Tools of the trade on show
Dave Broxton, managing director of Bohle UK, talks about glass at the FIT Show.
Architectural glass applications are seeing very real growth. The opportunities that this brings are fully accessible to window and door installers through a new generation of easy-install glass systems and hardware.
This has been an important element in Bohle’s design philosophy. We have, for example, developed a new generation of balustrading base rail systems, which are easier to install than traditional post and rail systems, are suitable for a wide variety of applications, and which deliver high margin opportunities.
Our new balustrading offer is available in two formats: the modular EasyMount Fix and flexible EasyMount Vario. Each system is suitable for floor or lateral mounting, supporting fast and easy installation.
Fully tested to BS6180:2011, the EasyMount Fix accommodates loads of up to 3kN. Using the same profile as the EasyMount Fix, the Vario builds on this core specification to include variable glass adjustment via a moveable base shoe.
Accommodating glass thickness of 12mm-31.52mm, the Vario uses a simple sliding movement to allow installers to achieve new precision in panel positioning, which, combined with simple fitting requirements, cuts installation time by as much as 30%.
The other significant benefit is that this adjustment can be achieved from the balcony side alone. This delivers significant savings on costs associated with access at height, for example the rental of a tower or scaffolding.
It’s an obvious add-on sell for anyone working in the home improvement arena. We’re inviting installers to see just how easy it is to install in a hands-on demonstration on our stand.
As well as our extensive range of glass consumables and of the usual giveaways, we’re also be showcasing two new modular and easy-fit systems which support entry into the architectural glazing sector.
This includes SlideTec Optima 50. Part of our Optima range of internal sliding doors, the easy-install system supports weights of up to 50kg. Mounted to either the wall or ceiling, it can be installed without the pre-drilling of glass, using smart clamping technology.
Accommodating 8mm and 10mm tempered and laminated glass and spanning openings of up to 6m it represents a high margin alternative to standard inline sliding door installations, or in areas where space may be tight.
Available with or without dampers, with easy adjustment from the front of the door, it’s a highly effective internal partitioning system that’s easy to install using a standard door installation skills set.
Our Frametec partitioning system again applies the same design ethos, simplifying the installation of glass partitioning. Developed, in the first instance for the commercial market, it’s available in six different dimensions, delivering exceptional sound insulation of 33dB, while its also certified to EN ISO 10140.
Installed using a simple dry-glazed plug sealing system, Frametec generates opportunities in commercial and office partitioning but it also residential markets.
Again, our stand at this year’s FIT Show is about giving window and door retailers the opportunity to see first-hand just how straightforward diversification into some very high margin sectors can be. We supply the systems and tools. They order the glass from a local glass processor and get the job done.
We’ll also be showcasing some of the tools that make doing that a little bit easier. Veribor suction lifters from Bohle have been used worldwide for decades. Ergonomically designed, they deliver improved ergonomics, raise performance and maximise safety when handling glass, metals and stoneware.
Bohle continues to invest in its product and service offer to maximise opportunities for window and door installers and glass processors. This includes dedicated systems which unlock markets and a wide range of high performance glass products which deliver significant efficiencies and opportunities within established markets.
Bohle L25
