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IT ’ S HERE , IT ’ S NEW AND as one of the first UK Companies to introduce it , it ’ s big news for Essex based fabricator Climatec Windows . Climatec ’ s new ETL welding process now means they can offer the popular R9 and Deceuninck Flush Sash windows unglazed . And whilst they may not be one of the giants in the industry , Climatec pride themselves in being at the forefront when it comes to embracing new production methods and technology .
The “ External Timber Look ” ( ETL ) weld is an ingenious method of joining frames at the corners . Climatec began researching the technology associated with this new method of welding 9 months prior to this year ’ s FIT show , and as an exhibitor were subsequently able to offer a sneak preview to visitors ; the feedback received was extremely encouraging .
The unique selling point of the ETL weld , is that it retains the external appearance of a mechanically jointed frame . This is formed by a special machining process to the ends of the sash profiles prior to welding . The resulting internal corner has a welded mitre that is pinched tight to form a 0.5mm seam which is almost invisible .
The typical method of constructing UPVC windows and doors has barely changed since they were introduced to the UK way back in the 1970 ’ s . The welded method of construction has been the standard since then , and for good reason . There is no doubting that this process of fusing the corners together after they have been heated to almost melting point ensures an incredibly strong , almost unbreakable joint .
With the recent introduction of Flush Casement Windows , the industry has seen the emphasis move towards more traditional looking products , none more so than the exclusive Residence Collection . This superb looking product was designed to capture the authentic look of a hand-made timber window using a fully mechanical jointing method and it has clearly achieved this objective by carving a niche for itself at the premium end of the market .
Climatec Director Steve Barker says “ Those familiar with the Residence Collection will be aware that to maintain its integrity the glazing has to be bonded into the sash frame , therefore all frames are supplied fully factory glazed . The main disadvantages with this process is that the frames are very heavy to lift , and to replace the glass , if broken , invariably involves replacing the whole sash frame ”.
Since the inception of the Residence Collection most system companies have introduced their own versions of a flush sash window and some even offering them with a mechanical joint . Climatec are under no illusion that there can be no compromise when it comes to manufacturing quality windows and doors . Mechanical sash joints , unless the glass is bonded into the frame , will never offer a benefit over a hot fusion welded joint in terms of strength and longevity .
Climatec can offer a wider choice of options than anyone else when it comes to Flush Casements . The biggest advantage being the ability to offer this range of products unglazed without the need for them to be supplied fully glazed with the glazing bonded in place . They are also able to offer the acclaimed Deceuninck flush casement as an option for the mainstream market as this is also available with the ETL Welded joint .
The Climatec Group will celebrate its 25th year in the
window and door industry next year and throughout that time they have had continued success using the company ethos of ‘ continuous development and improvement ’. You only need to take a look at their ever expanding portfolio of products and their loyal customer base for confirmation of this .
www . climatec-windows . co . uk
58 » NOV 2017 » CLEARVIEW-UK . COM