Deceuninck
Acquires Thyssen Polymer
Deceuninck,
worldwide producer of PVCu window systems and building profiles, announced
on 15th April the signing of a sale & purchase agreement for the acquisition
of Thyssen Polymer, the extrusion business unit of ThyssenKrupp Technologies.
The consolidation will start as from June 2003, after completion of the
anti-trust review. The acquisition will give Deceuninck leadership in
its sector world-wide.
Both parties are convinced of the mutual benefits of the deal. 'Thyssen
Polymer and Deceuninck have the same business philosophy, namely a strong
customer focus, high quality extrusion technology and the use of self-manufactured
tools. Moreover, Thyssen Polymer's range of door and window profiles,
and geographical markets are complementary to those of Deceuninck', said
Clement De Meersman, CEO of Deceuninck.
Thyssen Polymer is a world player in the manufacture of PVCu profiles
for doors, windows and facades and realises the majority of its sales
outside Germany, mostly in France, the USA, Poland and other countries
in Central & Eastern Europe. The company is number five in Europe
and number seven in the USA. It has an extrusion plant in Bogen as well
as two extrusion units in the United States (Oakland in New Jersey and
Little Rock in Arkansas), which operate under Vinyl Building Products
Inc. Thyssen Polymer has a total extrusion capacity of approximately 86,000
tonnes per annum and is also active in injection moulding, tool construction,
lamination and compounding. Sales were 186 million EUR in 2002. The company
employs 650 people in Germany and about 250 in other countries.
The 2002 sales of both companies amount to 549 million EUR with a geographic
spread as follows: Benelux 9.1%, Germany, Austria and Switzerland together
10.4%, United Kingdom 14.2%, Southern Europe 18.8%, Central & Eastern
Europe 16.2%, North America 26.2% and Asia 5.1%.
The Deceuninck Group is an integrated group of world format, specialised
in compounding, design, development, extrusion, finishing and recycling
of PVCu systems and profiles for the building industry. The company is
active in 32 countries, has 18 subsidiaries (production and/or sales)
and is supported by 1776 personnel, with 560 in Hooglede-Gits. Deceuninck
is number three in its sector world-wide and achieved consolidated sales
of 362.2 million EUR in 2002.
Web: http://www.deceuninck.com
Currency
Fluctuations Continue to Bug Saint Gobain in First Quarter
Net consolidated sales of the Saint-Gobain Group for the first quarter
of 2003 amounted to Euro 6,986 million, compared with Euro 7,296 million
for the same period in 2002, representing a contraction of 4.2% on an
actual structure basis, or 5.8% on a comparable structure basis. This
decline is entirely due to currency effects - which had an 8.2% negative
impact during the period - and especially the sharp falls in the value
of the US dollar and the Brazilian real. On a comparable structure and
exchange rate basis (like-for-like), sales were up 2.6%.
Sales volumes increased by 1.2%, while prices remained firm, rising by
1.4%.
The majority of the Group's divisions contributed to this performance,
which was achieved against a backdrop of challenging economic conditions,
testifying to SaintGobain's growth capacity, boosted by an expanding presence
in emerging countries.
Sales trends by business sector, division and geographic area are as follows:
With the exception of Reinforcements, all of the Group's divisions enjoyed
moderate sales growth in first quarter 2003, particularly in terms of
prices.
The Glass Sector reported the Group's strongest like-for-like growth in
the period, for the bulk of its businesses. Robust sales for the Flat
Glass Division in Brazil and the European automotive market offset the
downturn felt in the European construction market. The Insulation Division
reaped the benefits of the healthy US residential construction market,
while Containers reported a further increase in both volumes and prices,
particularly in the United States and Germany.
Reinforcements faced downward price pressure and, despite a sharp improvement
in volumes, was the only division to report a slight contraction in sales
over the period.
After two years of declining sales, the High-Performance Materials Sector
showed the first signs of a recovery in its main markets for Ceramics
& Plastics as well as for Abrasives.
Like-for-like growth in the Housing Products Sector was slightly below
the Group average, due to the lower contribution, during the quarter,
from the Building Materials Distribution Division. This was mainly due
to the reorganisation of Pipe Distribution operations as well as to a
further downturn in the construction market in Germany and, to a lesser
extent, a slowdown in the interior decoration market in France, which
had a direct impact on Lapeyre's sales. Business in the Sector's other
divisions was buoyant, boosted by the strong US residential construction
market for the Building Materials Division and deliveries under the Abu
Dhabi contract for the Pipe Division.
By Geographic area, moderate like-for-like growth was reported in France
and the United States. In the rest of Europe the picture was mixed, with
the downturn continuing in Germany, but Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom
reporting strong performances. At the same time, demand was still buoyant
in emerging countries, particularly in Latin America.
Asbestos claims in the United States:
Some 22,000 new claims were received by Certain Teed in first-quarter
2003, including 14,000 in the State of Mississippi. As announced at the
beginning of 2003, there was an exceptional surge of claims in Mississippi
prior to the end of last year, following a new law more favorable to defendants.
Most of the claims received during the first quarter 2003 in Mississippi
were filed prior to January 1st 2003, when the new law became fully applicable.
Excluding this exceptional surge, the number of new claims filed is not
on a general upward trend.
At the same time, 9,000 claims were settled, and several thousand transferred
to an inactive docket. As a result, there were approximately 114,000 outstanding
claims at March 31, 2003.
The average individual cost of settlement came to US$2,100, on a par with
the trend of the prior period.
Over the next few months, the number of new claims filed in Mississippi
should reduce significantly and newly introduced or expected amendments
to legislation in other States could also have a positive impact on the
future rate of new claims filed.
Outlook:
The Group's moderate organic growth in first-quarter 2003 is in line with
the objectives announced for the year as a whole. Nevertheless, the Group
is feeling the negative impact of currency effects and the increase in
the cost of energy and certain raw materials. As the intemational economic
situation is still highly uncertain, it is too early to tell, at this
stage, whether or not these negative factors will be corrected by the
end of the year.
GGF
Convention offers Plethora of Big Name Speakers and Top Class Social Events
Sponsored again by SAPA, this year's annual GGF Convention (22nd - 23rd
May) goes under the title 'Grasping the Nettle - Issues the industry can't
ignore'. Speakers include Kelvin Williams, chairman of BRAC, discussing
the future for Conservatories; Brian Waldron of Pilkington on CE Marking;
Mike Thomas of the HSA on Asbestos and Roofline and Peter Gray, operations
director of Zenith Windows, on Recycling for Profit.
The following is a statement from GGF President Trevor Coles:
'Every year the GGF's Annual Convention highlights issues which will have
a direct effect on your business. 2003 is no exception. The theme 'Grasping
the Nettle' reflects exactly what this year's event is all about.
Over the last 4/5 years this event has been the forum for intense discussion
on issues such as the review of Approved Document L in England and Wales
and Part J in Scotland. These discussions have been made all the more
relevant with the presence of guests and speakers such as Paul Everall,
Director of Building Regulations at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister
and Dr Phil Cornish of the Scottish Executive.
As a GGF Member the Annual Convention offers you the opportunity to speak
directly to and influence the decision makers who have the power to change
the way you do business. Your voice needs to be heard, if you have never
attended this event in the past then it is time to rethink your position.
So what can you expect from this year's event? We have brought together
over a dozen speakers covering topics such as Health and Safety, Training
and Skills, the future of windows after Document L - Energy Efficiency,
CE Marking, Back to the Future with BS6206, Asbestos and Roofline, Recycling
for Profit, E- Business, Latest on the new Employment Act, Managing Change,
the latest changes relating to the Enterprise and Competition Acts, Conservatories
and the future relating to Building Regulations and finally for those
GGF Members who are FENSA Registered there will be a FENSA Advice Forum
where you can meet a FENSA representative face to face.
Social highlight is a James Bond themed Black Tie Banquet (a 'GoldFinger
Buffet' perhaps?). This will be followed by the GGF's traditidnal Golf
Competition at Carden Park. For partners, on the Thursday there is a Roman
Tour of 'Deva' (now known as Chester) with a Gladiator. The GGF has secured
its own personal 'Russel Crowe' to take partners on a tour of the ancient
and beautiful city of Chester. This will be followed by a relaxing river
cruise, lunch and trip to the world famous Chester Zoo. Our Gladiator
will be on hand throughout the day to ensure that everyone is looked after.
Finally, on Friday, if Golf isn't your game then you can indulge yourself
in a trip to the Romantic Gothic Cholmondeley Castle and Gardens.
Download a PDF booking form here,
or contact Lis Chapelhow on 020 7207 5859 or email mailto:lchapelhow@ggf.org.uk
Ultraframe's
New Guild Aims to Raise Standards and Recognise Installer Quality
Ultraframe,
as part of its ongoing efforts to grow conservatory sales and extend its
quality message throughout all aspects of the industry, is launching The
Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory Installers. This latest innovation
from the designer and manufacturer of conservatory systems has been developed
to provide further business opportunities for its customers and ensure
homeowners can have their expectations of a positive, branded conservatory
experience met.
The scheme is part of Ultraframe's aspirations to raise standards across
the board - from manufacture and fabrication to installation - in all
sectors of the conservatory market.
The Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory Installers has been made
possible by a partnership with The Guild of Master Craftsmen. The Guild
of Master Craftsmen is one of Britain's highest profile trade association
and has based its reputation on obtaining recognition for skill and integrity.
In the eyes of consumers, any member of the Guild is automatically identified
with a determination to provide quality products and services. This not
only gives reassurance to the homeowner, but also drives business opportunities
for members.
The Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory Installers, by reassuring
consumers about the conservatory purchasing process, will help unlock
the huge untapped potential of the UK conservatory market. Ultraframe
has undertaken extensive research that identifies over five million homeowners
with lifestyle profiles and aspirations that match existing conservatory
buyers.
'Numerous benefits will accrue to quality conscious installation companies
through membership of The Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory Installers.'
says the company. The generation of exclusive sales leads will accelerate
the growth and development of installation businesses, while membership
will confer inclusion in a community of like-minded companies. Web sites
will be developed to provide installers with their own on-line presence
and link them to Ultraframe's; while membership cards, a corporate branding
package for vehicles, literature and stationery, and an allocation of
The Ultraframe Essential Guide to Conservatories will all promote the
quality message to prospective customers.
Membership of this group is open to all professional conservatory installers,
subject to some simple criteria. These comprise the employment of Ultraframe
quality products only, observance of the Ultraframe's technical installation
manual for the complete conservatory, combined with the passing of an
assessment course to establish competence, and the completion of an application
form that provides for the sourcing of references from both trading standards
and homeowners. An accessible registration fee - payable to the Guild
rather than Ultraframe - also applies.
Marketing initiatives to support The Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory
Installers will drive awareness of the scheme and the quality installation
message home to consumers.
These promotional initiatives currently include:
* Direct mail of The Ultraframe Essential Guide to Conservatories, mentioned
above, to hundreds of thousands of targeted homeowners every year. The
Ultraframe Essential Guide to Conservatories is a high-quality magazine
style publication that delivers consumers information and practical advice
on the conservatory.
* A Web site - http://www.ultraframe-conservatories.com
- that will reprise the content of The Ultraframe Essential Guide to Conservatories
and provide consumers with details of how to locate their nearest member
of The Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory Installers.
* An Ultraframe consumer hotline - 0500 822 340 - which will again help
connect homeowners with their nearest member of The Ultraframe Guild of
Approved Conservatory Installers.
* Extensive advertising and PR campaigns which will promote this exclusive
service to customers through coverage in leading newspapers and home interest
magazines.
* An e-mail facility - in development - whereby consumers will be able
to contact installers direct. This will extend into SMS messaging, fax
and 'snail mail'.
The scheme is just part of an extensiverange of initiatives that aim to
position Ultraframe as the total 'one stop shop' in conservatory manufacture
and design. With the introduction of its new Victorian 'As Standard' package
and the Uzone roof, the company offers the complete product range for
all style and price points in the market. It is proven as an established
quality route to market at all points of the manufacture and supply process,
not least through its BBA Fabricator Scheme. This assurance now extends
to installation through The Ultraframe Guild of Approved Conservatory
Installers.
Ultraframe is dedicated to accelerating consumer demand, both through
its product and customer support programmes, and through a sustained consumer
communication programme, launched with the first of a regular publication,
The Ultraframe Essential Guide to Conservatories.
'Ultraframe now encompasses the whole process chain from manufacturer
and fabricator to installer; underwriting the entire consumer buying experience',
the company says.
Tel: 01200 452214
Email: mailto:brochures@ultraframe.co.uk
Web: http://www.ultraframe.co.uk
Pilkington
Activ™ Cleans up in Last-Minute Appearance at Glassex
Although Pilkington did not have its own stand at this year's Glassex,
which was held during March at the National Exhibition Centre, visitors
enjoyed a last minute chance to see Pilkington Activ™, the dual action
self-cleaning glass, on the stand of conservatory roof systems manufacturer
Wendland.
The process by which Pilkington Activ™ continuously cleans itself
was shown on a large plasma screen, with the glass installed in a number
of sealed units provided by Wendland's sister company, insulated glass
unit manufacturer CET.
Despite receiving no advance publicity, Pilkington Activ™ attracted
a great deal of attention from window and conservatory installers looking
to sharpen their competitive edge by offering their customers something
genuinely innovative.
Chris Owen, Wendland's Managing Director was very positive about the response
received at the show: 'Although it was only agreed to put Pilkington Activ™
on our stand just three weeks before Glassex, it created a lot of interest
on the stand and we have received some very positive interest since. It
fits in well with Wendland's policy of continuous improvement and innovation,
and is a real boon to conservatory buyers as it helps to overcome the
problem of keeping conservatory roofs in pristine condition. The response
we received was very positive, especially from retail installers who thought
it would be easy to sell the added value.'
Pilkington Activ™ helps to keep itself clean through a special, permanent
coating that uses ultra violet light, abundant in normal daylight, to
continuously break down organic dirt on the surface of the glass. The
coating also causes water to spread evenly across the window pane as the
water flows off the glass, washing stubborn dirt deposits away.
Web: http://www.pilkington.com
Sheerframe
Provides Catalyst for The Great Partnership
Two
of the UK's biggest house builders, Bryant Homes and Persimmon Homes have
been brought together for an innovative self-sustaining community project
using Sheerframe windows in the North East.
Newcastle
Great Park is a 10-year project, which will see the building of 2500 new
houses and apartments, as well as schools, offices and shops. Planners
are aiming to build homes, which reflect the best traditional styling
of the surrounding towns, whilst also incorporating modern technology
and individuality within the development. Sheerframe System 6000 windows
including mock sash windows, vertical sliding sash and French doors are
being used by the builders.
Says, Paul Gay, construction manager at Persimmon Homes (North East) Ltd,
'The overall look of the development is an integral part of the planning
agreement, so it has been essential that we use a window which allows
us to meet the requirements of the planners in terms of aesthetics and
performance. In addition, the windows must meet the needs of the house
buyers by allowing a choice of styles, finishes and opening options.'
LB Plastics' Sheerframe System 6000 windows and French doors have been
designed specifically for the housebuilding market, giving clean, clear
sightlines ideal for creating traditional looking homes. Custom made and
available in either white or a variety of woodgrain finishes, they provide
optimum weather, safety and security performance.
Production manager at Bryant Homes, Andrew Craig comments, 'The choice
of products offered by LB Plastics Ltd has allowed us to customise our
properties creating unique residential areas within The Great Park. The
mock sash window with its balanced sightlines has been an essential component
in helping us realise the planners' vision.'
Sheerframe mock sash windows are available in three opening options, top
hung casement, along with tilt & turn and fully reversible windows,
which comply with part B fire safety regulations.
Cleveland based window manufacturers H Jarvis and Son won the contract
to supply all the windows on phases one and two of the project. David
Glendinning, Director of H Jarvis and Son comments, 'We worked closely
with the builders on this project to ensure that the best possible window
was specified. By using the vertical sliding sash and mock sash windows
it has been possible to build traditional looking houses without burdening
new homeowners with the many problems associated with wooden framed windows.'
Tel: 01772 852311
Web: http://www.litchfield-group.co.uk
Alcoa
cuts Staff at Rockdale Operations, Threatens to Close Intalco if Energy
Prices Rise and Scales Down Production at Massena
Alcoa
announced on 23rd April that a joint labour-management restructuring effort
will reduce operating costs at the company's Rockdale Operations, as part
of its long-term, low-cost production strategy. The plant, which employs
approximately 1,400, and is an integrated facility of lignite mining,
power generation and aluminium smelting, will continue to operate at its
full capacity of 264,000 metric tons per year of primary aluminium.
'Managers and leadership of USWA Local 4895 have worked constructively
and creatively to apply the Alcoa Business System to streamline our processes,'
said Geoff Cromer, Rockdale Smelting and Casthouse Manager. 'But we also
had to take a hard look at staffing. We recognise that reductions in employment
are difficult, but they help preserve employment here for hundreds of
others. As a result of these actions, this facility will become more competitive
within the Alcoa system and the global aluminium smelting industry.'
The measures taken to improve the plant's viability are:
•Application of the Alcoa Business System to all core work processes
and changes to job requirements to increase both production and productivity;
•Implementation of processes to reduce the amount and cost of materials,
goods and services purchased at the facility, and
•Reduction of approximately 150 hourly and salaried jobs.
'This is a global business where we must improve productivity in order
to compete,' said Cromer. 'Escalating costs have made Rockdale uncompetitive,
and we need greater efficiencies across the board to stay in the business.
We must reduce costs in every area where we can control spending.'
•
Alcoa has additionally announced that it has decided it will temporarily
curtail production at its Ferndale, Washington ('Intalco') aluminium smelter
on September 30th, 2003 if planned higher Bonneville Power Administration's
(BPA) prices are implemented. The price increase announced by BPA earlier
this year would sharply increase the 170,000 metric ton per year-plant's
energy costs and undermine its competitiveness globally, at a time when
raw material costs are high and market conditions are relatively soft.
'We prefer to operate Intalco, but the projected price increase would
leave us no alternative in the current environment,' said Bernt Reitan,
President of Alcoa Primary Metals. 'We regret the very real impact this
closing will have on the community and the workforce, but no aluminium
smelter in the world could operate under the burden of the energy costs
in the Northwest of the United States. The plant will curtail operations
on September 30th, 2003 unless there is significant change in the power
price or market conditions overall.'
'The Intalco plant is by far the lowest cost smelter in the Northwest,
but today's record high power prices and the uncertainty of the BPA process
make operation extremely difficult,' said Mike Tanchuk, President of Alcoa
Primary Metals Northwest Operations. 'This operation needs certainty in
power supply at a competitive price so the employees, who have worked
hard to make this plant competitive, aren't constantly looking over their
shoulders at closure.'
•
Alcoa is also temporarily reducing production at its two Massena, New
York primary aluminum facilities. The reductions will affect 60,000 metric
tons per year of production at the two smelters, or approximately 24%
of the combined capacity of 255,000 metric tons per year there.
The rising power market and high prices for raw materials made it advisable
to scale back aluminium production at the plant. No significant changes
to the workforce are planned. The facilities will continue to employ more
than 1,300 workers. The curtailment will take place at both locations
later this week. The capacity reductions will last as long as market conditions
warrant.
David
Wilson Homes Awards Conservatory Contract to ASF
ASF
UPVC Ltd, a Premier Profiles fabricator based in Uppingham, Leicestershire,
has won a major contract with leading house builder, David Wilson Homes,
to exclusively manufacture and supply all its conservatories throughout
the East Midlands.
With its head office in Ibstock, Leicestershire, the East Midlands is
David Wilson Homes' largest region of operation and the contract will
see ASF build over 100 conservatories in the first year. Production will
be handled through ASF's new 12,000 sq. ft. factory which was opened last
Autumn in response to continued business expansion.
This conservatory contract further strengthens ASF's long-standing relationship
with David Wilson Homes. It is already a major subcontractor to the house
builder for windows and doors and has recently completed its first new
build development for the company's commercial arm, Wilson Bowden. In
addition, the fabricator has just been named as 'East Midlands Subcontractor
of the Year' at David Wilson Homes' annual subcontractor and supplier
awards.
Mike Willars, managing director at ASF is delighted to land this conservatory
business: 'This exclusive contract is something we have worked towards
for several years and presents a great opportunity for us to expand our
services and strengthen our relationship with David Wilson Homes.
'Our ability to win contracts such as this with one of the country's fastest
growing house builders, owes much to the excellent help and support we
get from our systems supplier, Premier Profiles. A strong, three-way partnership
between ourselves, Premier and David Wilson Homes will be vital as we
begin to develop conservatory opportunities.'
Shepley
Wows Customers with New Conference Room and Reception
Steady
growth in the number of Visage dealers has driven sales of Shepley Window
Systems' dealer network to just under £100 million in 2002. In order
to provide customers with better training facilities the company has recently
invested in a new Conference Room. While they were at it, the Reception
needed a bit of a facelift as well....
Commenting,
managing director Gary Torr said, 'Shepley is delighted with the growth
in the network, especially as we are very particular in the selection
process. Visage appeals to well-established professional installers with
ambition. They set a high standard in their area and they need a trade
supplier that can help them compete effectively and achieve their business
objectives. Their expectations go well beyond normal levels of quality,
service and support and we're happy to match their expectations.
'Last year, for example, we invested £25,000 in a new conference
and training room with state of the art presentation facilities. Equipped
with a five by six foot screen, server-linked ceiling-mounted projector,
and new boardroom style office furniture, the facilities make demonstrations,
new customer presentations and training much easier and more professional.
Our obsession with professionalism is a bit of a Shepley thing,' explained
Gary Torr. 'We think it's money well spent.'
'In
addition, ur old reception area,' continues Gary, 'was cramped and uncomfortable
for visitors. And with all the new customers joining the growing Visage
dealer network it was becoming a bit of a problem.
'So we invested £40,000 in an elegant twenty by fourteen foot conservatory
to house our reception. It is spacious and airy and it enables us to seat
six in comfort, together with an impressive reception desk, and presentation
materials. We've even installed a see-through glass floor showing the
Rehau under floor heating system in one area.
'First impressions count, particularly for a leading trade fabricator,
and the new reception area is much more professional. It matches how we
and our customers see Shepley, and the effect on visitors and prospects
is dramatically different from the old reception,' confirmed Gary. 'It's
also improved the look of the building too.'
Tel: 0161 339 2433
Web: http://www.shepley.com
New
Patio Door Company now Making 100 Doors a Week
'In a little more than 5 months since its formation in November Sliders
UK has experienced unprecedented growth. Highly competitive pricing, a
comprehensive range featuring bevelled and fully featured products, free
delivery, fast turnaround and after sales attention have all contributed
to a winning package, which has taken Sliders UK to 100 doors per week
in record time.' says director Ian Longbottom.
The
'In-Line' patio door specialist has also recently gone 'On-Line' and launched
a new website. The site offers on-line ordering, full details of the company's
two price lists and comprehensive information on features and benefits,
which include free delivery throughout the UK in 5 days.
'Sliders is rapidly becoming a significant player in the patio door market
and will soon be looking at complimentary products,' comments Ian, 'Our
dynamic and informative new website reinforces our position.'
The patio door system which Sliders UK manufactures in both brilliant
and standard white as well as a range of wood grain finishes including
rosewood, has been independently tested for air and water penetration
in accordance with BS6375.
The door which was 2400mm high achieved a class C (severe) weather rating.
Contact Ian or Mike
Tel: 01772 698222
Web: http://www.sliders-uk.com
G.James
Invest in Significant Ashton Industrial Pre–tempering Machinery Package
Ashton
Industrial, the supplier of fully automatic pre-tempering production lines
has secured a major contract with G. James Safety Glass Pty. Ltd. to supply
Australia’s first complete Automatic Arrissing system for its Campbellfield,
Victoria site.
The deal, brokered by Ashton Industrial’s sole representatives Overseas
Glass Agencies, represents a significant milestone in the company’s
20 year history.
Comment’s Neil Searle, OGA 'The G. James’ line is designed to
arriss random size rectangular glass pieces up to a maximum size of 2800
x 2000mm. It is capable of processing glass thicknesses of 3- 19mm with
no manual intervention, regardless of size or substance. With a cycle
time of 7 – 12 seconds a piece, this is one of the fastest of its
type in the world.'
Most significantly for the Australian market, the equipment even copes
with out-of-square glass panes by utilising a special processing mode
developed by Ashton Industrial.
G. James has included extra features offered by Ashton Industrial. These
include simultaneous edge–deletion of soft coated glass, and laser
marking of logos, dates, consecutive numbering and piece-specific data.
These usually time consuming functions are included without any loss of
cycle time.
To complete the process, Mr. Phil Jones, G. James’ specifying engineer,
selected Ashton Industrial’s stainless steel horizontal washing and
drying machine.
Capable of speeds up to 14m per minute, this is one of the fastest and
most compact machine of its kind in the world. The design is based around
the Bielefelder Union machine from Germany, which was famous for it's
durability and performance. Ashton have upgraded it by manufacturing the
machine entirely in stainless materials.
Ashton Industrial has specialised in I.G. lines and pre-tempering glass
arrissing machinery for 20 years. The company premiered its horizontal
automatic arrissing line at the 1998 Glasstec exhibition since when over
40 lines have been purchased by major Companies all over the world.
Contact: Steve Blundell
Tel: +44 (0) 208 551 4046
Email: mailto:sblundell@ashton-industrial.com
Web: http://www.ashton-industrial.com
Roofs
for Conservatories Direct Goes Live - New Division for Trade Fabricator
The
Whiteline Group, the South East specialist trade fabricator of PVCu windows
and doors, announces further diversification in 2003 through the creation
of new company 'Roofs for Conservatories Direct'.
Whiteline has confirmed that the new roof division is already up and running,
with fabrication commencing on April 14th.
The new company is headed by Alan Clarke, former general manager of Whiteline,
who is joined, currently, by five conservatory staff. 'Roofs Direct' will
be manufacturing Ultraframe conservatory roofs for Whiteline and is targeting
installation companies in Southern England to create a direct purchase
chain.
Alan Clarke comments: 'Having purchased Ultraframe roofs directly for
the past six years, we feel we are now in an excellent position to offer
a real value-added product by fabricating the market-leading Ultraframe
system'.
Choosing Ultraframe, in order to provide solutions to all aspects of the
conservatory market, Roofs Direct is keen to offer continued product development
to its customers and, by selecting Ultraframe, Roofs Direct will directly
benefit from Ultraframe's continued innovation.
Adding value to the Ultraframe product, by providing pre-assembled roofs
prior to dispatch, all Roof Direct components will be cut to the correct
size (detail permitting) with roof vents factory glazed. Improvements
will also be made in other areas, in order to make the finished roof as
'fitter friendly' as possible, saving time and energy on site.
Back in Sussex, Roofs Direct's dedicated, 18,000 sq ft factory is now
complete with the latest fabrication machinery installed. Additional office
and sales staff are also being recruited which will strengthen the team
and ensures that levels of service are maintained.
Tel: 01323 723724
Email: mailto:sales@whiteline.ndo.co.uk
Web: http://www.whitelinewindows.com
BHD
Group's Houseproud Upgrade gives Customers even more Value for Money
BHD
Group, the manufacturer of modular conservatories, is offering customers
more value for money following the upgrade of its Houseproud conservatory
range.
BHD Group has changed the connecting system to enable all Houseproud conservatories
to now be installed faster and easier than ever.
Customers will also benefit from an exclusive deal the company has negotiated
with Polygal UK Ltd to supply every Houseproud conservatory with its Silhouette
Gold roofing polycarbonate.
Unlike normal polycarbonate sheeting, Silhouette Gold has a special external
coating which is designed to reflect the sun's rays, ensuring that the
conservatory is cooler in summer but conserves heat in colder conditions.
This solar grade co-extruded layer also protects the polycarbonate sheets
against yellowing and surface wear from extended UV exposure. It also
protects furniture and items within a conservatory from yellowing and
other UV damage.
Steve Bennett, Sales and Marketing Director of the West Midlands based
company, explained: 'The insulating properties of Silhouette Gold polycarbonate
roofs to the Houseproud range, now enables these conservatories to be
a room which can be used all year round, regardless of weather conditions.
'The upgrade of the Houseproud range represents BHD Group's commitment
to giving customers value for money and opening up the true potential
of the UK conservatory market.'
Tel: 01827 314748
Web: http://www.bhd.conservatories.com
Market
Specialists Join Forces to Promote Intelligent Ventilation
Ventilation
specialist Siegenia-Aubi Ltd and conservatory roofing systems company
Quantal have announced their decision to work together to promote more
effective conservatory ventilation.
Siegenia-Aubi has long advocated the importance of active ventilation
in the creation of a comfortable living space: retaining heat in winter
and deflecting summer sun, allowing the conservatory to give maximum enjoyment
all year round. The Quantal Living Space campaign highlights the issue
of temperature control within the conservatory for optimum comfort and
offers customers advice and guidance on selecting the right ventilation
to meet their needs.
Together, the two companies will embark on a programme of education and
advice, using Siegenia's Aerostar roof ventilator and Aeropac wall vent
combination to demonstrate the benefits of active ventilation in the conservatory.
Says Alistair Wheeler, Siegenia-Aubi ventilation sales manager, 'The ideal
temperature and humidity control system for the conservatory combines
natural ventilation with wall and roof ventilators. This creates a flow
of fresh, healthy air in the conservatory and helps reduce overheating,
or the 'greenhouse effect'. Not everyone is aware of the benefits of active
ventilation and we're delighted Quantal adopt the same proactive stance
we do in raising awareness of the need for effective ventilation.'
Quantal general manager, Richard Hulbert, adds, 'The conservatory is becoming
ever more important as a living area and people want to be able to enjoy
this living space in comfort all year round. Choosing the right ventilation
system allows them to do just that. We look forward to working with Siegenia.'
BOC
Targets the UK Double Glazing Industry
BOC
is at the forefront of the UK double glazing industry's drive to combat
global warming through the use of gases.
The move is in response to new UK building regulations for the double
glazing of windows, which aims to cut carbon dioxide emissions, half of
which come from heating and lighting buildings.
The thermal conductivity of argon, krypton and xenon is much lower than
air, leading to reduced conductive and convective heat loss. Argon and
krypton mixtures are already used extensively in double glazing in North
America, Scandinavia and Germany.
Mark Leonard, one of BOC's marketing managers, said: 'As the number one
gases specialist in the UK BOC has the ideal supply option for any customer's
gas requirements whether it be compressed gases in cylinders or large
or small quantities of liquefied gases.
'BOC is the double glazing insulating gases specialist in the UK and can
provide technical support on the use and application of gases with double
glazing and gas filling machines. Our teams of technical support engineers
offer 24 hour service and we provide a comprehensive after sales service
to our customers.'
The new regulations state that anyone who installs or manufactures replacement
double glazing will now have to comply with strict thermal performance
standards installations or face fines of up to £5,000. The Building
Regulations 2000, which were introduced in October 2001, were extended
in England and Wales to cover replacement window and door installations
in April 2002. These changes also cover the construction of energy-efficient
building elements, such as walls, floors and roofs, and building services,
such as lighting, heating and ventilation.
To comply with the regulations window manufacturers have a number of options
to achieve the required U values, which are an indication of the energy
efficiency of the window. The lower the U value, the less heat lost by
a window of a particular size.
The options include: increasing the cavity size - using wood or PVCu frames;
using triple glazing or low emissivity glass that reflects heat back into
a building or filling the cavity with argon gas or an argon/krypton mix,
both of which have better insulation properties than air.
The legislation was introduced by the UK government following the Kyoto
world climate summit agreement, by which each of the 38 participating
countries agreed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in 2010 by 5
per cent from 1990 levels. The drive toward energy-efficient buildings
is because the energy we use to heat, light and cool buildings accounts
for almost half of the UK's total carbon dioxide emissions.- one of the
'man-made' gases contributing to the greenhouse effect.
The BOC Group serves two million customers in more than 50 countries.
It employs more than 46,000 people worldwide and had annual sales of over
£4 billion in 2002.
Web: http://www.boc.com
UKSE
helps Glass Company see Clearly
A
Stockton-based glass company has expanded into larger premises and received
backing from UK Steel Enterprise.
Cleveland Glass Ltd, now established in a factory on Stockton's Blue Point
Road, supplies sealed double glazed units to a wide range of customers
including nationally known building companies such as Wimpey and Bellway.
The company has benefited from £58,000 of investment from UK Steel
Enterprise since it began in 1995 and its determination to stay ahead
of the competition in a fast-changing industry has ensured it is now in
a strong position for the future.
The family- run company now employs 18 with Managing Director Tom Sewell's
wife Jean and his son Thomas also Directors. The latest expansion has
taken Tom Sewell full circle as he now runs his own company from a building
owned by a previous boss where he started his career on leaving school.
Nick Johnson (left) of UK Steel Enterprise with
Managing Director Tom Sewell at Cleveland Glass Ltd.
'The industry has changed quite dramatically,' says Tom Sewell, 'and we
have developed from doing mainly contract work to being a manufacturer
and supplier. Ten years ago the proportion of toughened glass used was
about 10% and now it is more like 60%. We have also had to deal with a
considerable amount of new European and other legislation and we recognised
that we had to make changes and adapt to stay ahead of the game and remain
competitive.'
Cleveland Glass has increased its space, up-graded its facilities and
also ensured that the company achieved all the accreditations and recognised
standards that it needed to stay at the forefront of the industry.
'We now have all the space and equipment we need including overhead cranage
and a fully automatic cutting facility on the production line,' says Tom.
'We moved from less than 5,000 sq ft to 14,000 sq ft and have the extra
space available to accommodate further expansion. UKSE's investment has
been vital and the advice they provide has also played an important part
in our development,' he added.
Nick Johnson, Regional Executive for UK Steel Enterprise said: 'Cleveland
Glass has adapted to the many changes in the industry and been determined
to establish the facilities it needs to take it into a successful future.
It has also made sure that its operation is backed by the recognised industry
standards and we are confident that the company has a sound future ahead
of it. It is particularly satisfying to see companies that we have a long
standing relationship with expand and progress over the years,' he added.
Tel: 01642 675781
Supreme
Windows of Bury, Manchester has become an HW Plastics' Approved Installer.
The Approved Installer Membership Scheme (AIMS) takes as its entry criteria
the Government's new Quality Mark accreditation. This means that all AIMS
members have passed a rigorous service audit covering all steps from the
initial inquiry call to completion of the project, including complaints
and insurance procedures.
Supreme has been in business for 15 years, and has been a loyal Spectus
customer. MD Peter Gill is enthusiastic about the scheme: 'HW Plastics
has always provided us with excellent quality, service and support, of
which this is just another example. To be seen by customers to be an Approved
Installer gives us a badge of excellence, which, coupled with the DTI's
Quality Mark, gives our customers complete peace of mind about our reliability.
'The other great thing about both systems is that we are now listed on
their websites as an accredited company, and householders can search for
those in their area. Hopefully this will bring us new business by ensuring
that our already excellent reputation becomes more widely known.'
For more information on AIMS and the Quality mark, visit the Spectus website
at http://www.spectussystems.com
WEM
Enjoys Successful Glassex 2003 and rebooks 2004
WEM
Ltd enjoyed a successful Glassex, claiming that although visitors were
very much down on previous years the quality was still acceptable.
WEM is the agency for Fux, Austrian manufacturer of profile bending and
lamination machinery and Skai Covertech the lamination film specialists
from Germany.
Fux sold a 83-LM-00 Hot Melt lamination machine to Everwhite Plastics,
the first of two machines planned for this year. There was the usual interest
in the profile bending demonstrations with the Fux dry system. Fux also
delivered its first bending machine to Ireland directly from the show.
Skai Covertech launched two new products during Glassex as well as receiving
BBA accreditation for the company's window and door films. 'The BBA certification
is an important part of our strategy for the UK market and underlines
the quality of our products.' said the company.
'The two new colours 'Maigrun' a dark green with realistic embossing and
'Birke Rose' a Birch finish suited to interior of conservatories were
very well received. A Skai customer Permafoil took dozens of orders for
the new colours on the stand.'
Both companies have already booked larger stands for 2004
Revolutionary
New Glass Retaining Bolt used in Office Façade
Work
has been completed on a glass façade in Commercial Street, London
that features a new retaining bolt that is secured within the glass with
an undercut hole, presenting a completely sheer external face.
Metal UK started work on the contract, valued at £90,000, in December.
The company designed, engineered and installed the façade, part
of an office redevelopment for developer Aitch Group, and completed last
week.
The façade has been secured using Fischer Fixings' new Micropoint
system, which is marketed in the UK by Metal UK, who have been the first
to use the product in glass applications.
'Micropoint proved the perfect solution for the Commercial Street development
because the architect, Buckley Grey, specified a totally flush façade'
says Metal UK Managing Director Rod Milicevic. 'This is the only product
in the world that features retaining bolts secured within the glass, enabling
architects to design a completely flat exterior face.'
Micropoint has been designed to answer demand from architects and specifiers
for a fixing that doesn't pass through the glass. All the flexibility
of the product occurs within the fixing, allowing for a smaller and more
discrete bolt (typically 30mm against the 50mm other bolted systems).
The product has demonstrable benefits with monolithic toughened glass.
With the advent of specification of double toughened and laminated glass
panels, generally used in glass canopies and balustrades, the laminated
Micropoint fixing is suitable as the fixing secures the outer pane through
the inner pane and is then resin filled around the fixing in the inner
pane with fischer's FISV resin, adding to the fixing's integrity.
Security worries are claimed to be alleviated – traditional bolted
fixed façades can be removed with a spanner – and the product
can be used with water features because there are no concerns about water
ingress. The fact that the bolt does not pass all the way through the
glass also alleviates concerns about migration, making Micropoint suitable
for use in clean rooms, laboratories and other sterile environments.
The product also has post installation benefits – traditional bolts
need to be retorqued at regular intervals, subject to vibration and wind
loads. Micropoint is not affected by these criteria, therefore does not
need retorqueing.
Micropoint is suitable for many applications, aside from glass façades,
ranging from signs, louvres, brise soleil, doors and roofs to furniture,
partitions, shower screens and ceilings. LMC Group is currently embarking
on thermal modelling for Part L compliance.
Tel: 01895 629940
Email: mailto:enquiries@metaluk.co.uk
Web: http://www.metaluk.co.uk
Don't
Cut Corners on Glazing, Homes and Businesses are Warned
Failure
to install the correct types of glass in homes, shops, offices and factories
is putting people at risk of serious injury and even death, a Leicester
glazing expert has warned.
Sean Flynn, Glazing Manager of Norman & Underwood's Glazing Systems
Division in Leicester, is concerned at the high percentage of business
and domestic premises that pose a threat to personal and public safety.
His concerns are shared by Leicester City Council's Consumer Protection
Service, who recently carried out inspections of new double glazing in
Leicester homes.
Of 13 installations, only four were found to be entirely satisfactory.
In one case, safety glazing was not used where required, putting the householder
at risk.
Norman & Underwood, based in Freeschool Lane, is currently working
with a number of local authorities to ensure all the glass in its public
buildings adheres to latest safety standards.
As required by Health and Safety legislation covering both business premises
and public buildings, the company is also carrying out comprehensive risk
assessments in schools to make sure that all glazing - especially in high-risk
locations such as on staircase landings and in assembly halls - is to
the right specification.
The company, which carries out replacement glazing contracts as well as
offering a 24-hour emergency glazing service, has encountered horrific
examples in recent years of what can happen if unsafe glass is not replaced
and risks to safety are not fully identified.
Left to right: Glazier Neil Bird, glazing supervisor Jeff Groom and glazing
surveyor Mick Vincent of Norman & Underwood's Emergency Glazing team
are pictured replacing a 4225 mm x 2168 mm sheet of laminated glass at
a car showroom in Leicestershire.
Examples include:
* A pensioner who had a lucky escape when he stumbled into a damaged shop
window. The old pane -broken by a loose stone thrown up from a bus tyre
- shattered easily because it was not safety glass, and could have caused
the man severe or even fatal injuries.
* Several instances where 'smash and grab' thieves have cut themselves
on household patio doors and windows (again not manufactured from safety
glass), leaving pools of blood behind them. In one particularly gruesome
incident, police identified the criminal from fingers rather than fingerprints
left at the crime scene.
* Factories where the 'patent' glazing in the roof, is up to 80 years
old but has never been replaced and now constitutes a serious risk to
employees working below.
According to Norman & Underwood, accidents and mishaps usually occur
where people have cut corners to save money - or have simply failed to
recognise the dangers.
Mr Flynn said: 'Businesses and local authorities need to remember that
the costs they will be liable for if someone suffers serious injury on
their premises, far outweigh the expense of replacing unsuitable glass.'
Jeff Groom, Glazing Supervisor who has many years' experience in the industry,
is equally concerned about the number of DIY enthusiasts who rely on information
on the internet rather than seeking professional advice when fitting glazed
doors and windows.
To prevent accidents and ensure all glass complies with stringent regulations,
Norman & Underwood offers free quotations and an advisory service
for homes and businesses.
Referring to the poor compliance shown by the recent double glazing inspections,
Conrad Meehan, Leicester City Council Consumer Protection Officer, added:
'We expect installers to meet the standards of the Building Regulations
and the standards laid down in the contract.
'Consumers should ask installers to prove that low E-glass and safety
glass is supplied where required.'
Tel: 01162 515000
Email: mailto:info@nandu.co.uk
Web: http://www.nandu.co.uk
Optima
Provides £700,000 Glazing Package for new West End Cinema Development
A
£700,000 glazing package for a West End multi-screen cinema development
located in Lower Regent Street, Piccadilly, has been won by Optima Architectural
Glass. Redevelopment includes more than 1,000 sqm of glass for atrium,
roof and fire screen. Design work has already started, and Optima is working
closely with Developers Chelsfield Plc and Architects RHWL to provide
a glazing package which comprises spider-bolted glazed roof, atrium, double
glazed fire screen with 60/15 fire-rated integrity and three roof lights.
In accordance with 'Part L' building regulations, the roof will feature
low emissivity solar control glass to help maintain the building's thermal
properties. A total of 1,045 sqm of glass will be used for the atrium,
roof and fire screen.
The former cinema complex will undergo a complete redevelopment behind
the retained façade with main contractor - Skanska responsible
for the construction work. In addition to the six-screen cinema, the 93-week
redevelopment programme will provide a new retail outlet and approximately
2,510 sqm of office space. Optima will commence work on site in June 2003.
Mike Gallagher from RHWL architects said: 'Optima's early involvement
with our performance schedule suggested they were capable of providing
us with the expertise we were looking for.'
The Radstock-based steel fabrication company Curtsons, also part of the
HLS Group, will manufacture and deliver brackets for the atrium glazing,
steel roof support beams and fire screen.
Tel: 01628 529691
Email: mailto:action@optimaglass.com
Web: http://www.optimaglass.com