A method of manufacturing VIGUs and IGUs comprises providing a first lite; providing a second lite spaced apart from the first lite to form a cavity therebetween; and encircling the lites with a one piece band. Spacers of a metal solder alloy or other reflowable material are inserted between the band and the perimeter edges of the lites. The assembly is heated in an evacuated environment, causing the spacers to melt and hermetically bond to the lites, but not until the cavity has been substantially evacuated.

A sealed unit includes at least two sheets of transparent or translucent material separated from each other by a spacer. One example of a spacer for a sealed unit includes a first elongate strip, a second elongate strip, and filler arranged therebetween. The first and second elongate strips have a small undulating shape in some embodiments. Methods of making spacers and window assemblies as well as devices for use in the manufacture of spacers and assemblies are disclosed including a manufacturing jig and a spool storage rack. The spool storage rack stores a plurality of spools configured to store spacer materials thereon.

A spacer for an insulated glazing unit (IGU) is provided herein, along with an IGU and methods of making the spacer and IGU. The spacer imparts high thermal insulation to the IGU. Also provided are methods of preparing an insulating glazing unit, as well as methods of preparing a spacer for an IGU.

A method of manufacturing VIGUs and IGUs comprises providing a first lite; providing a second lite spaced apart from the first lite to form a cavity therebetween; and encircling the lites with a one piece band. Spacers of a metal solder alloy or other reflowable material are inserted between the band and the perimeter edges of the lites. The assembly is heated in an evacuated environment, causing the spacers to melt and hermetically bond to the lites, but not until the cavity has been substantially evacuated.

A spacer for an insulated glazing unit (IGU) is provided herein, along with an IGU and methods of making the spacer and IGU. The spacer imparts high thermal insulation to the IGU. Also provided are methods of preparing an insulating glazing unit, as well as methods of preparing a spacer for an IGU.