Chicago-based Republic Windows & Doors has announced a $75,000 investment in wet glazing technology, making it one of the first window manufacturers to use this type of glazing, according to a company news release. The new process will be used initially on Republic's high-volume Contour single hung window series.

According to company information, the moisture-cure polymer used in the new process has three times the holding power of standard pressure sensitive adhesives.

"The traditional silicones have very low initial green strength and are somewhat challenging to work with in the manufacturing environment," said Jon Neely, director of technical services. "The major advantage of the new moisture-cure polymers from HB Fuller is in the manufacturing environment, where windows are produced quickly, packaged and shipped sometimes in the same day. The new moisture-cure polymers have a rapid set-up time and tremendous initial green strength that allows manufacturing to take full advantage of near JIT (just-in-time) manufacturing processes without the potential risks often associated with conventional silicone sealants."

According to the company news release, the new process will increase the company's manufacturing capacity by 15 percent while reducing the risk of potential seal failures currently experienced with standard pressure sensitive applications.