Product Launches November 2003

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Metal Technology Launches timber/aluminium Window System

A new window system, expected to open a niche market for fabricators, has been launched by façade systems company Metal Technology. Called Silverwood, the combined timber and aluminium casement window significantly extends the company’s range of high performance façade systems.    

Clients and architects need a high-spec fenestration system which provides the comfort of wood for interiors with the resilience of aluminium externally for commercial, public sector and high spec residential markets.  Independently-tested Silverwood has been in development for over two years and has all the advantages of Metal Technology’s latest window technology which benchmarks the highest industry standards. 

Metal Technology’s patented method of continuously mechanically joining the timber to the thermally broken aluminium profiles ensures that Silverwood’s performance does not depend on adhesives and/or nailing. Fabrication and assembly of the Silverwood window is based on existing aluminium fabrication technology skills and equipment. The windows are constructed with mitred corner joints, which eliminate the exposure of end grain, a common contributing factor to the deterioration of traditional timber windows.

The corners are enhanced through the routing of a dovetailed slot within the mating surfaces of the timber and the insertion of a moulded corner key, which draws the timber mitre closed and ensures a tight, secure and clean joint. The routing of the dovetail slot is quickly, simply and efficiently achieved using Metal Technology’s proprietary router system. Similar attention to detail is implemented at the cruciform joints by employing self-locking dowels and compression cams using the appropriate drill jigs. 
 
Fully compliant with the most recent Document L legislation (Document J in Scotland), Silverwood has been weather-tested at a UKAS-accredited test centre to BS6375 achieving 600Pa for air and water and 2000Pa for wind.   The system has also been subjected to an onerous 100 cycle freeze thaw accelerated weathering test at the BRE test centre in Scotland with results which confirmed that the assembled profiles remain stable and robust even under the most severe conditions.  
To ensure a long-lasting and attractive appearance, Southern Yellow pine of high quality ‘Saps’ grade timber, is used.  Alternative timbers, also from sustainable forests, are available subject to lead times and quantity.

Silverwood is constructed with slim 78mm profiles which accommodate 28mm double glazed units.  For efficient glazing on site they are secured with specialist adhesive gaskets and externally beaded with clip fit aluminium beads.   More new products for the range will be launched shortly.

Metal Technology offers a technical support network, both regionally and at its high tech central resource.  The company provides on-line, CD and paper-based drawings, specifications, pro-active marketing and sales service.   With the confidence of a proven supply chain in place, Antrim-based Metal Technology has daily deliveries to the mainland on a choice of 14 daily sailings. 
 
Enquiries: Calvin Wilson, Sales & Marketing director, Metal Technology,
Tel: 028 94 487777 Fax: 028 94 487878
email: mailto:info@metaltechnology.com
http://www.metaltechnology.com


New IG unit profile connector from CERA

A new connector, the Double T, has been introduced to the UK market by CERA, the leading manufacturer of plastic connectors, sleeves, plugs and corner keys for insulated glass unit production. Unlike conventional straight connectors, the Double T completely fills the interior of the spacer bar, reducing potential gas loss through the joint, during the crucial period between gas filling and final sealing of the unit.

Serrated top and edges provide the firmest grip and snuggest fit in the bar, ensuring that the connection cannot subsequently open up. The double T configuration makes the connector easy to install; the face with serrations being broader than the other. It can be stapled through for Georgian installations and the molecular sieve can easily route past the connector.

Five widths, in 2 mm increments, range from 12 mm to 20 mm, to fit all standard spacer bar configurations and the Double T is available in three hardnesses and two moulding patterns, to suit different bar types. Samples can be supplied for evaluation. Prices are comparable with other plastic connectors and competitive with steel connectors.

The Double T connector complements the CERA Universal straight connector and the wide range of sleeves and plugs already well established in the UK market. It will be available through a distribution network but initial enquiries should be made to CERA’s UK agent, Richard Collier.
CERA has a close relationship with Inagas Ltd, a major distributor of sleeves and plugs for use in conjunction with the company’s high speed gas filling machines.

Contact: Richard Collier, CERA
Tel: 01344 648992
email: rhcollier66@yahoo.co.uk


Hallmark New Doors add A Little Sparkle

Hallmark has added a new range of glass panels to its range of residential doors, which are sure to add a sparkle to any neighbourhood. The range features designs in vibrant colours in classical and contemporary patterns which Hallmark has appropriately named 'Diamonds and Precious Stones'.

Customers who want to add colour into their doors may choose from borders emphasised in green, blue and red, whilst those who prefer transluscent clarity in their precious stones have a choice of clear designs.

Seven designs, named Titanite, Achorite, Chalcedony, Rubellite, Dendrite, Kyanite and Goshenite, are illustrated in Hallmark's new full colour Diamonds and Precious Stones Collection brochure, which allows customers an aide to making their choice. and come with the usual Hallmark high quality standard for appearance and performance.

Tel: 01482 781111
Email: mailto:hallmark-panels.demon.co.uk
Web: http://www.hallmark-panels.com


The Axis Powers are Back with Kombimatec's DGS530-S Double Mitre Saw

Offering window, door and conservatory fabricators greater flexibility and superior cutting speed, Kombimatec has introduced the DGS530-S 3-Axis Double Mitre Saw, an advanced model of one of the company's best-selling machines. The 3-Axis saw offers all the benefits of the standard DGS530 but with several additional features that widen the possibilities for fabricators looking to manufacture a broader range of products and services.

One of the major assets of the DGS530-S is its ability to automatically pivot the saw blade at any angle from 22.5° through 90° and internally to -45° on both heads. This fully digitised angle positioning provides the fabricator with accuracy and maximum flexibility for as many different pre-set cycles as are required. As with the standard DGS530, cutting lists may be pre-prepared using an office computer and downloaded to the saw to ensure that the it cuts as economically as possible, reducing wastage, time and costs and effectively 'de-skilling' the task of sawing. High speed automatic positioning of angles and sizes allows the fabricator to optimise production whilst still offering a wide variety of products.

Another feature that is already proving popular with customers is the inclusion of a dedicated label printer that is fully compatible with the machine's integral system. Other attributes include no practical minimum cut length, automatically hinging safety guard, automatic central support, built-in profile roller supports, two horizontal pneumatic clamps and vertical clamping on each head.

The company says that, as with all Kombimatec machinery, perhaps the most major plus point of the DGS530-S is its reliability. Built from robust materials and incorporating dependable servo software, the machine requires minimal maintenance to sustain its long-term performance.

UK manufactured according to ISO 9001 quality standards, the DGS530-S is expected to become an increasingly popular option as part of the company's established Power Trio of products, joining the EV470 CNC Complete Sprue Cleaner and the company's 3 and 4 head HDV welders as an advanced alternative to the standard DGS530.

Tel: +44(0) 1582 455934
Email: mailto:sales@gtikombi.co.uk
Web: http://www.gtikombi.demon.co.uk


Eurocell Launches New Low Threshold Assembly

Eurocell Profiles
has launched a Low Threshold Assembly, constructed from aluminium, designed to the requirements of ‘Part M’ for disabled access, (Low Threshold Tray or Single Transition Ramp must be used to comply) for both New Build and Replacement work.

The Low Threshold Assembly incorporates a PVCu end moulding, eliminating the need for end milling of the profiles and reducing fabrication time. Combined to this the products double continuous seal and non-slip surface provide a high level of weather performance.

For a traditional low threshold, the assembly can be used with or without tray or transition ramp, with both inward and outward opening doors, on the Eurocell 60mm, Ultimate 70 and Logik 70 window systems.

Tel: 01773 842 100
Email: mailto: marketing@eurocell.co.uk
Web: http://www.eurocell.co.uk


Underneath the Arches

Arched heads, for use with Rehau’s Tritec system have been launched by Corby Windows Group, and the company says that they are already generating interest with installer and new build customers. During installation, the heads are simple to position and fit using mechanically fixed serrated clips so when locked in place they are secure and look realistic. As the new CWG arched heads are available in Mahogany or Golden Oak woodgrain finishes as well as white they complement any installation.

Authentic, traditional looking windows and conservatories are very much in vogue and Tritec lends itself to the look with the attractively sculptured beads and outside edge to the profile plus low line colour co-ordinated gaskets.

Earlier in the year, CWG introduced clip on Astragal bars that the company says not only look attractive but will not fall off. They have proved to be very popular with customers who like the good looks but importantly, the ease of installation and accurate positioning, just like with the arched heads. ‘Concerns about adhesives and the right conditions necessary to attempt adequate bonding, are no more. Instead, there is the certainty that whether inside or out, both the Astragal bars and arched heads are permanently in place for years to come.’ Says CWG.

Tel: 01536 409100
Email: mailto:info@cwg-uk.com
Web: http://www.cwg-uk.com


New & Improved Hinges make Shepley Doors even Easier to Install

A new door hinge is soon to hit the market from Shepley Window Systems and the company expects it to make quite an impact for installers. ‘The new slimline butt hinge has all the technical advantages of a 3D flag hinge without the unsightly looks,’ explains Kevin Meredith, Shepley’s technical manager. ‘With real 3D adjustment installers are able to set the hinge horizontally and vertically, making it far easier to hang and achieve optimum compression on site. With three hinges the centre hinge now acts the same as a pivot, providing greater compression control over the top and bottom components’.

The new door hinge is expected to be in production in November and carries the 10-year guarantee Shepley offers with all hardware components.

Tel: 0161 339 2433
Web: http://www.shepley.com


Glassequipment.com Announces new Coating Detector

glassequipment.com has announced an addition to its range of Low 'E' detectors with a Coating Detector specially for Self Cleaning Glass, notably Pilkington Activ™.

This sophisticated 9vt DC electronic device determines the coated side of the self cleaning glass with an illuminated LED light, it also has a default LED light for clear glass which is suitable for avoiding costly manufacturing errors and for on-site installation verification.

For more information see http://www.glassequipment.com.

Tel: (0044) 0120 282 6407
Email: mailto:ken@glassequipment.com


HAWA-Aperto 50/GL

The HAWA-Aperto family has just got bigger with the immediate availability from Hafele of HAWA-Aperto 50/GL. this hardware system has been specially developed for lightweight, stackable sliding glass doors weighing up to 50 kg.

Potential applications include:
• Ceiling to counter-top partitions (Reception desks, sales counters,
theatre boxes, etc.)
• Screens in virtually any setting
• Interior doors for shop display windows
• Anywhere there is a need for flexible, open room design

Web: http://www.hafele.co.uk


No More 'Greenhouse Effect': Pilkington Activ™ Solar Versions Double the Benefits for Conservatories

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 two new versions that are appropriate for use in conservatories. Pilkington Activ Suncool and Pilkington Activ Optilam Brown offer a more comfortable conservatory environment in hot, sunny weather. They not only effectively clean themselves but also offer the benefits of solar control, reducing solar heat gain, glare and the transmission of harmful UV rays, to reduce the costs of ventilation and air conditioning.

Since its launch in September 2002, Pilkington says that its Pilkington Activ
has quite simply revolutionised the glass and glazing industry overnight as the world's first genuine self-cleaning glass. Using a special dual-action coating that repels both dirt and water, Pilkington Activ allows windows and other glazed structures to literally clean themselves by harnessing the natural elements. The product has experienced massive interest worldwide and has already been used in several major new build conservatory and roof glazing projects, including the prestigious Wychwood Park Estate in Cheshire.

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. Pilkington Activ Optilam Brown combines solar control with the safety benefits ofa laminated glass. These are value-added products for conservatory fabricators particularly in light of the higher than normal temperatures experienced in the UK this summer.

With Pilkington Activ
already beginning to prove a success in the market due to the fact that conservatory roofs are often hard to reach and difficult to clean, these products are now expected to draw considerable interest for both residential and non-residential buildings as a more energy-efficient solution to conventional conservatory ventilation.


Duraflex Gets in Trim

Duraflex has launched a new range of Cellular Trims to complement its PVCu Diamond Suite windows and doors. Most products in the collection are available in Brilliant White and many in foiled finishes, including Mahogany, Golden Oak and the recently introduced Rosewood.

Duraflex fabricators can now choose from a comprehensive selection of Cellular Trims, Cladding and Roofline. Among the extended options are Full Replacement Boards, Reveal Liners and Vented Soffits for Roofline in a range of widths. Fascias and Shiplap Cladding are also available, together with Window Trims, Cills and Architraves. In addition, Duraflex offers a complete range of associated angle trims, ancillaries and fixings for the new Cellular products, including Polytop Nails and Pins.

Duraflex Trims, Cladding and Roofline are supplied in convenient packs, ranging from 10 to 50 metres depending on product type.

Tel: 08705 351 351
Web: http:// www.duraflex.co.uk


Vicaima Doors Makes Sound Decision

When deciding the steps that should be taken to make a range of Fire Doors compliant with Part E of the new building regulations concerning sound reduction, interior door specialist Vicaima decided to upgrade the standard construction of not some but all the company’s FD30(S) doors. With the introduction of a new core, developed and manufactured by Vicaima in Portugal, the doors can now achieve a minimum mass per unit area of 27kg/m2 and provide a suitable solution where acoustic performance is required.

Vicaima incorporates many features as standard, such as: high quality lacquered finish; hardboard substrates; protective feet and additional face protection to ensure every fire door maintains its condition. Vicaima doors also comply with UK certified fire door accreditation schemes -BWF-CERTIFIRE from the British Woodworking Federation and Q-Mark from BM TRADA. All Vicaima fire doors are independently and rigorously tested to BS476 Part 22 by Chiltern Fire, the UKAS accredited laboratory.

Tel: 01793 532333,
Email: mailto:info@vicaima.com
Web: http://www.vicaima.com


K2’S Latest Wave in Product Innovations

Continued investment at K2 in product research and development has resulted in the launch of several new products designed to provide benefits to fabricators and installers alike.

K2’s new 25mm heavy-duty wall bar complete with flashing channel has been launched as a direct replacement to the company’s existing 25mm bar. Utilising the same PVC top and bottom caps, the main feature of this product is the addition of a flashing channel, which has been incorporated into the design to ease the installation of the lead flashing and therefore improving the aesthetic appearance of the complete roof.

Developed as a direct response to market demand, K2’s new small boss end promises to enhance the aesthetics of the roof system and provide a design option for fabricators and installers. The bosses, which are available in 20, 25 and 30 degree variants, are suitable for standard Georgian roof applications.

K2’s new eaves beam closure, is an upgrade on the existing products, and comes available as either an un-taped or pre-taped version. It is expected that the introduction of a pre-taped option will prove to be popular with fabricators, as it not only saves upon application time on site, meaning that it is a more cost effective alternative; but it also offers double seal protection.

'K2’s development team continuously endeavour to improve upon design and performance specifications in order to ensure that all our products meet the highest standard. These products are the latest in a line of product innovations, which will be launched throughout 2003.' Commented Alan Green, K2’s research and development manager.

Tel: 01204 554554
Email: mailto:enquiries@k2conservatories.com
Web: http://www.k2conservatories.com


New EV470 Complete Sprue Cleaner Shows Off its Curves

Already one of Kombimatec's best-selling machines, the EV470 CNC Complete Sprue Cleaner for corners, transoms and cruciform joints has now been further improved with the addition of a special tool that makes light work of cleaning internal decorative bevel curves.

With many fabricators still finding the task of cleaning and preparing decorative profile a challenging process, the new EV470 offers an efficient solution to the problem. A special spring-loaded ovolo tool has recently been added to the machine that enables the operator to clean difficult areas such as internal ovolo and ogee bevel curves quickly and easily. Kombimatec also now provides a free of charge software download from its website (http://www.gtikombi.demon.co.uk) that allows you to view, edit, modify and print a wide range of CNC programmes for the machine.

The EV470 has spring-loaded groove knives that can follow the contours of the profile closely allowing for greater profile tolerances. An anti-resonation system allows higher speeds, enabling fabricators to achieve faster cycle times. The new EV470 also eliminates the need for time-consuming bench work as it simultaneously cleans and prepares bevels and gaskets.

Absolute Windows of Bolton, a leading fabricator in the North of England and a long-time Kombimatec customer, uses two EV470 Complete Sprue Cleaners as part of its core production line. Managing Director Jim Dance has been pleased with their performance:

'The basic design principle of the EV470 is good, and that carries through to its operation in general. It cleans all sculptured profile and grooves very well and also drills the gaskets, which saves us time and effort. But its biggest advantage, for us, is its compact footprint - it is easily half the size of many of the alternatives we looked at and performs as well. In a busy factory environment, you need as much space as possible, so this is very important to us.'

Tel: +44(0) 1582 455934
Email: mailto:sales@gtikombi.co.uk


Evergreen Launches the ‘Ferrari’ of Entrance Doors

‘The future is fibreglass! From Formula One racing cars to luxury speedboats and even the latest British Army tanks, there’s no mistaking the inherent strength of GRP making it an equally ideal choice for durable, yet good-looking entrance doors.’ says Evergreen Door.

Recognising the potential of this low-maintenance yet versatile material, Evergreen Door, the UK composite door component supplier, has launched its new through-colour fibreglass entrance doors to the market.

Capable of withstanding the hardest knocks, the company says that weight for weight GRP is ten times stronger than steel giving immense resistance to everyday wear and tear.

Evergreen’s GRP doors are available in ten styles, including a popular cottage door, and four through colours – red, green, blue and white with either smooth or grained surfaces. Evergreen’s buff door can be stained in mahogany, walnut, teak or light oak.

Having good thermal qualities, the GRP door provides up to six times greater heat insulation than a comparable timber door. This makes it suitable for all applications, particularly in meeting the requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations.

Like all Evergreen entrance doors, the new GRP range has passed rigorous testing to achieve the PAS 23 and PAS 24 quality and security standards.

Fully guaranteed for 10 years, the company claims that the GRP door will not dent, crack, split or warp. The doors will take the full range of Evergreen’s glazing options. Pre-finished ‘colour co-ordinated’ glazing cassettes are available to complement individual door colours.

Evergreen’s commitment to being the ‘one-stop shop’ for fabricators extends to supplying a full range of hardware complying with the Secured by Design police-approved standards.

All the components required, including door locks, handles and letterplates are supplied in a kit along with a fully-prepped door slab to make life easier for fabricators.

Evergreen’s Managing Director, Robert Benn, comments: ‘GRP is an incredibly robust material, it must be if Formula One cars are made from it. Therefore, we’re proud to be launching our through-colour GRP door which we regard as the ‘Ferrari’ of entrance doors.’

Evergreen recently opened a second site in Leeds to improve customer service and accommodate the growth of its fibreglass door range. The second factory is just minutes away from the main Birstall site. It supports the storage requirements and processing of fibreglass doors, and bulk storage of components.

Evergreen can now supply fabricators with the complete package of components to fit its entire door range, including steel-faced and GRP doors. The company manufactures and supplies composite door components to specialist door fabricators for use in the home improvement, public sector and newbuild markets.

Evergreen Door holds the ISO 9002 quality standard and is a Secured by Design license holder.

Contact: Robert Benn
Tel: 01924 423171


New Product Update from Freefoam

Freefoam Plastics, manufacturer and supplier of quality approved roofline and rainwater systems, has extended its 10mm General Purpose Board range with the introduction of a new 600mm wide board, available as plain or pre-vented.

This is in response to market demand for a wider board suitable for larger box-end and deep soffit application, commonly featured in council and specification projects.

‘The new 450mm and 605mm boards make installation quicker and more seamless on large box-ends’ comments Tony Eagles, Freefoam National Sales Manager, ‘and option of a pre-vented board means no additional ventilation required when using as a soffit’.

For further information, prices or samples call Freefoam direct on 01604 759871 in the UK or 021 4911055 in Ireland.

Email: mailto:marketing@freefoam.com



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