Reflex
at London Homebuilding & Renovating Show
Having
exhibited at the NEC in the Spring, specialist conservatory roof
glass manufacturer Reflex
is taking a stand at the London version of the Homebuilding &
Renovating Show to be held at ExCeL, 21-23 September 2007.
Showing the company’s coated energy efficient heat-reflecting
glass for the first time at the London venue, Reflex is using
the event to launch a DVD designed to explain to consumers the
unique advantages of having Reflex glass installed in their new
conservatory.
The short film illustrates to customers the many benefits available
from choosing Reflex premium branded conservatory glass. Reflex
glass offers 99% UV protection and 90% Infrared heat blocking
as standard, something no other glazed unit available can offer,
and with a 20 year warranty - twice that of standard glazed units.
‘Nothing else in the conservatory and roof glazing markets
can compare to the performance of our latest Reflex+ range of
glasses’, says the company's Sally Hassle. ‘We have
fine-tuned our coating manufacturing to produce the ultimate conservatory
glazing to stand us apart from everyone else.’
‘You get what you pay for’ is the theme of the DVD.
The professionally made film uses animated graphics and cleverly
shot footage to fully explain the difference between Reflex glass
and basic tinted units which can offer only very limited UV and
IR blocking performance.
Dealing with overheating and faded furnishings issues in Summer,
through to energy savings and increased comfort in Winter, and
with a no-nonsense approach to low maintenance easy-to-clean glass,
the DVD is also the perfect sales tool for installers to show
in turn to their customers.
‘Due to current environmental issues, homeowners are becoming
more switched on with regards to energy efficiency, and warm edge
spacer bar technology also features prominently in the DVD to
explain how more heat is lost through the standard metal spacer
bars that most glazing companies offer’, adds Sally.
Both new and existing Reflex trade customers can use the DVD to
promote a value-added 'Total Shield' glazing package, with roof
and side windows glazed in both Reflex+ and Reflex Clear for maximum
enjoyment of the conservatory, together with maximum UV and IR
protection.
UV & IR transmission demos will be available on the Reflex
stand (no 2537B) throughout the event.
‘Come along and find out why Reflex tops the lot!’
Tel: 0116 269 6297
Email: sales@reflexglass.co.uk
Web: http://www.reflexglass.co.uk
With
the focus of next year's Glassex-GP&T 2008 seminar programme
being sustainability for profit themes are being developed within
this broad topic that will be relevant for everyone involved in
the glass and glazing industry. Whilst offering practical advice,
the seminar programme is also intended to generate discussion
and provoke debate. The seminars will run throughout the duration
of the show which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from 8-10
April 2008.
As
sustainability and environmental performance continues to drive
product development and consumer choice, energy efficiency will
feature as a big part of the programme. This seminar is likely
to focus on changing regulations and government targets - outlining
future requirements and how the industry can adapt to these changes.
The Conservatory Design competition will also feature an energy
efficiency category - offering the opportunity to see sustainability
in action.
To complement the energy efficiency theme there will also be speakers
on the issues of waste management and recycling. This is a massive
issue for the industry both in terms of disposing of waste from
a manufacturing perspective but also the recycling of old PVC-u
windows. With new waste management regulations due to be introduced
later this year, which will see skip hire costs increase dramatically,
this is an issue that will have real impact on a company's bottom
line - and one that most companies cannot afford to miss.
Another proposed idea is for a round table session that will bring
all the key trade associations together to debate the environmental
merits of their frame product - whether it be wood, PVC-U, steel
or aluminium. With claims and counter claims levelled at all frame
products this provides the opportunity for all parties to make
their case.
Other topics currently being explored are business based - and
are likely to focus on methods of developing and growing a business,
taking in issues such as managing finances and marketing plus
training and people management.
Full details of the speakers and seminar times will be available
in early January. However, anyone interested in finding out more
can visit the website at http://www.gexhibtion.com.
G.F.
Bodley (1827 - 1907) And His Circle
The
Holiness Of Beauty: G.F. Bodley (1827 - 1907) And His Circle display
in the V&A + RIBA Architecture Gallery takes place at the
Victoria and Albert Museum from 1st November 2007 – 17th
February 2008.
Marking the 100th anniversary of the death of George Frederick
Bodley, the most influential Gothic-revival architect of the late
19th century, this display brings together a selection of the
very rare surviving drawings by Bodley and his office.
Drawn
from the collections of both the Royal Institute of British Architects
(RIBA) and Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), with a number
of key loans, the display explores Bodley's career from his early
powerful, colourful Gothic designs to the spare elegance of his
late style, which profoundly shaped the appearance of Anglican
churches throughout the world.
His decade-long close collaboration with William Morris, his partnership
with architect Thomas Garner and his influence on his pupils including
architects C.R. Ashbee and Ninian Comper will be examined through
a selection of drawings, few of which have ever been exhibited,
supplemented by paintings, textiles, plate and stained glass.
Highlights include an embroidered cope from St Paul's, Knightsbridge,
one of the earliest known panels of stained glass by William Morris,
and a large group of watercolours of Bodley's buildings by the
finest of all Victorian architectural draughtsmen, H.W. Brewer,
which are being exhibited in public for the first time since the
19th century.
The display is curated by Michael Hall, author and editor of Apollo
magazine, who is completing a monograph on Bodley and Garner,
and Fiona Orsini, of the RIBA Drawings and Archives Collection.
The display is supported by Watts of Westminster, the firm of
house and church decorators founded by Bodley, Garner and George
Gilbert Scott the Younger in 1874 and will include wallpapers
and textiles designed by Bodley and made by Watts.
Web: http://www.wattsofwestminster.com
H
Jarvis Clay Pigeon Shoot
The sharp-shooting team from Gladedale
beat off stiff competition from rival housebuilders to take the
top honours at the 10th annual clay pigeon shoot organised by
Sheerframe window fabricator and installer H Jarvis Ltd.
The
event has become a key social event amongst H Jarvis customers
in the North East and Yorkshire housebuilding industry, involving
teams from companies including Bellway, Persimmon and McInerney
Homes.
Held at Thimbleby, deep in the North Yorkshire countryside, the
team led by Ian Tallentire scored 102 to beat Bellway Homes into
second place. There were also individual prizes for men and women
and these were won by Ian Pike, Engineer at Gladedale and Helen
Dennis, Field Sales Manager at Persimmon respectively.
MD of H Jarvis, Dave Glendinning, says, ‘The clay pigeon
shooting never fails to be a fantastic day and this year our congratulations
go the Gladedale team. We are really pleased with the numbers
taking part again and delighted that we can get our customers
together for the day in this way.’
Based at Marske-by-the-Sea in Cleveland, H Jarvis is one of the
largest suppliers of windows and doors to the newbuild sector
across northern England and Scotland. Equipped to produce up to
2000 Sheerframe PVC windows, doors and conservatories every week,
the company offers a complete design, fabrication, installation
and aftercare service to deliver consistently high performance
products to housebuilders large and small.
Further information about H Jarvis can be found at http://www.hjarvis.co.uk.
The
Building Services Event, 10-11 October 2007 London, Olympia
M&E - The Building Services Event focuses on the key areas
of commercial building, including; heating, lighting, ventilation,
air conditioning, electrical infrastructure, building controls
and security, making this event a must for all personnel in
the building services sector.
There is also have the opportunity to network, source ideas
and learn through a variety of feature areas, seminar content
and hundreds of exhibiting companies.
Click here to register for FREE entry http://www.buildingservicesevent.co.uk
Show highlights
Training Academy - the theme for 2007 is Sustainable
Buildings in Practice. Attendees will learn about new techniques
& technologies to raise the environmental standards of their
buildings.
CPD Seminar Theatre - earn CPD credits from these complimentary
seminar sessions covering topical issues related the building
services sector.
Working Buildings Week This year Working Buildings Week,
which highlights issues in the built environment to the wider
business community, combines four co-located events. Along with
M&E - The Buildings Services Event visitors will also have
access to the AMPS Power Expo, e2 - Energy Solutions Expo and
Total Workplace Management.
As a visitor your badge will give you access to all aspects
of FM, energy management, M&E and sustainability in one
location and provided you with a unique and unrivalled opportunity
to come face-to-face with some of the countries leading building
service providers.
Your badge will be sent to you 2-3 weeks before the event along
with a free show preview.
With limited space, if you are interested in exhibiting please
call Mark Rimmer on +44 (0)20 7921 8148.
Glasstech
Asia 2007 Set for Success
Glasstech
Asia 2007 (15th – 17th November 2007) is set on making another
record-breaking event in Thailand. With the target sales of 10,000
square metres, organiser, Conference and Exhibition Management
Services (CEMS) announced 90% of the exhibition space acquired
in total bookings and reservations. This is a successful feat
considering that sales target has increased 25% in terms of gross
space compared to the last presentation in 2005.
The increase in exhibition size is largely due to the continuous
support of repeat exhibitors, such as Landglass Technology, Tamglass
Bavelloni, Du Pont and Dow Corning Singapore. Of note is Zhongshan
Fushan Glass Machinery which significantly increased its booth
presence to 180sqm for this year's presentation. An influx of
new exhibitors, such as Guandong Enkong Machinery, Profine GmbH
and Hydro Building Systems International, is also the catalyst
for such compelling increase in exhibition size. The boost in
the number of worldwide companies taking up booths at Glasstech
Asia 2007 also promises to attract a good number of quality visitors.
Being the only exhibition in Southeast Asia dedicated to the glass
industry, Glasstech Asia 2007 makes the ideal regional platform
for buyers and manufacturers to tap on business making opportunities.
According to Mr. Edward Liu, Managing Director of CEMS, ‘What
makes Glasstech Asia so different from other shows is our belief
in bringing the right visitors to our exhibitors at the fair.
Known as the Hosted Buyers Programme, Glasstech Asia will be hosting
some 200 to 300 top quality buyers from the region to the fair.’
Many Thai glass companies are also very supportive of this exhibition.
‘This is a must-attend event for new exhibitors like us,
as we intend to create awareness and gain positive response for
our business,’ said Mr. Somchai Boon-Aun, Managing Director
of Euro-Asia Glass Machine Works Co Ltd. ‘Glasstech Asia
is an excellent meeting point that opens business opportunities
for regional distributors to get updated on the latest products
and services. We look forward to this great event in November
2007,’ he said.
Glasstech Asia 2007 also has the on-going support of Excel Glazer,
the largest supplier of glazier tools and solution for glass in
Thailand. Excel Glazer will be participating in the exhibition
in corporation with Korean brand, ‘K-Star’, a leading
brand of glazier tools in the world market. Mr. Wiroj Tang, Managing
Director of Excel Glazer said, ‘Glasstech Asia 2007 is a
very unique exhibition in Southeast Asia that focuses on the whole
picture of glass industry in this region. We are certain that
this exhibition will be able to attract the industry's key players
to Bangkok during these three days.’
Optimising its presence at this exhibition, Excel Glazer aims
to spread safety awareness amongst glass manufacturing factories
by stressing the use of proper glass handling tools and equipment
to small-medium enterprises in Thailand. ‘If you walk into
glass processing factories in Thailand, India or Vietnam, you
can see a lot of people carrying big sheets of glass around in
a very unsafe environment. Instead of using these labours, jobs
can be made more efficient by the use of right equipment, such
as electric lifter, light rail, crane system and the glass optimizing
software,’ Tang added.
Indeed, Glasstech Asia serves as a two-prong approach towards
facilitating business networking in Thailand and across Asia,
as well as, introducing new services and technologies to ease
rising demand for raw materials in the Asia Pacific region. For
exhibition or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ms Christine
Ching, Tel: +65 6278 8666 or Email: Christine@cems.com.sg.
For Thailand, please contact Ms Kesinee W. Tel: +66 2455 9344
or Email: mkt2@pmsco.org.
Universal
goes Stateside with Edgetech Deal
Universal
Arches
announced a unique alliance at the GlassBuild America exhibition
last year with Edgetech I.G. Inc for the distribution of its Form8tor®
profile bending machinery throughout the Americas. Several months
on and the launch has proved to be a considerable success and
Edgetech is again demonstrating the machine at this years' show
in Atlanta.
Edgetech featured the machinery at the GlassBuild America exhibition
with a view to offering companies in North America, South America
and the Caribbean access to what is regarded as the world's most
advanced profile bending machine. Clair Day, director at Universal
Arches comments: ‘This is a genuinely exciting opportunity.
Both companies have a history of innovation and expertise in their
respective sectors and for us it provides the perfect opportunity
to open up the all-important American market.’
The USA market is made up of both the new housing sector in which
curves and arches often appear and the remodelling sector where
homeowners spend considerable sums of money in upgrading their
home. The Form8tor® profile bending machinery has the capability
to produce multiple bends allowing for greater production efficiencies
and improved product consistency. For the fabricator in the American
market this is an important investment and one in which will satisfy
considerable demand.
The machinery was developed in conjunction with Liverpool University
and the Department of Trade and Industry which has proved to be
hugely successful for Universal. The company has now used the
Form8tor® to manufacture products for thousands of delighted
customers throughout the UK, Europe and the Far East.
Rob Miller, Form8tor Product Manager for Egdetech IG is quick
to add praise: ‘We have already gained a number of sales
successes and California-based Anlin Windows have been one particular
customer who has been delighted with its performance. This has
been a real team effort from both companies and I can really see
the relationship blossoming.’
Leon Day, co-director at Universal Arches concludes: ‘Distribution,
service and support are paramount in the USA market and Edgetech
have already made considerable inroads with a number of leading
fabricators trialling the machinery. We look forward to achieving
further success in the USA market with this partnership which
will complement our UK activities.’
Tel: 01744 612844
Email: clair.day@universalarches.com
Glasstech
at Glassbuild America 2007
Glasstech,
Inc., the specialist in the development of glass bending and tempering
equipment, will highlight the technology and programmes that have
helped it establish worldwide standards for precision and efficiency
at GlassBuild America 2007, September 10th to 12th. Glasstech
will be located at Booth 3923 at the Georgia World Congress Centre;
Atlanta, Georgia.
The company will feature its highly energy-efficient FCH2™
Architectural Flat-Glass Tempering System; the advanced roll-forming
technology used by its family of Cylindrical Radius Bender (CRB)
Systems; the high-efficiency windshield system, the EPB-L™;
and its recently announced 'No Net Cost' System Performance Audits.
FCH2
Architectural Flat-Glass Tempering System
Glasstech’s FCH2 Architectural Flat-Glass Tempering System
is a gas-fired forced-convection system that processes clear or
coated glass, including hard- and soft-coated Low-E glass.
Under normal circumstances, the FCH2 can heat clear glass at a
typical cycle time of 30 seconds per millimeter of thickness and
high-performance, soft-coat Low-E glass at a typical cycle time
of 33 seconds per millimetre. Reduced heating time provides for
higher quality with less distortion, improves productivity, results
in superior flatness and reduces processing cost.
Gas-fired forced-convection heating offers the lowest energy costs
per square foot of glass processed and has been proven to be as
much as 50 percent less expensive to operate than standard electric
heaters. Also, gas provides 25 percent shorter cycle times.
Cylindrical Radius Bender (CRB) Systems
The advanced roll-forming technology used by the Glasstech family
of Cylindrical Radius Bender (CRB) Systems has made possible many
small-to-large sophisticated asymmetrical glass parts.
CRB
systems use computer-controlled, flexible upper and lower beds
to bend glass. The CRB technology has the unique capability of
roll-forming significantly more complex shapes than other roll-forming
technologies without dedicated tooling.
The CRBA™ produces parts up to 1700mm wide by 2400mm long.
The system will temper or heat-strengthen glass as thin as 3.0mm.
Parts produced are suitable for insulated glazing units, lamination
and automotive doorlites and buslites. The CRBA produces up to
180 loads per hour, depending on glass thickness and load size,
and achieves superior quality optics.
Glasstech’s CRBA system quickly forms shapes that are ideal
for shower enclosures and furniture glass production, including
pure cylinders, shapes with two radii that have a point of tangency,
J-bends and V-bends. Since dedicated tooling is not required,
the system transitions from the various shapes in less than 15
minutes.
External Press Bend Forming and Annealing System for Automotive
Glass (EPB-L)
The External Press Bend Forming and Annealing System for Automotive
Glass (EPB-L) uses a single tooling set to produce complex windshields.
The EPB-L is energy efficient, since only glass and one tool are
heated, and requires much less maintenance and storage area than
traditional windshield systems.
The
EPB-L benefits from Glasstech’s earlier development of the
Super Deep Bend Forming and Annealing System (SDB -L™), which
produces complex windshields with improved reflective optics,
tight tolerances and asymmetrical construction. The Glasstech
EPB-L system is capable of producing the exacting tolerances required
for the new Bosch wiper technology and heads-up display systems.
The most productive EPB-L system can produce as many as 225 windshields
per hour and change jobs in less than 90 minutes. A financial
operating model for the EPB-L process shows a financially viable
windshield-fabrication technology and ensures that future tight-forming
requirements are achieved.
The EPB family of systems also includes the EPB-SS™ External
Press Bend Tempering System, which accommodates a single stream
of glass parts; and the EPB-DS™ External Press Bend Tempering
System, with a 72-inch-(1829mm) wide bed, which will accommodate
either a single or dual stream of parts.
'No Net Cost' Performance Audits
In today’s era of high energy, materials and labor costs,
Glasstech’s 'No Net Cost' System Performance Audits are the
ideal way for customers to increase system efficiency, reduce
expenses and improve throughput of their Glasstech systems.
Performance audits include such well-known investigations as energy
usage and preventive maintenance practices. Additionally, Glasstech
has designed audits to probe performance characteristics such
as costs, downtime, throughput and yield. The company will make
written recommendations outlining steps to be taken to reduce
costs.
The new 'No Net Cost' System Performance Audit is simple. Glasstech
charges a small fee to visit a customer site, perform an audit
and provide performance enhancement recommendations for the customer’s
Glasstech system. If the customer agrees to implement the audit’s
recommendations, the price of the audit will be deducted from
the price of the order, giving the customer enhanced system capabilities
with no out of pocket expense for the original audit.
The System Performance Audits are in addition to Glasstech’s
well-known aftermarket offerings, including ongoing service agreements,
on-site or remote training, tooling services, genuine replacement
parts and system upgrades.
About Glasstech
Glasstech, Inc., based in Perrysburg, Ohio, is a leading, world-class
innovator of highly productive bending and tempering systems used
by glass fabricators supplying the automotive and architectural
safety-glass market. The company says that Glasstech automotive
and architectural glass bending and tempering systems have become
standards for the efficient production of high-quality safety-glass
products.
Web: http://www.glasstech.com
30-Plus
Exhibitors at DHF Conference
More
than 30 exhibitors will showcase the best of the UK’s door,
shutter and hardware industry at the Door & Hardware Federation’s
Conference and Expo on Friday, September 28th.
It will be held in Loughborough University’s Sir Denis Rooke
Building, Holywell Park from 9am to 3pm. Entrance is free to all
prebooked visitors. A buffet lunch will be available to all prebooked
visitors. To book, visitors should contact the DHF on 01827 52337.
There will be a huge variety of exhibitors, ranging from lockmakers
to door security producers, who will be manning their stands throughout
the day at the popular event which is designed to promote and
uphold best practice in the sector. In addition there will be
a full programme of workshops that delegates can attend covering
a wide variety of hot topics in the industry.
The DHF is confidently expecting a large turnout of visitors to
the event, even more than last year’s successful event. In
addition to having the opportunity of visiting the trade stands,
visitors will also be able to attend a number of free workshops
covering a wide variety of hot industry topics.
The importance of the event has been underlined this year by the
decision of Bodycote warringtonfire, the fire testing and fire
safety consultants, to be the main sponsor.
Said DHF chief executive Ian Wood: 'Attracting a sponsor of the
calibre of Bodycote warringtonfire demonstrates without doubt
that the DHF Expo is now a must-attend event for everyone within
the industrial and garage doors, shutters and hardware sectors.
'Visitors can expect a day packed with activities. Both DHF members
and non members should gain real benefits from attending our Conference
and Expo including the opportunity to network with the key players
in the sector.'
The DHF represents all of the leading companies in industrial
and commercial doors & shutters and garage doors and also
represents the leading UK manufacturers of building hardware and
architectural ironmongery.
Web: http://www.dhfonline.org.uk
With
stand space 93% sold out and over 800 companies confirmed, Interbuild
2007 (28th October - 1st November) is living up to its 'record
breaking' predictions.
‘Encouraging sales led us to believe that this year's show
would be a success from the start,’ says Interbuild Event
Director, Gordon Thomas. ‘Now, with just weeks to go, I'm
delighted to report that this is indeed the case and we're fast
nearing capacity.’
A welcome return from United Merchants' Unimer Showcase has spurred
a massive response in Hall 5's Structural Building section; with
B&Q back on board and Kingspan exhibiting with sister company,
Potton. Alongside Structural, Timber Zone is already a sellout
and set for expansion in the final weeks before the show.
Also sat within this area, the Offsite Solutions Zone hosted by
Mtech Group, is complementing its impressive exhibitor line-up
- including H&H Celcon, Elements and Framing Solutions - with
a raft of new show initiatives. Its 'Meet the Client' sessions,
for instance, offer visitors a unique opportunity to get face-to-face
with high profile decision makers from heavyweight companies.
In addition, Mtech's popular technical guided tours and Offsite
'Masterclass' sessions are back and bigger than ever, with a record
1500 free seminar places now available.
Other sections performing exceptionally well are Hall 3's Heating,
Plumbing and Ventilation; Flooring and the CEDIA (Custom Electronic
Design and Installation Association) home automation area, with
companies including Aventure, Adapt Control Solutions and SISD
already signed-up.
‘Social trends have a dramatic impact on the industry and
the response we've had to the new CEDIA area is a prime example,’
says Gordon. ‘Home automation features are fast becoming
highly sought after and property developers are tapping into this
as a key point of differentiation.
‘Another obvious key driver at the moment is sustainability.
The Eco Interbuild initiatives have been well received with many
exhibitors choosing to enter the new Eco Product Showcase. In
addition, we're working with key trade bodies to put together
a thought provoking seminar schedule and the BRE's talks on low
carbon homes, in particular, have generated a lot of interest
already - as well as similarly 'green' themed sessions proposed
by RIBA CPD and TRADA.’
Hall 3/3a also sees Lighting and electrical back at Interbuild
in a big way with the new Voltimum Centre giving added spark to
this year's show. Philips, Draka, OSRAM, Legrand, Draka, Dimplex,
Applied Energy, Kew Technik, Eaton and Elkay are all exhibiting
in the specially created area to feature a dedicated meeting lounge,
information centre and seminar theatre.
Hall 4 - home to the Biz and the eagerly anticipated Test The
Trades - is also proving ever popular with limited space left
in Truck & Tool. Bosch, Dewalt, Hitachi, Makita, Metabo and
Ford are just some of the big name brands set to enjoy a prime
position in one of the show's busiest areas.
Organisers are also reporting an upsurge in 'Aluminium in Construction'
with 15 companies - more than double last year - representing
everything from fabricators through to finishing hardware in the
zone jointly hosted by The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB)
and The Aluminium Federation (Alfed).
‘Thanks to the calibre of exhibitors, a jam-packed feature
schedule and already high demand for seminar places, we anticipate
a tremendous turn-out at this year's event,’ says Gordon.
For further information and to pre-register for the show, visit
http://www.interbuild.com.
100%
Detail will provide the ideal launch platform for Dow Corning
to showcase the company’s latest solution for weathersealing
of photo-catalytic and hydrophilic clean glass surfaces like Activ®
glass by Pilkington and Bioclean® glass by St Gobain.
Dow Corning® 757 is Silicone-Hybrid based sealant, specifically
developed to support the function of photo-catalytic and hydrophilic
clean glass surfaces and is pre-approved for compatibility with
the edge sealing of insulating glass units as well as structural
glazing façade elements, produced with Dow Corning silicone
sealants.
Visitors to stand G125 are also invited to see first-hand how
Dow Corning is addressing the growing emphasis on sustainable
or green construction. Working in close collaboration with industry
partners and co-suppliers on increasing numbers of projects, Dow
Corning strives to support the innovations in eco construction
of investors and architects with customised technical services
and state-of-the art creative bonding and sealing silicone solutions.
One such project example on show will be the Main Airport Centre
in Frankfurt; a multi-functional business centre located near
Frankfurt International Airport. In order to meet the demanding
requirements of high insulation, a silicone secondary edge seal
system for insulating glass units capable of retaining argon gas
was developed, exceeding the requirements set out in EN 1279 Part
1 - a feat that had previously proven to be difficult to solve.
The outer skin of the whole building is made of a structural silicone
glazing façade. The SSG technology combined with wet sealed
joints between the façade elements further enhances the
thermal efficiency of the façade.
Whilst silicone based structural bonding technology already provides
exceptional performance in terms of safety and durability, Dow
Corning continues to strive for excellence in quality assurance
with support from early phases of project planning and design,
technical service and application. Recently launched, the Dow
Corning Quality Bond initiative lifts structural glazing and insulating
glazing to a new level through implementation of the highest standards
of quality management, quality control and sealant application.
Membership of Quality Bond allows business partners and customers
to share in Dow Corning's unrivalled expertise. Full details of
this important industry initiative will also be available on stand.
A global leader in silicon technology and innovation, Dow Corning's
products continue to be trusted on the world's most challenging
projects, including the Burj Dubai, the centrepiece of the gulf
regions most prestigious urban development to date. At 521.7m
high and with 142 floors it is now the tallest tower in the world.
About Dow Corning
Dow Corning (http://www.dowcorning.com)
provides performance-enhancing solutions to serve the diverse
needs of more than 25,000 customers worldwide. A global leader
in silicon-based technology and innovation, offering more than
7,000 products and services. Dow Corning is equally owned by The
Dow Chemical Company and Corning, Incorporated. More than half
of Dow Corning's annual sales are outside the United States.
K2
Conservatory Systems
recently held two regional golf days at Carden Park near Chester
and Old Thorns in Liphook, Hampshire.
Over 100 people attended the two events and the regional winners
will now go on to face each other at The Belfry later in the year.
There were competitions to win a holiday and a new Jaguar for
a hole-in-one, but despite several great efforts the prizes were
returned to the organisers.
At Carden Park, Paul Williams and Hugh Griffith from Ffenstra
Cymr pipped Paul Richings and Paul Kitson from SWC Trade Frames.
Longest drive went to Michael Bullock from Ffenstra Cymr and K2's
own Tim Burton was nearest the pin.
Conditions at Old Thorns were impressive despite several days
of heavy rain and first were Ian Daniels and Scott Grant from
Britelite Windows with the company’s own team of Mike Baxter
and Steve Billings in second place. Nearest the pin was Andy Dunn
from Glass and Glazing Products who spent most of the day selling
advertising space! Finally, longest drive went to Gordon Knott
from Henman Green.
Both Mike Jackson and Charles Fox from K2 were on hand throughout
both events and both declared them a rounding success. Mike concluded:
‘These were two great and valuable days at challenging golf
courses. It's often just as important to broker relationships
outside of the office as it is inside it. The final at The Belfry
should be a great day for the winners of the regional events and
thanks to all those that attended.’
Tel: 01204 554 554
GM Fundraising recently put on a thoroughly entertaining golf day at the Welcombe Hotel, Spa and Golf Club at Stratford upon Avon
The
event involved a stableford competition during the day with a
number of unique competitions including beat the pro and a 100
yard pitch into a paddling pool, placed in the middle of a lake
on the 17th hole! The winning team came from New Build Windows
on a day when conditions proved a little challenging.
The evening involved dinner and entertainment from Keith the Thief,
a near professional pickpocket who thankfully returned all monies
and goods to their respective owners at the end of the evening.
In addition there was a charity auction of football, golf and
boxing memorabilia.
The event raised over £8,000 for GM Fundraising which will
then be going directly to Hope House Children's Hospice. Gary
Morton from GM Fundraising comments:
‘Everyone had a great deal of fun and more importantly we
raised over £8,000 during the day. Thanks to all those that
attended and assisted during the event and now the next main project
will be Ride 4 Hope in 2008. Anyone interested in contributing
towards this cycling adventure across the USA should contact me
at gary@garymorton.co.uk.’
Remember,
Remember the 25th of September!
Proskills,
the Sector Skills Council for the process and manufacturing sector
including the glass industry, has announced its First National
Conference, which will take place at the Belfry Hotel in Birmingham
on 25th September 2007; a conference which will breakthrough the
sectoral and regional barriers, bringing together employers from
all of Proskills industries across the UK to enable the sharing
of best practice.
'The conference is all about giving Proskills' employers an opportunity
to learn from each other by showcasing real solutions to problems
common to all our industries; introducing them to smarter methods
of working; enabling them to unlock the full potential of their
workforce; in short, it is about driving change and improving
performance.
‘Allow yourself to be inspired by Sir Digby Jones as he shares
with you his views and experience on business growth and sustainability...
‘Participate in our workshops and share best practice...
‘Celebrate with us the star performers of our sector at our
Celebrations Awards Dinner...
‘We look forward to seeing you there.
‘For full details or to register on line, visit our dedicated
conference website http://www.proskills.co.uk/conference07/conference07.html
‘or alternatively call our help line on 01235 432 032.’
Plastics
Opportunities Expand in Window and Door Profiles
The
latest developments in window, door and siding profiles were discussed
at the international conference in June in Charlotte, USA, organised
by Applied Market Information LLC. Profiles 2007 attracted a wide
audience from window and door manufacturers to material suppliers
and provided a unique venue for business experts to get together.
The hot topic was decorative effects.
John Swanson described window and door markets in North America
– there is an increasing shift to vinyl materials (over 40
million units used in window profiles in 2006 compared to 25 million
in 2005). There is also growth in the use of glass fibre materials,
particularly in doors with around 4 million units in 2006 compared
to 1 million in 2000. There has also been extensive consolidation
from builders to manufacturers.
Gorell Windows and Doors discussed hurricane proofing of windows.
Aluminium was tested as an alternative but the rigidity increases
stresses and the finish is not as durable. The company has developed
heavy duty, fusion welded frames that pass the missile impact
testing requirements for hurricane zones and shutters are not
required.
Millennium Inorganic Chemicals described the industry certification
and standards for colour retention of siding, windows and doors,
and plastic lumber. ASTM D3679 and D6864 cover siding; D4726 covers
windows and doors; D6662 relates to plastic lumber. The American
Architectural Manufacturers Association also specifies 2-year
exposure in a variety of different climates and includes impact
testing after weathering. The use of titanium dioxide in protecting
profiles was highlighted. Q-Lab described accelerated weathering
testing and carries out accelerated testing for heat, moisture,
sunlight and other factors.
Titanium dioxide has 72% market share in colouring of plastics
and provides good colour and UV resistance, as described by Tom
Racal of Tronox LLC. The undertone and tint reducing strength
of the pigment vary with different grades.
PolyOne has new dark colour PVC materials with enhanced weathering
in all climates, for capstock or solid profile applications. Dark
greens, blues and browns have all been tested for durability from
Arizona to Ohio (industrial).
The Shepherd Color Company has developed high performance inorganic
pigments in a wide spectrum of colours for the profile market.
These are compatible with all polymers, are easily dispersed,
do not migrate, are heat stable and have very low bio-availability.
Shepherd has also invested in ‘cooler’ technology –
dark colours tend to absorb light and heat up so the company has
developed IR-reflective pigments.
Lustran has new ASA materials for siding applications in high
impact, high and low gloss grades. There are also medium and dark
colour materials for siding and profiles, all used over PVC.
Lanxess has a range of different pigments to give the ‘kerb
appeal’ that gets customers to choose a product. Experiments
were conducted using a range of polymers with inorganic and organic
pigments and dyes, and looking at lightfastness and cost effectiveness.
Profile wrapping can add an infinite variety of finishes. Düspohl
Maschinenbau GmbH provides equipment for this process. Surfaces
are primed (for example using solvent free primer and vacuum coating
to minimise material use) and then flashed off with IR lamps to
dry them. Generally a slot coater and a PU based glue are then
used to attach a PVC overlay material from a roll.
American Renolit has developed a range of laminates to add value
to PVC profiles with effects from solid colour to wood grain,
textures and embossed. Durability has been tested from windows
to fences and facades. There are alternative decorative patterns
for interiors. Acrylic base film is being used in exterior films
with a transparent PVDF outer layer/transparent acrylic/pigmented
acrylic make up. Patterns, such as woodgrain, are incorporated
on the surface of the pigmented layer.
Jowat supplies PUR hot melt glue for attaching overlay materials.
The high green strength helps to overcome the stresses in the
coating layer.
Basell presented new TPO resins that can be formulated to be halogen-free
and flame retardant (using aluminium trihydrate, magnesium hydroxide
or ammonium polyphosphate). They are in use in window profiles,
siding, reinforced fencing and wood composites.
Dow Chemical (Texas) has worked on an alternative to PVC in profile
– ethylene/alpha-olefin elastomers blended with polypropylene.
These materials have 70-90 Shore A hardness and can be processed
at similar line speeds to PVC.
Jeff Miller, President of Comfort Line, described the benefits
of fibreglass for fenestration applications: outstanding U factor
(high R-values/low U-values), can be refinished in the field,
extremely hard and scratch resistant, high condensation resistance
and high performance finishes in many colours. One case study
was the St. Ursula Academy in Toledo with 1300 windows, where
steel was replaced with fibreglass units.
DuPont Titanium Technologies demonstrated the benefits of adding
titanium dioxide to profiles in terms of weatherability, using
chalking and non-chalking grades.
Wood-plastic composites are also being used in profiles. Inhance/Fluoro-Seal
has a reactive gas treatment using fluorine to make composites
paintable. UV curable coatings have been tested for durability.
DuPont Packaging and Industrial Polymers have worked on compatibilisers
for the mixed waste recycled polymers that are utilised in wood
composites, to improve the interface between polar and non-polar
materials. The new ethylene-maleic anhydride improves properties
such as impact strength in mixed waste streams. American Wood
Fibers has worked on the wood part of the composites to develop
improved fibre properties.
Cincinnati Extrusion has worked on coextrusion technology for
profiles. This technique was first used for incorporating 85%
recyclate in the 1990s and is now also used to add a colored top
layer of PVC, ASA or PMMA. Krauss-Maffei presented data on its
latest 32D machines for profile manufacture with reduced wear.
Pallmann addressed the issue of waste profile and how to recycle
this by grinding to a powder or granulate.
Profiles 2007 gave a unique opportunity for the industry to get
together and see the latest developments with top experts to provide
practical advice and support. The decorative effects and material
enhancements open up new possibilities for manufacturers to give
consumers exactly what they want. The next event by AMI LLC is
scheduled for June 3-4 2008 in Charlotte, North Carolina at the
Hilton Charlotte Centre City.
Web: http://www.amiconferences.com
There's
a Locca Everywhere You Look!
The
ERA Locca really was the star of the show at the Chartered Institute
of Housing Exhibition in Harrogate last month. You couldn't turn
a corner without coming face to face with the latest in remote
access control from ERA Products, The Door Lock People.
Following its launch last year, demand for Locca has been strong.
This is supported by its promotion on no less than five stands
at this year's CIH Exhibition. Door manufacturers Permadoor, Rockdoor,
Securidor and Homesafe Lindman were all offering Locca as a security
solution, and ERA Products was naturally taking the opportunity
to demonstrate its features and benefits.
Also being shown for the first time at the exhibition was the
new ERA Locca Connecta. Specifically designed to enhance the existing
Locca range, the Connecta Intercom offers the added advantage
of allowing the user to determine who is at the door prior to
allowing access.
Simple to install without the need for wiring, this stylish system
comprises an external wall-mounted speech panel, a handset and
handset charger. This enables the user to speak to visitors and
allow access to their home from a range of up to 200m, making
it the optimum security solution for the elderly or disabled or
simply the latest must-have in technological advancements for
the modern home.
Find out more about the ERA's range of remote access control products,
call 01922 490000, email info@era-security.com
or visit http://www.era-security.com.
Sovereign
and VEKA Pull in the Crowds at Harrogate
Situated
at the heart of The Chartered Institute of Housing Exhibition,
based in Harrogate, window & door manufacturer and installer
Sovereign Group Ltd attracted an abundance of executives from
local authorities, housing associations, arms length management
organisations and the private sectors, not to mention resident
boards this year seeing the company’s visitor numbers greatly
increase compared to this time last year.
Sharing
the stand with established profile systems fabricator, VEKA plc,
Sovereign showcased its abilities within the public sector highlighting
projects it has transformed using the VEKA Matrix system.
‘Having VEKA join us this year, we were able to hit home
just how unrivalled our products are in terms of providing ultimate
protection from the elements, but more importantly the high security
specifications they meet,’ comments Senior Business Development
Manager of Sovereign Jim Gregson. ‘The event has been very
successful for us, enabling us to maintain contact with old clients
keeping them up-to-date with our product developments, our most
recent case studies and our latest Key Performance Indicators
that underpin our commitment and quality to service. Not only
that, we have had direct access to a wealth of new faces from
resident boards and Chief Executives from housing associations,
local authorities and health trusts and ...and the response we
have had back from them has been fantastic.’
Visitors to the stand were not only able to see how Sovereign's
products can alter the appearance of even the most run down buildings,
but they were able to experience first hand the support systems
it has in place ranging from pre-tender surveys, budgetary cost
packages, planning and designing to financial viability and technical
support - something that is further augmented by its supply partnership
with VEKA plc.
Sovereign and VEKA's commitment to environment and sustainability
played a big part in attracting the crowds this year, seeing Sovereign
highlight the practical steps it takes to minimise the environmental
impact of its procedures at every stage, from the factory to materials,
transport, energy management and of course recycling. This was
strengthened by VEKA taking the opportunity to show how it recycles
all of its products and how it works with its customers including
Sovereign to ensure this is carried out in the most efficient
way possible.
‘Our aim at events like this is to showcase how we operate
and what is the added value we can bring to the communities in
which we operate. With VEKA sharing our stand this year we have
been able to highlight our strategy to partnering, and how this
provides Best Value all round...2007's event has been a resounding
success for us in showing the housing sector how we can help them
achieve their targets and objectives all the way down the line,’
concluded Mr Gregson.
For more information on Sovereign go to: http://www.sov-group.co.uk.
Something
in the Air at this Year's CIH
The
importance of air permeability was the talking point from a bespoke
door manufacturer at the 2007 CIH exhibition.
Manse
Masterdor ltd investigated how wind speed levels affected energy
costs through heat loss and Leeds University validated the overall
test results. A visual demonstration was used to show how significantly
a standard door set leaks heat if it isn't properly airtight in
comparison to a Masterdor door set.
Mike Hudson, director at Manse Masterdor ltd, commented: ‘In
order for the Government to meet its ambition of all new homes
being zero-carbon by 2016, all involved in specifying and investing
in door set products for the future need to be aware of the facts.
‘Although manufacturers of door sets submit their products
for testing to PAS23-1:1999 and the tests do include air permeability
(to BS6375), there is no requirement to achieve a certain level.
Some manufacturers do not even achieve a recordable air permeability
level, but still receive a certificate of testing.
‘Part of the Leeds University review considered how heat
loss could be converted into monetary terms. The results were
dramatic and even surpassed the losses we anticipated. They revealed,
for example, that wind speeds of just 5mph could result in significant
additional cost - roughly 8p per day.
‘This is not a new message as we have been making airtight
door sets for the past 15 years but some manufacturers' door sets
are not airtight. It is important now more than ever to meet the
Government's target of zero-carbon homes and the industry needs
to be made aware of the discrepancies of product performance.’
Masterdor says that it provides the largest range of Secured by
Design door-sets on the market. Masterdors exceed PAS23/24 BSi
tests, meet the requirements of Part M of the building regulations,
and fire-check versions have also been successfully tested to
BS476 Part 22. The Masterdor door set consistently achieves the
highest exposure category in testing, showing it is one of the
most airtight door sets on the market.
A leaflet on the importance of air permeability is available from
Manse Masterdor by contacting 01423 866868.
