RoofandFacade Guide Directory Portal

Wednesday, 08 July 2009 14:59 - Products for the month of Dec 2011

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 06:59:12 +0100

Categories: Adhesives & Fasteners; Metal Roofing; Cladding and Tiles; Architectural Concrete; Building Information Modeling

Tuesday, 02 December 2008 16:01 - Velux® Roof Windows and Skylights

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:01:45 +0100

VELUX® skylights are for within-reach and out-of-reach applications. They can transform any room into the best room in the house, as they let in more natural light, making rooms in the house feel more spacious and expansive. They are available in a variety of sizes to fit into ceilings and roofs. Skylights also help cut energy consumption, and Velux® skylights meet EnergyStar® guidelines and are 40% more efficient than most building codes.

There are 10 models of Velux® skylights to choose from, and a range of glazing and flashing options to get the perfect skylight matched.

Tuesday, 11 November 2008 18:20 - Geodesic Domes from Solardome

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:20:38 +0100

The round igloo-like domes from UK- based Solardome never fail to surprise first time viewers; the reasons might have something to do with their design

WHETHER you use it to make a garden in your house or add living space in your terrace, there is no way one can ignore a solar dome. But what exactly is a solar dome and what does it do?

Tuesday, 11 November 2008 14:40 - Tremco: Green Roofs

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 06:40:22 +0100

Creative design and advanced technology incorporated into the development of the Tremco Green Roof System are providing an engineering solution for lighter weight green roofs. These green roofs ensure superior resistance to root and moisture penetration of the waterproofing membrane, unsurpassed resistance to wind shear, and drainage that will enable vegetation to better withstand the extreme climatic conditions of a rooftop.

Tremco Inc of Ohio, USA, offers a system that is designed to optimise the performance of the various complex components as they interact. The system incorporates a waterproofing membrane, root barrier, moisture retention mat, GreenRoof drainage, the growing medium and plants. Components will vary depending on the desired function of the system and the type of load the roof is able to handle.

As with any roof, the ultimate priority is to keep the building watertight. TREMproof 150 built-up hot rubberized asphalt waterproofing membrane or Vulkem 250 GC fluid-applied, elastomeric waterproofing membrane may be used to provide a complete, seamless system to waterproof the roof of the building, eliminates the chance that any water reaching this level will travel to a break in the surface. As a result, leak detection is significantly easier.

The Root Barrier, a 20 mil clear High Density Polyethylene with a double side tape on the outside edge, is installed above the waterproofing membrane overlapping the edges by a minimum of 4” to prevent root penetration. A Moisture Retention Mat, consisting of a double-ply heavy-duty 14-ounce loose woven polyester, is installed on top of the Root Barrier.

The appropriate prefabricated drainage system is placed over the Moisture Retention Mat, maintaining the optimal water content in the growing medium to promote strong vegetation growth and prevent drowning of the roots. One of the primary benefits of a green roof is the decrease in both the rate and volume of stormwater runoff. The soil and plants soak up water, preventing it from immediately running off into storm sewers. Excess water, however, must be removed from the roof area so that the plants will not drown and die from “root rot”.

Water buildup can also create pressure on the roof, leading to structural problems. TREMDrain GR consists of a high compressive strength plastic core with holes in the upper surface. The core acts as a water reservoir, allowing excess water to flow through open drainage channels to drainage outlets such as scuppers, gutter edges and roof drains where they will be transported off the roof. A core that is 1/2” thick will typically provide water flow equal to or better than several inches of heavy aggregate.

Fabrics are attached to the top and bottom of plastic core. The top fabric allows water to pass into the drainage core while restricting the movement of soil particles and root growth. The bottom has tall grasses, meadow plants, shrubs and even small trees.

Fabric provides protection to the Waterproofing Membrane. Standard fabric is a non-woven filter fabric that restricts soil particles. A fabric treated with copper hydroxide to stop roots and simultaneously promote the growth of new feeder roots may also be specified.

A variety of natural and manufactured materials may be used as a growing medium. Working with an approved source of growing medium and plant, soil is often mixed with other materials to reduce weight, provide better structure for roots and provide essential nutrients, water and oxygen. The two basic types of green roofs have very different requirements.

The Intensive System, which is designed to be accessible and is often used as a park or building amenity, has large plants with extensive root structures that demand a growing medium of greater than 6” and weights reaching up to 50 pounds per square foot.

The Extensive System, which is primarily built for environmental benefits only, has plants with shallow root growth and demands as little as 2”-1/2” of growing medium.

Green roofs will only function if the vegetation is successful. Succulents and other low growing plants capable of storing water in either fleshy leafs bulbs or roots are most commonly used. For the Extensive Systems, plants selected must be those that can adapt to alpine conditions with little soil, no water, high winds and high sun exposure. Intensive Systems can support a broader variety of

LEED, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, awards green roofs one rating point for landscape to reduce heat islands if the green roof is used for at least 50 percent of the roof area and one point for storm-water management that meets LEED criteria.

Tuesday, 11 November 2008 13:00 - Titanium Zinc: Colour Me Beautiful

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:36 +0100

Zinc is naturally grey, however, VM Zinc is branching out with new colours. Facades and roofs are taking on red, green and blue shades, opening up new horizons for architectural creation.

A traditional metal, zinc has long since convinced roofers of its advantages. Today architects and owners demonstrate their attachment to the material. Their enthusiasm is expressed in the application of zinc to all the functions of a building and in the adaptation of the material to all architectural styles.

The architect can now see his projects taking form in the expert hands of the roofer who transforms the zinc. The building envelope comes into being, light and contrasting shadows play with one another. Zinc asserts itself.

One of the remarkable qualities of zinc is its durability. The metal stands up to the test of time because of its exceptional resistance to corrosion. Zinc protects itself by developing a patina. It requires no maintenance. Because of the properties of the metal it lasts for up to 50 years in an aggressive urban environment and up to 100 years in a protected rural environment.

The material can be laid on slopes from 5 percent, to vertical and allows a varied range of construction layouts and the management of complex details which are impossible to realise with other materials. Highly adaptable to local professional particularities, it readily conforms to regulation or comfort requirements specific to each building.

Zinc is a natural material which can be recycled indefinitely, to the advantage of all the actors in its life cycle. It contributes to the environmental performance of buildings and is favourably situated with regard to several of the HQE (High Environmental Quality) approach.

At the design and construction stages and throughout the lifetime of a building (Eco-Construction/Management), zinc contributes to the harmonious integration of the building into its immediate environment. It also limits the impacts of the building on its external environment as it reduces building site pollution in particular, site waste, noise and dust pollution.

Natural VM Zinc has a slightly shiny metallic aspect initially. It develops its semi-matte light grey patina within six months to two years depending on its environment and the location of the building while pre-weathered zinc products have a patina on installation.

Bringing a new modernity to this noble material, providing more inspiration for architects, easier installation for roofers and ever better performance, VM Zinc launched Pigmento® at the Batimat show in Paris last November. In 2006, the coloured zinc will join the company’s range of products.

Pigmento®: Pre-weathered for aesthetics
Zinc blends perfectly with regional specificities and can be combined with other coloured materials (tiles, bricks, etc.). Pigmento®, the coloured pre-weathered zinc from VM Zinc, is however constantly changing reflection, playing with light, the environment and volumes. The textured aspect of the pre-weathered zinc shows through the colour, just as the grain in wood is visible through its coat of varnish. It is able to retain its essential character. Audacious and attractive, the pre-weathered zinc combines quality and durability, aesthetics and the avant-garde. Emotion and tradition are expressed in contemporary, personalised architecture.

Can be used in all types of facades in standing seam, interlocking panel, flat-lock panel, sine wave profile and cassettes. Colours available: range from autumn red, to lichen green and ash blue. Thickness range from 0.7 mm to 1.50 mm and widths are available from 500 mm to 1,000 mm.

Structural roofing: New thicknesses
VM Zinc has been developing its warm roof construction system for buildings with low to intermittent high hygrometry in anticipation of the new RT 2005 thermal regulations. This system combines a standing seam roof with adjustable thickness rock wool insulation on a substructure (steel, wood or concrete), enabling it to be installed on all slopes (3 to 600) of all shapes (flat, curved or conical).

It also offers a full range of fixing accessories which allows the VM Zinc Structural Roof to adapt to any insulation thickness, from 50 mm to 180 mm, without any intermediate profiles, without cutting the insulation and with minimised thermal bridging.

About VM Zinc...
VM Zinc is the international brand of rolled zinc products made and sold by the Building Products Unit of the International Umicore Group, specialised in metals and materials. The company is known by roofers in France for over 160 years under its old name of “Vieille Montagne”.

Monday, 10 November 2008 17:23 - Heinz Fritz: Material Innovation for Transparent Sheets

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 09:23:55 +0100

Plastics processing company Heinz Fritz Kunststoffverarbeitung of Herbrechtingen, Germany, has introduced two products that are set to change the material choice and design options for trade shows, exhibitions and permanent displays as well as for counters in shops and transport terminals.

The two product ranges, Transsatco and Transquieto have both been developed using Heinz Fritz proprietary technology in order to meet both the demand for high aesthetics and design freedom in combination with performance characteristics and fire classification B1. The basis for both product ranges is sheet made from Spectar copolyester, made by Eastman Specialty Plastics.

Transsatco represents a series of transparent sheet products with a matt finish – available in a choice of colours as well as uncoloured. The range was developed to offer designers an alternative to PMMA (PolyMethylMethAcrylate or Acrylic) – with the necessary fire classification to make it suitable for exhibitions and public buildings.

According to Heinz Fritz, the company’s owner, Transsatco, which is available in a range of thicknesses, can be used in applications where currently only wood, metal and glass meet the necessary criteria: He says, “The Transsatco range can help to produce stunning displays, using colour, transparency and light to great effect. These lightweight panels can be glued like PMMA – however, in use they are more robust and durable.”

Transquieto, which also has the same fire classification, is a range of transparent sheets in various thicknesses and colours, designed to dampen sound. This is achieved by a patented process of creating many tiny holes (ranging from 0.5 mm – 2 mm) in the surface – as many as 40 per sq m - resulting in a high degree of sound absorption.

Says Mr Fritz: “We invested in this technology, because we believe that there are many uses for this particular product range. We see a huge potential with many possible areas of application, from busy offices to noisy transport terminals – in fact anywhere in the world where people and machines are active.”

Heinz Fritz Kunststoffverarbeitung has its own design and production departments and the company already has a number of applications throughout Europe. Alternatively, the Transsatco and Transquieto ranges are available as flat panels for customers who want to create their own designs.

Both ranges have excellent secondary fabrication characteristics. The lightweight sheets are incredibly strong and have no need for complex, or expensive frameworks or supporting structures. As with all sheet made from Spectar copolyester, both Transsatco and Transquieto are easy to fabricate allowing greater design freedom. They can be thermoformed without the need to pre- dry the sheet. They can be cut with saw-blades, routed, drilled, die-punched, glued or joined by screws or bolts. Screen-printing, painting and hot-stamping is possible too.

Monday, 10 November 2008 16:58 - Reflectiv: Lights Up Glass Facades

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 08:58:49 +0100

Reflectiv of France designs high-tech adhesive films to be applied on glass facades found on public buildings and homes. These films filter light to improve comfort and appearance, protect privacy or create a coloured atmosphere.

By partially or fully obscuring windows, this decorative frosted film (which turns any window into frosted glass) preserves privacy without reducing light: it can be used on ground-floor facings or internal walls, and in many different places, such as schools, hospitals, laboratories, computer rooms, museums and for office partitioning.

The ‘one-way mirror’ film lets users see without being seen. It plays on the light balance phenomenon: in reaction to a stronger light, this film becomes a reflective screen. On one side it reflects the image like a mirror, while retaining glasslike transparency on the other.

The coloured films are used to create a special atmosphere, or to provide originality, warmth and gaiety, while preserving the window’s transparency. The stained films, by diffusing the light, reproduce stained glass to perfection. They lighten stairwells, colour bathrooms, and liven windows, both French and bow.

The materials meet strict standards of quality, reliability and durability. All Reflectiv films are easy to clean. They do not require maintenance, or any particular care, and are easy to change. Reflectiv, established in 1981, offers an annual production capacity of 2 million sq m and maintains a permanent stock of its products.

Monday, 10 November 2008 16:03 - An Aluminium Alternative To Thatched Roofing

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 08:03:50 +0100

Sheetmetal is offering a brand new product, specially designed for their clients in the Seychelles.

It was specifically designed to replace the traditional thatched roofs when they found that the islanders had to replace their thatched roofs on a regular basis.

These “Balinese” shingles are made from aluminium panels, using a specially designed machine to create a ‘’grass-like’’ effect that enhances the “organic” look and feel of the native dwellings.

The advantages of using aluminium are that there is a variety of colours to choose from, shingles made from aluminium have a longer life span compared to traditional thatched roofing, and they are easy to install.

These new aluminium shingles also have a rustic and tropical look, which makes them blend well with the native designs in the Seychelles. Finally, these “Balinese” shingles can be installed on an insulated roof.

These pest proof, low maintenance shingles are a very attractive alternative to thatched roofing which can be prone to rot and vermin.

As present, these ”Balinese” aluminium shingles are manufactured in Germany and have been installed only in the Seychelles.

Monday, 10 November 2008 15:19 - Trespa: Focus On Sustainable Building

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:19:08 +0100

Trespa International is a manufacturer of high quality panels for architectural applications in the building industry. As such, the company is aware that all of the world’s resources are finite and the need to act as responsible guardians of the environment, with due respect to people, property and future generations.

Trespa panels are made from paper or rests of softwood from certified rapidly renewable forests. Using a proprietary process, the raw materials are converted into an attractive, durable, moisture resistant and low maintenance building material. The panels are created by applying heat, resin and pressure and contain no halogens, biocides, plasticisers, inorganic fibres, heavy metal or preservatives. Neither the production process nor the finished products represent a health hazard Product waste can either be recycled in the production process or incinerated for energy recovery without harmful emissions.

Environmental characteristics of Trespa’s products include:

• Approximately 85 percent of the raw materials used are rapidly renewable raw materials.

• Approximately 70 percent of Trespa Meteon and ToplabPLUS consist of certified residual wood from forests.

• Material returned to Trespa, as well as residual materials from production, are recycled and used in the production of new Trespa construction panels.

• At the end of the life cycle Trespa’s products can be thermally recycled safely with energy recovery in local industrial incinerator. (No heavy metals, halogens or biocides are emitted.)

• Trespa panels are safe to use.

Trespa materials were also chosen for the façade of the building in which the SMART car is being produced. The building needed to have a façade that was aesthetically appealing, safe, healthy and environmentally sound. It’s façade cladding materials were chosen for their environmental profiles.

In keeping with the client’s environmental concerns, the agency has selected “clean” materials and an architectural expression integrating orchards, forest skirts and roofed passageways. An acute sense of realism translates in thorough acoustical treatment, facades decked with climbing plants and protective shades to provide a calm working environment protected against the heat of the summer sun.

Trespa’s Meteon was awarded the cladding contract primarily because its product offered rapid installation, very narrow dimensional tolerances and complete integration.

Monday, 10 November 2008 15:08 - Enovate: Energy Efficient Advantage

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:08:46 +0100

Brussels: In the European Union, 40 percent of CO2 emissions originate through the use of energy in buildings. As the conservation of energy has become a top priority, Honeywell’s Enovate blowing agent for insulation foam offers a powerful solution and will be presented at this year’s UTECH show in Maastricht, the Netherlands, March 28 - 30 (Stand 1760).

The European Union’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the Energy Services Directive have significantly raised the demands on insulation performance. Honeywell’s answer to these demands is Enovate blowing agent, used for high performance polyurethane (PUR/PIR) foam insulation applications.

Enovate offers a variety of product benefits including superior insulation, long term performance, meets stringent fire tests, non-ozone-depleting, non-flammable, safety in use. These benefits translate into economic advantages for the end-user and ecological benefits for society. Reduced energy consumption due to better insulated buildings helps reduce overall cost and environmental impact.

Good fire performance of insulating material is a key safety measure and it enables building owners to save on building insurance cost. Products based on Enovate meet the fire performance standards set by the UK’s Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) which are considered to be the most stringent fire standards across Europe.

Monday, 10 November 2008 14:59 - CIL: Launch Of New PU Bonding System

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 06:59:26 +0100

Chemical Innovations Ltd (CIL) has added Cilbond 48, to its range of high-performance polyurethane (PU) to substate bonding systems, and they will be using UTECH 2006 at Maastricht, Germany for its launch.

Cilbond 48 is a fast drying one-coat bonding system capable of bonding both hot and cold cast polyurethane systems to a variety of substrates including materials, polyamides and other engineering thermoplastics.

With exceptional resistance to salt-spray and hot and cold water, CIL expects Cilbond 48 to be used in the manufacture of rollers, wheels, pipe coatings and linings, belts and hose construction, or any application requiring an engineering bond with exceptional environmental resistance.

Cilbond 48 also performs without the need for a pre-bake, but will reliably withstand pre-bake cycles of up to 4 hours at 100°C. Based in Preston, UK and certified to BS EN ISO9001:2000, CIL will also be exhibiting its range of rubber to metal bonding systems, castable polyurethane elastomers, puncture proofing systems for industrial tyres and mould release agents. CIL is part of British Vita Ltd.

Monday, 03 November 2008 15:06 - Carlisle’s EPDM FLEECEBACK

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 07:06:21 +0100

CARLISLE’S HP-250 Primer and SECURTAPE are applied to EPDM FLEECEBACK membranes in a factory-controlled setting, ensuring reliable and above-average peel and shear strengths, with no entrapped bubbles. Consistent placement of the SECURTAPE also maximises the splice area by controlling the placement within + or - 1/8 inch (0.3 cm).

SECURTAPE improves seaming productivity by nearly 50 % and addresses the roofing industry’s biggest challenge – the shortage of labour. This means completing projects faster, improving the ability to get ‘buildings in the dry’ in less time and minimising business disruption. Less material to load on to the roof reduces the concern about material waste and disposal.

Factory-applied SECURTAPE is available on all EPDM FLEECEBACK membranes. Either 3 inch (7.6 cm) or 6 inch (15 cm) SECURTAPE can be specified for SURE-SEAL FLEECEBACK membranes to accommodate various warranty or design criteria.

Monday, 03 November 2008 13:41 - Spaceframes and Skylights from Prime Structures Engineering

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:41:36 +0100

LEVERAGING on sound engineering know-how and utilising special spaceframe design software, Prime Structures Engineering created the PRIME system ball-joint spaceframe, from powder-coated mild steel or stainless steel grade spherical nodes and pipe members. The structurally sound, multi-dimensional framework system can be used to create structures of various geometries, including curved profiles and layered configurations. The spaceframe systems can be installed easily. The PRIME system ball joint spaceframes are manufactured under the strictest international standards.

Well-known for their versatility, PRIME system glass and polycarbonate skylights provide aesthetic appeal to any environment. Designed to blend with, and add an element of artistic creativity to, roofing systems and architectural structures, PRIME system skylights ensure transmission of natural lighting to the interiors of buildings. The extruded aluminium profiles coupled with the design and engineering capabilities of Prime Structures Engineering, facilitate the realisation of a variety of shapes (ridge, barrel, pyramid, dome etc), sizes and structures.

Monday, 03 November 2008 13:31 - V-KOOL Fragment Retention Films

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:31:31 +0100

THE increasing trend towards constructing commercial and residential buildings with large areas of glass, translates into large cooling loads, due to the heat gain through the windows.

The application of V-KOOL films on the interior side of glass windows, reduces the solar heat transmission, thereby decreasing air-conditioning loads and generating energy savings. At the same time, V-KOOL’s transparency means that daylight can be ‘harvested’, reducing artificial lighting requirements in buildings significantly.

V-KOOL is produced, using a patented process to embed a coating of metals such as silver and indium, only a few hundred atoms thick, on to optically clear and durable polyester film.

When applied to windows, the product is said to screen 94% of infrared rays responsible for heat buildup, while letting in over 70% of visible light. The solar heat reduction is said to be around 55%.

Further, the films are said to absorb 99% of ultraviolet rays and possess an equivalent SPF (sun protection factor) of over 200. V-KOOL products incorporate UV inhibitors, to significantly reduce ‘sun-bleaching’ of upholstery, carpets, drapes and window display merchandise.

V-KOOL is ideal for new construction or can be retrofitted right over existing glass, in commercial and residential buildings.

A significant advance in surface and particle science led to the development and patenting of V -KOOL’s proprietary technology. By perfecting a multilayer dielectric stack, approximately 180 nanometres thick, VKOOL is able to selectively filter out unwanted and harmful infrared and ultraviolet rays while allowing useful visible light through.

This technology has won V-KOOL many accolades including Popular Science Magazine’s ‘Top 100 Inventions of the Millennium’. V-KOOL’s potential for energy conservation has been honoured by the US Environmental Protection Agency, with the prestigious Energy Star Buildings Ally marque.

Installation of V-KOOL products is quick and easy, and does not involve the use of solvents.

V-KOOL Fragment Retention Films

Sometimes referred to as safety and security films, V-KOOL’s Fragment Retention Films (FRFs) are heavy gauge, polyester films that are easily applied on to any existing glass surface, to hold broken glass shards in the event of breakage. Specially formulated, cross-linked adhesives bond glass and film together. They hold broken glass in place, mitigating the likelihood of glass being propelled at high speeds into interior areas or falling to sidewalks below the window.

Retail shopfronts, skylights, galleries, museums, banks, military installations, homes and any area where there is a potential for glass-related injury or damage, or forced entry scenarios, can benefit from V-KOOL FRFs.

V-KOOL FRFs are available with or without the spectrally-selective heat rejecting coatings. Products with the heat rejecting coatings, are marketed under the name V-KOOL Secure.

Monday, 03 November 2008 13:21 - SOLARTEC solar heat reflective insulation coating

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:21:21 +0100

SOLARTEC is a purpose-made, solar reflective coating that incorporates a synthetic copolymer-based resin containing inert titanium-based pigments, proprietary fillers and special UV barrier pigments in an ethanol solution. The coating can be applied to a variety of surfaces including flat and pitched asphalt, bituminous membrane, concrete, ceramic tiles, brick and plaster, metal roofing sheets etc.

The application of SOLARTEC offers several advantages. Since the absorption of solar energy by buildings is significantly reduced, structural movements are minimized and air-conditioning costs are lowered.

SOLARTEC combats infrared and ultraviolet degradation of asphalt, bituminous membranes and metal roofs. Also, the roof replacement and recoating cycle is extended. The durability of the coating is not affected by the ponding of water. Further, there is a large reduction in the loading on flat roofs.

SOLARTEC is easy to apply and maintain. In addition, repaired areas can be easily and economically recoated.

The pigments incorporated within SOLARTEC are chemically stable and remain effective even under the most demanding environmental conditions. The coating is resistant to alkalis, acids, salt spray, fungi and algae.

SOLARTEC is available in three standard colours – white, green and grey. The exact degree of solar reflectivity, measured across the entire solar spectrum, achieved by SOLARTEC White, SOLARTEC Green and SOLARTEC Grey, is 85%, 75% and 65% respectively. Other colours are available upon request. SOLARTEC is available in 5 kg, 10 kg and 20 kg drums.

Specially developed pigments and proprietary fillers in SOLARTEC make the surface a good reflector of solar radiation covering the full spectrum, from ultraviolet to infra-red. It is also a good radiator of infra-red heat, that is, it readily emits any collected heat. SOLARTEC thus becomes an external ‘heat rejecting’ membrane, in thicknesses of 50 microns to 100 microns.

Studies conducted in Australia and the UK have shown that the heat reflected by SOLARTEC is 85% of the solar radiation. In addition, 13% of the radiation absorbed is re-radiated as long wave, infra-red heat. Thus, only 2% of the heat penetrates a given surface.

In 2001, Energy Testing Services Ltd, UK studied the effects of solar reflective coatings applied to roofs in Singapore, on the cooling loads on buildings, in accordance with the Singapore Building Control Regulations, for three roof structure categories - heavy, medium and light. Results tabulated throughout the whole year, showed a 60% to 65% reduction in solar heat gain, due to the coatings.

SOLARTEC has been widely used in projects around the world for more than 15 years.In Singapore, SOLARTEC has been successfully applied in several projects including the former Shell Recreation Club, Nanyang Technological University Estate Office, ECON Building, Clementi Community Centre, Singapore National Parks Board, Junction 8 Shopping Centre, Buona Vista Garden Condominium, Comfort Resources Factory and ROTOL Singapore Factory, as well as in many private residences and other types of buildings.

At the former Shell Recreation Club, the temperature reduction observed at the underside of the galvanized roof, was 10º C to more than 20º C during the hottest part of the day, as a result of the SOLARTEC application. On the topside surface of the concrete roof slab at the Nanyang Technological University Estate Office, a difference of 13.4º C was recorded.

Monday, 03 November 2008 13:11 - New generation louvre systems from Hunter Douglas

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:11:27 +0100

THE sun is an inexhaustible source of energy that provides sustenance to all forms of life on Earth. However, especially in equatorial and tropical climates, the solar radiation takes the form of light that is sometimes pleasant and soothing to the human senses and sometimes overbright, and heat that is always unbearable. All of this is aggravated by the phenomenon of global warming and the cost and environmental impact of generating electricity from fossil fuels, to air-condition buildings.

Buildings absorb heat and transmit it to the interiors. According to Hunter Douglas, the installation of modern sun louvre systems can help to reduce this heat absorption. The company however points out that not all louvre blind systems meet all the fundamental requirements, with traditional louvre blinds, for example, installed inside or outside buildings, offering good protection against dazzling light, but reducing the build-up of heat only slightly.

Hunter Douglas says that since the company’s new generation of large, aerofoil-shaped sun louvre systems, incorporates advanced technology, they facilitate natural climate control, whilst at the same time, providing the architect the space to express his or her creativity.

Hunter Douglas offers a wide range of semi-finished products, made from a choice of materials including aluminium, steel, wood, glass and plastic, in various colours, shapes and sizes, permitting numerous possibilities for their customisation to the requirements of individual projects.

The versatility of the systems and the large fin sizes (up to around 500 mm) possible, make for interesting applications. The louvres can be made moveable, through manually- or mechanically- operated controls, for adjusting the amount of light entering the building and controlling the thermal loads into the structure, in accordance with the relative position of the sun, whilst ventilating it. They can be made to function as fully closed or fully open systems and can even be shifted from side to side.

The highest efficiency is achieved by louvre blind systems fitted to the outside of buildings, at a certain distance from the wall. The intervening space then allows for natural ventilation. The sun’s rays are reflected back, before they reach the wall behind and are converted into heat. This is an efficient and economical method of heat control. In addition, the transparency of the architecture is preserved, and the inhabitants of the building can enjoy the natural daylight as it filters in through the windows and provides an unimpeded view of the outside.

The Luxalon Standard Aerofoil Louvre System, from Hunter Douglas, consists of six different aluminium-extruded fins, with widths ranging from 200 to 450 mm, in increments of 50 mm. Other available fin sizes are 100 mm, 150 mm and 500 mm, but these do not correspond to the standard fixing system.

The Standard System is available in non-adjustable and adjustable versions. In the non-adjustable version, the fins are fixed to the frame. The angle of the fins can be fixed in increments of 5º from 0º to 180º. The fins are locked into position while fixing.

In the adjustable version, the fins can be set at any angle, from 0º to a maximum of 120º. In the Standard System, each fin has its own maximum fin-span, in accordance with local requirements. The fins are supplied with a protective finish.

The supporting framework can be fabricated from aluminium or galvanised steel and orientated horizontally, vertically or at any other angle.

The Luxalon Standard Aerofoil Louvre systems can be easily and quickly installed with a minimum of tools. For the non-adjustable system, each fin is ‘clicked’ into position by sliding a U-profile section over the fin suspension bracket. For the adjustable system, two axles for each fin, are assembled on the frame. The fins are fixed on the axles and aligned with a setscrew. The driving rod is attached and adjusted. The motor is then installed to provide the required angle of rotation of the fins.

Several completed projects in Europe and elsewhere, have proven the performance of the new generation louvre systems, according to Hunter Douglas.

Monday, 03 November 2008 12:54 - ALUCORE honeycomb aluminium composite panels

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 04:54:09 +0100

MOST people will immediately relate to ALUCOBOND, one of the most established and best selling aluminium composite panels in the world, developed some 35 years ago and successfully used under all climatic conditions on five continents.
Now from Alcan Composites, the company that developed ALUCOBOND, comes ALUCORE which is already being widely used in many countries around the world.

ALUCORE is manufactured by Alcan Singen GmbH in Germany using the same proven technology as applied in the production of ALUCOBOND. The highly rigid and light panel consists of two skins of aluminium alloy bonded in a continuous production process to a core of aluminium honeycomb. The viscoplastic adhesive used results in a better peel strength which enables post-forming. For example, ALUCORE can be curved using conventional pyramid rollers. The manufacturers believe that no other honeycomb panel can be shaped so easily.

The difference between ALUCOBOND and ALUCORE lies in the weight and rigidity. For example, if composite panels are chosen because of their flatness, ALUCOBOND is an excellent choice for modular panels in sizes up to 1250 x 3000 mm. However, for bigger panels, ALUCORE will be a better choice. With its much higher rigidity and strength, it is possible to have larger panel sizes, up to 1500 x 6000 mm, without the need for stiffeners.

ALUCORE is also an excellent material for linkway and shelter applications. As a result of the product’s light weight and excellent strength, large exterior ceilings and roofs constructed from ALUCORE, are flat and do not sag, even after many years of exposure to wind and external weather conditions.

The proven paint finish is another valuable characteristic of ALUCORE. The skins are coil-coated with high quality paint, prior to lamination into a composite panel. There are 30 available PVDF stand- ard colours to choose from, for exterior applications. For larger quantities, panels with special colours and finishes can also be supplied. These include decorative foil applications (wood, stone, etc).

Like in the case of ALUCOBOND, ALUCORE is not sold over the counter. For every application, the product is tailored to suit the specific requirements of the client’s project.

Wednesday, 22 October 2008 12:06 - ABS environment-friendly piping systems

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 04:06:32 +0100

ABS plastic pipe, which is made of high quality thermoplastic polymer materials – Acrylonitrile, Butadiene and Styrene, displays a family of engineering plastics with a superior range of performance values. In major parts of the world, ABS piping system which is environment-friendly consuming less energy, has slowly replaced the steel and PVC pipes in the cold water supply system. Kindratech Pipes Sdn Bhd manufactures a wide variety of such ABS pipes and fittings in accordance to MS 1419: 1997/ AS 3518: 1988 and solvent cement in accordance to MS1419: Part 3: 1997. The products include KINDRATECH™ ABS pipe, KIN® ABS fittings & KIN™ ABS priming fluid and solvent cement.

Properties of ABS plastic pipes include corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance, impact resistance as ABS is a ductile material and retains outstanding resistance even at very low temperature. They are also lightweight - ABS pipes weigh on average 30% less than heavy duty PVC pipes and 75% less than steel pipes, non-cytotoxic and no harmful metallic stabilizers, has exceptional smooth bore, ability to perform over a wide temperature range from -40°C to 70°C, low installation cost and high integrity joints. Kindratech ABS piping systems is designed with a 2-1 safety factor against rated pressure over a 50 years life span at 20°C temperature.

Wednesday, 22 October 2008 11:43 - TechZone™ Ceiling System

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:43:15 +0100

With the new TechZone™ ceiling system, you can easily achieve monolithic, uncluttered ceiling visuals using standard components, and, later, you can organise the look of the space you’ve designed. Sixinch- wide technical ‘zones’ organise services, including lighting, diffusers and sprinklers in a system that pre-qualified for fit and finish. It’s affordable, hassle-free, reliable, easy to specify and to install compared with other alternatives.

Wednesday, 22 October 2008 11:22 - Surefoot4 - Perfect grid mat system

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:22:08 +0100

Surefoot4, the new product line developed by Invisible Structures Inc. provides long awaited relief in the struggle between livestock care givers and the ground their four hoofed friends walk upon. Surefoot4 is a flexible, injection molded plastic ring and grid mat system with a filter fabric backing. The design has been successfully used as porous paving/reinforcement for grass and gravel fire lanes and overflow parking since 1982. Its stable, firm surface accommodates loads in excess of 50 tons per animal hoof. The polyester filter backing allows liquid to rapidly filter through to natural drainage layers below while at the same time acts as a weed barrier and prevents mixing of base dirt with bedding or footing material. These features have proven to provide the added benefit of use of 50% to 75% less bedding material when used as stall flooring. Applications include stall flooring, wash stalls, auto walkers, cattle working areas, feed lots, paddocks, feeding or watering areas, turnouts, barn and arena access areas, along with racing facilities, grooming stalls and breeding areas, parking for trailers, cattle chutes, holding pens, crowd alleys, squeeze chutes and more.

Surefoot4 solves many of the problems livestock owners encounter such as:

• Liquid waste and rain causing mud, erosion, and puddles

• Livestock digging holes, loosening soils, and wearing trenches

• Slippery, uneven surfaces

• Irregular, stressful footing

• Surefoot4 reduces barn odour

• Surefoot4 apart from the following benefits, reduces bedding waste by 50-75%:

• Surefoot4 is cheaper and safer than concrete

• Hauling heavy rubber mats for cleaning is a thing of the past

• Surefoot4 is less stressful on the joints of an animal, therefore reducing leg and tendon injuries

• This revolutionary product is permanent and easy to maintain.