news Foreword
The newsletter about intelligent housing technology | Issue 01
January 2011
For real professionals:
A pipe system for plugging in Dear reader, Although the TECE group has its headquarters in Germany, the company is also represented internationally with 16 subsidiaries in Europe and 23 distributors worldwide. Through our English-speaking medium TECE:news, it is our intention to inform our international organization as well as our international business associates about developments at TECE. In order to better meet the needs of our customers and those of the market, we are looking to establish ongoing dialogue with you by communicating thematic articles relating to domestic utilities/sanitation equipment and drainage – Enjoy reading TECE:news!
Best regards,
Thomas Fehlings Managing Director
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Issue 01
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The TECElogo push-fit system does the job without the need for pressing tools and at the same time, offers all the security of a tradesman’s installation system. With TECElogo, TECE presents the next generation of professional installation systems. The goal was to develop a system that can be installed quickly and safely and which is able to dispense with expensive tools. The TECElogo was launched on the market just over two years ago in the sizes 16, 20 and 25 mm.
An absolutely secure connection The pivotal point of the system is a compact fitting which consists of only three components. The centerpiece is a plastic claw fastener, which grips to the pipe without damaging it when it is plugged in. This is important as a par ticularly unique feature of the TECE system: The secure connection between the pipe and fitting can be loosened again when necessary using a special wrench. Both the pipe and the fitting remain reusable. In order to work with TECElogo, a pipe cutter and a calibrating mandrel are all that is necessary. The pipe is cut to length with pipe cutters and inserted into the fitting. The fitter checks the insertion depth through an
A useful unique feature: The secure connection can be released again if necessary.
inspection window. If the pipe is inserted as far as it will go, the claw fastener engages: Now the pipe/fitting connection is permanently stable. The composite pipes specifically designed for the pushfit system can be easily bent by hand and remains stable (when bent). The
user has the choice between two types of pipe: The PE-RT pipe and the PE-Xc pipe for system temperatures of up to 90 °C. The white-jacketed pipes are inconspicuous and as such, ideal for the on-the-wall use.
Contents
A solution for the toilet of the future:
Award-winning design: Stainless steel push plate ..... page 2
TECElux can do much more than flush
A push plate made of glass: Flush mounted ...................... page 2
TECE presents a concept for the toilet of the future. The basic idea behind the research was the creation of an open interface between all of the toilet functions and the bathroom architecture.
The universal cistern and universal flushing valve ......... page 2 TECEflex: Flow optimized pressure-sleeve system ......... page 3 TECEdrainline: Safe and easy installation ............. page 3 For demanding users: Glass shower channel ........... page 4 Interview with Ralf Berens, TECE International Business .. page 4 Configurators for shower channels and toilet push plates ............. page 4
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More than a flush button: Operational elements in the glass panel control various functions.
A white, flat glass panel, which directly rests on the wall, two buttons for triggering the flushing mechanism – the rest of the TECElux is hidden in the wall. But TECElux is much more than a toilet flush button. With the approximate dimensions of a toilet module, the glass panel is made up of two parts. The upper part can be easily removed, even after the installation of the toilet, and forms a convenient access hatch which leads to the technical equipment in the front wall. TECElux is an open interface to all of the functions that the toilet of the future
is likely to have. Ultimately, that functions that a toilet needs is something that only the market can decide. TECE simply uses the space in the front wall and integrates the technical equipment which is necessary. TECElux fits all standard ceramic toilet bowls. The basic equipment toilet of the module includes the TECE twin cistern, an odour extraction unit with an activated carbon filter and the option of subsequently altering the height of the ceramic toilet bowl. An electrical connection for a ‘showertoilet’ or a unit for electrically assisted height adjustment of the toilet bowl can also be integrated. These functions are controlled by operating elements in the glass panel. The TECElux will be ready for the market by the spring of 2011.
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January 2011
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Issue 01
Award winning design for the toilet
The ultra thin stainless steel panel TECEsquare does not serve any shortlived trend. Its effect is due to the minimalist design of the toilet actuation and the aesthetics of pure stainless steel.
Zum Universalspülkasten – das Universalventil
A crowning achievement: The Red Dot Design Award 2010 for TECEsquare.
Doubly flexible for every type of ceramic toilet bowl: the flush volume and flush flow can be set and calibrated.
The universal valve for the universal cistern Be on the safe side with TECE flush technology: No matter what type of ceramic toilet bowl is used, the flush volume and flush flow can be flexibly adapted to meet the needs of the toilet. For example: After the installation of a toilet, the ceramic bowl is not always rinsed properly. In the case of conventional drain valves, the flush flow can only be subsequently restricted, but not increased. To address this problem, the TECE valve has a ready solution: By replacing the standard built-in throttle ring the flush flow can also be subsequently increased or decreased four restrictors are available. Essentially, the drain valve is a simple construction: The red connection rod operates the partial flush and the blue connection rod operates the full flush. The installer chooses between 4.5, 6, 7.5 and 9 litres for the full flush, while the partial flush remains constant at 3 litres. Even the maintenance is simple: When replacing the valve, no individual parts should be disassembled or bent: the valve forms a unit, in which all of the parts are connected to each other. The TECE valve was awarded the Design Plus Award 2009 for its design and functions.
Systematic flush technology
With a new type of toilet actuation unit, TECE applies the effect of brushed stainless steel and minimalist design. In so doing, the functionality of the system is self-explanatory – three narrow gaps indicate the buttons for triggering a flush: A wide button for the full flush and a narrow
only has a depth of two millimetres. The TECE has a wafer-thin, abrasion-resistant protective layer on the surface of the flush. As such, no fingerprints are visible after use. Apart from stainless steel, the TECEsquare metal push plate is also produced in chrome, with a glossy finish and in white. Moreover, the TECEsquare is available with three types of glass which, with the aid of an installation frame, can be installed flush with the tiles.
A flush-mounted cistern with a 10 litre reserve tank When TECE brought its flush-mounted cistern onto the market ten years ago, it was the very first sealed cistern. Since then, it has been installed over 100,000 times. During the construction period, the completely pre-assembled cistern remains closed in order to prevent dirt from entering. It is only opened during the final installation stages. The 10 litre reserve tank can be used as a single flush or a dual flush cistern. At the same time, it meets all standards and its replacement parts are compatible with all commercially available solutions. Both installation and
maintenance are simple: The protective plate of the tank is a compact unit which comprises a splash guard, a lever mechanism and the mounting parts. In the case of servicing, the technical equipment can be removed entirely. In addition to a standard version, TECE offers an 8 cm variant with a 9.5 litre reserve tank. This model also offers all the advantages of the standard cistern. For both variants, there is a pre-mounted toilet module for drywall construction (TECEprofil) and for wetwall construction (TECEbox).
TECE’s toilet universal module for drywall construction.
The push plate for inside the wall As the first push plate on the market, the TECEloop can be flush mounted. The glass toilet actuation can be integrated wholly into the architecture. The trend for high-quality bathrooms points to integrated solutions. Functional elements are integrated into the architecture. But when it comes to push plates, integration reaches its limits – even though the wall-mounted toilet flush has long been
With some of cistern manufacturers, finding the right device to actuate a toilet is not so easy. Even if the flush actuation and cistern are from the same manufacturer, this does not mean that they also fit together. This is not the case with TECE. In the pursuit of new developments, the company consistently employs its conception of system. Installers can now be sure of one thing: Each TECE push plate will fit each TECE cistern – whether standard height or low height, whether actuated from the front or from above, the inner workings of the cistern A real system: Each TECE toilet actuation unit fits each TECE cistern. are always the same.
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button for partial flushing. TECEsquare has caught the attention of industry insiders: The stainless steel flush was honoured with the Design Plus Award 2009 and the Red Dot Design Award 2010 and received a nomination for the German Design Prize 2010 (Designpreis Deutschland 2010). Using a mounting frame, the push plate is largely built into the wall. The only thing that remains visible is the stainless steel panel, which
standard in many countries. Toilet actuation panels are traditionally mounted in front of the wall. This is where the TECEloop opens up new design opportunities: TECE’s push plates have a plane front made of glass. Using a special installation frame, the plate can be mounted flush with the wall. This means that it is possible to fully integrate TECEloop into the bathroom architecture. The design is minimalist and has a focus on functionality: a rectangle and two circles, the two buttons for triggering the toilet flush. TECEloop is a modular system which can combine different surfaces with each other. 13 different fronts can be combined with 8 different buttons. The glass faceplates are coordinated with bathroom furniture from well known manufacturers such as Alape and Burgbad. As such, it is possible to bring consistent design to the functional elements across the whole bathroom. This is something which attracts bathroom planners and architects: the form and function of TECEloop have already satisfied the ‘Architecture and Technology Innovation Award’ (Innovationspreis Architektur und Technik) jury.
TECEloop in glass: The first flush mountable push plate in the world.
The TECEflex pressure-sleeve system:
Flow optimized for 20 years Mainly due to its fault-tolerant assembly characteristics, the TECEflex pressuresleeve system is especially valued by those that work with it. What’s more, when compared to the products of its competitors, its expander technology gives the TECEflex connector outstanding flow properties. Over the past 20 years TECEflex fittings have been installed by millions worldwide.
The fitting is the critical point of each press system. It narrows the pipe intersection and leads to pressure loss in the system. In the shape of TECEflex, TECE developed a fitting two decades ago which was flowoptimized in a way which relates to the system – and as such, predestined for drinking water connections and for use with gas installations. The feature which is responsible for the good flow properties is the system’s special pressuresleeve technology. With this technology, the pipe is not narrowed but expanded, pushed over the fitting and then the connection is axially pressed using a pressure sleeve. This only slightly narrows the cross section of the pipe. The seal achieved by the system is made possible by the memor y effect of PE-Xc pipe plastic – an o-ring is not required: After expansion, the pipe tightens over the fitting. The TECEflex fitting is made out
of a piece of metal or PPSU. It is free from joints, and gaps and is extremely stable – a characteristic, that is also thankfully attributed to the pressure sleeve technology: The outer diameter of the fitting does not exert any influence on the pipe cross-section and as such, TECE can produce the fitting so that it has a especially thick-wall and is robust.
First class flow characteristics: The pressure-sleeve system only slightly narrows the cross section of the pipe.
relating to defects. TECEflex is a single pipe system that does not only cover all domestic utilities and sanitation equipment application, but also compressed air installation as well. The same fittings are always in use with all applications. Gas installers benefit from this advantage, as TECEflex is also allowed for gas distribution by the DVGW.
Prevents complaints relating to defects The TECEflex system does not only offer security during installation, but afterwards as well: Regardless of the maintenance condition of the pressing tool, the system ensures that with a sliding sleeve, a pipefitting connection will also be sealed. Through loose pressure sleeves, unpressed connections stand out immediately and as such, prevent complaints
TECEdrainboard With TECEdrainboard, the installation of floor-level shower units largely remains in the hands of HVAC tradesmen. The finished, ready to flow shower element is made of rigid polyurethane foam which is laminated with a waterproof sealing layer. As a result of the ‘board-hard’ plastic panel, the TECEdrainboard becomes a truly universal element. Even small mosaic tiles measuring 20 x 20 mm can be used with the universal element in the case of wheelchair-accessible showering. This flexibility is especially important for stability if, in the course of constructing, the tile selection or application is not yet known.
More glass in the bathroom: For more discerning building-owners With new shower channel covers made of glass and brushed stainless steel, TECE uses high-end materials in the bathroom. The glass cover is colour-matched to the glass front of the TECEloop toilet flushes. There are three colours available: white, mint green and black. With the new ‘glass’ covers, there are no limits to bathroom design. The covers are available in six lengths – from 700 to 1500 mm. This allows showers to be created for every bathroom situation. With the new covers, TECE – the specialist in domestic utilities and sanitation equipment continues its concept of ar-
chitecture-integrated technology. In a way which is similar to ‘plate’, the tileable channel, the glass cover forms a closed surface which is sunk into the floor of the bathroom. The shower water easily flows away through a narrow drainage gap around the channel. TECE produces the glass cover in the following standard colours: mint green, black and white. With rounded edges, the safety glass is firmly fixed to the underlying, robust stainless steel grate using a special adhesive, and as such, withstands loads of 300 kg.
Einbaubeispiel TECEdrainline
A drainage solution using a pre-fabricated slope.
TECEdrainline: Secure installation TECEdrainline shower channels are flat stainless steel channels with integrated devices which prevent odours from escaping. TECE has optimised its channels for simple and secure installation. The channel height is set with the aid of adjustable mounting feet. The feet do not only serve to adjust the height, but are also sound insulated. The plumber lays the channels and connects them to the side of the drain. The tiler then integrally casts them into the screed floor and seals them. Through the complete underfill with screed, the channel body rests in a stable way. The channel is sealed and bonded to the tiling by means of the thin sealing layer and the special sealing fleece. Through the adhesive tape which is applied to the flange in the factory, a
completely sealed connection is made between the flange and the mat. An additionally built-in Drainbase insulation mat ensures that noise is dampened
when the tiles are walked on. The TECEdrainline program is made up of four drains, with each drain being adapted to each TECE shower channel.
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The TECEdrainline shower channels are available as straight or angled channels and come in different standard sizes – even as a mass produced product, they fit absolutely every shower situation perfectly. 1 2
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“plate” tileable channel Stainless steel channel body Tile cover Elastic grouting Tile adhesive Insulating paint Seal sleeve Channel flange with adhesive tape Removable protective film Screed PE foil Drainbase sound insulation mat
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January 2011
Is the shower channel suitable for installation situations in older buildings? As standard, the shower channel requires a 150 mm installation depth (however at least 90 mm). As such, most floors in older buildings are compatible for the TECEdrainline. The TECE cistern is market-compatible among spare parts – what does that mean exactly? Market compatible means: The standard consumable spare parts which are made by other manufacturers also fit the TECE cisterns. However the TECE push plates and the toilet flush handles are different: The actuation units only and exclusively fit the TECE cisterns.
Issue 01
An interview with Ralf Berens, Head of International Business at TECE
The shower channel as a door opener TECE offers a broad range of domestic utilities and sanitation equipment – from pipe systems, drainage and flushing systems to separators. Usually you need a key product in order to set foot in new international markets. By way of an interview, this is explained by Ralf Berens, Head of International Business at TECE.
Impressum TECE:news is published by TECE GmbH Hollefeldstraße 57 D-48282 Emsdetten Germany Phone: +49 (0) 2572 / 928-0 Fax: +49 (0) 2572 / 928-124 E-Mail: info@tece.de Internet: www.tece.biz Responsible person in terms of publishing law: Freya Maffert, International Business, TECE GmbH Editorial: Grit Wehling, id pool GmbH, Stuttgart, Germany
‘TECEdrainline plate’ tileable channel, even the shower channel itself fits into the overall picture. The bathroom looks bigger and tidier. Instead of the conventional shower tray made out of bathroomgrade acrylic, it is possible for the shower space to be just a base made up of large tiles or natural stone. For high-end bathroom concepts, this is ideal.
Why the shower channel? Is there a key product, with which foreign markets open up for TECE? Ralf Berens: There are some, of course, but they differ from country to country. Some examples include the TECEflex
Does the gap between the thin bed seal and the tile have to be drained separately? No. The seal is officially designated as ‘a composite seal with tiles and panels’. In connection with this, the sealing layer is made up of the sealing fleece, the sealing coating and the tile. The design principle of TECEdrainline channels has been tried and tested in large-scale kitchen channels for decades. Different constructions using additional drainage harbour risks against proper hygiene. How good is the sound insulation in a shower construction using the TECEdrainline channel with the ‘Drainbase’ sound insulation mat? A report for the shower construction of the TECEdrainline channel using the ‘Drainbase’ sound insulation mat came to the following conclusion: The sound level in the lower measuring area (when installed) was only 22 dB (A).
pressure-sleeve pipe system or the TECElogo push-fit system with which we develop a new market. Even stainless steel and glass push plates for the toilet are good door openers. But there really is a product that goes down well in almost every country: and that’s the TECEdrainline shower channel.
Ralf Berens: In most European countries and also in many Asian and American countries there is a lifestyle trend towards large and comfortable bathrooms. The shower channel fits this purpose. With the channel, the shower area is not only free from edges which the user can trip on, but it also eliminates optical barriers in the bathroom.
What does that mean exactly? Ralf Berens: When installing a shower channel, the floor of the bathroom can be designed in a continuous way. This is because the drainage system is completely integrated in the floor. Using our
The TECE shower channels are made out of stainless steel, not an easy material to process. What competency does TECE have in this area? Ralf Berens: We have been working with stainless steel at our site in the German city of Wuppertal for seventy years and, for over three decades, we have been producing stainless steel channels for the catering sector. We have so much experience when it comes to manufacturing hygiene solutions. As is the case with our kitchen channels, the body of the shower channels has a completely smooth surface – without gaps or screws – where no dirt can settle, thus allowing germs to multiply.
Ralf Berens: There is an international trend towards large and comfortable bathrooms.
Now on www.tece.biz: Plans with toilet push plates and shower channels The configurators for the TECE shower channels and for the whole range of toilet push plates are the highlight of TECE’s internet presence. The configurators are easy to operate and show the various product variants/colour and material combinations in a particularly graphic way. This makes it the ideal instrument to have when advising clients.
The configurator for toilet push plates contains all of TECE’s product variants. First look for the flush, then select the wall colour – and you’re off. Configuring is particularly fun with TECEloop: The various buttons and front panels alone produce 104 possible combinations. Another advantage of the configurator: The selected flush can be printed in its original size. It couldn’t be clearer!
At the click of a mouse, the shower channel configurator integrates the desired standard channel, wall channel or angled channel in a realistic shower situation with shower head and taps. Then, the channel cover is selected and it is possible to check immediately how the cover would look with a light or dark floor or whether a large format or mosaic floor would look better. Try it out at www.tece.biz.
TECE Switzerland AG is founded Since June this year, TECE has been operating in the Swiss market with its own subsidiary company. From its office in Neuhausen am Rhein, TECE Schweiz AG looks after the needs of the sanitary and steel business as well as architects, installers and bathroom planners. A sales-orientated Managing Director was selected for the new subsidiary in the
shape of Jürgen Fluck. Jürgen Fluck has a background in sales within the Swiss market as well as broad international project experience in the areas relating to front wall systems, flush equipment and pipework systems. TECE feels that in Switzerland there is considerable interest in, and potential for its domestic utilities/sanitation equipment. TECE has
been represented in the Swiss market since 2007 through a distributor. Currently, TECE Schweiz AG has five members of staff, all sales and marketing professionals with experience in the sector. With room to grow, the team will be expanded to 8 before 2011 is out.
More information about TECE and its products can be obtained online at www.tece.biz
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Questions / Answers
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