New fire-resistant glass market entrant

Kalsi Plastics, a Birmingham-based building products manufacturer, is entering the fire protection market after becoming licensed to process Pilkington fire-resistant glass.

The firm will manufacture windows with fire-resistant capabilities to supply into homes and commercial properties – a move that is set to increase sales in the firm’s glass division by 20%.

In the event of a fire, fire-resistant glazing acts as a protective barrier to help a building’s occupants evacuate safely. It restricts the spread of flames, smoke and hot gases, as well as blocking the transmission of radiant heat.

The business will be offering a cut-size and insulating glass unit (IGU) service for Pilkington Pyrodur, a fire-resistant glass designed to provide 30 minutes integrity fire protection and limit heat transfer.

Steve Bond, customer and technical support manager at Pilkington, said: “As glass becomes more prolific within the built environment, demand for fire-resistant glass has also grown, with building designers recognising not only its aesthetic appeal but the vital role it can play in overall property and occupant safety.

“Our innovation within the sector has made Pilkington the go-to company for firms looking to manufacture windows for use in commercial and residential settings.

“Kalsi Plastics is the latest business we’ve partnered with across our range of five fire products. We look forward to working with them during an exciting period for their glass business.”

Kalsi Plastics joins a select group of firms located across the UK and Ireland authorised to process Pilkington fire-resistant glass. The licencing follows a comprehensive audit to ensure the firm’s products meet the high standards required to conform with the CE marking requirements for fire resistant IGUs.

Sohan Kalsi, managing director at Kalsi Plastics, said: “Over the last few years, we’ve invested millions into growing and improving our manufacturing facilities, especially within our glass fabrication services.

“Turnover in our glass division grew by 40% last year alone, and we’re confident that this expansion into fire safety glass will help us to grow this side of the business even further.

“This partnership adds a new dimension to our partnership with Pillkington, which we’ve cultivated over the past five years. The standard of their products and the technical support they offer are second to none.”