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Fire insulated glass flooring has evolved dramatically with the development of a new product that claims to offer the optimum in style and safety.

Glazeguard S.W. Ltd has created the Triple-Lite Firefloor system incorporating Pilkington Pyrostop. At 1m x 3m for a single panel, it is the largest fire-resistant floor that has been tested and approved to current British and new European standards. It offers incredible strength and durability and provides protection for over one hour for both integrity and insulation. It allows crucial time for the safe evacuation of people and prolongs protection to the building fabric.

As a single layer glass-to-glass butt-jointed system, the new product is suitable for both domestic and commercial glass floor applications. It provides all the aesthetic qualities associated with glass floors, allowing natural light transmission and bright, airy spaces, while from a practical point of view it is robust, strong and provides safe and secure environments.

In testing the entire floor area had weights applied to it to replicate a commercial load of 4.5Knm2, equating to a total loading in excess of 8,000kg over the 3.6 x 4.4m area. An additional 5kN point load was applied simultaneously. The total deflection of the upper glass surface in the centre was less than 4mm. The weights were left on during the fire test and were still in place when it was stopped after 68 minutes, without damaging the loaded panels. The system was designed to withstand the loads even after the test, even with temperatures exceeding 900¼C, with the insulation performance provided by Pilkington Pyrostop an essential factor to its success.

The complete glass, frame and supporting system (with all components) has been tested to the new UK and European fire floor standards and it is the only glass floor available that can be specified for building emergency and fire exit routes, as well as pedestrian traffic. Flexibility in design allows for a variety of slip resistant and privacy surface finishes. Installation packages include all glass and frame materials.

Pilkington Pyrostop, the original laminated fire protective glass from Pilkington Building Products is a clear, fully insulating fire and safety glass that offers the highest levels of fire protection (integrity and insulation). Maximising the available levels of natural light and visibility, the glass provides impact safety up to Class A of BS 6206: 1981, dependent on thickness.

To obtain more information on the Triple-Lite Firefloor system telephone the Technical Helpline on 01744 692000.

Web: http://www.pilkington.com

The latest generation of electromechanical locks offers the best in security and peace of mind at all times through cutting edge technology. The German-made Fuhr Multitronic 881, available ex stock in the UK from hardware distributors Groupco, provides convenient remote control access while its automatic locking function means that uninvited guests are always kept out. The door is opened from the inside by operating the lever in the normal manner.

The Multitronic has a three-channel radio remote control ‘key’ which not only unlocks the front door from the outside, but can also operate a gate, garage door and other entrances - even the lighting in the area.

It is the first time that all the fittings, motor and accessory components - including the short-circuit-proof power supply unit - are incorporated within the door, so that fabricators and installers can offer a complete electromechanical and performance tested finished product. There are major advantages in Fuhr's wireless power and data connection between the door leaf and frame. The use of commercially available free movement cylinders means that the Fuhr Multitronic can be easily integrated into existing locking systems, and can be used on virtually any door - the choice of fittings is down to the householder.

Because the components are integrated within the door itself, the Fuhr Multitronic is quick and simple to install on site. The 12 volt final operating voltage ensures safe and trouble free integration to this power supply.

The system, which has been tested to more than 200,000 continuous operations, features two high performance motors which ensure a strong latching force, leading to minimal heat loss and exceptional sound insulation. The locking and unlocking process takes only seconds, and with the door always locking automatically, there is no need to choose between night and day settings. Mechanical key back-up ensures the door can be opened from the inside or outside at any time in the event of power failure.

The multifunctional radio control key has three buttons to operate different locks or the lighting, and the standard package includes three radio control keys - one of which is the master to calibrate the other two. Up to 25 keys can be calibrated on request. If a key is lost or stolen, the transmitter codes can be deleted and a new code selected. Individual keys can also be cancelled.

Eliminating the need for a traditional keyhole mechanism and supplied as an all-inclusive package, the Fuhr Multitronic is the electronic locking system of the future, providing a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution.

Tel: 01733 234750
Web: http://www.groupcoltd.co.uk

Fine Tuning for Energy Efficiency

Low solar factor, effective thermal insulation and high selectivity are the characteristics of two new types of solar control glazing by the Interpane Group ('ipasol shine 40/21' and 'ipasol sky 50/26').

Most of the solar heat stays outside (g-value of down to 22% as per EN 410). Both glasses also provide excellent thermal protection (Ug = 1.1 W/m2K as per EN 673).

The fine tuned light and radiation values of the two new products improve the work and living environment and optimise the energy balance - in accordance with the European 'Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD)'. As of 2006 this directive also takes into account cooling and artificial light.

With 22 percent, 'ipasol shine' achieves an extremely low solar factor (g-value as per EN 410). It is thus the top Interpane product for all applications that require a particularly high protection from the sun. The coating also offers effective thermal insulation (Ug-value = 1.1 W/m2K as per EN 673).

This reduces the year-round expenditure of energy for air conditioning systems. Another distinctive feature of the glass is its high selectivity: Considering the low g-value it provides sufficient light transmittance (tL = 40%). This reduces the necessity for artificial light and allows interaction with the environment. 'ipasol shine' has a pleasant, slightly bluish outside reflection of 16 %.

'ipasol sky' combines its energy efficiency with relatively high light transmittance. Solar heat is, however, blocked (g-value = 27% as per EN 410). Optimum thermal insulation (Ug = 1.1 W/m2K as per EN 673) reduces heating costs in the winter.

With a light transmittance (tL) of 50 %, which is relatively high for a solar control glass, 'ipasol sky' also reduces the need for artificial light and provides 'clear views'. In combination with a low degree of outside reflection and a slightly bluish colour, the glass is particularly suited for modern façade applications.

Web: http://www.interpane.net

Elumatec Smooths the Wrinkles in Aluminium Frame Production with Logikal®

Elumatec has established a partnership with Orgadata, one of the world’s leading specialists in window production software, to bring its system logiKal®, already used by the world’s biggest frame manufacturers, to aluminium frame producers in the UK.

logiKal® has been designed and written specifically to speed and optimise the production of doors, windows and façades in aluminium, seamlessly linking every element in the design/production chain. It delivers calculations which are clear and easily understood, supports works orders including production plans, suggests order requirements and assists from quotation through to invoicing.

The system provides interfaces to all current and anticipated data formats for design including Autocad, and offers financial benefits by precluding the need for multiple software licences and ensuring total compatibility across all popular aluminium glazing systems.

Elumatec believes that the introduction of logiKal® is a natural addition to its range of aluminium production machinery. 'In a modern aluminium fabrication factory efficient machinery is just a part of the requirement,’ explains Phil Heavey, the company’s managing director. ‘By offering a software package that integrates all of the functions in the specification and production cycle – and which therefore allows seamless communication with all of those involved – our customers will get the very best out of our products, and enjoy the maximum return for their investment.’

A free CD-ROM offers detailed information for logiKal®, including a demonstration programme, and Elumatec has appointed software specialist Jeremy Harvey-Davies to head up the introduction of the product.

Tel: 01908 580800
Email: mailto:sales@elumatec.com

High-Tech Glass for Comfort and Reduced Heating Costs

Improved heat insulation, exceptionally high light transmittance and passive solar energy gain: Interpane 'iplus E' with standard argon filling achieves 1.1 W/m2K (Ug-value as per EN 673) - at a light transmittance of 80 percent. A combination for excellent comfort. The higher thermal insulation of 'iplus E' also reduces the energy consumption, which in view of increasing heating costs and the Energy Performance Certificate (as of 2006) is a major issue for house-builders.

The low-E coating provides for exceptionally high light transmittance (tL = 80% as per EN 410). The glazing is thus particularly suitable for domestic construction where plenty of natural daylight is desired. It also remains neutral in colour (Ra = 97). With a solar factor of 60 percent, iplus E achieves passive solar energy gain.

Inside the glazing unit is the extremely thin iplus E coating, on the inside pane facing the gap between the two panes. It is thereby protected from external impact. It has a very low emissivity (therefore low-E or low emissivity coating) and reflects heat radiation almost completely into the building. The gap between the two glass panes is filled with an inert gas (usually argon).

Web: http://www.interpane.net

Heatguard IGU System Sets New Levels for Sealed Units

HeatGuard, a range of insulated glazed units (IGU) that set new low levels of conductivity and moisture transmission, together with prolonged life expectancy, has been launched by trade fabricator Tradelink.

When compared with traditional glazed units, HeatGuard is proven to be 21% more thermally efficient, offers 18% improved sound absorption, twice the life expectancy and dramatically reduces condensation.

HeatGuard is the result of extensive research by Tradelink and encompasses the ‘superspacer’ providing warmedge spacer bar technology, Pilkington K glass, recognised as one of the most reliable and trusted Low E products in the market, and an argon gas filled 20mm cavity.

Manufactured at Tradelink’s state of the art automatic bystronic IGU processing facility in March, Cambridgeshire in accordance with EN1279 part 2, the HeatGuard system an offers overall 28mm thickness, a dual PIB moisture barrier and robot applied secondary hot melt outer perimeter seal.

‘After talking to our customers and listening to what they wanted we established that the market was looking for insulated glazed units that offered the highest levels of performance,’ commented Jim Moody, Tradelink’s Managing Director.

‘HeatGuard meets these requirements, exceeding current industry standards and providing an excellent platform for ‘replacement of replacements’, with proven performance, longevity and value for money.’

http://www.tradelinkwindows.com/

This September sees the introduction of the new range from multitool experts Dremel, as the company launches the next generation of tools - the 300 Series and 400 Series Digital.

 

As the inventor of the multitool category, combining over 70 years of experience with the latest technology, the new range ensures the highest quality of finish to enhance your creative experience. Dremel is a name you can trust to provide tools that match your own drive for high quality, precision craftsmanship.

The new lightweight Dremel 300 Series is a suitable multitool for performing detailed tasks. The tool incorporates a specially designed, ergonomic grip for ultimate comfort even during the longest, detailed projects. From sanding and polishing to cutting through a wide range of materials, the functionality and versatility of the new Dremel 300 series is endless. The new ergonomically designed Dremel 300 Series is a suitable tool for all users whether you are performing detailed or functional tasks. The only limit is your imagination.

Features of the new Dremel 300 Series include variable speed settings of 10.000-33.000 rpm, 125W motor, on-board wrench storage and a soft grip for reduced vibration and comfort. The new Dremel 300 Series is available in two executions; A base package containing the new 300 series tool, 25 accessories and robust storage case and as a high value kit option consisting of the new 300 series tool, Dremel flexshaft, 55 accessories and robust storage case. Also look out for a Limited Edition, high value 'Workshop' kit with wooden box, flexshaft, mini-saw and Dremelite.

Using the latest technology, the new Dremel 400 Series Digital is a suitable multitool for projects requiring the utmost precision. Its digital display screen allows for more precise work on a range of materials with different, accurate speed settings.

The new 400 Series Digital offers variable speed range of 5.000 - 33.000 rpm rising in preset increments of 1000 rpm, 140w motor, electronic feedback control enhancing torque and performance at high and low speeds and a pistol grip for maximum control.

The new 400 Series Digital is available in a special launch, high value kit configuration containing four Dremel attachments; line and circle cutter, lawn mower sharpener, cutting guide and flexshaft. In addition the kit includes two accessory kits containing 80 accessories in new cases designed to clip to the main spacious storage container.

The new Dremel 300 and 400 Series Digital are available at all good DIY stores. To find out your nearest stockist, please call: 01895 838 782 or visit http://www.dremel.co.uk

Stylish Strong Composite Doors from Ashford Windows

The composite Norfolk Door range from Ashford Windows Ltd uses the same PVC-U skin for both door and frame to overcome the problem of matching white and woodgrain doors within the doorset.

The utilisation of the same materials and shades also ensures complete thermal and colour stability with no conflict between differing materials. This allows the complete door construction to work in harmony, contributing to product longevity and reliable performance.

Significant investment by Directors Keith Lawrence and Mick Neale has created what they believe is a market-leading composite door, enabling their customers to take advantage of a growing market sector with a bespoke service tailored to their needs, including a fast turnaround.

Available in five styles, the doors have through-colour skins which are scratch-resistant and vacuum-formed to replicate the look of a traditional timber door. There is a choice of white, red, blue, green, rosewood or cherry wood finishes, with 24mm PVC-U glazing cassettes in a selection of over 50 glass patterns.

All doors are fully guaranteed for ten years and come with double weather seals to give good performance in airtightness, watertightness, thermal and acoustic insulation. Compliant with PAS 23 and PAS 24 standards and all BSI requirements, the doors accept a variety of hardware, multi-point locking and security devices.

Easy to install, the doors can be supplied as pre-prepared slabs only or as a complete door set, complete with frame, furniture and glass. A low threshold is also offered to meet Part M Building Regulations. For further information on the Norfolk Door range, contact Stuart Mack on 01692 500432.

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