Archives for July 2023

Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson explores the idea that a new wave of investment in innovation may be required to keep up with legislation.

In 2005, the UK glazing industry was on the brink of major change, driven by the need to dramatically improve the nation’s sustainability. The government’s introduction of Energy Performance Certificates and the emergence of Window Energy Ratings spurred IGU manufacturers to embrace cutting-edge tech and push the sector forward.

Today, it’s the Future Homes Standard which will lead the industry to another technological shift as companies adapt.

At Edgetech, we’re seeing many companies who invested in new machinery twenty years ago approach us about doing the same thing again. They’ve seen huge benefits from the Super Spacer® automation equipment they invested in, which has helped them improve quality, thermal efficiency, and given them two decades of reliable performance.

For all these reasons, they’re now looking to repeat that experience with the next generation of machinery that can help them meet today’s challenges.

Over twenty years, technology has progressed tremendously. Today’s fully automated Super Spacer® application lines can make products more quickly, efficiently, and to higher standards than ever before. Importantly, this applies to triple-glazed windows as well as double.

Currently, we don’t know exactly what shape the final Future Homes Standard will take. However, as performance requirements become even more stringent, the industry increasingly seems to be moving towards triple glazing as the most viable way of meeting stricter environmental requirements and consumer demand – and I believe this could be the spur for the next wave of large-scale innovation.

Meanwhile, Super Spacer® has stood the test of time. As performance requirements tighten significantly, Super Spacer® continues to provide the fantastic energy efficiency the market demands.

By using Super Spacer® technology, high-speed automated application, and triple-glazing, IGU solutions will be prepared for the net-zero age.

However, to be prepared and to remain competitive for the decade ahead, companies must act now. Lead times on next-generation spacer application machines can be as long as 12 months, and more companies are now looking to acquire them.

To stay ahead of the curve, and be ready for the Future Homes Standard, companies should invest in the future today.

For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk

For Quanex (the billion-dollar, US building products powerhouse that owns Edgetech, Liniar and other leading brands), celebrating success is an integral part of the culture.

This is why the Houston-based firm is proud to hold an annual internal awards event – and this year, Edgetech’s unwavering commitment to safety was singled out for praise.

Edgetech Coventry received a Safety & Stakeholder Emerald Award for its rigorous safety processes and for the exemplary conduct of its employees.

In addition, Jason Blundred, Edgetech Coventry’s long-serving Head of Operations, received the President’s Service Award for his decades of outstanding work at the company.

Edgetech Managing Director Chris Alderson comments: “At Quanex, we passionately believe that highlighting and celebrating our successes is a vital part of sustaining a world-class business.

“Recognising the incredible contribution made by thousands of Quanex employees around the globe makes us proud of everything we achieve.

“For me, it’s especially gratifying to see Edgetech’s tireless efforts to maintain a safe, efficient working environment be recognised in this way.

“I’m also extremely pleased for Jason. His commitment to the company is incredible, and we’re extremely fortunate to have him.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all our fantastic employees. Without their hard work and dedication, none of what we do would be possible.”

Edgetech employees gathered to watch the event, streamed from Quanex HQ in Houston, Texas, while enjoying fish and chips and ice cream from a van hired especially for the occasion.

For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk

Clement Windows Group was selected to manufacture and install almost 1,000 double glazed steel windows at the India Buildings in Liverpool.

The India Buildings is located on Water Street in the centre of the city’s financial and business district.  Designed by architects Arnold Thornely and Herbert J Rowse in response to a competition to design an office block which was judged by the great English architect, Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, it was built between 1924 and 1932 for the Blue Funnel shipping line.  The building’s design is influenced by the Italian Renaissance style and it has several features of the American Beaux-Arts style.

Having sustained damage during World War II the building was restored to its original state after the war under the supervision of Rowse, one of the original architects.

In 2017, the Grade II* Listed Building was purchased by Legal & General and it was announced that HMRC would base a regional centre there.  Renovation works commenced with the focus on creating modern, comfortable office space while retaining the heritage features of the building.

Clement was chosen to manufacture and install the new double glazed steel windows which match the original single glazed metal windows and improve thermal performance and energy use within the historic building.  Almost 1,000 windows from the Clement MW40 range were specified, polyester powder painted RAL 9106 (White).

Alex Harrison of architects Falconer Chester Hall said:

“We had the pleasure of working with Clement on the steel window replacements of the India Building refurbishment project.  Their performance in every aspect of the work was outstanding and we wholeheartedly endorse them for any future contracts of a similar nature.  One specific area where Clement excelled during the early stages, was the support we received from them during our discussions with the city planners regarding the bespoke windows.  Their contribution proved very useful in moving matters forward and the end result is exceptional.”