Product Launches November 2003

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Prefit to Distribute in UK Sadev’s New Decor Glass Sliding and Hinged Door System

Prefit is distributing in the UK Sadev’s new Décor system of highly engineered, stainless steel components designed for the ‘high tech’ office and home where a minimalist look is required.

Décor’s range of components connects glass in a variety of ways, such as constructing glass sliding and hinged doors, glass screens, glass balustrades and glass shelving systems.

Manufactured from 316 ‘marine’quality stainless steel, the components perform to the highest standards in interior and exterior locations, and are particularly suitable in shower and swimming pool areas.

Supplied in two finishes, brushed stainless steel and satin glass, bead finished stainless steel, all point fixings and components have universal adjustment for ease of fixing. The point fixings can be supplied with four different fixing caps.

Tel: 020 8961 4777
Email: mailto:sales@prefitfittings.co.uk
Web: http://www.prefit-fittings.com


The New Stratobel® EVA Safety Glass from Glaverbel: the Gateway to Greater Originality

Vertal1, a French subsidiary of the Glaverbel Group, has recently inaugurated a lamination line using an EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) interlayer. This has led to the creation of two new ranges of laminated safety glass: Stratobel® EVA, suitable for the more complex assembly of processed glass, and Stratobel® EVA Creation, incorporating various decorative materials. Both take full advantage of the greater elasticity of EVA when going through the heating cycle, in comparison with that of the PVB normally used for laminated assemblies.

Stratobel® EVA: laminated safety glass

EVA interlayers are particularly suitable for assemblies where the surface of one of the glazed components is not perfectly flat (tempered, heat-strengthened, screen-printed, or patterned glass). It can be found in applications with large-glazed facades combining tempered and laminated glass (Point Fixed Glazing Structura®), in safety barriers such as Balustra®, glass floors and stair treads. And EVA is ideal for use in roofs too, thanks to its heat and moisture resistance, as well as the possibility of combining it with solar control units.

Stratobel® EVA Creation: an addition to the range for infinite creativity

The EVA interlayer enables Glaverbel to extend its range of safety glass to surprising applications for both exteriors (facades and roofing) and interiors (balustrades, partitioning, flooring, furniture). Due to its properties, Stratobel® EVA Creation makes it possible to incorporate within a laminated glass materials as diverse as perforated metal sheets, films, and cloth, integrating the decorative aspect with partial light screening.

Each Stratobel® EVA Creation can also be a work of art in itself, inspired by architect or designer.

At Batimat, the International Building Exhibition in Paris, visitors saw the Glaverbel Stratobel® EVA Creation standard range consisting of:
* perforated stainless steel sheet ;
* stainless steel mesh of varying sizes ;
* fibre glass ;
* films.

Tel. : +33 (0)4 72 23 62 00
Web: http://www.myglaverbel.com


Get Converted with Duraflex

Standard Tilt & Turn windows can now be given the appearance of a traditional sliding sash frame with a set of cappings and mouldings from Duraflex.

Specifically aimed at housebuilders, this latest development provides the popular period look for upper floor windows without compromising new fire egress regulations.

Recently introduced fire safety regulations for new homes demand a clear, unobstructed opening in upstairs windows to afford easy egress in the event of a fire. Combining this practical need with the aesthetic requirement of a traditional look was a challenge the design team at Duraflex solved by working closely with both specialist new build fabricator, NBW Ltd, and the housebuilder.

Tilt & Turn windows are manufactured in the standard way, but including a transom in the sash. A shaped capping is fixed to the profile using Tape or Hot Melt adhesive, plus a simple screw fix Horn detail to complete the effect. All corner cleats, joints and seals are supplied in individual packs, and either mechanical or welded joints can be used.

The operation of the Tilt & Turn window is not affected by the addition of the Mock Sash, so maintaining all the advantages of this design such as easy cleaning and, of course, fire egress. The new product can be used with Tilt & Turn windows from the 65mm and 70mm Diamond Suite.

Commenting on this latest innovation in the Duraflex range, Dean Cossey, Director of Technical Services says, ‘The development was instigated by our customer NBW Ltd. Their knowledge of the new build market and relationship with the developers meant that we knew this was a genuine need and not just a fad. It may be a simple solution, but we have created a very authentic-looking sash window that complies with the latest fire escape regulations.’

Tel: 08705 351351
Web: http://www.duraflex.co.uk


Self-Cleaning and Self-Cooling: Pilkington Activ Suncool™Doubles the Benefits

One year on from the UK launch of Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass, the company has now extended the benefits of the product with the introduction of a solar control version for commercial buildings. A dual coated glass that the company says offers a considerable reduction in energy costs in addition to the benefits of self-cleaning, Pilkington Activ Suncool™ is expected to find favour with UK architects and specifiers for a wide range of varied projects. Pilkington Activ™ can also now be used in conjunction with many other Pilkington products to offer commercial specifiers a self-cleaning glass solution for literally any application.

Using a special dual-action coating that repels both dirt and water, Pilkington Activ™ allows windows and other glazed structures to 'clean themselves' by harnessing the natural elements. The product has experienced interest worldwide and has already been used in many prestigious commercial applications.

Pilkington Activ Suncool™ now combines these self-cleaning properties with the benefits of solar control, reducing solar heat gain and glare and giving more protection against harmful UV rays than clear glass. Offering specifiers greater flexibility in design, appearance and performance, Pilkington Activ Suncool™ is a dual coated product that can be incorporated into an insulating glass unit, with Pilkington Suncool™ HP 50/30 or HP 53/40 coating located on the reverse side to
Pilkington Activ™

'The enormous possibilities for the commercial use of Pilkington Activ Suncool™ are immediately obvious. The product not only offers the substantial benefit of self-cleaning making it ideal for high-rise buildings such as office blocks, but also significantly reduces energy costs by reducing the use of air conditioning systems. Pilkington Activ Suncool™ also makes the interior of the building far more comfortable for its inhabitants, offering heat and glare control and lower ultra violet transmission than cIear float.' says Pilkington Marketing Communications Manager Chris Gill.

Pilkington Activ™ has already proved a success in applications where cleaning is difficult or costly. Now Pilkington Activ Suncool™ - available in silver and neutral finishes - is expected to become a popular choice not only for high-rise buildings but also for glass roof structures including conservatories or atria, and in any building where heat, light control and good visibility are important, such as sports stadiums, airports and external walkways.

However, the versatility of Pilkington Activ™ for commercial applications stretches far beyond solar control benefits alone. Pilkington Activ™ can be toughened, making it five times stronger than ordinary glass, or laminated to provide buildings with additional safety and security benefits. For a high energy-management self-cleaning solution, the product can also be combined with low emissivity products such as Pilkington K Glass™ within a standard configuration insulating glass unit to keep heat in. Should another type of glass such as textured glass be required in the inner leaf of the unit, Pilkington Activ Optitherm™ SN - a dual coated product with Pilkington Optitherm™ SN low-e glass on the reverse side to Pilkington Activ™ - can be specified.

Improved noise control can be achieved by including Pilkington Activ Optilam™ Phon, which utilises an acoustic interlayer, within an insulating glass unit, whilst the product can also be laminated to a textured glass for privacy. The possibilities are literally endless, says Chris Gill:

'The adaptability of Pilkington Activ™ is now such that the benefits of self-cleaning glass have become available for a huge range of applications.'

A full colour datasheet is now available that explains the full commercial possibilities of Pilkington Activ™.

Web: http://www.pilkington.com


New French Casement Window Satisfies Demand for 'Emergency' Escape Compliance

Previously a problem area for satisfying Document B of the Building Regulations concerning emergency escape, narrow width applications have now been addressed by PVCu window and door fabricator, Sash UK Ltd.

In direct response to the change in market demands, the company has developed a new French casement window that carries the centre mullion on one of the openers for those narrower applications where the more conventional casement would prove unsuitable.

Stephen Morrell, joint MD of Sash UK Ltd, explains: 'Last year's changes in the Building Regulations for replacement windows, meant that many of our customers have had trouble providing 'like for like or better', when timber windows are being replaced. This is because of the size of the PVCu profile in comparison with the timber products being replaced.

'ln most cases, the only practical alternative has been to offset the centre mullion so as to get the required clear opening. Obviously, this does have a direct impact on the overall appearance of the property and is off putting for many homeowners. With new build products, the French window gives us greater flexibility with aperture sizes anyway,' he added.

This new French window not only satisfies the demands of the regulation, but because it has been developed using the existing casement profiles, it can be mixed and matched with the existing casement range, anywhere in the property.

The new French casement window has two opening side-hung sashes with a false centre mullion. This enables both sashes to open fully to almost 90 degrees creating one single aperture sufficient for emergency escape, but retaining the symmetry of the window layout. Handles with an optional green 'push-button', further illustrates the role of the window as an emergency escape route for habitable rooms, for family and friends.

In addition to these benefits, the window is fitted with shootbolts and egress 'easy-clean' friction stays, as standard. This allows both sides of the glass to be readily cleaned from inside the building but with no loss in security thanks to the shootbolt arrangement.

One major benefit for the window that was only realised after its development, however, was that with the floating centre mullion, the size of the apertures achievable can be ideal for moving large furniture in and out of some of the more awkward rooms and bedrooms.

Tel: 01226 715619
Email: mailto:mailbox@sashuk.com
Web: http://www.sashuk.com


New Glass Collections from GBW

GBW has launched a new concept of three distinct glass collections for its PVCu door panels and Discovery composite doors. Consisting of the traditional Heritage, modern Expressions and top of the range Jubilee, each glass collection is available in a comprehensive set of options specific to the sixteen panel and twelve Discovery designs. GBW believes this initiative will make it easier to select a suitable style and door at the right cost within pre-defined markets, as well as providing the opportunity for customers to offer added sales value.

GBW’s Heritage range combines handcrafted methods of manufacture with a choice of popular designs. Genuine lead is utilised for defined leadwork, and Georgian bars can be incorporated to capture a period look without the problems associated with cleaning multiple glass panes.

The Expressions glass collection has a more contemporary feel and uses Resin technology to provide bevel glass options within the glass unit. The company says that this makes for easy cleaning, and also provides a 99% block against harmful UV rays and reduces sound transmission. GBW’s resin ‘leaded’ designs allow bright, vibrant colours and intricate designs, not normally available using traditional methods.

Launched in honour of the Queen’s Jubilee year, GBW’s Jubilee glass range brings an element of style, sophistication and individuality to any home with an ornate mix of glass bevels and classic leadwork. Capturing the surrounding light, the glass bevels disperse an array of colour creating a new shade dependant on the angle and diffusion of the light. In addition, combining traditional methods with modern technology, this luxury collection also includes a stunning choice of sandblasted glass designs.

Alongside the new glass collections concept, GBW has also added a new design to its door panel range, bringing the current total to sixteen. The ‘Vienna’ is more European in design and features 10 glazing apertures to offer 7 variants – 6 glazed and one solid.

‘Glass is becoming one of the key differentials in the highly competitive door and door panel market. So by clearly branding our glass collections we’re making it much simpler for our customers to select the option that best meets a specific application and budget, whilst also giving them the opportunity to ‘sell up’ to a higher premium product,’ comments GBW’s Director of Sales, Geoff Foster.

Tel: 08705 388377
Web: http://www.gbwuk.com


Technal Expands Range with its Most Advanced Commercial Door System to Date

Architectural aluminium glazing specialist, Technal, has expanded its range of door systems with the launch of PXi – a thermally broken commercial door, which is its most advanced door system to date.

PXi has been specifically designed to deliver enhanced thermal performance, giving specifiers more choice to meet the revised Building Regulations. Applications for PXi are diverse and include offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, hospitals, schools, airports and apartments.

A 9mm thermal break formed from a 15mm double flush polyamide strip provides thermal efficiency, and slim sight lines give a visually attractive, contemporary finish. PXi also has a technically advanced framing system for ease of operation and maximum resistance to wear.

The PXi range will accommodate leaf sizes of up to 2.3m high and a single leaf width of up to 1.2m, and there is a choice of rebated or flush door thresholds and configurations to suit individual project requirements. Other features of the new system include single or dual colours for further design flexibility, and an overhead concealed closer for the pivot door. The option of a floor spring for the pivot door, which has two hold facilities, is also available.

The PXi door uses a 52mm module, which is fully compatible with Technal’s FXi52 casement window, allowing the creation of composite configurations. The system can also be inserted into curtain walling, making it suitable for commercial and penthouse apartment schemes.

The PXi suite benefits from a number of safety and security features. All leaves are internally glazed to prevent removal of the glass from the outside, and cylinder locks for all configurations have single or three-point double locking dead bolts. Hinged doors have a stainless steel anti-lift device and a face-fitted friction adjustable door closer. There is also the option of an anti-finger trap device.

Common tooling and a universal range of profiles, hardware and accessories simplify both specification and fabrication.

For further information on the new PXi commercial door, including downloadable specifications, and other additions to the Technal range, visit http://www.technal.co.uk.


Tremco Sealant gets to Grips with IG

Specifically designed for IG unit manufacture, Tremco's HM 100 is a single component, butyl based sealant that provides a long-lasting barrier to moisture penetration.

Environmental issues have been addressed in the manufacture of this black sealant, as no volatile organic solvent is used in the product.

'Users of HM 100 can enjoy speedy manufacture as there is no cure time - IG units can be immediately handled and shipped. The smooth flow of the sealant ensures easy and fast application - further adding to the speed of manufacture.' says the company.

'Offering excellent UV resistance, the sealant also promises strong adhesion to both glass and aluminium. Units made with HM 100 have met the requirements of BS 5713 and BS EN 1279-2 - bringing a high level of confidence to the specifier and end user.'

A further benefit to the specifier is the low moisture vapour transmission rate for a longer IG unit life.

The sealant is packaged in a 6.25 litre block and has a shelf life of 24 months when stored in original unopened containers.

A guide to its range of IG sealants is now available from Tremco's Marketing Department, tel: 01753 691696.


Greenwood Over-frame Vents Become Part of the Structure

Greenwood Window Vents has completed its window ventilation product portfolio with the launch of new Over-frame ventilation systems. One system has been designed for use in refurbishment work, another for new build projects.

The new Over-frame systems are based on single PVCu extrusions and, once installed over the window profile, become part of the total building structure. This protects the integrity of the window frame and provides an unobtrusive aesthetic finish.

The introduction of the Over-frame systems means that Greenwood can now offer a 'total solutions' approach to passive ventilation problems, offering through-frame Slotvents, glazed-in Permavents and Over-frame Framevent products.

Greenwood Air Management based in Rustington, West Sussex, provides extensive design and technical support for specificers of ventilation solutions for domestic and commercial applications. The company has over 120 years of manufacturing experience and a reputation for high quality innovatively designed products.

Tel: 01903 777173
Web: http://www.greenwood.co.uk



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