40% More Thermal Efficiency now Standard

Demand for the Hörmann ThermoFrame has prompted the company to now supply this energy saving device as standard with all double insulated DPU doors.

Often selected for cold storage loading bays the DPU door has 80mm thick, CFC free rigid polyurethane foam insulation that gives each door panel a thermal u value of only 0.3 W/m2K Thermal breaks between panels and the fine tolerances between door and frame ensure that a 25m2 complete door still has a u value of only 0.7 W/m2K .

The ThermoFrame dramatically improves the thermal efficiency of sectional loading bay doors by providing a thermal break between the door frame and the fabric of the building. While the high quality engineering that Hörmann has built its reputation on gives a precision fit in the door opening, the heavy duty plastic ThermoFrame with its additional seals leads to an even more efficient closure.

A remarkable 40% improvement in thermal efficiency is achieved when ThermoFrame is fitted with the DPU door, along with new UPVC locating and lintel profiles. It is this impressive performance that has created the demand in the market.  The benefits of ThermoFrame are not limited to the cold store area, in ambient warehouses where Hörmann's insulated SPU sectional door is recognised as the benchmark for Loading bays, thermal efficiency can be improved by a significant 20%.

As energy costs continue to rise, the benefits delivered by ThermoFrame simply increase. Contact Hörmann direct on 01530 516888 or go to www.hormann.co.uk.



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Ford of Britain 100: Image of the Week – 52/52

To celebrate the centenary of Ford of Britain in 2011 the company has explored its photo archive to reveal rarely seen images. Ford's unique relationship with Britain and its society has been illustrated each week by specially selected pictures.

Rallying is a tough, and sometimes cruel, sport.  Designed as a Group B rally car, the RS200 was turbocharged, mid-engined, light, 4-wheel driven, and fast on any surface.  As regulations demanded, 200 examples were built in the UK with production starting in 1986.

Its rallying career was cut short when the FIA reacted to a number of serious accidents by banning aerodynamic devices on Group B cars and then calling a halt to the entire class from 1987.  As a result the RS200 was transformed from stark rally car to a more luxurious road car specification, albeit one that was still cramped, noisy, high-revving and physically demanding to drive.

Despite such setbacks Ford has maintained its commitment to rallying and it recently announced its continued participation in the FIA World Rally Championship for 2012 and 2013.  Long-term partner M-Sport, which has successfully operated Ford’s WRC activities since 1997, operates the programme from its state-of-the-art facilities at Dovenby Hall in north-west England.

The Fiesta RS World Rally Car will continue as Ford’s WRC flagship in 2012 and 2013.  The climax of the World Rally Championship in the UK saw the Ford Fiesta RS World Rally Car claim eight of the top 10 positions.  This is the only time a single manufacturer has achieved this feat since the championship was created in 1973.

Ford’s long and successful heritage in rallying places it second in the all-time wins list with 79 world rally victories and its run of 145 consecutive points finishes, dating back to the opening round of the 2002 championship, is the longest in the sport’s history. 




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Council planners turn to DHF for shopfront security advice

Image: Laura Chamberlain - Flickr.com

The DHF is giving advice to local authority planners on security on high streets and shopping centres. This follows the city centre riots in the summer when looters were seen on TV ripping away shopfront shutters.

The DHF recently took part in a seminar for planners and local council officials at the London Borough of Croydon council at which DHF was represented by Alan Starkey from DHF member company, Ascot Doors.

Retailers are approaching DHF members asking for shopfront shutters that offer increased security. DHF advice is for them to initially approach their local council for advice on what types of shutter are acceptable to them.

Many planning authorities will not give planning permission for heavy duty shutters in high streets and shopping centres on aesthetic grounds.

Indeed, the planning guidelines on shopfront security issued by the London Borough of Croydon state: "Where grilles and shutters are the only solution to deter criminal activity, the council will require such devices to be in character with the building and locality. Solid or perforated shutters, however well designed, will not be acceptable on the grounds that they adversely affect the character of a building and street scene, thereby contributing to an unwelcoming and hostile environment."

Securefast Continues to Invest in Customer Services

Securefast Group, one of the UK's leading locks and security equipment distributors has good reason to celebrate yet another endorsement of the company's commitment to deliver the highest levels of service and customer satisfaction in the industry.

As part of the groups drive to business excellence five of the company's managers and warehouse staff have attained National Vocational Qualifications.

Purchasing Manager Kevin Farrell and Quality Manager Steve Collins received level 3 NVQ Diploma's in Business Improvement Techniques, whilst three members of the warehouse team, Paul Bird, Darren Hopkins and Paul Goodwin achieved EAL Level 2 qualifications in stock control systems, improved warehouse efficiencies, stock flow organisation and materials re-cycling.

LEGBUD UK Supports 3 Peaks Challenge

Legbud UK had the privilege to support two of its customers complete "The Three Peaks Challenge" over the August bank holiday.  Simon Crowther of Complete Garage Doors Halesowen Ltd, and Dave Flanagan of Elite Garage Doors, along with friends and family completed the challenge which involved climbing: Ben Nevis in Scotland; Scafel Pike in the Lake District; and Snowdon in Wales, all in 24 hours .

They did this in memory of Simon's son Riley Crowther, and in aid of Birmingham Children's hospital.

Riley was born with a complex congenital heart condition called Ebstein's Anomaly . He was treated at Birmingham's Children's Hospital for 3 Months before he passed away aged 10 months.

Whilst at the hospital he underwent many procedures including open heart surgery and having a pace maker fitted , if anyone would like to make a donation to Riley's appeal please visit  http://www.justgiving.com/Riley-Crowther 

To date the appeal has raised over £16,000



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NHIC Support Hörmann in Green Deal Push

The National Home improvement Council has added its voice to Hörmann's call for doors to  integral garages to be considered under the Green Deal.

In their newsletter the NHIC says, "No home with an integral garage door can be effectively energy efficient without the necessary insulation. Many householders continue to use the garage space as an "extra" room, so it must be included in a home's total environment. Otherwise it cannot be possible to maximise on the reduction of a dwelling's carbon emissions."

While entrance doors are already included in the governments green deal, due to be rolled out from October 2012, garage doors are not. For houses with an integral garage, an insulated door should be an essential item. As sectional doors are the only truly insulating option available, this is an opportunity for the garage door industry to add value to many projects.

The Hörmann ThermoFrame, designed specifically for sectional doors, can further improve thermal efficiency by as much as 15%. Hörmann believe these savings warrant inclusion in the green deal and will give the door industry an opportunity to benefit more from the government initiative. 




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Ford Offers Santa an Ecoboost Powered Concept Sleigh to Lower Reindeer Derived Co2 Emissions

•    Ford helps Santa Claus “go green” – slashing his carbon footprint – with concept sleigh design

•    Retiring reindeer and opting for Ford’s sleigh powered by new 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, would save Santa 191,843 tonnes of Co2 and £110 million on fuel costs

Leading car company Ford is offering to make it a greener Christmas with a concept sleigh that would dramatically downsize Santa’s carbon footprint. 

Santa’s new ride, packed with cutting-edge Ford technology, would allow Rudolph and friends to enjoy a well-deserved retirement while Santa makes his annual deliveries with style in an environmentally friendly new sleigh.

“They may look cute, but Santa’s team of nine reindeer1 create a staggering 214,670 tons of Co2 equivalent emissions each year, so something had to be done to help him re-discover his greener roots,” said Ford car designer Paul Wraith.

The benefits of switching to the concept sleigh go beyond the environmental. Travelling such huge distances – some 200,237,360 km – means Santa currently spends in excess of £122 million on carrots to fuel his reindeer each year. The impressive fuel efficiency of the 1 litre EcoBoost would reduce Santa’s fuel costs by 90% to just £12 million.

Whilst Santa himself was unavailable for comment, Mrs Claus explained: “I am not looking forward to telling Donner and Blitzen the news, but the polar bears in the North Pole will certainly welcome the Ford EcoBoost-powered sleigh.”

Mrs Claus continues: “l would of course back anything that means my husband can get home that bit quicker. Getting presents in a shorter amount of time to all the good children each year may even give him time to reconsider a few names on the naughty list. But I can’t promise.”

Ford of Britain 100: Image of the Week – 51/52

To celebrate the centenary of Ford of Britain in 2011 the company is exploring its photo archive to reveal rarely seen images. Ford's unique relationship with Britain and its society will be illustrated each week by specially selected pictures.

The winter of 1993-1994 saw a combination of Ford Mondeos – a model with aspirations as a global car – and Ford Mavericks set off from London to support an attempt to drive overland between London and New York via the Bering Strait.  This overland (and ice) route did not prove successful but the team did find alternative means to reach Alaska and, eventually, New York.

In 2010, The Ford Fiesta used conventional routes to embark on a 15,000-mile round-the-world trip that saw Ford’s stylish small car visit a total of 21 countries.

The drive was a demonstration of the "One Ford" global strategy, which is putting the Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus and future Ford Kuga and Ford Mondeo models on sale globally.  The round-the-world programme for the Ford Fiesta took over 50 days to complete, covering North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.

UK-built engines are a key part of the "One Ford" strategy and during the Ford Fiesta's 500-mile leg across the UK, the car stopped off at Ford's Bridgend engine-plant – where the car's 1.6-litre petrol engine is built. 




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What a Year for SWR Balustrade

Over the past year, SWR Balustrade has landed some big commercial contracts.

They have recently finished installing a glass channel system at the newly refurbished Blackpool Tower, which is at the entrance to the new 4D cinema, (see below). They were also on hand to supply a modular system around the VIP section at this summer's Chelsea Flower show.

SWR are currently working at Butlins in Bognor Regis on a brand new hotel. This job will see the communal areas fitted with complex modular systems. The Installation Team has grown over 2011 to provide a full fitting service to cater not just for the commercial projects, but also to fulfil demand in the domestic market.

For more information call the SWR Balustrade Team on 01442 359878 or visit www.swr-balustrade.co.uk




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Great Results from the SWS UK Display Case

Following on from the recent article in the Summer edition of the Door Industry Journal, SWS UK have told us that not only are their display cases now available but the response to them so far has surpassed their expectations.

 "We knew from research that the display case would be popular, as many of our distributors were crying out for something to demonstrate the unique aspects of Seceuroglide without having to enter an unnecessary price war against lesser quality roller garage doors.

"However, we had no idea just how well received they would be and how many of our distributors would benefit from them. In fact demand was so great we quickly ran out of our first batch and had to order more.

"The feedback we have received so far has all been exceptionally positive, with many of our distributors reporting a sense of pride to visit customers with a professional sales tool and how easy it now is to demonstrate what makes the Seceuroglide market leader in the roller garage door market.

Garador Gets to Know its Customers

One in three homes in Britain have a garage, yet only 30% of those garages are actually used to park cars.

A recent survey by Garador explores how people utilise the space that comes with their house, specifically how they use their garage space.

The results showed that nearly 30% of people use their garage as a workshop, however other popular uses include:  children's playroom, gym, utility room, home office and food storage area.

Garador commissioned the survey, of 2000 consumers across the UK, in an effort to understand people's priorities when it comes to garage space, and to be able to communicate the results through effective marketing campaigns.

The results of the survey demonstrate how different consumers are, and how each person views their home in a different way.

A First for BM TRADA Certification under the BFRC DER Scheme

BM TRADA Certification is the first Independent Agency (IA) to register products under the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) Door Energy Rating (DER) scheme for its Q-Mark certified doorset fabricator, Door-Stop International.

The scheme was formally launched in October and covers various types of domestic doors, including single & double external pedestrian doors, French doors, sliding patio doors and folding & sliding doors. DERs can be applied to 'System' type doors (manufactured from jointed stiles and rails) and 'non-System' type doors (solid core or composite) in unglazed, half glazed or fully glazed versions. Construction can be timber, PVC-U, aluminium, steel or composite materials.

BFRC Certified Simulator Mike Chorlton said, 'Achieving a DER can be very straightforward for doorset fabricators who have obtained BFRC DER reports and who also have a management or factory production control (FPC) system in place. Fabricators who have neither DER reports nor a management system in place need not panic. Most companies require only a small amount of additional controls in place to achieve DER.'

Woodrite get some satisfaction, baby!

Having the confidence in your products and services to survey your customers buying experience is the sign of a company committed to high standards.

Every customer that buys a Woodrite door is invited to complete an online satisfaction survey that covers everything from ease of ordering, through on-time delivery and right down to the quality of the packaging. It takes no more than a couple of minutes to complete and every response will be used to refine Woodrite's service!

Look out for the survey from November onwards!

"Listening to what our customers want is essential for us to succeed as a business" Commented Sharon Cleaver, Woodrite's Sales Director.

Contact Woodrite on 01280 841010 - www.woodritedoors.co.uk




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Communication is the key to providing business benefit to DHF members

The Door & Hardware Federation is moving communication further up the agenda in recognition of how important it is to the federation and to our members. How are we doing this, and how does it translate into business benefit to our members?

In fact, we are improving our communication both to markets that specify our members' products - architects, contractors, end users and so on - as well as to our own members.

This issue of Door Industry Journal illustrates our commitment to improving the quality of information we provide. There are dedicated editorial sections within the journal giving news and views on industrial doors, garage doors, timber doorsets, metal doorsets, fire and security, building hardware and powered gates.

Architectural Door Controls brochure from Exidor

Following the recent acquisition of Jebron, Exidor has introduced a new range brochure covering the company's Architectural Door Control products.

The completely new style and format of the brochure brings together the complete range of door closers, e-mags, floor springs, transom and concealed closers, and has been specifically designed to provide the architectural ironmonger, builders merchant, locksmith, security manager and specifier with clear and detailed information, including product dimensions.

All Exidor door closers utilise either the unique high efficiency cam and roller, or the double cam action, making them particularly suitable for use where the Equality Act is a consideration.

Universal fittings and brackets are supplied as standard with all closers enabling them to be used in fig 1, fig 61 and fig 66 applications, and the e-mag range comes with a plug in power loop for quicker, easier fitting.

The page layout of the new brochure includes full product specifications together with visual illustrations of typical product applications and certification information. Also incorporated in the new brochure is the new Exidor Concealed range of closers, including the retro fit option.

To request your copy of the new Architectural Door Controls brochure please contact Nigel Taylor, Sales Director, Exidor Ltd, Progress Drive, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 0JE. Tel: 01543 578661 email us on sales@exidor.co.uk or visit the web site www.exidor.co.uk



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Ford of Britain 100: Image of the Week – 50/52

To celebrate the centenary of Ford of Britain in 2011 the company is exploring its photo archive to reveal rarely seen images. Ford's unique relationship with Britain and its society will be illustrated each week by specially selected pictures. This week we revive a milestone in Ford of Britain's history - the production of the five millionth Ford Transit van in August 2005.

The Transit Van Club formed to mark the 40th anniversary of Ford Transit production teamed up with Ford engineers and executives to create a convoy of more than 60 vans – ranging from ambulances to Ford’s World Rallye Transit – spanning the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge in Essex.

The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge was opened in 1991 by Her Majesty The Queen and today provides a river crossing for more than 50m vehicles annually. (www.dartfordarchive.org.uk).

Consistent investment, exciting breakthroughs in technology and engine development mean that the Ford Transit has maintained its market leadership for more than 46 years in the UK.

With engines built at the Ford Dagenham Engine Plant in Essex, commercial vehicle research and development at the Ford Dunton Technical Centre, Essex, transmissions produced from the Getrag-Ford joint venture in Halewood, Merseyside and manufacturing in Southampton, this British icon continues to thrive.




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New Quick Delivery Kickplates from Steelworx

Eurospec has launched a new range of high performance kickplates under its Steelworx brand. These are designed with high corrosion values and suitable for commercial use, such as in hospitals, schools, leisure centres and other heavy traffic areas. They complement the other products in the Steelworx High Performance range which includes handles, knobs, door pulls, fingerplates, escutcheons and door stops.

The new Collection includes 17 different cut to size 6" high kickplates to cater for UK door widths in both metric and imperial from 626mm to 926mm and from 27in to 36in. Inside & outside face. The range is available in various finishes - polished stainless steel, satin stainless steel and stainless PVD brass - and all kickplates have polished edges with soft corners to minimise the risk of injury by both installers and end users.

Kickplates are available on next working day delivery and all are sold in singles. Ideal for last minute demand Each kickplate is individually poly-bagged with blue film protection and corner protectors and are supplied complete with Pozi CSK matching screws.

The Carlisle Design Group, one of the leading distributors of architectural ironmongery, supplies Carlisle Brass, EuroSpec, Eurolite and Carlisle Design Pre-pack. Products include door and window furniture, locks, bathroom fittings, cabinet and cupboard hardware, high specification switch plates and sockets plus other ancillary products.

Further information is available from Carlisle Brass on 01228 511770 or visit www.carlisledesigngroup.com 








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DHF Chairman's Message Winter 2011 Issue

It is extremely gratifying when hard work is rewarded with positive results and in that connection I was delighted to see that hits on our website from specifiers increased by more than 50 per cent. This dramatic increase in the number of visits to the Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) website confirms it is increasingly becoming a “must-visit destination” for door and hardware specifiers, contractors, customers and end users.

In the latest three month period, the website www.dhfonline.org.uk registered 403,000 hits. This compares to 261,000 hits made to the site in the preceding three month period, a jump of more than 50 per cent. This huge increase in the number of visitors demonstrates that building professionals are increasingly turning to our website to access a wealth of industry news, resources and specialist advice. It’s become an invaluable resource for specialists and specifiers in sectors including industrial and commercial doors and shutters, garage doors, building hardware and architectural ironmongery. 

In particular, visitors are downloading copies of DHF codes of practice, best practice guides and technical specifications. The top ten downloads for the three month period showed that a total of 29,000 documents were downloaded by site visitors.

The three most popular DHF best practice guides and documents to be downloaded were on door maintenance, restraining roller shutter barrels and guidance on Building Regulations Part M compliance. More than 21,000 of these three documents were downloaded. The DHF’s large library of technical publications, specification guides, codes of practice and codes of conduct set out the standards of workmanship, quality assurance and business integrity of its members. 

These guides are easy to find as they are grouped under areas of interest such as security, fire, architectural ironmongery, garage doors & gates, metal & timber doorsets, maintenance and industrial doors.

Visit the DHF website at www.dhfonline.org.uk 

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Calling ALL Garage Door Installation Companies

If you can answer YES to just one of the five questions below, this industry event for garage door specialists could well be of benefit to you and your company.

• Is the future of the Garage Door Industry important to you?
• Do you want to be part of it?
• Is CE legislation confusing?
• Do you want to hear in plain English how to comply?
• Would you like the support of like minded Installers and Manufacturers?

So, if you have answered YES to just one of the above questions, please come along to the DHF Garage Door Installer Group Open Meeting. 

When? 
10.30am on Wednesday the 25th January 2012

Where?
The Sapphire Conference and Training Centre, Coleshill, Birmingham

You will hear from members of both the Garage Door Installer and the Garage Door Manufacturer groups about our plans for the future and how we can help you be a part of it.

The meeting is open to anyone in the Garage Door Industry irrespective of whether you are a DHF member or not.

To book your seat please call Kay Scattergood at the DHF on 01827 52337 or email kay.scattergood@dhfonline.org.uk

For information and directions to the venue visit www.sapphirebusiness.co.uk/location.html

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Bob the Builder Gets the Job Done with His Own Workshop Manual from Haynes

With Christmas presents in mind here's an idea for little ones who are wishing to be builders, architects or just DIYers or simply those who are just fans of Bob the Builder.

Fans can now find out just how their favourite machine characters, including Scoop, Roley, Dizzy, Lofty and Muck, ‘get the job done’ in the all-new Haynes Bob the Builder Owners’ Workshop Manual.

Fabulous full-colour cutaway drawings show what’s inside all the machines in the Can-do Crew. Fun information explains how the machines work, what they do, and how they help to build and repair things for the people of Fixham Harbour. Plus you can learn about hydraulics, caterpillar tracks and more in the regular fact files, all with the attention to detail expected from Haynes Manuals.

Including a whopping 15 members of Bob’s crew, children will be fascinated by the detailed drawings and diagrams that show Lofty’s telescopic crane beam, Dizzy’s cement mixing and Scoop’s loading power, as well as all the technical info on the rest of the gang. You can also enjoy the fun of trying to spot Bird, who is always watching Bob and the rest of the team as they work, and is hiding on every page of the manual.

Perfect for little builders everywhere, the Haynes Bob the Builder Owners’ Workshop Manual shows how Bob and his machine team work together to tackle a job and most importantly show that the fun is in getting it done.

Brightly designed and well presented, the book will delight children and parents alike. The Author is Derek Smith, an Editor at Haynes Publishing and the author of the Wallace & Gromit Cracking Contraptions Manual.

Bob the Builder first aired in the UK in 1999 and is now broadcast in over 240 territories and in 45 languages. It can be seen in the UK on BBC2, CBeebies and Nick Jr.

Bob The Builder

Owners’ Workshop Manual
Format: Hardback
RRP: £7.99 (Currently £4.95 at Amazon) 

ISBN: 978 0 85733 115 1 

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Chiltern Dynamics' Acoustic Facility Completes Suite of Doorset Testing Services

Chiltern Dynamics, part of the BM TRADA Group, is attracting demand for multiple performance testing of doorsets, since it launched its purpose-built acoustic testing laboratory in August.

It now offers UKAS-accredited acoustic testing for timber, composite, steel, aluminium and PVCu doorsets, as well as doors seals, seeking to demonstrate sound insulation performance up to 65dB to BS EN ISO 10140.

The new laboratory, said Head of Mechanical Testing Paul Andrews, completes the comprehensive suite of testing and related services available from Chiltern Dynamics and Chiltern International Fire - all at the same location. 'In addition to sound insulation testing, we offer fire resistance, security, weather tightness, thermal performance and durability testing. Clients may now take a fully coordinated approach to testing which will be easier, faster and more cost efficient for them.

For more information about Sound Insulation Testing contact Chiltern Dynamics on 01494 569800 or email pandrews@chilternfire.co.uk



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Telappliant, launch Cost Saving Fixed Mobile Convergence Service

An innovative telephone service for businesses to help cut mobile communication costs.

Cheaper, reliable and more effective communication from a mobile SIM card... 

Telappliant, the leading Internet telephony provider for UK based small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs), has launched igen® Mobile - a new fixed mobile convergence service which aims to increase staff efficiency while reducing mobile communication costs by at least 50 per cent*. igen®  integrates Telappliant's Voice over IP (VoIP) technology with the UK's fastest growing 3G network (operated by Three) to offer advanced telephony features* from a standard SIM card.

According to Telappliant, igen® will benefit most small and medium-sized businesses. The service is quick and easy to set up. All that's required is an igen® SIM card and any 3G mobile phone, which then becomes a four-digit extension of the office telephone system. Incoming calls can be automatically routed to any igen® enabled mobile phone, which will then provide advanced features such as voicemail, teleconferencing and call recording. 

The service seamlessly enables staff to stay in contact with the office and their customers while on the move, with all the convenience of their office phone system and the low call charges associated with VoIP. igen® SIM cards do not come pre-configured with a mobile phone number. Instead, users can select a landline number, from a choice of thousands of cities worldwide, enabling users to establish a 'virtual presence' almost anywhere.

Good Hope Hospital Specifies Union's KeyUltra(tm) System

UNION Architectural Hardware, part of ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions, a division of The ASSA ABLOY Group, has had yet another success story with its popular KeyULTRA(tm) master key system, this time at a hospital in Sutton Coldfield.

Part of the Heart of England NHS foundation trust, the Good Hope Hospital, which began life as a large Victorian house, is now a modern medical facility, home to the Partnership Learning Centre, part-funded by the University of Birmingham. The hospital has undergone numerous extensions and refurbishments, the latest of which being the opening of a new treatment centre, in 2005.

As part of its continual update and refurbishment programme, Laidlaw, an architectural ironmongers, have supplied UNION's KeyULTRA(tm) 6pin master key system, which has been installed throughout the hospital, providing improved key control for NHS security and facilities managers.

With one of the longest patents on the market, lasting until 2028, based on its DuraPIN(tm) technology, this prevents the unauthorised copying of keys on the high street, providing the hospital with complete key control and permitting access to authorised personnel only.

Featuring self-lubricating materials designed to enhance its resistance to wear and tear, UNION's KeyULTRA(tm) is ideal for busy environments, such as hospitals, and can also help to reduce maintenance costs, whilst ensuring the security product remains completely effective over a sustained period of time.

Union Security for Scottish Students

KeyULTRA™ masterkey system from UNION has been installed throughout a new campus at Dundee College.

Part backed by the Scottish Funding Council, the newly opened Gardyne campus is an impressive purpose built learning facility, featuring lecture theatres, break-out and dining spaces and open learning decks. 

At over 18,000m2, the £48million development has allowed Dundee College, one of Scotland’s largest colleges, to consolidate its resources and offer an improved service for students.

Over 400 of UNION’s keyULTRA™ masterkey cylinders were supplied by Lock Shop & Security Services Ltd, a Dundee-based locksmith, providing optimum key control, improved accessibility and increased physical security.

The KeyULTRA™ 6pin masterkey cylinder from UNION is ideal for large educational facilities, where traffic frequency, high volumes of staff and students, combined with the storage of sensitive and expensive equipment onsite, makes key control and accessibility crucial.

KeyULTRA™’s extended patent, lasting till 2028, based on its DuraPIN™ technology, prevent the unauthorised copying of keys on the high street, providing the college with complete key control and permitting access to authorised personnel only.

KeyULTRA™ has received the highest grades for key related security and attack resistance in relation to BS EN 1303:2005 when used in conjunction with a security escutcheon – reaching security grade 6 and attack grade 2.

Designed with reliability and durability in mind, keyULTRA™ utilizes self lubricating materials to provide enhanced wear resistance and has been successfully tested to 500,000 cycles. This level of durability makes it a cost effective solution for education projects, where hardware products are subject to frequent use and daily wear and tear. The initial investment made by the college is easily recoupable in maintenance and repair savings.

Abu Dhabi Yacht Show Chooses Exidor

The Abu Dhabi Yacht Show is one of the world's most exclusive and luxurious super yachting events featuring mega yachts from 25 metres and above, as well as high end luxurious super yachting products and services.

With over 140 exhibitors from over 30 countries, the show featured 31 super yachts priced between $25M and $100M.

Working with Oasis manufacturing, the UK's leading supplier of collapsible doors, windows and solid wall panels for event hire, marquee and sports hospitality, the Exidor 200 series of Emergency Exit Hardware was selected for use on nine temporary structures totaling 6,025sqm that formed the event's registration area, exhibition halls and a hospitality suite.

Certified to European standard EN 1125, the stylish and yet robust die cast Aluminium body together with Pullman latches and internal components used in the construction, the Exidor 200/300 Series has been designed to provide the optimum in safety and security.

Commenting on the project, Nigel Taylor, Exidor's Sales and Marketing Director "We are obviously very pleased to be associated with such a prestigious project and we greatly appreciate the close cooperation with Oasis Manufacturing in specifying the 200/300 Series at such a high profile event".

For further information on the 200/300 series or if you would like to receive a copy of the Exidor range brochure, detailing the complete Panic and Emergency Exit Hardware options, covering the widest choice of applications, then please contact: Nigel Taylor, Sales & Marketing Director, Exidor Ltd, Progress Drive, Cannock, Staffs, WS11 0JE. Telephone 01543 578661 or visit: www.exidor.co.uk




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Ford of Britain 100: Image of the Week – 49/52

To celebrate the centenary of Ford of Britain in 2011 the company is exploring its photo archive to reveal rarely seen images. Ford's unique relationship with Britain and its society will be illustrated each week by specially selected pictures.
 
This week tells the story of one of Ford’s most legendary vehicles, and one of the most exciting of all time.
In 1962 after failing to buy Ferrari, Henry Ford II challenged Ford engineers to build a prototype racer that would win the Le Mans 24 Hours race, defeating the Italian arch-rival in the process.
 
After an unimpressive first attempt in 1964, the Ford GT40 Mk II emerged in 1966, claiming the first three places at the Daytona 24 Hours. At Le Mans, it set new speed and lap records, before finishing first, second and third.

The GT40 was powered by a 7.0-litre V8 engine, producing 485bhp with a recorded top speed of 187mph.  The two-door, two-seat car had a body made from glass reinforced plastic, weighed just over 1100kg, and was nicknamed GT40 after its 40in height. 

A Tribute to this iconic race car arrived in the form of the Ford GT supercar in 2002, this time featuring a 5.4-litre supercharged V8 engine with 550bhp, a top speed of 205mph and an aluminium space frame chassis. 



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Masterdor Cracks the Thermal Code

Door-sets from Manse Masterdor with U-Values of 1.0W/m2K are being fitted into one of the UK's biggest ever "Zero Carbon" social housing developments.

The £12 million Park Dale development will meet Code for Sustainable Homes Level 6. The 91 homes in Airedale, near Castleford in West Yorkshire, are being built using traditional construction methods by Bramall Construction for Wakefield and District Housing and will feature 160 Masterdor Timber Thermal door-sets.

Part-funded by the Homes and Community Agency (HCA), the two, three and four-bedroom homes will use a ground-breaking combination of energy saving and carbon-reducing features including mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems, photovoltaic panels, and grey water recycling.

The 54mm Masterdor Timber Thermal door-sets will deliver superior levels of air tightness (800 Special). The thermally efficient high security door-sets have an insulating core and also meet and exceed the requirements of PAS23, PAS24 and Secured by Design.

Jeremy Gaffney, Supply Chain Manager at Bramall Construction, said: "This is a very exciting code 6 development with a very high specification. We chose Masterdor because they offer a high thermal efficiency and excellent air tightness product. This has a positive impact on reducing fuel bills and minimising CO2 emissions. The Masterdor has the added benefit of looking great and is available in a wide choice of styles and colours, which is really important to the social housing residents and clients."

For further information about Manse Masterdor visit www.masterdor.co.uk. 



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Happy Advent - Hallelujah Chorus with a difference!

Featuring the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah, this video filmed in the small Yupiq Eskimo Village of Quinhagak, Alaska , was a school computer project intended for the other Yupiq villages in the area.

Much to the villagers' shock, well over a million people have viewed it on YouTube so far.

View the video on YouTube here. 



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Industry Safety Update: DHF focus group looks to educate installers

During the past year gate safety has been a hot topic following the fatal accidents involving sliding gates within 1 week of each other in July 2010. 

In October 2010 ASO Safety Solutions & EGD Distribution together provided the Industry with a first of its kind event. The GSC (Gate Safety Conference) was hosted in the Midlands and was designed to provide installers with a balanced overview of health and safety requirements for gate installation.

 The event was a great success, with over 230 attendees from 150 separate companies. With the feedback gained from the conference EGD & ASO created a "Guide to Gate Safety" which has been circulated to many companies in the gate industry over the past year. During the period that followed it was clear the gate automation industry required a new body to represent them and move things forward with the backing of the HSE. 

The DHF (Door Hardware Federation) already the representative body for the Industrial door, Garage door & shutter door industry has now established a "Powered Gate Group". The aim of the focus group is to drive forward the Industry using the in depth knowledge of its member companies, which range from automation manufacturers through to distributors and installers. The focus group has proved to be an excellent platform to drive the industry forward and is currently working closely with the HSE & other campaigns (such as Jacksons Fencings "Gate Safe") to help educate and train the gate installation industry.

 Following the efforts of members of the focus group, a HSE approved "Guide" will be launched in to the Industry in the coming months providing key facts for installers. This guide is the first step to ensuring that new gates are installed correctly utilising the appropriate equipment and test methods.
 
Looking forward from this the DHF will be creating a new UK installation "standard" with the input of its members and collaboration with the HSE and others bodies. 



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StorageMaker: A Complementary Product for Garage Door Specialists

Online garage storage solutions company, StorageMaker, has made its innovative kits available to garage door companies throughout the UK and has already signed up 15 outlets to resell them. 

StorageMaker has created bespoke kits that are only available to buy through its resellers and also encourages larger, more profitable sales through the supply of bespoke storage systems - made to measure individually for customers.

The StorageMaker garage storage system provides an excellent solution for tackling untidy garages. The StorageMaker product comprises strong, durable and easy to fit UPVC panels that can be attached to any wall surface. There is a wide range of accessories from hooks to racks and baskets. Items such as gardening and DIY tools, bicycles and golf equipment can be stored simply and safely and can be moved around as required.

Teckentrup Jim's Marmotte Cycling Triumph

Jim succeeds! Jim Rodger successfully completed his charity cycle event in aid of the Alder Hey Childrens Hospital Imagine Appeal. 

The event took place on July 2nd - take a look at Jim's Blog www.teckentrupdepot.co.uk/blog/ for the full story, however it's worth including a few taster extracts here first:

 "...Your head goes, legs wobble and if anyone said "lets stop and take 5?, you'd happily climb off and curl up and pray you'd wake up tucked up in bed."
 
"...We counted a dozen ambulances attending incidents enroute!"
 
"...If I am a pub cyclist then climbing Alp D'Heuz is like a pub footballer getting to play at Wembley against the Red Lion."

SWR CELEBRATES THEIR 22ND BIRTHDAY

SWR Ltd, was established in 1989. From the beginning they have focused on supplying high quality products backed up by their enthusiastic approach to customer service. 

Their drive and determination to be the best, has seen the company grow from strength to strength.

 Back in 1989, SWR solely concentrated on steel wire rope, which is how the company name was born. Although wire rope remains an important area of SWR, over the years, they have expanded into the garage door and garage door spares market as well as becoming a key player in the balustrade and awning world more recently.

"The changes since '89 have been dramatic," Managing Director Jason Lee explains. "We have seen vast improvements in production technology so we have better equipment, communication and logistics. That, together with our dedicated team of professionals, has enabled us to expand the business considerably."

 As the image on the right demonstrates, SWR Spares have come a long way since their first catalogue in 2001, which was hand-drawn and photocopied in mono. They have moved with the times, creating and printing digitally to ensure they remain one of the market's leaders. They use top of the range hardware and software and their latest catalogue has just been launched.

ONS Retail Figures Paint Overly Positive Picture

Stephen Robertson

Official figures released on last month by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) paint a much rosier picture of the state of retail than the British Retail Consortium (BRC) is getting from its members. The BRC's own highly regarded statistics show total retail sales values up 1.5 per cent on a year ago, meaning customers are actually buying less when the impact of inflation is factored in.

British Retail Consortium Director General, Stephen Robertson, said: "Most retailers won't recognise the overly positive picture being painted by these ONS results. The reality is disposable incomes are down on a year ago and customers are cutting back.

"Even food sales are suffering as people cut back or switch to cheaper brands in an effort to balance their household budgets. Stores are competing hard for what customer spending is available but consumers are overwhelmingly gloomy. Sales that happen come at the cost of reduced margins as retailers cut prices while facing higher business costs.

"We need the Chancellor to support households and businesses by holding back the costs he's responsible for. He should scrap the increases in fuel duty planned for next year and reduce the threatened 5.6 per cent business rates rise. At a time when youth unemployment has passed the one million mark, promoting growth in a sector where under 25s make up a third of the workforce should be a priority for the Government.



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REVIEW OF THE 59TH ARGE CONFERENCE

 

ARGE held its 59th Annual Conference and first Technical Meeting in Düsseldorf, 14-17 September 2011. ARGE is a Trade Association that represents Lock and Hardware Manufacturers within Europe and Scandinavia.

TECHNICAL
Thirty delegates attended the Technical Meeting with reports on European Hardware Standards, differences between the future Construction Products Regulation and the recent Construction Products Directive and Special Fire Resistance Requirements of Doors.

Guest Speaker, Hans Peters the director of IBU, the German Institute for Sustainability construction Industry explained the importance of the Environmental Products Declaration.

ARGE BOARD
The departing President David Whitworth (DHF, UK) was made Honorary President. The post of president will now become Chairman and is now held by Jorma Sirén (Abloy Oy, Finland). He stated that "ARGE needs to move forward and grow stronger".

Sirén is joined by two new Executives, Paul Browne (Assa Abloy, UK) and Denis Schnoebelen (Mantion S.A.S., France).

ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Conference was held over two days. Highlights included, Jackie Sinclair gave a cautionary presentation on accountability through the supply chain.

ARGEs has authority to directly lobby the European Commission and to emphasise its political power they invited Karl-Heinz Florenz (M.E.P.) who emphasised the willingness of Members of the European Parliament to work with Trade Associations.

Arjen Koole revealed his findings and demonstrated with graphs how the Hardware Market is suffering from the economic downturn. ARGE will strive to help its members through this hard time and wish to see growth in the Market at its 60th Conference.

For more information about ARGE visit www.arge.org



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Garador's fittest go Commando and get on their bikes

A team of seven fit men from Garador recently completed the gruelling Royal Marine Commando Challenge.

The team raised £750, including a contribution from Garador, for the Devon Air Ambulance and the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. The "The Expendables" completed the 10K assault course in an impressive 1hr and 45 minutes. The team members were Neil Bond, Rob Dash, Phil Wareham, Dave Burton, Martin Rice, Dean Curwen and Pete Rice.

The participants said; "It was a great day and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, although it was extremely challenging. We were pleased with our time, however it is fair to say that a number of unavoidable incidents along the way created some delay!"