Glass Age articles from February 2003

Glass Age archives from February 2003

Saint-Gobain: steady 2002, growth ahead.(sales fell 0.4% in 2002)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The Saint-Gobain Group's estimated 2002 results reveal a steady performance - growing profitability in some areas, but with slim reductions in net sales and profit margins. Group sales dipped 0.4% in 2002. Based on a comparable Group...

BBA spend takes testing to new standards.(BBA wins contracts for testing from manufacturers wanting to show compliance with new European Standards for insulation materials)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The implementation date for the new European Standards for insulation materials is March 2003 and the BBA has received orders for a large amount of testing for manufacturers wishing to show compliance. Over the years, the BBA has tested all...

Silos are evidence of secure Status.(Status Systems adds two 95 tonne silos at its plant in Delph, Oldham)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Investment in extrusion development at the Status Systems plant in Delph, Oldham, has incorporated the installation of two 95 tonne silos to store the company's regualar supply of Decom compound. This #200,000 project has enabled the...

Hegla, open for business in the UK.(Hegla Machinery (UK) Ltd is a new wholly-owned subsidiary of German company)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Hegla, the German cutting table specialist announces that the UK Sales and Service office is now open. Hegla Machinery (UK) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hegla in Beverungen, Germany. It will allow the UK market to benefit from the Hegla...

Tamglass and Bavelloni join forces.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Pentti Yliheljo, President and CEO of Kyro and Tamglass is pictured with Dino Bavelloni, President and CEO of Z. Bavelloni. Tamglass parent company Kyro is now the world's largest supplier of glass processing machinery, having acquired...

Report shows industry volatility.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Windowbase, announcing its summary of annual changes to the industry- wide database of UK fabricators & installers, has announced a volatility index value of 32.4%. This indicates that about 1 in 3 of the 10,000 plus companies changed in a...

Environmental testing services.(Glass Technology Services is now UKAS accredited to ISO 17025 for its environmental monitoring services)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Glass Technology Services (GTS), the technical arm of British Glass, is now UKAS accredited to ISO 17025 for its environmental monitoring services (emissions tests, in-factory monitoring, etc.) For info contact Mark Pudner at GTS, tel. 0114...

International Display Week.(sponsored by Shop & Display Equipment Association)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The Shop & Display Equipment Association is to sponsor International Design Week (IDW), a new niche display show, at the Business Design Centre from 5-7 March. Info: tel 01945 781112, e-mail enquiries@rvmww.com Copyright: CMP...

Glaverbel licenses mirror production.(deals with Gardner Glass Products and Glass South Africa)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Glaverbel has signed two large licence contracts for production of mirrors by its pafented MNGE (Mirox New Generafion Ecological) process, with Gardner Glass Products in the USA and Glass South Africa. MNGE is distinguished by the absence of...

Conference sets records.(Glass Processing Days conference)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The 8th Glass Processing Days conference boasts an impressive programme and will set records in the number of participants and expert presentations. GPD 2003 will take place from 15-18 June in Tampere, Finland. The expected number of...

HSS hire card discounts.(HSS loyalty promotion)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Leading tool hire company HSS is launching a loyalty promotion giving the window trade an additional five per cent discount on all equipment from its new 2003 catalogue when they use an HSSTradeCard. The new promotion builds on the success of...

Report highlights good buys.(Plimsoll Publishing report on glass industry)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Plimsoll Publishing has named 136 companies that it reckons are the best acquisition prospects in the windows and doors industry. 252 highest price options and 639 `proceed with cautions' are also detailed in the report, priced #600 +VAT....

HomePro scoops insurance award.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... HomePro, the on- and off-line service for consumers seeking reputable tradespeople, won the award in Broker/Intermediary Innovation of the Year for its Home Improvement Protection insurance package at the Insurance Times Awards 2002. The range...

Weir buys into Capital.(Capitol Window Systems Ltd.)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Gordon Weir has completed the management buy-in of Capitol Window Systems Ltd of Chester, a PVC-U and alu fabricator and installer to the trade and commercial markets. Lee Teste and Nick Cattell from TMG Corporate Finance led the deal, which...

New `askTrada' online resource.(Timber Research and Development Association)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... TRADA, the Timber Research and Development Association, last month launched its new online knowledge resource, described as a comprehensive reference source of practical and technical info about timber and wood products. Design software, CAD...

The Steel Window Association.(Mike Honour Windows Ltd. joins)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The Steel Window Association's lastest new member is Mike Honour Windows Ltd of Moreton-in-Marsh, Glos. The traditional steel window and stained glass specialist has been established for over 30 years. For a full list of members tel. 0207 637...

Letter: FENSA and Councils offer conflicting advice.(Letter to the Editor)
February 28, 2003... Dear Sir, It is good to see, as reported recently, that FENSA, GGF and the BBA have agreed on their understanding of fire escape provisions, but as a leading trade fabricator we are frequently asked by our customers about building...

Combilift fills the GAP just great.(General Allpurpose Plastics replaces forklifts)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... General Allpurpose Plastics, better known as GAP, has expanded its operations substantially since opening its first outlet in Accrington 10 years ago. Looking for an innovative handling solution for the vastly increased range of stock stored at...

Piper grows fastest in the city.(Piper Double Glazing Ltd. wins award)
February 28, 2003... Window and door fabricator/installer Piper Double Glazing Ltd, of Ramsgate, Kent, has received an honourable mention among the fastest growth businesses in inner city Britain at the second annual Inner City 100, the prestigious small business...

Ritec achieves Investors in People Award.(Ritec International)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Ritec International has just been granted the Investors in People Award. The IIP recognition status comes after a year when the company's Directors introduced significant changes to the company, all of which have had a positive impact on the...

UKae's fine performance.(manufacturers and suppliers of decorative glass treatments)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... UKae, one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of decorative glass treatments, is expected to report record profits when its accounts are released later this year for the period January-December 2002, in only the second full trading year...

Kawneer supports safety.(Kawneer UK advertising deal with Cheshire Fire Service)
February 28, 2003... Runcorn-based Kawneer UK has teamed up with Cheshire Fire Service and its local borough council to promote fire safety in homes throughout Cheshire. Already householders from more than 40 homes a week are requesting free Home Fire Safety Checks...

Creative with Kitemark.(Creative Windows )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Blackpool based Creative Windows has successfully achieved BS7412 following a rigorous testing and assessment and with the assistance of its systems company, HW Systems. Creative took the decision to go for accreditation as a result of...

Veka gets eco-standard.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Systems extruder Veka plc has reaffirmed its continuing obsession with quality, with the presentation of certificates for two key standards for quality and environmental management. Following a tour of the Palace of Westminster conducted by...

Force 8 gets FENSA OK.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Force 8 has received the thumbs-up after an inspection by the British Board of Agrement (BBA) under the FENSA scheme. Commenting on the Force 8 installation at a private residence in Poynton this week, Inspector Peter Maddern said: 'Our job...

Weatherseal calls in the costs.(direct sales operation transformed with smart technology)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Leading retail window company Weatherseal has transformed its direct sales operation with the aid of smart technology. Six months ago, Weatherseal was running a total of 22 small separate sales offices around the country. Weatherseal looked...

Kitemark time in Norwich.(BBH Limited)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... BBH Limited of Norwich is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the arrival of Kitemark accredition on its Plastmo 62mm System Index PVC-U windows. Director Gerry Banthorpe is congratulated by Eric Davis, Plastmo's Sales Director and...

Heritage makes age a positive.(Heritage Glass Group wins Age Positive award for Shropshire )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Heritage Glass Group, one of Shropshire's premier PVC-U windows, doors and conservatories installer, has won the Age Positive award for Shropshire. This nationwide Government initiative highlights businesses that have taken a positive view...

Dualframe, hot off the press.(Sapa's Dualframe system)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Two new compact heavy duty press tools mean that fabricators can `press and punch' all elements of Sapa's Dualframe system in minutes, compared to hours by hand using conventional methods. All the pressed elements are accurate and clean cut,...

Pushing PVB possibilities.(Solutia launches range of polyvinyl butyral interlayers)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Solutia has launched the Vanceva Solar range of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayers. Vanceva Solar offers effective solar control performance and a wide range of design options for the architectural market. Interlayers are available in...

Multivan out this summer.(from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released the first pictures of its forthcoming Multivan, which is set to arrive in the UK this summer. Featuring a new engine options such as 2.5 TDI diesel and a 3.2 petrol V6, new suspension, better driving...

Tritec sightlines in colour.(Rehau launches new security glasket )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Rehau has launched a new security glasket for its Rehau-Tritec 60mm window system, which acknowledges the continued demand for secure, externally beaded windows. The new glasket is available in five colours - white, silver grey, black,...

Colourful and practical.(Deceuninck extending Decoroc options )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Deceuninck is extending its Decoroc options with the launch of six new colours in PVC-U window, door and building product finishes. Decoroc gives the colours a good resistance to scratching and chemical abrasion, prevents permanent adhesion...

Unitec ups the Tempo.(Unitec Hardware develops lever handle)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The latest lever handle design from Unitec Hardware is the Tempo. This handle has been exclusively designed and manufactured for Unitec by one of Europe's leading aluminium diecasting companies. Tempo is competitively priced, with a choice of...

PUT THEM ON THE SPOT.(Synseal Extrusions sales and marketing director Nick Dutton looks at knowledge of supplier)
February 28, 2003... Nick Dutton, Sales & Marketing Director of Synseal Extrusions looks at the importance of knowing your supplier is up to the task you face The window industry is facing one of the most significant phases in its history. Despite increases in...

SMOKING GUNS!(hypothetical glass contract dispute used to illustrate effective use of adjudication)
February 28, 2003... ROD APPLEYARD'S DAY IN THE LIFE OF A FENESTRATION SURVEYOR Adjudication can be a quicker and cheaper way of settling a dispute than dragging it through the courts. Just make sure your facts are solid and well-presented, and that your...

Important news in fire glass.(Vetrotech Saint-Gobain)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... SGG Swissflam Lite-N2, a new and technologically advanced fire resisting glass from Vetrotech Saint-Gobain, is the result of several years of research and provides `an unprecedented level' of protection against both fire and radiated heat. ...

Hansen appoints Directors.(Hansen Glass Processing Limited)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... A trio of key management figures at Liverpool-based Hansen Glass Processing Limited have been invited to join the company's Board of Directors. Sales and marketing manager Graham Chung, Technical Manager John Colvin and Manufacturing...

Easy-clean shower glass.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... A new easy-clean shower glass has been launched in the UK by Saint- Gobain Solaglas. SGG Aquacontrol Showers has a transparent coating of hydrophobic (water repellent material) which is invisible to the naked eye. When water makes contact...

Avanti eyes Unilock market.
February 28, 2003... Avanti Systems, probably the UK's largest independent producer of office partitioning systems, has for nearly two decades been a popular choice among specifiers. This position is now set to strengthen with the announcement that former...

Planar, a sound investment.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... As a frameless system, Pilkington Planar enables the use of large expanses of glass on any building structure through the use of countersunk stainless steel bolts in the glass facade. The system offers significant acoustic and thermal benefits...

CGI makes a smooth move.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Given a full order book and demands from customers in some 20 different countries, fire-glass manufacturer CGI International had to face the dilemma of how to move the whole production facility from Warrington to its new purpose-built factory...

Pyroguard from Preedy's.
February 28, 2003... J Preedy & Sons has provided a comprehensive range of constantly developing glass and glazing products and services since 1913, when Joseph Preedy established the company in Marylebone in the West End of London. Preedy Glass, a division of...

Promac adds tech support.(Lesley Caffrey)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Promac's Consumables Division announces that Lesley Caffrey has joined its Technical Sales Team. With four years experience in glass, Lesley has extensive knowledge of glass machinery and the spare parts available at Promac. As agents for...

Prestige park picks Activ.(Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, Michigan)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Pilkington Activ `self-cleaning glass' has been installed in double glazed units in the building at the Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. The facility is set in 30 acres, featuring natural wetlands,...

Novaglaze can bend Activ.(technique prevents damage to coating on self-cleaning glass)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Novaglaze announces that it can now successfully bend Pilkington Activ `self cleaning glass' using techniques especially developed in conjunction with Pilkington. It is vital that the special coating is not damaged during the bending...

Wright Style's new system.(structural glazing system)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... A UK steel glazing specialist has introduced a new structural glazing system for use in flush-fitting glass facades. The Wright Style SG system, based on the firm's successful SR series curtain walling and roof glazing system, eliminates the...

Therm makes an impact.(new management team for Therm Tempered Ltd.)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... A major restructuring of the management at Therm Tempered Ltd, the specialist sealed unit and toughened glass manufacturer based near Llantrisant, has already had a significant impact on the company's business. With a financial year running...

Tasteful use of Swissflam.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Vetrotech Saint-Gobain has supplied one of its specialist products, SGG Swissflam-N2, for the extenior glass of the Signor Valentino flagship restaurant in Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. The aluminium facade, including sliding, folding doors was...

Leading source of Pyrobel.(C3S Securiglass Ltd.)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... C3S Securiglass Ltd, based at Elland, is a specialist processor and stockholder of safety, security and fire resistant glass. The company's activity ranges from the supply only of cut sizes of these glasses through to the installation of full...

Structura repairs & replaces.(Structura UK Ltd. completes exterior refurbishment and alterations contract at Borax Europe Ltd.'s European )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... A #30,000 exterior refurbishment and alterations contract has been completed by Structura UK Ltd at the European headquarters building of Borax Europe Ltd, Guildford, part of the Rio-Tinto Group. Structura repaired and replaced external glazing...

Bright future for polishing.
February 28, 2003... Essex based Glass Renovation Ltd (GRL) has made a major investment in scratch removal and glass polishing technology over the last three years. Founding partner and Technical Director David Doyle had a clear vision of what was required to bring...

Films are just the ticket.
February 28, 2003... Ticket booths at the busy French port of Calais have recently been given the Anglian Technical Window Films treatment. The kiosks were giving the operatives considerable trouble with vision as the bright sunshine was blocking out the view...

Geze keeps the period feel.(Geze UK to supply 3 pairs of TSA 160/162 swing door operators for double door leaves at Triangle Shopping Centre)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Control systems specialist Geze UK was chosen to supply three pairs of its TSA 160/162 swing door operators for double door leaves at the new Triangle Shopping Centre in Manchester. Architects The Ratcliff Partnership wanted to preserve the...

Titon's tilt turn revolution.(Titon Commercial's tilt turn technology to make traditional method of measuring, cutting and drilling link rods obsolete)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Titon Commercial claims to have taken a quantum leap in aluminium window technology with its new product. Chrono tilt turn technology is expected to make the traditional method of measuring, cutting and drilling link rods obsolete. ...

GU's hinge is Sold Secure.(offers new range of flag hinges for PVC-U entrance and French doors)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... GU has launched a new range of flag hinges for PVC-U entrance and French doors, offering easy installation plus high levels of quality and security, at a very competitive price. Exclusively available from GU, the new Homestead door hinge...

A time-saving bolt design.(Carl F Petersen offer Lockmaster 2 window shoot bolt )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... High security with ease of installation and smooth operation are design features of Carl F Petersen's Lockmaster 2 window shoot bolt. The latest addition to the hardware supplier's portfolio is available in two versions. A `croppable' bolt...

IN SEARCH OF ADDED VALUE.(GU/Ferco's security products get approval to carry Sold Secure symbol in the marketplace)
February 28, 2003... In the face of fierce competition, those who can offer products with `added value' have a distinct advantage. With the Sold Secure scheme. GU/Ferco believes it has a unique opportunity to achieve this Sold Secure is attractive to the window...

Flags, knobs and knockers.(Mila re-engineers new Inspiration flag hinge for strength and security)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Mila's new Inspiration flag hinge has been re-engineered to be stronger and more secure than its predecessor without compromising on the attractive appearance that popularised the original design. Available in both 85mm and 100mm versions,...

Mila strengthens Warrior.(Mila Hardware's latest product provides highest possible security specification for casement windows)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Mila Hardware has launched the latest addition to its Warrior range, designed to provide the highest possible security specification for casement windows. The Warrior Sinidex friction stay offers extra high security features that have been...

Basta's easy clean addition.(Basta Parsons launches 13 inch Egress Easy Clean Stay)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Basta Parsons has introduced a 13 inch Egress Easy Clean Stay. Manufactured in stainless steel and to the same exacting standards as all Conqueror Friction Stays this model also automatically opens to Egress 88 degrees position each time...

Comar entrances and exits.(Axim produces architectural hardware )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Axim produces a wide range of durable architectural hardware. There is a family of concealed door closers and floor springs, a surface mounted door closer range, and two panic exit devices. Extension flush bolts, full height tubular...

CE marking - the facts.
February 28, 2003... A new fact sheet from the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers explains in simple terms what CE marking on architectural ironmongery products means to the specifier, installer and building owner and the potential penalties, particularly in fire...

SE Controls college airflow.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... London College of Printing's major refurbishment has resulted in a showcase example of the latest thinking in the design and installation of window technology. Leading UK automatic window opening specialist SE Controls, installed nearly...

Titon's new Salto handle.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Titon has launched a new handle, the 4000-209, for use with its popular Salto system for inward opening aluminium windows. The base and grip are supplied separately, and by fitting the base only, projection above the surface of the frame is...

Fastener boss fights no-corrosion myth.(UK Fastners managing director David Ballinger)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The debate in the fastener industry has been hotting up in recent months. `Because we believe specifiers and fabricators have a right to know the truth, we are presenting the facts to guide them,' comments David Ballinger, Managing Director of...

Maco man looks forward to mixing new values with old.(Peter Rhodes promoted to General Manager )(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Peter Rhodes of Maco has not only passed his 10 year mark with the company but has been promoted to the new position of General Manager. Peter's background was originally in purchasing where he started working life in a heavy engineering...

Program for vital statistics.(Profitmaker Software)
February 28, 2003... Profitmaker Software was designed specifically for windows and doors, with modules for Estimating, Sales, Production, Installation and Service. It is a robust, accurate and fast system that can scale from a single user on a PC to hundreds of...

Winstar brochure launch.(Business Micros)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Business Micros has updated its Winstar literature pack to clarify the features and benefits of its Winstar and Winstar LT window manufacturing programs. The brochure launch is part of an overall re-positioning exercise following the...

BM Evolution web support.(Business Micros launches site)(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... Business Micros has launched a new website, www.bm-evolution.com to support its Evolution manufacturing program. The site, which will be continually updated, offers product downloads and evolving support and advice to ensure that Evolution...

Glassex Seminars: Something for Everyone.(Calendar)
February 28, 2003... The Glassex 2003 Seminar Programme will reflect industry trends with a varied and extensive agenda, say organisers EMAP Maclaren. Highlights of the programme will include a seminar on `The Four Steps to BS EN 1279' to be presented by BSI...

Online Registration can Beat the Queues.(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... The organiser of Glassex 2003 has announced that online registration is now available through the Glassex website. Visitors wishing to avoid the busy registration area at the event can save themselves time and jump the queues by filling in a...

Get Down AND Help Others at Charity Gig.("The Glassex Gig")(Brief Article)
February 28, 2003... `The Glassex Gig' will take place on the evening of Sunday 23rd March, with all ticket proceeds contributing to worthy children's charities. Featuring, as ever, the percussive skills of well-known industry veteran Gary Morton - now...

Jumping for Hope House.
February 28, 2003... Two adventurous Profile 22 ladies, Teresa Colbourne-White and Anna Berwick, joined forces in a 16,000 foot tandem parachute jump to raise #2,050 for Hope House in Oswestry, which provides essential support to the families of terminally ill...

Fredericks footie.
February 28, 2003... Huddersfield super fabricator John Fredericks has sponsored a local under 12s football team with a brand new kit for the players. The YMCAUnder 12s are now kitted out with a brand new yellow strip which boasts Fredericks' eyecatching yellow...

Trojan gets local business recognition.
February 28, 2003... Walsall Chamber of Commerce recently invited the Mayor of Walsall, Roger Collins to visit local business Trojan Hardware & Designs Ltd to see for himself how successful this rapidly expanding local company has become in such a short space of...

Bench press fest.
February 28, 2003... Providing `heavyweight support' to customers is always at the top of the agenda for Indigo Products Limited, but the expression has been turned on its head in recent months, with Indigo providing support to a few heavyweights in the sporting...

Get the massage?
February 28, 2003... Office staff at Manchester Kommerliing fabricator Alexander Windows are relieving stress with regular sessions at a local beauty salon. Aromatherapy massages on the back, neck and shoulders are among the techniques used to untie `stress...