: When Dow Corning® 795 structural sealant  is used in joints with a sealant bite greater than 12mm wide then a material quality
check as noted in this manual on pages 47- 49 clause 5.2  must be performed in advance to confirm that the sealant is in good
condition and therefore suitable for this application.

Some regional building codes (i.e. JGJ102) request  a sealant bite up to a 24mm for one part structural sealant, our maximum 40mm
deep joint design for Dow Corning® 995 stated in the above statement is made based on success project experience and is not to be
considered as a contradiction to these building regulation or codes.

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5.3.7.2 Factory Glazing Cure Requirements
Dow Corning® 795 and Dow Corning® 995 Structural Glazing Silicone Sealant typically requires 1 to 4 weeks
or longer to cure in a production facility environment. Complete cure time depends on joint geometry, spacer
type, temperature and humidity. The structurally glazed units must not be moved to the jobsite until the sealant
has fully cured and it can be demonstrated through quality control testing that the sealant has achieved full
adhesion (100% cohesive failure).

Dow Corning® 983 and Dow Corning® 993N Structural Glazing Silicone sealant cures in deep section within 4
to 72 hours (more than 30mm deep joint) depending on joint geometry, spacer type, temperature and humidity.
The sealant generally achieves full adhesion (100% cohesive failure) in 1 to 7 days depend on substrate types
and ambient environment. Adhesion build up can be accelerated by using Dow Corning®1200OS UV traceable
Prime or Dow Corning® Primer C/Primer C OS.

The structurally glazed units must not be moved to the jobsite until the sealant has fully cured and it can
be demonstrated through quality control tests that the sealant has achieved full adhesion (100% cohesive
failure). Verification of sealant cure and adhesion is done through the use of “peel adhesion” and/or “H-piece”
testing. it is the responsibility of the SSG applicator to perform these tests as prescribed in this manual. These
procedures are described in greater detail later in the next section.

5.3.8 Re-glazing Procedures

Glass breakage occurs during all phases of a construction project and even long after the building is
completed. How a system will be re-glazed is an important design consideration. The specific procedures will
vary from project to project. Following are general guidelines for re-glazing.

5.3.8.1 Re-glazing Due to Glass Breakage

The following procedure assumes that a Dow Corning Silicone Structural Glazing Sealant was originally used
on the project and that the original recommendations are available to the contractor performing the repairs. If
this information is not available, please contact your Dow Corning Construction Office.

1. First determine that the existing sealant is well adhered. A peel adhesion test must be performed to
confirm that the existing sealant has excellent adhesion (100% cohesive failure) to the frame. If excellent
adhesion is not achieved, please contact your Dow Corning Construction Office.

2. Remove all existing damaged glass. Depending on the design, the glass may be removed using a cutting
blade or piano wire.

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3. Cut away the silicone leaving a thin film (1 to 2 mm) of sealant on the frame. Complete removal of the
sealant is not necessary. If complete removal of the sealant is preferred, Care must be taken to avoid
damage to the finish of the substrate during removal of the sealant.

4. If freshly applied sealant will be applied within 1 hour after cutting the cured sealant, solvent cleaning
of the existing silicone surface will not be necessary. Since new silicone sealant fully adheres to cured
silicone sealant, no priming is required for silicone sealant to adhere to silicone sealant. If the existing
silicone is solvent cleaned, allow the absorbed solvent to evaporate before application of the new
sealant.

5. If the existing sealant is completely removed down to the frame, solvent cleaning of the frame will be
required. Primer may also be required. Please refer to the original Dow Corning approvals for the project.

6. Clean and prepare the glass or panel before setting on the frame. Replace the spacer if necessary and
set the glass. Install temporary fasteners to allow the glass to remain attached as the sealant cures.
Mask the joint if necessary.

7. Fill the SSG joint with a fresh bead of sealant. Tool the joint and remove the masking if used. Please refer
to the sealant application procedures described earlier in this section. Inspect the joints to ensure that
they are completely filled and properly tooled.

8. After the sealant has fully cured, the temporary clips may be removed. one-component sealant cure may
take 1 to 4 weeks or longer depending on the joint geometry, temperature and humidity.

9. Quality control guidelines described later in this manual must be completely followed.

Some SSG systems do not allow easy re-glazing of the damaged glass. These systems are designed to have
the entire curtainwall unit, including the frame, removed and replaced together. In such instances, follow the
sealant application guidelines for new factory glazing which is described earlier in this section.

In some instances, the structural joint cannot be accessed once the glass has been set. With systems such
as this where the frame cannot be removed and the glass must be set in the field, it is acceptable to use the
following re-glazing procedure. Please consult with your Dow Corning Technical service engineer prior to using
this re-glazing procedure.

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1. Remove the damaged glass and prepare the substrate as described in steps 1 through 7 above in section
“Surface preparation and Sealant Application”.

2. Apply sealant directly to the frame. Enough sealant must be applied to comfortably overfill the SG joint
once the glass is set on the frame. The glass must be set within 10 minutes of sealant application. The
glass must compress the sealant so it sufficiently fills the joints with minimal air entrapment or bubbles. If
possible, the joint surface should be tooled.

3. Remove the damaged glass and prepare the substrate as described in steps 1 through 7 above in
section “Surface preparation and Sealant Application”.

4. Apply sealant directly to the frame. Enough sealant must be applied to comfortably overfill the SG joint
once the glass is set on the frame. The glass must be set within 10 minutes of sealant application. The
glass must compress the sealant so it sufficiently fills the joints with minimal air entrapment or bubbles. If
possible, the joint surface should be tooled.

5.3.8.2 Re-glazing Due to System Failure

Although complete system failure of a structural glazed system is very rare, there are situations, particularly
with older SG technology or linked to quality problems not associated with the structural silicone, where an
entire structurally glazed façade must be replaced. Because these projects can be very complex, please
contact your Dow Corning Technical service engineer during the investigation and planning phase of the
remediation.

5.3.9 Maintenance
Dow Corning ® Structural Glazing Sealants and structural glazing systems in general do not require
maintenance. Silicone sealants are inherently resistance to ultra-violet light, moisture, ozone, acid rain and
other natural elements. Periodic inspection of the sealant and structural glazing system is recommended.
Some local regulations require periodic inspection by an independent party. Please contact your Dow
Corning® Technical Service Engineer of a maintenance program specific for your project when required.

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5.4 Documentation
The sealant user is responsible for developing proper quality control documentation for their project. Dow
Corning provides in the following pages, sample quality control logs that can be
used on their own or as a model for a customized quality control manual. At completion of a project, the quality
control logs must be provided to Dow Corning if a warranty is requested. Dow Corning recommends that
project documentation be retained for at least the length of the warranty. These documents should be available
to Dow Corning or local officials if requested.

A comprehensive quality control manual for an SSG project should include the following:

• SSG details that were reviewed and approved by Dow Corning

• Dow Corning adhesion and compatibility approval letter(s)

• In-house SSG production and quality control procedures

• Completed sealant production quality control logs, as shown in later section, with glass test, butterfly
test, snap time test and mix ratio test results

• Completed sealant adhesion and cure quality control logs, as shown in later section, with peel adhesion
test dry and wet conditions and deglaze test results

• Traceability documentation which allows each production unit to be precisely correlated to a specific
date, time and location of production. All production units must be numbered so that they can
be specifically linked to the quality control logs. The position of each panel on the building should
be marked on the elevation drawing so that it can be easily identified if required. This traceability
documentation is critical in the event that a problem needs to be investigated on a project.

Dow Corning will assist you in the development of a comprehensive quality control program. During a
production and quality Control audit, your comprehensive quality control program will be evaluated.

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Product Quality
Quality
5.4.1 Sealant Production Quality Control Logs
Daily Production Quality Control Log

Project Number/Name:
Caulking Person Name:
Production Date: Temp (ºC)/Humidity:
C/A (Black) Lot No: C/A (Black) Expiry Date:
Base (White)Lot No: Base (White) Expiry Date:
Primer: Dow Corning® C Primer Primer Lot No:
Dow Corning® 1200OS Primer Expiry Date:
Cleaner: Xylene 75/25 Ethanol+Water MEK Other (Specify)
(Click)

Dispensing Pump Type: CYH Graco Reinhardt Lisec Other

Morning Production Unit No Production Unit No Production Unit No
Sequence Sequence Sequence
1 8 15
2 9 16
3 10 17
4 11 18
5 12 19
6 13 20
7 14 21
Remark: Snap time and any sealant pail change should be recorded here.

After- Production Unit No Production Unit No Production Unit No

noon Sequence Sequence Sequence
1 8 15
2 9 16
3 10 17
4 11 18
5 12 19
6 13 20
7 14 21
Remark:

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5.4.2 Sealant Adhesion Quality Control Log (Peel Adhesion Test)

Company Name & Location:

Project Name & Location:
Dispensing Pump Type & Location:

Cleaning Solvent: Primer:

Substrates: Primer Lot Number:
Peel Adhesion Test (%
Temp & C/A Lot Base Lot Cohesive Failure)
Date Time Tester
Humidity Number Number
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3

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5.4.3 Sealant Production Quality Control Log (H-Piece Test & Elastomeric Test)

Company Name & Location:

Project Name & Location:
Dispensing Pump Type & Location:

Cleaning Solvent: Primer:

Substrates: Primer Lot Number:
H-Piece Test Dry H-Piece Test Wet Elasto-
Temp & C/A Lot Base Lot
Date Time meric Tester
Humidity Number Number MPa %CF MPa %CF Test

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5.4.4 Deglaze Test Report Form

Dow Corning Deglaze Inspection Form

Project number/name: __________________________________________________________________________
Deglaze date___________________ Deglaze place:_______________________________

Glazing System Description: □ 2 sided □ 4 sided □ Other

Frame description: _________________________

Glass description:___________________________ □ Vision □ Spandrel □ Other

Temperature /humidity during curing: _____________________________________

Primer（lot number): _____________________ Cleaning Solvent: ____________________________

Dispensing pump type: □ CYH □ Graco □ Reinhardt □ Lisec □ H&G □ Other

Structural Measured Measured Measured

Dow
Panel size Sealant structural structural glueline
Frame ID Corning Lot number
(mm) application bite (frame) bite (glass) (mm)
Product
date (mm) (mm)

Comments on Adhesion, Joint Fill, Sealant Cure Uniformity and Air Entrapment or Bubbles or other observations:

1. ___________________________________________________________________________

2. ____________________________________________________________________________

3. ___________________________ _________________________________________________

Fabricator Name/Representative: _____________________________________

Dow Corning Representative: ___________________________________

Distributor: Report Issue Date: _______________________

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5.5 Production and Quality Control Audit
Dow Corning will audit the structural glazing production and quality control operations of any user of Dow
Corning Structural Glazing silicone sealants. During this audit, the sealant user’s production operations,
quality control procedures and documentation will be evaluated. Dow Corning will provide recommendations
for improvement and establish an action plan with the SSG applicator. Following are some of the important
elements that Dow Corning will be evaluating during an audit:

Production Facility Operations and Safety

• Cleanliness of the production facility

• Production facility temperature and humidity

• Proper sealant storage and handling

• Properly operating and well maintained sealant dispensing equipment

• SSG Design and material approved by Dow Corning

• Proper substrate handling

• Compliance with Dow Corning recommended sealant application procedures: two-cloth cleaning
method, priming, sealant application, tooling, etc.

• Storage and handling of production units

• Compliance with reasonable safety procedures including safe handling of flammable materials and use
of personal protective equipment

Quality Control
• Compliance with Dow Corning sealant production quality control procedures: glass test or butterfly test,
snap time test, mix ratio test

• Properly completed sealant production quality control log

• Compliance with Dow Corning adhesion and cure quality control procedures: peel adhesion test, H-piece
test, deglaze test

• Properly completed adhesion and cure quality control log

• Traceability documentation in accordance with Dow Corning recommendations

• Commitment by management to train personnel and implement a comprehensive quality control

program.

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LIMITED WARRANTY INFORMATION -
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
The information contained herein is offered in good faith and
is believed to be accurate. However, because conditions and
methods of use of our products are beyond our control, this
information should not be used in substitution for customer’s
tests to ensure that our products are safe, effective and fully
satisfactory for the intended end use. Suggestions of use shall
not be taken as inducements to infringe any patent.

Dow Corning’s sole warranty is that our products will meet

the sales specifications in effect at the time of shipment.

Your exclusive remedy for breach of such warranty is limited

to refund of purchase price or replacement of any product
shown to be other than as warranted.

DOW CORNING SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY OTHER

EXPRESS OR IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR
MERCHANTABILITY.

DOW CORNING DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ANY INCIDEN-

TAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.