Windowlink puts a Price on Conservatories

Windowlink has developed a fully integrated pricing module for its Windows-based Vector 3D presentation software for conservatories. Vector Plus is available either as a complete design, sales and pricing package, or as an upgrade for existing users to their current Vector program.

This powerful new facility means that the price of a conservatory can actually be calculated by the software as the conservatory is being designed, either in the home or at the showroom, using stored price matrices and pricing rules set up within the program. The customer will be asked to provide responses to questions prompted by a checklist, which also acts as an essential reminder ensuring that nothing is forgotten. In addition to this benefit, the customer can immediately see the effect any changes in the specification may have on the overall price.

Vector Plus is tailored to the specific needs of an individual company by Windowlink. The checklist questions are based on information and pricing criteria provided by the company, and these can simply be changed in the future if required. The answers given are printed as part of the quotation and the customer is handed a confirmation copy. This eliminates the possibility of costly mistakes at the point of sale, and avoids time-consuming recalls to discuss items that were overlooked when the order was taken.

Windowlink's Vector software dramatically reduces the planning and drawing time associated with conservatory design. An intuitive design program, Vector is easy to learn and enables the speedy production of customised sales presentations complete with the company's own logo. It includes a library of all popular conservatory styles complete with decorative glass, window leads and roof glazing options, and produces photo-quality printouts of alternative options shown side by side together with base layouts, roof plans and frame reports.

There's a choice of programs to meet different needs such as Vector Sprint - a basic program including the option to superimpose any conservatory design onto a photo of the customer's house, Vector Bespoke for creating more complex, non-standard designs and now the new Vector Plus pricing package. Designed to be 'future-proof', the Vector range allows updates and add-ons to be incorporated as and when required ensuring users do not have to buy a completely new program every few years. Recent product enhancements include a vast range of Box Gutter designs and the ability to select solid tiled roof effects.

'Windowlink software is all about helping retail installers to close a sale and making it easier for them get it right first time - because mistakes can be expensive. Now with our new Vector Plus sales personnel can produce professional, and most importantly, accurate quotations for conservatories at the click of a button,' comments Giles Hayhurst, Managing Director of Windowlink Limited.

Tel: 01666 860380
Email: mailto:info@windowlink.com
Web: http://www.windowlink.com

GTI-Kombimatec Offers the Definitive Aluminium Package

Machinery manufacturer GTI-Kombimatec Machines Ltd has introduced two models specifically designed to meet the needs of aluminium fabricators.

The DGS500 Double Mitre Saw boasts a number of special features designed purely for aluminium profile machining. The profile platform is manufactured from steel, specially created to carry heavier aluminium sections, whilst mist spray lubrication either side of the saw blade head both cools and cleans the blade, resulting in neater cuts and longer-lasting blade capacity.

An optional feature highly recommended for aluminium fabricators is a special swarf extraction system. A common problem with aluminium machining is that the swarf collected is messier and more prone to congealing than PVCu swarf. Standard waste extraction systems use a waste bag that can easily be ripped apart by aluminium swarf. The new Kombimatec DGS500 avoids this problem by using a special waste disposal unit that collects the aluminium swarf into a dedicated container.

Capable of a large cutting capacity, the DGS500 Double Mitre Saw has a 550mm diameter saw blade and cut lengths measuring up to 5000mm. At the same time, a minimum cut length of 300mm can be achieved due to a cutting cycle specially designed for short pieces. An intelligent machine, the DGS500's saw heads automatically pivot through 0 to 45 degrees and can extend to 67.5 degrees for maximum flexibility. Also designed with the operator's safety in mind, the DGS500 uses 'soft clamping' to protect from risk of injury - high pressure is applied only after the guards have been closed. Automatic hinging guards compliant with CE regulations have also been included.

Fitting neatly alongside the DGS500 is the compact CR7002 Single Head Copy Router. Measuring just 770 x 680 x 1500mm (length, depth, height), the CR7002 nevertheless achieves a maximum routing capacity of 220 x 155mm. The machine also offers precision, with a double acting copy finger for two different tool diameters plus a second copy finger on the right hand side of the router head. A pneumatic safety clamping device also reduces the risk of operator injury.

Tel: 01582 455934
Email: mailto:sales@gtikombi.co.uk
Web: http://www.gtikombi.demon.co.uk

Elumatec Aluminium Machining Centres offer Versatility and Precision

Elumatec, the world's largest manufacturer of profile machining equipment, has now further extended its range of machining centres with the introduction of the Elumatec SBZ121 and SBZ122.

'For use with medium to large aluminium and steel sections these are believed to be the most accurate machines of their type currently available.' says the company. 'They will perform the most complex drilling, tapping and routing with an emphasis on ease of use, set-up and maintenance that belies the sophisticated performance and high output of these machines.'

The essential differences between these two otherwise almost identical machines are the automatic tool changing facility offered by the SBZ122, and provision of additional holders for special tools changed manually. Profiles of up to 3.5 metres may be processed by the SBZ122, a metre longer than those handled by its sibling.

In most other respects both machines offer similar specification and a quality of engineering that beconies apparent from the moment the profile is clamped, it remaining stationary during machining to protect the surfaces. Created for processing lengths of up to 2.5 m, the SBZ 121/122 provides automatic profile processing from the top of the machine, using an electronic 3-axis system that is controlled by an industrial PC operating on the Windows NT plafform. The machine's PC control console is attached with a manoeuvrable extending arm to give the operator full flexibility of movement, whilst data input may be via network or diskette.

By using a rotating angle head that holds two different tools at any one time, the SBZ122 can process the profile from the front and rear as well as the top, providing a machining process that is as versatile as it is precise making it ideal for door production. Tool support allows for both the four principal tools and the rotating angle head, with a special cooling system for the tool spindle also available as an option.
Offering power of 6kw at the spindle, producing speeds of up to 21,000 rpm for burr free, clean finishes. Nonetheless the direct drives for all axes are robust and claim to provide long-term durability and reliablity.

Tel: 01908 580800
Email: mailto:sales@elumatec.co.uk
Web: http://www.elumatec.com

Glaverbel's acid-treated satin finish glasses

Matelux is a float glass with a satin finish applied to one side using a special process that ensures a perfectly regular finish and a uniform appearance. Its applications are limitless because it offers the exact same performance as float glass, whether indoors (furniture, partitions, doors, shower screens, etc.) or outside (double glazing, cladding, windbreaks, balustrades, etc.).

Matelux Silver is a copper- and lead-free environmentally friendly satin finish mirror (MNGE) with a visually striking appearance that radiates mystery and refinement. Many prestige furniture makers and big names in the design world have been lured by this noble material. The Safeversion of Matelux Silver is perfect for sliding doors, furniture (panels, shelves, etc.) and wall coverings. Glaverbel controls the highly complex silvering and satin finishing processes at a single production site, thereby ensuring faultless quality control.

Matelac is the latest innovation in the range. This is a satin finish glass (Matelux) whose back has been painted with a high-quality varnish. Combining a velvety appearance with a soft, contemporary varnished look, Matelac is a must for decorative panelling used in wall coverings, sliding doors, etc. Available in metallic colours (grey and blue), pastels (green, blue and yellow) and white, Matelac is ideal for many types of interiors: living rooms and bedrooms (doors for storage areas, etc.), offices and shops (partitions, display cases, etc.), bathrooms (tables, basin units, wall coverings, etc.).

Web: http://www.glaverbel.com/addons/mirrors/en.htm

Andersen's Tilt-Wash Window

'The 'Tilt-Wash' sliding sash window, from Andersen, is one of the most radical innovations to reach the window market.' claims the company.

With its 'Tilt-Wash' facility, it is safe and easy to clean both the outside as well as the inside of the window - the sashes simply slide down and tilt inwards by
means of simple wash assist glide.

Energy efficiency is provided by low E argon filled double glazed units, supplied as standard, with a U value down to 1.68, meeting current building regulations.

Optional extras, including Georgian glazing bars, pine extension jambs, removable insect screens and a range of hardware are available. The 'Tilt-Wash' is available in 99 standard sizes and in four colours: Sandtone (a neutral beige), Terratone (an earth tone), Forest Green and white.

Tel: 01283511122
Email: mailto:info@blackmillwork.co.uk
Web site: http://www.andersenwindows.co.uk

Ultraframe, the designer and manufacturer of conservatory systems, has launched a new gable support system to give enhanced performance to both its lean-to and gable fronted conservatories.

With an increasing trend towards bigger-projections on lean-to's and more gable fronted styies, the gable beam gives extra support where its needed. The new system essentially incorporates a 'lintel', which fits across either end of a lean-to conservatory or at the front of a gable style, giving increased structural integrity and stability - especially where designs feature double doors.

The gable support system incorporates: an aluminium beam; claddings; reinforcement (over 4m and up to 5m); corner blocks to aid raked frame manufacturing; and guttering to allow continuous runs around the complete conservatory. This system eliminates the side frame 'wobble' that is possible on larger conservatory projections, particularly where double doors are fitted to that elevation. So frame movement is eradicated even when doors are slammed.

The system also claims considerable aesthetic improvements through the opportunity to provide a continuous gutter line rather than employing disparate sections. lnstallation savings are also available by reducing the need for separate soakaways.

The gable support system is available in either white or mahogany foil finishes, can be utilised on projections/widths of up to five metres and accommodates pitch variations from ten to thirty degrees.
Chris Richardson, Ultraframe Technical Director, says of the new development, 'We recognise that gable styles are increasing in popularity. However, with most PVC frames additional lateral support is needed to 'bolster' them, particularly where double doors are needed in the gable elevation. This solution solves all
these problems and gives greater confidence with these designs'.

Tel: 01200 443311
Email: mailto:sales@ultraframe.co.uk
Web: http://www.ultraframe.co.uk

easy-fab - a Software Solution of Benefit to all Parties

The ever-increasing pressure on both fabricators and their suppliers to provide product in the right quantities and at the right time has led to many a lost customer - for both parties. A new software solution, called 'easy-fab', which can be linked to that of the fabricator's system for the cost of a bucket of resin claims to eliminate these problems.

There is a history of scepticism amongst fabricators for computer-led/internet-led solutions to their practical problems. But in this case the originators of the programme are not technical whizz kids from the laboratory but seasoned practitioners from the field.

National Sales Manager of easy-fab is John Chambers who has spent over two years developing the product. Prior to this he spent ten years in fabrication in a variety of roles and then had eight years working in sales for Mila Hardware - giving him a very practical knowledge of the problems experienced from both sides of the fence.

Central to the project was the input from Jim Cronie, Technical Director of Business Micros, supplier of manufacturing software to the UK fenestration industry.
John and a host of industry stalwarts applied themselves to some very basic problems in this chain of supply. He explains:

'The vast majority of orders from fabricators are placed over the phone or faxed in a hand written script, sometimes illegible. This puts a huge strain on suppliers interpreting what the fabricator has really ordered - rather than working from a failsafe system

'Collating orders is often based on historical usage, or simple visual checks - rarely generated from more than experience or guesswork.

'The responsibility for ordering lies, typically, with senior, experienced personnel - tying up his or her valuable time. And, it is not uncommon for a fabricator to place several orders daily with the same supplier, often for express delivery. Then there are times when fabricators order non-standard items for next-day delivery, even though the order may have been in the system for many weeks. When confusion reigns, the telephone is again the preferred medium. We are then back to square one again!' adds Chambers.

Easy-fab is hosted and managed by Alternative Business Solutions of Witney in Oxfordshire, who have a wealth of experience in running trading portals in a variety of different industries. They bring to bear a background and expertise second to none in this very competitive commercial sector. The infrastructure that sits behind easy-fab is akin to that which is used in the banking sector, as confidentiality and reliability are paramount.

What the 'easy-fab' programme is designed to do is to provide complete accuracy from the information contained in the fabricator's manufacturing software, aggregate this information and send this in the form of an order, via the internet, to their suppliers. This removes the chance of human error at a number of stages in the normal course of the transaction. These improvements in accuracy and time saved in human resources can be introduced immediately with no requirement to change from the existing software systems or investing in costly upgrades. It also allows suppliers to create a strong bond with their customers via web ordering.

'The system provides benefits for both fabricator and supplier. For fabricators it delivers pinpoint accuracy by removing the risk of human error at several links in the existing chain.' explains John Chambers. 'Getting the orders right every time will enhance customer satisfaction and reduce the risk of losing business. It will improve lead times and reduce stock holding. By relieving the business of having to devote resources to this function it will free up the business to seek new and bigger customers.

'Suppliers will also benefit from a far more accurate method of ordering, reduced order entry effort (easy-fab will automatically input orders onto suppliers' systems ), improve forward visibility with less chance of stock outs, and create more organised customers.'

'easy-fab' has carried out significant case studies with two of the major companies in this commercial sector. Coldseal order over 1500 door panels from supplier Door Panels PLC every month. The process was very time, labour and cost intensive - and Door Panels were told that it could not be automated economically.

Coldseal and Door Panels went live with easy-fab in June 2002 to introduce automated door panel ordering. This has significantly reduced both errors and manual processing overheads for both companies. In particular, the problem of incorrect panels being manufactured through keying errors has been removed, thereby reducing costly or postponed or cancelled installations.

Paul Parkin, Managing Director of Coldseal comments:

'easy-fab has already had a major impact on our business. We spend less time processing panel orders, send less faxes and we receive shorter lead times from our supplier. It is our intention to use easy-fab for all our fabrication material ordering'.

Contact: John Chambers
Tel: 01332 294539
Email: mailto:info@easy-fab.com

Evergreen Door Offers New Luxury Glass Range

Evergreen Door is now offering the TAJ range of luxury glass as standard on all its door styles.

Featuring brass and bevelled glass, the oval design is the best seller in this premium range. Evergreen can now offer pre-glazed doors or supply the glass separately from stock.

In addition, the company can also offer resin bevelled designs, classic lead, traditional etches and coloured decorative designs.

The new bevelled designs reflect prisms of light into the home whereas traditional etches create that classic look, while offering a greater level of privacy.

Evergreen Door is a manufacturer of steel and fibreglass entrance door systems.

General Manager Robert Benn comments: 'The TAJ range complements our door styles perfectly and provides our customers with even greater choice.'

Tel: 01924 423171

Size Does Matter, says Cotswold

Every habitable upstairs room must have an egress window in order to comply with newbuild Building Regulations. We've all had time to get used to this requirement, but with many windows built into small openings or using the French casement style, standard fire escape hinges are often too large.

Cotswold Architectural Products, specialising in friction stays, has designed and manufactured a solution that meets British Standards for egress and easy-clean and is just eleven inches in size (compared to the standard 14 inches).

The new SPE273 opens initially to provide a minimum 95mm opening (depending on the profile) meeting the easy clean position requirement, and can be quickly and easily opened to a minimum 450mm (meeting the egress opening requirement) by simply pushing firmly on the sash. This latest innovation uses Cotswold's egress clip linkage (adapted from the larger SPE350 stay), the plastic moulded egress clip simply snaps back into place requiring no re-set tools. As part of the development of this hinge Cotswold has undertaken rigorous testing (to 50,000 cycles).

Iain Morgan, Cotswold sales and marketing director, comments: 'Using careful design to make the most of every space often means using smaller windows. The French casement design, with its double opening and no central divide, certainly allows small window spaces to seem more generous and achieve the egress requirement, but finding suitable hardware has, it seems, been a problem for many architects and fabricators. Now, however, weíre confident that the SPE273's low maintenance, intelligent design is set to meet the requirements for increasingly fashionable French casement style windows.'

Tel: 01242 233993
Email: mailto:imorgan@cotswold.clara.net
Web: http://www.cotswold-windows.co.uk

New Vent Solutions from Mila

With both glazed-in and slot ventilation becoming an increasingly popular option - particularly with local authorities and housing associations - hardware manufacturer Mila Hardware has introduced a number of controllable and permanent ventilation solutions in response to demand.

Suitable for PVCu, timber or aluminium windows, the thermally broken aluminium Mila Glazed-In Vent is both attractive and efficient, with a 'canopy-style' external profile which has also been punched to act as an insect mesh. End caps and a range of finishes available in all RAL colours actually add to the overall appearance of the window rather than merely acting as a functional device.

The performance of the Mila glazed-in vents also sets them apart. The specific design of the internal profile means that air is deflected upwards for effective ventilation, offering Free Air Performance (1m1) at 11.237mmz and wind and watertightness to 650 Pa.

Suitable for glazing thicknesses of 20, 24 and 28mm, the Mila Glazed-In Vent is available in two models: a controllable version and a permanent version. Suitable for high-rise buildings where window openers are considered inappropriate, the Mila Controllable Glazed-In Vent incorporates a graded operating mechanism that provides fine control of air and can be activated by lever, rod or cord. However, with building regulations now prohibiting controlled ventilation in buildings where fuel burning appliances such as coal fires are used, the Permanent Glazed-In Vent offers an equally efficient alternative, with good air-flow performance.

In addition to these new options, Mila has also launched a new Slot Vent for surface mounting on all types of windows, available in any size and finish for slot heights 1O - 16mm. With a hood offering weather protection and an optional flyscreen, the Mila Slot Vent is suitable for 3 x 4 or 8 x 6 mm apertures. A special vent:design allows for upward ventilation to avoid excess draughts. For buildings where domestic fuel burning appliances are used, a special hood is available which is designed to be surface mounted upside down to provide deflected air for permanent ventilation.

All the above options are manufactured in accordance with European procedures and carry a 5-year mechanical guarantee and a 2-year labour guarantee.

Tel: 01327 872511
Email: mailto:sales@mila.co.uk
Web: http://www.mila.co.uk

Flexiframe - The Shape of Things to Come

'Flexiframe from Andersen Windows, represents the shape of things to come in the building industry.' the company says.

With Flexiframe, unusual specifications are no longer a problem. Straight-edged window designs can be custom made to virtually any shape and supplied in sizes of up to 5.58m2. Popular shapes include hexagon, triangle, octagon, diamond, pentagon, rectangle and trapezoid.

The windows are non-opening and assembled from linear components, which can be ordered factory assembled or supplied in appropriate lengths ready for local
assembly.

Flexiframe claims low maintenance, high strength and weather resistance. The profiles are made from a Perma-Shield protective reinforced fibreglass on the outside, which is attached to a wood base frame to give the windows structural strength.

All Flexiframe windows are supplied with low E argon filled, energy efficient double glazing as standard. High performance solar control glass is also available with a soft grey tint and special tempered insulating glass.

Flexiframe components are designed to complement other styles of Andersen windows and patio doors. They are also available with accessories and optional extras including natural wood glazing stops, extension jambs, and a range of custom divided light hardwood interior glazing bars.

Tel: 01283 511122
Email: mailto:info@blackmillwork.co.uk
Web: http://www.andersenwindows.co.uk

Era's MPL - A Tailor-Made Choice for Door Manufacturers

Era has introduced a new range of packers, designed to ensure its new multi-point lock (MPL) fits 30 of the most popular door profiles.

'We believe that smooth, hassle-free specification plays a crucial role in providing a top class service to our customers,' explains Dave Hill, Era's director and general manager. 'Our comprehensive range of profile-specific packers means we're able to supply an MPL that's not only high quality, but also individually tailored to our customer's requirements.'

'We also want to grow with our customers and work with them to constantly update our packer range to fit their newly developed profiles. We anticipate that this will enable us to enjoy long-term, responsive relationships with our clients as, together, we meet ever-changing demands of the industry.'

ln addition to manufacturing the lock for different profiles, Era's MPL also offer a range of security options through a selection of rollers, mushrooms, hooks and bolts. All the choices are outlined in the company's Clearer Options guide, which allows customers to smoothly specify the correct lock for their particular needs.

Tel: 01922 490049
Web: http://www.era-security.com

Weatherproofing in Double Quick Time with Conservaflash™

Ultraframe, the designer and manufacturer of conservatory systems, has launched a new pre-formed PVC flashing system.

The new system, which claims to save at least an hour on most conservatory installations, provides an engineered solution to the often complex problem of conservatory flashing. Conservaflash™ offers a pre-packed solution to the installer, without any of the environmental risks of traditional lead flashing. In addition, because the new flashing comes preconfigured with the roof, separate lead cutting, sourcing and waste is obviated. The system also includes a pre-formed soaker that's pre-clipped into the starter bar and fits behind the flashing.

Twin weatherbar grooves act as a primary weatherseal and locator for silicone, while on the front face capillary grooves prevent ingress of wind driven moisture. Thanks to a 93-degree angle the flashing is physically restrained into the chase and ensures integral mechanical retention in tandem with the wedge clips on the top edge and the wedge ribs on the underside. This means that Conservaflash™ will always be held firmly in place during back pointing.

Profiled corners, radiused to the largest angle grinder, eliminates the need to 'over cut' the mortar joint, saving time during installation.

The system is suitable for the majority of Victorian, P-shape, lean-to and Ultralite 5000 PVC conservatories.

Tel: 01200 452375
Email: mailto:sales@ultraframe.co.uk
Web: http://www.ultraframe.co.uk

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