Window and Facade Magazine (May-June 2020)

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www.wfmmedia.com Volume 6 | Issue 4 | ` 150 May - June 2020

CHOOSING RIGHT HARDWARE FOR DOORS & WINDOWS Face to Face

Brinda Somaya & Nandini Sampat Somaya and Kalappa Consultants

The Hardware Fundamentals

Shiju Bhaskaran Project Manager, Turner Project Management India

Project Watch

Faรงade Lighting Designs by Sushant Surve Brainwave Designs & Associate

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Volume 6 | Issue 4 May - June 2020 PUBLISHED BY F & F Media and Publications C-55, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase - 1, New Delhi-110 020 T: +91-11-40623356 CO-FOUNDERS Syed Ahad Ahmed Amit Malhotra TECHNICAL PANEL Mahesh Arumugam Director Meinhardt Façade Consultants KR Suresh Regional Director xis Façade Consulting A EDITORIAL enu Rajaram R renu@wfm.co.in +91 9312864830 Shefali Bisht

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MARKETING & OPERATIONS Kapil Girotra kapil@wfm.co.in +91 9560925255 SUBSCRIPTION & CIRCULATION Richa Parmar support@wfm.co.in +91 9871151112 Mukesh Kumar mukesh@wfm.co.in +91 9560088995 RNI: DELENG/2014/57870

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The Hardware Fundamentals Shiju Bhaskaran, Project Manager, Turner Project Management India Pvt. Ltd.

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Enabling A New Era of Innovation Ajay Khurana, Chairman, REHAU South Asia

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Criteria for Selection of Architectural Hardware for Doors and Windows Aayush Chaudhary, Principal Architect, ACad Studio

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Innovative Designs, Materials & Technologies for Architectural Hardware for Doors and Windows Gaurav Oswal, Director, KELEGENT

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The Evolution of Architectural Ironmongery Technology & Design Philip May, Director, Consort Hardware Pvt. Ltd.

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Automatic Doors: A Sustainable Approach to Modern Hygienic Buildings Suresh Panneerselvam, Managing Director, Auto Ingress India Private Limited

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Cover Story Choosing Right Hardware for Doors & Windows

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Face to Face Interview with Brinda Somaya & Nandini Sampat, Somaya and Kalappa Consultants

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Industry Speaks Sayed Anwar Ali, Country Manager, Giesse S.p.A.

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Post Event Reports Zak World of Windows, Surat Federation of Safety Glass (FOSG) Webinar

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Project Watch Façade Lighting Designs by Brainwave Designs & Associate

shefali@wfm.co.in DESIGN & CONCEPT BY Prashant Kumar

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Cover image courtesy: Shutterstock.com

DISCLAIMER: With regret we wish to say that publishers cannot be held responsible or liable for error or omission contained in this publication. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek expert advice before acting on any information contained in this publication which are very generic in nature. The Magazine does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced in any form or context without the permission of publishers in writing.

WRITE TO THE EDITOR Please address your suggestions to: The Editor, Window & Façade Magazine, C55, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase – 1, New Delhi, 110020 or email renu@wfm.co.in. Please provide your full name and address, stating clearly if you do not wish us to print them. Alternatively log on to www. wfm.co.in and air your views. The opinions expressed in this section are of particular individuals and are in no way a reflection of the publisher’s views.

“Printed and Published by Amit Malhotra on behalf of M/s F & F Media and Publications Printed and published at Utility Forms Pvt, Ltd., 602, DLF, Tower A, South Delhi, Delhi, 110025. Name of the Editor-Ms. Renu Rajaram”

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EDIT

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The current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to develop rapidly with relevant advice being updated regularly and an increasing body of research being published. As this unprecedented situation knocks our doors and locked our doors, we could find many open doors and windows in our house and office, which have some message for all of us.

Ensuring proper ventilation with outside air is a standard best practice for improving indoor air quality, and increasing ventilation can be part of a plan to protect yourself and your family from COVID -19. People spend upward of 90 percent of their time. With the threat of COVID-19 looming over every interaction, those indoor spaces (where the virus spreads more easily) can seem loaded with hidden threats. The pandemic may be the stressor that pushes many buildings to adopt healthy practices, and those benefits could linger long after the outbreak fades. Most buildings today don’t meet even bare minimum standards for ventilation. The coronavirus pandemic will definitely change how buildings are designed.

With the announcement of ease in the lockdown, many offices and business establishments have reopened. There’s a lot of pressure to adopt strategies that seem able to stop the spread of the virus, especially as economic pressures build for people to return to the workplace. Most buildings are in such a rush to open their offices. Disease-blocking designs are in demand and they could help people feel better indoors, even without an ever-present fear of an unknown virus.

According ISHRAE guidelines, the best action to limit the risk of COVID-19 infection by air is to ventilate indoor environments with outdoor air as much as possible. Mechanical ventilation systems and air conditioning systems, which provide ventilation, can perform this function more effectively than simply opening the windows because they improve the quality of the outdoor air with filtration.

As we fight the virus, we cannot let fear go viral. Let’s move forward with resolve and without stigma. Stay safe and strong.

Let’s move on and be optimistic…

Renu Rajaram renu@wfm.co.in

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Architectural Hardware

The Hardware Fundamentals

T

he sense of sight or vision is perhaps the most influential among the five senses.

Spectacular, marvelous, magnificent, splendiferous, wow, etc.; there are many verbal expressions to convey the appreciation for the beauty visible through our eyes.

Our fascination with the joys that this ‘sense of vision’ can evoke is the basis for designing unique and awe-inspiring envelops for the buildings.

Birla Vanya, Kalyan

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The façade industry has gone through many evolutions over centuries. The industrial revolution has played a major role in bringing up the best in the façade industry and each of its segments. Between the start of the usage of glass in large areas of the façade in circa 16th century and the era of digital manufacturing in the 21st century, many revolutionary developments have been witnessed.

Functionally, a façade separates

the indoor environment from outdoor. So, a façade and its components should be designed to withstand environmental factors like wind pressure, heat and cold, entrainment of water and air, harmful UV rays from sun, etc.

Due to the supremacy of the ‘sense of vision’, the façade designers became the driving forces behind modern buildings.

The compelling need to strive for the best of shapes, forms, colors and textures combined with

Architectural Hardware innovative products and methods paved way for the realization of complicated designs and detailing.

Advancements in designing facilitated by modern computer aided designs of the building envelop created requirements for customized hardware as well.

The global markets for hardware industry in the due course have easily coped up with the demands of façade designs by using innovative materials and methods.

FAÇADE SYSTEMS Modern buildings are mainly cladded with glass, aluminum, stone, wood, GRC, GFRC, etc. The function of building, area of application, environmental parameters, cost factors, etc. decide the type of façade to be implemented.

Integration of glass and aluminum is abundantly used due to its multiple advantage and availability.

Transparent panels and openable panels were also considered as essential requirements.

Stick systems and unitized panel systems are commonly used by designers in the field of construction.

Waverock, Hyderabad

panel systems, embedded U channels are used to connect façade to parent building. The load from the façade is transferred to the connected edges of the building through “U” channels.

Fixity of these channel is generally determined by the strength of the concrete, embedment depth,

mechanical properties of the channel, method of installation and workmanship. It is commonly observed that the channels are displaced or misaligned during concrete pour. The top of the channel is required to match with the top surface of the slab.

Bad workmanship can lead to

WINDOWS/DOORS Openings in façade are required to allow interaction between the indoor and the outdoor environment in a controlled manner. Traditionally, punched windows were used to provide interior and exterior views, ventilation, regulate the transfer of humidity and sound. Door openings are required for secured entry and exit of man, material, vehicles, etc.

Adjustable window openings are essential to ensure safe indoor climate conditions. Manual or automatic operable windows are commonly used in the current times.

HARDWARE OF FAÇADE A) Embedded U channels Different façade systems require different hardware. For unitized

Hiranandani Fortune City, Panvel

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Architectural Hardware

Embedded U channels (Image courtesy - Hilti and Halfen)

the channel being covered with the concrete. Construction field engineers should therefore ensure that the channels are restrained properly before the concrete pour.

Pre and post concrete survey should be made mandatory. Extra care should be ensured during the use of needle vibrators near the channels during the pouring of the concrete. Negligence should be avoided as well as the urge to be overconfident. In case of mishaps, one needs to overcome hesitance to seek expert advice and ensure corrective measures. Mechanical and chemical properties of embedded channels should also comply with the specifications.

Durability is a key factor to be considered while choosing the right product. Necessary tests should be conducted as per the project specification before continuing with successive activities.

B) “T” bolts T bolts are used to connect plate anchors to embedded channels. T bolts should be designed to resist the support reactions from façade design loads like

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self-weight, wind, seismicity, thermal and occupational loads. High strength T bolts of same manufacturer of U channel should be used to ensure maximum efficiency.

T bolt and U channel provide tapered locking connection.

This system allows flexible connection without the drilling process.

While selecting the T bolt and channel, one must ensure that the fire rating requirements are met. High corrosion resistance is considered extremely important.

C) Brackets Unique systems of brackets are required for stick and unitized systems. Brackets are connected to embed U channels by using T bolts mentioned earlier.

Brackets should be designed to withstand structural stresses from the façade.

Slotted holes of the bracket help to accommodate the permitted deviation in plump of structural elements in different levels. Metallic covers may be used to protect

T bolts are used to connect plate anchors to embedded channels

the connection assembly from construction debris or impurities. Strict quality control should be assured during the installation of façade supporting hardware.

There are higher chances of overlooking these assemblies as a result of access restrictions to slab edge due to certain safety concerns. Remember, the density of glass is more than that of concrete. So, if the façade panel is disconnected from the slab edge, it could lead to major accidents.

HARDWARE OF WINDOWS Designers decide on the variety of windows based on various parameters. Horizontal sliding, vertical sliding, side hung casement, top hung casement, bottom hung casement, tilt and turn, pivot, bi-fold and louvered are some of the different types of windows in the modern market.

The type of hardware differs according to the type of the window. However, irrespective of the type of windows, the common parameters to be considered are safety, security, durability, ease of use, and aesthetic value.

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Architectural Hardware A) Fasteners Screws, bolts and expansion shield are the basic components required for the installation of windows.

Ideally, the finish of exposed fasteners should match with the finish of connecting member.

One must ensure compatibility of fasteners with the material it passes through. The threaded steel fasteners should comply with Indian standard IS 1367 (Part 3).

The numbers, spacing and location have to be pre-determined/ designed. Tests prescribed in the code should be conducted.

B) Locks and Latches Sliding window locks and latches are normally operated with fingers. Space in the latch slot to insert fingers must be verified for the convenience of different age groups and different physiques.

Ideally, RAL color code of lock should match with frames.

Numerous options are available for the handle and lock of hung windows. Operating a window is

Piramal Vaikunth, Thane

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Unitized panel installation in one of Turner’s projects

a day to day affair. Functionality and ease of operation should be the prime factor rather than pure aesthetic appearance. At times a sleek design may not be durable.

Actuation of the handle facilitates the closing and opening operation of the windows.

Motorized operation is also possible if required.

Side hung windows can be fitted

with simple turn handles or handles with lock keys. Aluminum or stainless steel hardware is ideal for the coastal environment.

Powder coated finish matching with the frames or metallic plating like chrome, satin, brass, nickel or stainless steel finish or anodized finish are the major finishes available in the market.

Architectural Hardware

SHIJU BHASKARAN Innovative façade systems - Ziraat Bank Headquarters Complex, Turkey

HARDWARE OF DOORS Hardware of aluminum doors are similar to that of the windows.

Nevertheless, the choice should be based on the function of the room. “Security” is the word which comes into our mind when we think about the doors.

Hence, door hardware should be selected carefully by considering the function of the room to be accessed. Multipoint security locks and key cylinders should be selected from reputed brands to avoid malfunction of locks.

The reference code of Indian standard for door handle is IS 4992: 1975. The major hardware of doors are: a) Lever/ Pull / knob handles b) Push plates and Kick plates c) Door guards d) Door viewers e) Panic bars f) Locks g) Hinges h) Door closers i) Floor springs j) Automation accessories k) Flush bolts l) Latches

Every developer should preplan their hardware selection by preparing hardware schedule in advance. Sample board of each type of door should be made available from the manufacturer/ supplier. The matrix should include type, style, function, size and finish of each item. Similarly, name of the manufacturer, location of use, and keying info should be indicated.

Master keying must be decided in advance. Separate master key may be prepared for the main tower common areas, utility areas, mechanical areas, electrical rooms, machine rooms, etc. Also, one must ensure attic stock of minimum 5% of each component for future use.

Manufacturer warranty should be ensured.

Globalization, market competition and innovative materials have given numerous choices to the customers to select the right hardware that suits their requirement. Good brands have been concentrating on continuous improvement of quality and increasing the product range to ensure sustainability of their market share.

Project Manager, Turner Project Management India Pvt. Ltd.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Shiju Bhaskaran is the Project Manager at Turner Project Management India Pvt. Ltd. He is currently looking after Birla Vanya Project at Kalyan, Mumbai. He has been part of Turner International since 2012, working for reputed Turner projects in India, Kazakhstan, Thailand and Vietnam. Out of his 23 years of experience in the building construction industry, he has spent 13 years in the Middle East.

Graduated from NIT Calicut in Architectural Engineering, he specialized in structural design of high rise buildings and later turned in to project management.

Bhaskaran believes in using his expertise in project and construction management by strictly adhering to safety and quality standards.

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Architectural Hardware

Enabling

There is a rising demand for premium quality hardware products that offer new design options, colours, materials

I

t goes without saying that windows, doors and faรงade systems are among the key components of any building.

Hence, the architectural hardware used in theses should be supported by avant-garde features and technologies.

With Indian market for doors, windows and faรงades showing positive trends on the back of increased emphasis on meeting green building standards and use of eco-friendly materials, there is a rising demand for premium quality products that offer new design options, colours, materials and above all safety and better lighting & sound insulation. Lower energy consumption is another important requirement. While the

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The customers are mostly looking for products with customised options

A New Era of Innovation customers are mostly looking for products with customised options, the manufacturers are equally innovating with hardware, materials and futuristic technologies.

The latest range of architectural hardware used in windows and doors includes state-of-the-art components, besides different types of handles, door systems and controllers, door locks, window friction hinges and uPVC windows, among others. Even though the market is flooded with a wide range of products, the homeowners largely prefer products offering efficiency coupled with aesthetic appeal in their windows, doors and facades.

Consequently, top-performing, sustainable and energy-efficient hardware for uPVC windows, doors and faรงades are much in demand. Moreover, corrosionresistant materials such as stainless steel and aluminium are preferred by architects and the consumers alike.

Effective thermal and sound insulation without hampering sufficient air circulation is another important requirement. Apart from being easy to maintain, the windows must also offer excellent thermal insulation to ensure not only a comfortable living climate, but also lower cooling bills from air conditioning and significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

Moreover, interior designers are pushing more on hardware with flexibility in colours and materials and they want the customised products.

Consequently, the use of uPVC frames and panels in windows has grown with

Architectural Hardware

Manufacturers are innovating with hardware, materials and futuristic technologies

the industry. The hardware range also includes aluminium envelopes for casement windows and façades. The latest range of architectural hardware for uPVC doors, windows also enables to improve thermal efficiency, thereby saving on energy expenses of the consumers.

The hardware and components also ensure the optimum performance of windows and doors. Especially the use of ergonomic handles that also allow ease of movement to swing open the windows for ventilation is among the latest innovations in uPVC doors, windows and fenestration systems. The latest architectural hardware range also includes secure locksets to prevent break-ins and burglary and they offer different locking

points for perfect air and water tightness.

Apart from windows and doors, façade and fenestration technologies have altogether witnessed many advancements, especially in architectural hardware. With the advancements in technologies, uPVC has emerged as the most preferred material of the future as it boasts multiple unique qualities in terms of durability, efficiency, performance, aesthetics and sustainability.

With potential advancements in green building movement, now there is a growing awareness among the people about the creation of greener and healthier spaces. The emerging scenario has thrown open doors to a multitude of future opportunities for all these doors and windows systems.

The hardware and components should ensure optimum performance of windows and doors

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AJAY KHURANA

Chairman, REHAU South Asia

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ajay Khurana has been instrumental in diversifying REHAU’s product portfolio and bringing new categories of Advanced Living Solutions into its fold. An industry veteran with over three decades of experience in building materials, automotive and industrial products, he has successfully formulated and implemented Vision 2020 for REHAU’s business besides chartering a new growth curve for it in South Asia. As a responsible employer, REHAU is committed to causes beyond its own business activities. Around the world, REHAU champions ecological, economic, social and cultural concerns.

Khurana is the founder member and President (201416) of UWDMA (uPVC Windows & Doors Manufacturers Association) and Representative Member of Furniture and Fitting Council of India. He has a proven success record in cultivating engineering MNC startups.

Architectural Hardware

Every architectural design comprises various elements that combine and integrate to give the desired look and feel to a place

Criteria for Selection of Architectural Hardware for Doors and Windows

E

very architectural design comprises various elements that combine and integrate to give the desired look and feel to a place. While each and every element has a distinguished and well-defined role to play, one can certainly not ignore the profuse relevance of doors and windows while designing the faรงade of a building.

With the advancement in the industry in terms of hardware and technology, there have been significant changes that have transformed various aspects of

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architectural hardware doors and windows. Let us take a look at various innovative designs, materials and technologies pertaining to architectural hardware for doors and windows: CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE Today, with changing trends in architecture, hardware has become design oriented, which means architects prefer to choose hardware which does not compromise the designs rather complements it apart from being highly functional. Mostly, the

hardware selected guides the type of elevation that the building will form, hence, selecting the hardware becomes an extremely imperative decision.

Certain benchmarks for selection need to be considered while picking the architectural hardware.

Any hardware (architectural) should provide the highest level of performance, security, safety, durability and feasibility to the building. Besides, ease of use without compromising the aesthetics of the buildings is another important aspect of selection.

Architectural Hardware

Use of aluminium to build doors and windows has become very common in metropolitan cities

For any architect, visual appeal of the building is something that cannot be compromised with.

Hence, selection criteria of the hardware for fenestration are profoundly based on its visual aspects like colour, texture, finish, overall built quality and aesthetics of the hardware. The hardware can be concealed or visible, but should not disturb the overall design of the building.

High quality, durable and visually appealing hardware systems tends to complement the design of the building fabulously giving it the eccentric look.

THE TECHNOLOGY IN USE The expanding fenestration market is motivating the manufactures to innovate materials and bring out various technological advancements.

Today, the use of uPVC, wPVC and aluminium to build doors and windows has become very common in metropolitan cities in India. Manufactures are now innovating in the finishes, textures, profiles, slider/swing systems to cater to the needs of the ever evolving market. As a part of the invention, various manufacturers have created inbuilt fly mesh, with their doors and windows which

are soundproof, heat resistant and water seal tight.

Kinetic façade is yet another interesting concept which is coming up in the world of architecture. What makes kinetic façade a preferred option is the fact that it changes dynamically rather than being static or fixed, allowing movement to occur on a building surface. This movement can be programmed according to the energy consumption of the building or just to create interesting patterns in the façade. Various buildings around the world have been using this concept to save on a lot of energy. The panels open up and close in response to the sun’s movement, which protects the buildings from heat and glare.

Kinetic façade is the future of building façade system, which will no longer be dependent on materiality or ornamentation.

There has been advancement in the architecture hardware system of point fixed (spider/ clamped system), structurally

glazed (cast in channels/coating system) and modular post railing systems. Mostly, the unwanted elements which were not required structurally are removed to provide more modish designs which just highlight the glass rather than the entire system it is attached to. The trend is majorly observed as a part of commercial buildings.

QUALITY TESTING METHODS To produce a superior quality of hardware, the manufacturers are required to adhere to certain standards mentioned in different IS codes. However, performance requirements need to be established for each element of the building. The testing methods for the architectural hardware should check any form of water penetration in the building through the door/windows and structural failure due to excessive load of these elements. The test must also ensure thermal comfort.

Excessive air leakage may result in discomfort.

Expanding fenestration market is motivating the manufactures to innovate materials and bring out various technological advancements

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Architectural Hardware them include air infiltration test, water penetration test, structural load test and seismic test. Besides, dynamic water penetration tests and thermal cyclic tests are also a part of tests conducted in the country.

The window and doors are tested in the laboratory before installing on the sites. There are mock tests which simulate the exact condition that the faรงade would face.

Testing of windows

The buildings are exposed to harsh conditions and climatic changes which often lead to potential deterioration and failures.

This may be due to expansion and contraction of materials and physical damages due to climate change. Therefore, it is important that the design and construction as well as material are properly tested following the strict standards.

In India, there are certain tests that are done to ensure the supreme quality of the architectural hardware. Some of

HOW TO CHOOSE THE HARDWARE: KEY SAFETY PARAMETERS TO CONSIDER Fire safety is an important and indispensable factor to be considered. Which means a supreme quality should have high resistance to fire. Generally, all materials have a fire rating and it is a good idea to look for the fire rating of the material used to create the fenestration. This parameter is extremely important for high rise commercial and residential buildings which are occupied by a large number of occupants.

Glass has been yet another

The buildings are exposed to harsh conditions and climatic changes which often lead to expansion and contraction of materials and physical damages

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widely used element. The way of using the glass also enhances the safety factor of the building.

One should opt for thick glass as it guarantees safety. Thickness also adds up the weight on the building. Toughened or security glass could prevent the shattering of the glass and improve the overall quality of the fenestration and the safety of the building.

While selecting the architectural hardware, one certainly cannot ignore the sliding and locking system.

The sliding and locking system should be designed according to the weight of the window and door. The slider should be tested according to the industrial standards and there should not be any hindrance in the channel used. Focusing on the locking system, it should be located at the right place with appropriate loading, to make it less fragile Besides all of the above parameters, the profile of the window/door should be tested against extreme conditions and should be designed according to the desired weight of the entire fenestration and the building structure. The profiles should not add extra load than desired on the structure of the building.

THE STANDARDISATION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE: GUIDE TO GENUINE PRODUCTS Different standards have been set for ensuring the quality of doors and windows. One of them is IS 4021 which contains details about timber door, window and ventilator frames. Another one ISO/TC 162 captures the details about doors, windows and curtain wall for the buildings.

Talking about the other certifications, BS EN 7412:2007 contains specifications for windows and doors made from uPVC profiles.

Each type of door and window has

Architectural Hardware

The way of using the glass also enhances the safety factor of the building

different country standards and international standards that the manufacturers are bound to follow.

Codes are made according to the difference in materiality in doors and windows. For example, IS4021 contains details about timber doors and windows and BS EN 7412:2007 contains details about uPVC doors and windows.

Hence it is always advised that people should check these standardization codes before installing the architectural

Installing the faรงade systems

hardware, to ensure the high quality of the products.

CONCLUSION In all buildings, architectural hardware plays a massive role.

While investing in these products, one must consider various factors and pick the one that fits in their requirements.

Also, analysing various elements like quality, material, safety, visual appeal, the design of the building, etc., often helps one to invest smartly in these products.

AAYUSH CHAUDHARY Principal Architect, ACad Studio

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Aayush Chaudhary is the co-founder and principal architect of ACad Studio, Gurugram. Founded in 2019, ACad Studio is an architectural firm which provides the best solutions in all formats.

A graduate in architecture from Sushant School of Art and Architecture and a postgraduate in construction management from the City University of London, Chaudhary has a rich career as an Architect for over 7 years.

He has handled prestigious architectural projects in London for various clients and is now practicing in India with an aim to introduce global best practices in architecture.

His extensive list of clients include OYO Hotels, Carrier Midea India, etc. ACad Studio comprises young, passionate and self-motivated architects, interior designers, contractors, site/project managers and developers.

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Architectural Hardware

Innovative Designs, Materials & Technologies for Architectural Hardware for Doors and Windows

A

s our fenestration industry is becoming organised with the growing awareness of system windows and doors in India, system companies and fabricators are increasingly on the look-out for innovative and out-of-thebox window and door systems which are well-engineered for performance and at the same time appeal to the end-users in terms of modern design aesthetics and ease of use.

Conventional sliding and

Friction stays

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openable window/door systems that are available in the market are still in demand for projects and price-sensitive markets because either the volumes are high or for the lack of appetite for paying more. Here, the focus is more on the pricing. There is very little scope here for promoting innovative solutions because innovation comes at a price.

CURRENT TREND Last few years have seen an exponential increase of demand in the retail segment for

architectural systems that are minimalistic and aesthetic in design.

Already several prominent projects are looking for such systems as a default offering in their projects. In the current competitive market, the most unique product design proposals are a key to stand out among the crowd and to be ahead of the race to attract and conquer the market.

In the case of aluminium systems, as the profiles reduced in size and are becoming more slimmer, the technical challenge lies in such hardware design which will be able to deliver the required functionality and suit required aesthetic concepts.

This trend name is “slimline concept�, where the outlook of the openings, mullion profiles appears as a thin line on large size of the glazed openings. This is a call for the complete revision of conventional hardware designs and concepts and finds a proper solution for the new architectural trends in the market.

CHALLENGES As the minimal systems are still evolving, there is a lack of standardisation in its design approach. Each system is being designed to be different than the other.

Architectural Hardware Systems are being designed and then the search for suitable hardware begins. As usual, there are very limited ready-made solutions that could be fit for such non-standard concept.

For the hardware suppliers, it is a new challenging task: To fit required hardware inside smaller sized aluminium profiles, make it "invisible" for the end-user and provide with the aesthetic design of the locking control to match with aluminium profiles concept.

Innovative Design, Materials & Technology Implications for Architectural Hardware • Sliding roller assemblies (For sliding systems) For shutter mounted rollers, the challenge lies in designing of the roller units with small-sized wheels typically 16-17 mm diameter, to maintain a minimum exposure of the bottom shutter profile with increased load capacities and free smooth rail movement as they are expected to perform for large-sized heavy DGU shutters.

First of all, smaller size wheels need smaller size bearings.

Small size bearings with high load capacity are costly. Price effective solution leads to an increment of the wheels quantity in one assembling unit. Instead of 2 wheels for conventional 120-160 Kg shutter weight “heavy-duty” rollers, now we have to use 3 or even 4 wheels in one unit to achieve a capacity of above 200 Kgs. Secondly, the smoothness of the free sliding movement needs a bigger diameter of the wheels. Since the wheels are small, to achieve smooth movement it is necessary to

use polished stainless-steel rails instead of aluminium, and stainless-steel wheels instead of plastic as an option.

For frame-track embedded roller designs, selecting the right type of wheel is crucial for performance and also for economics. Therefore, for the frame-track embedded rollers, the best solution is to use stainless steel bearings.

Considering the quantity of the bearings in one frame, it is not a money-saving solution.

But the main concern is corrosion resistance and durability. By the way, this type of sliding rollers allows raising load capacity of one track incredibly. But the price and performance here is critical and depends on customer choice.

Wheels, in both options, must have good corrosion resistance, as their exposure to weather conditions influences the quality and durability of the usage.

• Locking solutions (For Sliding and Casement systems) Locking solutions are very customised as the aluminium system designs are very much driven by different shapes and aesthetic concepts.

Opportunities prevail for designing locking solutions for shutter side locking, perimeter locking, locking on interlock for sliding and embedded sill locking. There are challenges to provide locking solutions in a very tight space provided in the small size aluminium profiles.

In some cases, the solution is to adopt profiles design to existed hardware parts and sometimes there is a need to develop new products to

fit with aluminium profiles requirements.

• Handles (For Sliding and Casement systems) Design for innovative handles is also a very challenging area as it has to be “minimal” in size, sturdy and also at the same time to be compatible with the locking system used. Ability to offer them in multiple finishes like powder coated, anodized, PVDF coating - is an additional advantage.

Therefore, there is a lot of scope in designing a unitized locking mechanism that will offer the flexibility to design and use a wide range of customised handles.

• Concealed hardware “Slim line concept” also could be expanded to: Concealed hinges, friction stays, parallel

Minimal handle (Photo ref.: SOTRALU)

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Architectural Hardware

Friction stays (Photo ref.: KELEGENT)

Concealed Tilt-and-turn hardware (Photo ref.: SOTRALU) Aligned parallel opening stays

Aligned Parallel opening stays (Photo ref.: KELEGENT)

Concealed hinges (Photo ref.: SOTRALU)

hinges & concealed tilt-andturn hardware – They are in demand nowadays as well.

The concept is realised by "hiding" normally visible, catching the eye, hardware parts inside the perimeter gap between frame and shutter making the glazed opening outlook clear and neat.

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Linear operator control mechanism for skylight window

Architectural Hardware

• Automation applications Digital access locking handles, automated opening-closing mechanisms like linear operator control mechanism for skylight windows and chain operator control mechanism for top-hung windows, motorised roll-up sun shading screens – these hardware are not widely used for general purposes due to their high price.

Mostly, they are used for “Green building” concept and other prestigious projects, private villas, hospitals, bank buildings, hotels.

There is great scope

in integrating them in computerised building control systems for safety and security, energy-saving, fire alarm smoke ventilation, skylight windows control, high raised windows control, regulation of the indoor temperature and light, etc.

FUTURE POTENTIAL Architectural hardware has lots of potential of innovation in design and technology to be done in the above areas to improve our life quality to achieve a better future.

(Note: Product images used in this article are for explanation and illustration purposes & do not intend to infringe any type of copyrights.)

GAURAV OSWAL Director, KELEGENT

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Gaurav Oswal is Director at KELEGENT, a product company based in Pune, which specializes in manufacturing and exports of architectural hardware worldwide.

KELEGENT has a very diversified range of high-quality engineered architectural hardware products for Aluminium and uPVC window and door systems.

Gaurav Oswal heads the technical design and innovation team at KELEGENT which is responsible for developing its new range of products and works with many system companies and fabricators closely in designing and developing hardware solutions for new evolving systems.

Chain operator control mechanism for high raised window

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Architectural Hardware

The Evolution of Architectural Ironmongery Technology & Design

I

ndia’s rapid economic growth and emergence as a top tier world economy over the past 30 years has been well documented. This economic growth has necessitated the need for a whole range of construction projects. From a national and regional government perspective, it means new and upgraded transport infrastructure including airports, railways and urban transit systems to support future economic growth.

Expansion of healthcare and education provision to improve the health and life chances of its citizens are also seen as a high priority.

The positive impact on disposable incomes has fueled

Media City, Manchester, UK

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demand for high quality, privately funded projects from well built, safe residential accommodation, leisure and retail facilities and the expansion of the hospitality sector to meet the needs of both international and local business and tourism.

Within this context, the procurement of architectural ironmongery has always had a low profile, but few items impact more on the ongoing functioning, safety, efficiency and use of buildings over their lifecycle. The correct specification of ironmongery is not just a requirement for delivering and handing over a project but is essential in ensuring the future safety and minimising ongoing

maintenance costs of the building for effective use by both its occupants and visitors.

ARCHITECTURAL IRONMONGERY & THE ROLE OF THE REGISTERED ARCHITECTURAL IRONMONGER Although architectural ironmongery technology and design has evolved over the years, the role of an architectural ironmonger (Reg. A.I.) remains the same. Considering design, security and atmospheric conditions, a qualified AI will also ensure that safety, functionality, accessibility and legislation requirements are adhered to.

When choosing the right kind of hardware for openings, it is

Architectural Hardware

Hardware use can vary from a few cycles a day to many thousands based on the type of building

Products should accommodate the user’s needs, and enhance user’s experience of a building

important that we evaluate the type of building and ensure that the specified products accommodate the user’s needs, which in turn will enhance a user’s experience of a building.

Operators should expect the highest standards of durability and cycle testing from door hardware as some components in high-traffic areas are subject to PROBABLY the most repetitious cycling of any components in buildings. Specifiers demand that manufacturers design durability into each application following rigid architectural standards that should be included in specifications to ensure a proper balance between function and cost.

Use can vary from a few cycles a day to many thousands - for example airport entrances, large office buildings and department

Table 1: BS EN 1154 Controlled Door Closing Devices features a 6 digit coding system which provides details on product types, classification by use, test cycles, door mass, corrosion resistance, as well as definitions, product performance requirements, test apparatus, test methods and marking of products

stores, so it is critical that we incorporate an aesthetically pleasing look; durability consistent with the level and severity of

use; robust designs that require minimal maintenance; support for building safety and security; and ease of use.

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Architectural Hardware WHICH STANDARDS APPLY & WHAT SHOULD WE BE AWARE OF? There are currently two prevailing sets of standards related to door hardware/ironmongery that form the basis of the vast majority of project specifications designed both in India and Worldwide. These are European standards, identified with the EN and CE prefixes and American standards identified as ANSI/BHMA. EUROPEAN HARDWARE STANDARDS The most common standards followed in India today are typically European (EN).

European Standards for architectural hardware are split into individual categories for product type consisting of a numerical coding system where each digit refers to a particular feature of the product measured against the standard's performance requirements.

When specifying architectural hardware for an opening, it is critical that all findings are closely observed to ensure each product is fit for purpose. For example, BS EN 1154 Controlled Door Closing Devices features a 6 digit coding system which provides details on product types, classification by use, test cycles, door mass, corrosion resistance, as well as definitions, product performance requirements, test apparatus, test methods and marking of products (Ref. Table 1).

All of the aforementioned must be taken into consideration to suit location and type of opening, interior or exterior mounting, type of closer and fixing suitability, volume and frequency of door traffic, type, size and weight of door. Where doors are subjected to high wind conditions, a door closer with variable back check is recommended. Parallel considerations will be applied when specifying electrified opening/ closing devices.

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The AI will similarly look at every individual product during specification to ensure that each opening is safe and well equipped for its required function.

Fire and life safety standards such as BSEN 1634-1 door and accessories must also to be considered. Recently this has been taken a step further to CE marked door sets to BS EN 14351-1.

Please see Table 2 for all relevant European standards for hardware and doors in the European codes and standards.

It is important to remember that the passing of the fire test EN1634-1 is not the sole criteria and safety measure to consider when selecting hardware for a fire door. It

may pass a fire test in isolation but if it has not passed the remaining EN requirements, the door will not perform the rest of the functions required during the lifecycle of the building to actually be operable in the case of a fire directly causing loss of life regardless of the fact it passed a fire test in a laboratory.

Currently CE marked door sets have not been introduced into the Indian market, but may well be in the future.

U.S.A. STANDARDS (ANSI/BHMA) Certain projects often require ANSI/ BHMA standards from the USA such as Airports and other large civil projects. This is due to the far higher cycle and durability testing

BSEN Standards for Ironmongery Standards

Description

BS EN 1634:2008

Fire resistance and smoke control tests for door, shutter and, openable window assemblies and elements of building hardware

BS3621:2007

Thief resistant locks assembly - key egress.

BS8300:2009

Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people.

BS8424:2004

Pull handles - requirements and test methods.

BS5499-1:2002

Graphical symbols and signs - safety signs including fire safety signs.

BS EN 1125:2008

Panic Exit devices

BS EN179:2008

Emergency exit devices operated by a lever handle or push pad.

BS EN1154:1997

Controlled door closing devices.

BS EN1155:1997

Electrically powered hold open devices for swing doors.

BS EN1303:2005

Cylinders for locks - requirements and test methods (Revision 1).

BS EN1906:2010

Building hardware - lever handles and knob furniture.

BS EN1935:2002

Single axis hinges.

BS EN12209:2003

Mechanically operated locks, latches and locking plates.

BS EN 12051:2000 Door & Window Bolts Table 2: BSEN Standards for Ironmongery - Fire and life safety standards such as BSEN 1634-1 door and accessories

Architectural Hardware

Consort Floor spring & Consort Transom closer

required to meet these standards, which are typically demanded in such high use applications.

These are often not readily available (along with the expertise to schedule a specification that conforms appropriately) in the Indian market at present. Due to the typically higher price of these products, it can cause strain on the initial construction budgets that have typically been set with European hardware budgets in mind. However, this is often a false economy. The ongoing maintenance required for the efficient functioning of these high use developments means that once the costs of operational disruption, safety breaches, performance failure, and regular replacement and repair of hardware items are taken into account the overall cost argument for American hardware in these applications becomes compelling.

North American hardware specification follows a completely different set of Codes and Standards to that of British / European. Fire Door Standards, Life Safety Codes, and Accessibility Legislation are a only a few of the requirements that differ greatly.

for malfunctioning hardware is considerable, especially in high use buildings where hardware may fail within weeks or months of being installed. Worse still, security can be compromised and the risks to safety increase dramatically. Poorly maintained buildings have fatal consequences made all the more devastating due to their easily avoidable nature. We have all seen the consequences of poorly maintained buildings from heartbreaking scenes such as Grenfell

Tower, in London, UK where poor maintenance of fire doors and hardware played a significant role in the tragedy.

One of the biggest problems facing the industry is poor compliance to minimum acceptable standards.

This manifests itself in several forms with the two most common being lack of oversite and accountability for non-compliant products and following non accredited certification provided from an unrecognised 3rd party testing body.

Unfortunately, poor specification is commonplace with many architectural hardware schedules being either ‘copy and pasted’ from previous projects, or substandard hardware being specified by an unqualified party.

All of this can play a part in false economy (as hardware will fail and have to be replaced) and more seriously, endangering lives,

ANSI/BHMA A156 Standards Standards

Description

UL10c

Standard for Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies

ANSI/BHMA A156.01

Butts and Hinges

ANSI/BHMA A156.02 Bored and Preassembled Locks and Latches ANSI/BHMA A156.03 Exit Devices ANSI/BHMA A156.04 Door Controls-Closers ANSI/BHMA A156.05 Cylinders and Input Devices for Locks ANSI/BHMA A156.06 Architectural Door Trim ANSI/BHMA A156.08 Door Controls – Overhead Stops and Holders ANSI/BHMA A156.13

Mortise Locks & Latches

ANSI/BHMA A156.15

Release Devices-Closer Holder, Electromagnetic and Electromechanical

Table 3 is the same but for ANSI/ BHMA standards.

ANSI/BHMA A156.19

Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Doors

ENSURING VALUE, MINIMISING COSTS & PROTECTING LIVES THROUGHOUT THE LIFECYCLE OF BUILDINGS The cost of facilities maintenance

ANSI/BHMA A156.24

Delayed Egress Locking Systems

ANSI/BHMA A156.25

Electrified Locking Devices

ANSI/BHMA A156.30 High Security Cylinders Table 3: ANSI/BHMA A156 Standards

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Architectural Hardware

To ensure your project is fit for purpose, always Remember……

• Always get your specification signed off by an AHC or Reg. AI qualified hardware/ironmongery consultant • Ensure all products comply with relevant durability and safety standards and ensure these have been reviewed by a qualified ironmongery consultant • Always try to use online certification that can be checked to be valid

PHILIP MAY

Director, Consort Hardware Pvt. Ltd.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and future threats, automated hardware has become integral to minimising the spread of infection replacing the traditional ones

especially when there is such a focus on cost savings being bought to nearly all projects in the current construction climate.

We thoroughly recommend that specifying architectural hardware is detailed by a Registered Architectural Ironmonger (Reg.AI) for EN specifications or an Architectural Hardware Consultant (AHC) for North American specifications, thus ensuring that each opening will be furnished professionally.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR AUTOMATION & TECHNOLOGY IN THE HARDWARE INDUSTRY? Automatic Doors and Access Controls: With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and future threats, automated hardware

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has become integral to minimising the spread of infection, as it lessens the need to touch surfaces, therefore reducing the risk of cross contamination in public buildings.

There are further positive outcomes regarding security with such hardware not requiring on site security personnel at each entrance.

Integrated access control systems are capable of monitoring and controlling the entry and exit from such buildings.

Others forms of access control and remote technology are being introduced into buildings, such as hotels and Air BNB, where people access buildings and rooms via phones or key cards. This has been adopted by several major hotel chains over the last few years and demand will only increase as the technology becomes more affordable.

Philip May has worked in a variety of roles within the construction industry including interior contracting, architectural seals and architectural hardware sales during a 20-year career.

Having worked in senior roles with Consort Architectural Hardware in the UK and the Middle East, he has now relocated to India to support their country head, Harish Sokhi to deliver on their long term goals within the Indian market.

ALFA ICA

ALFA ICA

Architectural Hardware

Automatic Doors:

A Sustainable Approach to Modern Hygienic Buildings

C

ONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES IN BUILDING INDUSTRY SECTOR

Use of mechanical door handles, manual operation of the door can many times be exasperating.

It may not be on top of mind for people to close doors every time. This situation is not only inconvenient for day-to-day use, but also jeopardise the safety and security of the building and its occupants.

The manually operated doors are also prone to hazards of cross-contamination in areas where hygiene is of paramount importance for buildings such as hospitals, laboratories, food processing units, public access doors and toilets.

Unlike common users, opening and closing of a manually operated door could be arduous for people with special needs such as wheelchair users, children, senior citizens, the disabled and the like.

The carbon footprint is yet

another challenge prevailing across the word. Global inventions are focussed towards a greener and more sustainable environment.

Manually operated doors when left open, pose a major threat, leading to increased power consumption costs and further adding to global carbon footprints; the damaging effects of which are alarming.

NEED OF THE HOUR Smart entrance solutions that can ensure complete safety, security, comfort, convenience, hygiene

Smart entrance solutions help to reduce costs and reduce carbon footprints

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Architectural Hardware

A modern retail space with curved door

of building occupants and at the same time yield sustainable return of investments for end users such as optimising emergency costs and reduce carbon footprints for the community as a whole.

WHY CHOOSE AN AUTOMATIC SYSTEM? Automatic entrances are not only the preferred choice of specifying community, such as architects, planners and consultants, but also for the builders, promoters and end-users for the following reasons: • Automatic doors ensure complete safety of its users as it has many built-in plus optional safety features for day-today applications • The integrated electric locking mechanisms ensure that the security of the building entrances are given utmost attention • Automatic doors are extremely reliable and comfortable to use for people of all groups may it be abled (or) disabled, young (or) old and these doors do not discriminate between the users and offers convenient

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barrier-free access to buildings • Automatic door is the need of the hour especially in areas that calls for extreme hygienic conditions. Some of these applications include automatic doors in intensive care units, operation theatres, isolation wards, blood bank, testing

laboratories, pharmaceutical units, food processing units, public transit systems, airports where the risk of cross-contamination is exceptionally high • Automatic doors are rapidly gaining importance in toilets, especially for disabled users in public as well as commercial buildings such as airports, shopping malls, hotels, IT companies, factories, etc.

• Automatic panic breakout doors are the most widely used applications for effectively and quickly evacuating building occupants in case of an emergency such as fire and smoke. They are gaining more popularity in areas such as airports, metro, shopping centres, etc.

APPLICATION AREAS OF AUTOMATIC SYSTEM IN MODERN ERA: • Automatic doors are being used widely in mass public transport systems such as platform screen doors in metros as well as the doors in metro compartments

Automatic doors are also used for providing convenient, safe and regulated access

CREATING

Without HARMING NATURE Reliable & Durable Variety & Eco Friendly Application on almost any shape

Established in the year 1989, Powdertek offers wood finish powder coating process which is the latest technological breakthrough in metal coating giving the strength and durability of metal and the aesthetics of wood.

Appreciated by architects & designers

can cater upto 20 feet long objects like aluminium sections/ profiles and also rectangular/ flat objects like steel doors and

frame upto 16'x4'

Available in different shades

POWDERTEK A-18/A, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase-1, New Delhi-110028.

Phone: 011-41411141, +917770888666, 9811173861 Email: info@powdertek.in www.powdertek.in

All kind of powder coating job work undertaken

Architectural Hardware • Automatic doors are also used for providing convenient, safe and regulated access in areas such as rapid bus transport system • Automatic garage doors are being used in villas and private properties which can be controlled and activated using a smart mobile app such as home automation systems • Automatic window systems are being used these days for common and natural ventilation in both commercial and residential applications • Further, the most modern commercial buildings and public buildings such as airports make use of automatic window systems that can be automatically be triggered and operated as smoke ventilation in case of fire and smoke.

OTHER AREAS OF APPLICATION AND SCOPE OF BUILDING AUTOMATION • Automation of gates which not just adds to the comfort of users, but also secures the perimeter of the building which is the prime point of entrance to the building • Automatic Boom barriers that can regulate the entry and exit of people in areas such as parking plaza, building entrances of IT companies, factories, residential apartments, toll plaza to mention a few.

• Automatic flap barriers/ half-height gates that can be used for restricted access controlled entrances for use in areas like airports, IT companies, commercial buildings, multiplex, transport systems such as metro

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Automated hermetic doors are ideal for infection control areas such as hospitals

KEY BENEFITS OF AUTOMATIC DOORS IN HYGIENE SENSITIVE AREAS Automated hermetic door systems are the best solution to help patients and clinical staff move within healthcare facilities in a safe, efficient and convenient manner.

Automatic hermetic doors have gained popularity in healthcare units due to the numerous advantages they offer.

Below mentioned are some of the reasons why these doors are increasingly preferred: CONTROL OF CROSSCONTAMINATION One of the many ways that the bacterial and viral infections spread is through physical contact of objects by hand; particularly on the most frequently used building components such as doors. Automated hermetic doors are ideal for infection control areas such as hospitals, due to the fact they eliminate the need to touch the door surface, therefore reducing the high risk of crosscontamination. These doors also offer greater convenience for staff as they can use touch-free

Automatic doors are rapidly gaining importance in toilets

activations such as foot sensors, hand-wave sensors, etc., without the need to open or touch doors physically. They are predominantly useful for use in hygiene critical areas such as operating theatres, intensive care units and isolation wards. The surface of these special doors is made of either stainless steel or special coating with an anti-bacterial finish that can eliminate or control the growth of harmful microbes.

Accessible toilet

Architectural Hardware

Automatic doors in a clinic

SURESH PANNEERSELVAM FUNCTIONALITY While choosing automatic doors, you don’t have to sacrifice form for function. With a wide range of configurations, designs and activation options to choose from, it’s easy to find a solution to suit your individual needs.

COMPLIANCE TO DISABLED DISCRIMINATE ACT Automatic doors improve access for everyone, regardless of their physical capabilities. The introduction of the International Disability Discrimination Act, and Regulations laid by the National Building Code of India (Version 2016), have made it mandatory for companies to install automatic doors in order to ensure compliance, especially in public access buildings.

SAFETY AND CONVENIENCE On proper installation, serviced and maintenance as per manufacturer recommendations, automatic doors consistently provide safe, reliable and convenient access for users. The automatic system ensures effortless operation and eliminates the inconvenience of opening heavy manual doors such as fire doors, AHU doors and clean room doors.

ENERGY SAVINGS Sustainability is a major concern in modern construction such as green buildings and automated doors help in saving energy by ensuring that doors are kept closed - safely and securely. Automatic doors open and close only when a user activates them through sensors or other controlled activation device such as pushbutton and this prevents the doors from being left open resulting in heating or air conditioning costs.

Automatic doors help to achieve LEED points for green buildings not only for energy savings but also for maintaining the ideal indoor air quality.

Automatic doors can be tailormade and custom-built to suit the individual requirements of the customers. Further bespoke aftersales service and maintenance contracts are being offered to ensure reliable functioning and durability of automatic doors.

Automatic door in an operation theatre in a hospital

Managing Director, Auto Ingress India Private Limited

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Suresh Panneerselvam holds the position of Managing Director of Auto Ingress India Private Limited, a fully owned subsidiary of Auto Ingress Pty Ltd., Australia. Suresh has been associated with the brand for over 14 years and is the brain behind setting up of the fullyfunctional subsidiary in India which was inaugurated in the year 2016. In just about 4 years of inception, Auto Ingress has been successful in covering the entire length and breadth of the nation and further successfully has built references across all building verticals in India. Under the leadership of Panneerselvam, Auto Ingress has also been certified with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Standards, which further fortifies the brand’s commitment towards offering sustainable and quality product and service solutions to the customers.

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Brand Watch

Profine

Acquired Essential Assets from the British Aperture Group

W

ith effect from 20th May 2020, the profine Group acquired essential assets from the British Aperture Group, formerly Synseal. profine GmbH – International Profile Group – is a worldwide leading manufacturer of PVC-U profiles for windows and doors and a renowned provider of shutter systems and PVC sheets.The Aperture Group, which is based in Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire,

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is known for its renowned brands such as Legend, Synerjy, Evolve, Calibre Doors, Norvik New Build or WarmCore.

With its KBE, KÖMMERLING, and TROCAL brands, the Group supplies its products to 87 countries and has an excellent international standing at 29 sites in 22 countries. profine Group manufactures at production facilities in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, India, Ukraine, the USA and China, with its head

office in Troisdorf, North RhineWestphalia.

Dr. Peter Mrosik, owner and CEO of profine says, “with this acquisition we are strengthening our good international market position and continuing our success story in the UK market.

We are thus underlining our goal of being the leading company in our industry in each of our markets. I am very happy to have the new colleagues from UK on board and warmly welcome them to the profine family!”

The United Kingdom has traditionally been one of profine's core European markets. So far, the system provider had not yet established its own extrusion facility, but the production will start soon under the new name profine UK Extrusions Ltd. The facility has more than 20 extrusion lines, its own mixing plant and several foiling and injection moulding systems.The expansion of the workforce is planned to include over 100 employees. profine is continuing the activities of its successfully established Kömmerling brand in the UK, and individual products from the Aperture portfolio are also to be marketed in other countries.

Home is not a place it's a feeling

29

SHRIRAM

Product Watch

AkzoNobel’s Enhanced Powder Coating Puts Emphasis on Hygiene

I

ncreased demand for products that can improve hygiene has prompted AkzoNobel, one of the leading brands making paints and coatings, to accelerate the addition of antimicrobial* properties to its Interpon D1000 and 2000 range of architectural powder coatings.

With cleanliness now on everyone’s agenda, the extra functionality offered by the inclusion of BioCote® antimicrobial technology means that building interiors can now be given increased protection against microbes such as bacteria and mold – which can cause issues such as bad odors, staining or material degradation.

The enhanced Interpon D AM – the first product of its kind in the company’s architectural segment – can be used on a variety of internal surfaces, such as window frames, ceiling tiles, metal office partitions, metal doors and elevator doors.

It follows last year’s launch of the company’s antimicrobial Interpon AM range, which is typically used on surfaces in hygiene conscious environments such as hospitals, clinics, changing rooms, schools and public transport.

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“Growing consumer concern for hygiene means we need to continue finding ways to offer invisible protection and help make living and working together more hygienic,” says Daniela Vlad, Managing Director of AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings business. “Interpon D AM is an effective solution for architects and specifiers and brings extra functionality to a product which has a long track record of superior performance”, adds Vlad.

“Integrating BioCote® antimicrobial technology into architectural powder coatings will create more hygienic environments by reducing up to 99.99% of microbes on protected surfaces.

BioCote® technology makes a surface easier to keep hygienically clean, meaning the Interpon D AM range will stay fresher and cleaner for longer. This makes it the perfect choice for hygiene conscious environments,” says BioCote’s Partner Development Manager, Jennifer Collier.

BioCote® is the market-leading antimicrobial solutions provider, with more than 25 years of experience in antimicrobial technology.

A critical consideration for the new powder coating was making sure it offered the same outstanding colour quality and extreme durability that Interpon D is renowned for. Launched globally, it’s also available in the same extensive selection of colours and finishes as the existing Interpon D range, including metallic effects and coarse or fine textures.

Continues Vlad: “Our innovation is focused on developing colour technology and solutions that meet the technical challenges and performance demands of our customers. It’s all about transforming spaces and environments to make sure they’re fit for the ever-changing requirements of modern living and lifestyles.”

To learn more about Interpon D AM and the company’s powder coatings, visit: https://www. interpon.com/gl/article/interponam-powder-coating *BioCote® technology does not protect users or others against disease-causing bacteria, germs, viruses or other harmful organisms.

This technology is not a substitute for good hygiene and/or cleaning practices.

Product Watch

Foot Panel Plate from

Häfele

W

ith the concept of hygiene and precaution now taking a new definition, Häfele has introduced its new Foot Panel Plate for doors.

The functionality offered by a product has never been more critical. Hands-free, contact-less movement, from one place to another – across hotels or building lobbies, entrances of offices, showrooms, malls or shops etc., is now being sought after not just as a temporary fix but as a permanent solution.

Understanding the shift in demands of customers and after introspecting deeply about the hygiene and cleanliness standards

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Giving a New Definition to Hygiene

that we as a community has been following so far and how different would it be, henceforth Häfele has introduced this product. Their aim is to therefore, introduce solutions that would effectively help minimise exposure to crosscontamination, harmful microbes and infectious viruses.

Keeping this in mind, Häfele introduces its new Foot Panel Plate which provides the users with a germ-free, touch-less way of exiting a premise / room. Mounted towards the bottom of the door, this foot plate offers an option to the users of pulling the door open with their foot instead of a door handle. The new foot plate, made of Stainless Steel Grade 304 can be

used on doors that are frequently operated due to heavy traffic.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: • Enables touch-less door operations • Prevents spread of germs • Minimum installation height from floor: 5 mm • Maximum door load capacity: 50 kg • Suitable for installation on timber, steel and aluminum framed doors • For use with single swing doors or doors installed with deadbolt lock • Hassle-free installation

Product Watch

Q-Lon Polyurethane Foam Seals from

Schlegel

S

pecifically designed for windows and doors, Q-Lon foam seals from Schlegel combine the best thermal performance along with excellent long term recovery.

The unique Q-Lon seal has been developed in consultation with the customers to offer the widest range of polyurethane (PU) foam seals possible for timber, PVC and aluminium windows and doors, window covering products and interior design. The unique design has made Q-Lon the seal of choice for many applications. Authentic Q-Lon seals are impervious to paint and stain, while still

for Timber, uPVC and Aluminium Applications

providing some of thebest energy saving performance characteristics currently available.

Schlegel’s superlative hardware is manufactured in Europe, USA and the UK for complete profiles and is complementary to their sealing range. With almost 50 years of global experience in the design and manufacture of window and door products, Schlegel is offering foams, brushes and extruded seals too.

Schlegel products are manufactured to meet the requirements of many current and proposed British, German, Spanish and related European

and international standards and are manufactured using a Quality Management System registered and certified to norm ISO 9001:2008. Backed by 10 year guarantee, original Q-Lon seals are a safe choice. Compared with common sealing systems, the Q-Lon range provides a cost effective way of offering continuous high standards of sealing.

Q-Lon range provides a cost effective way of offering continuous high standards of sealing

Polyurethane foam core – high durability, superior recovery performance Polyethylene film – weather and UV resistant Glass fibre thread or polypropylene insert – prevents elongation and shrinkage Smooth or embossed exterior, resistant to contamination Q-Lon foam seals from Schlegel combine the best thermal performance along with excellent long term recovery

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Compatible agents

with

cleaning

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Choosing Right Hardware

for Doors & Windows 52

WFM | MAY - JUNE 2020

indows and doors are an important investment in any building. They can reduce energy costs, add to curb appeal, improve ventilation and make the interiors more comfortable. That’s why it pays to learn about the major components of doors and windows.

Finding the right entry door for your home is important, but so is choosing the correct door hardware. To help make your choice easier, here’s what you need to know about door and window hardware, and how to know what kind of hardware to get to complete the look and feel of your doors and windows.

We spoke to many industry experts on the criteria for choosing hardware for fenestration, and this edition’s cover story summarises the details, which can make it easier to choose the right hardware products for doors and windows.

Cover Story

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Cover Story

UMA SUBBARAMAN

Director Communications and Strategy, Tattva Mittal Group

ESHWAR N

Chief Marketing Officer, CASAGRAND

Hardware may not be top of mind when choosing the right window or door for a project, but it’s an important part of achieving the right look and ensuring you have windows and doors that operate smoothly and stand up to years of use. From traditional to contemporary, hardware comes in a variety of architectural styles and finishes to meet your aesthetic needs and design goals. It’s designed for effortless operation, safety and security.

Quality hardware for fenestrations makes it easy to operate and can help provide added security. Beyond making certain that the selection meets minimum functionality and code requirements, more attention is usually paid to the look and finish of the door and its hardware than to how well they will function over time.

If you don’t choose the best hardware then you will be putting your items & safety at the risk because thieves can easily access your premises. You need to know different hardware and their uses.

TYPES OF HARDWARE FOR DOORS AND WINDOWS When choosing the right window or door, the hardware is an important part of achieving the right look, that lasts up to years and is easy to operate, says Uma Subbaraman - Director

ABHISHEK KALE

©Encraft

Area Manager - India, Sobinco NV

RAMAN SAPRU

Executive President, Engineering, Chalet Hotel

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Communications and Strategy, Tattva Mittal Group.

Products that are used either in the door and window decoration, their maintenance, or in any other function are such as handles, window extrusions, fasteners, hinges, locks, hooks, number plates, knockers and glass. All these basic yet necessary hardware that goes on any window or door keeping in the safety measures and lasting impression. Architectural hardware includes categories, such as entrance door hardware, commercial pull handles, railings & standoffs, door locks, supports & accessories, hinges, aldrops, and others. These are the set elements or fittings, which help buildings to function efficiently.

Architectural hardware enhances the appearance of the structure and its right choice leads to the success of the project. These products mainly find application in the construction industry.

According to Eshwar N, Chief Marketing Officer, CASAGRAND, the essential hardware for doors are handles, locks, hinges, closers, stoppers, tower bolts and door chains.

For windows, it would be concealed handles and locks.

Abhishek Kale, Area Manager India, Sobinco NV explains, hardware requirements vary on condition to condition. But most common hardware for windows include handles, locking points (can vary), hinges, restrictor arm, frame run on rest, shutter run on rest, etc. For doors - hinges, handle, lock (multipoint), receiver & door closure are the most common hardware. There are specialised hardware, which are being used on case to case basis.

Raman Sapru, Executive President, Engineering, Chalet Hotel too observes that door and window fittings and accessories are important components of a building. Here are some of the most commonly used door and windows fittings and accessories:

Cover Story

AVANISH SINGH VISEN Chief Executive Officer, Encraft India

UDAY SHETTY

Director, Caldwell SEA Private Limited

Door Handle

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Door Hardware Fittings & Accessories

Windows Hardware Fittings & Accessories

• Deadbolts • Door Knobs • Handle sets • Door Seals • Door Levers • Door Hinges • Electrical Door Locks • Door Handles • Door Bells • Door Bolts • Door Chimes • Door Latches • Door Closers • Door Stoppers • Door Push/Pull Plates

• • • • • • • •

Apart from uPVC profiles, glass and gaskets, the hardware also plays the important roles to make a complete product, says Avanish Singh Visen, Chief Executive Officer, Encraft India.

Below mentioned are few important hardware’s used, says Visen: • Casement System: Espagnolette’s; 2d & 3d hinges, Flap, Butt & Friction Hinges; Casement, Cockspur & Projected Handles • Sliding System: Espagnolette’s; Touch lock, Pop-up & Projected Handles; Single wheel nylon & Double adjustable rollers According to Uday Shetty, Director, Caldwell SEA Private Limited, sliding doors & windows will require compatible sliding lock (single & or multipoint), needle bearing rollers (fixed or adjustable), along with plastic parts (anti rattler, guides, etc.) to ensure smooth performance.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT KIND OF HARDWARE FOR WINDOWS AND DOORS A lot of considerations namely durability, operational ease, and post-operational issues, warranty and requirements as listed by the regional fire norms go into the selection of hardware, observes Eshwar.

It is very much important to choose the right kind of hardware, says

WFM | MAY - JUNE 2020

Window Stays Window Frame Fold Down Handles Window Pull Handles Crank Window Handles Window Folding Handles Window Latch Mechanism Folding Window Adjuster

Kale. Window and doors are moving elements in façade. Also in case of failure, they create life threatening situation and in case of an emergency like fire escape window, they have to operate perfectly. Most of the hardware need pre-assembly if hardware comes in preassembled format installation of hardware will be user friendly, adds Kale.

Performance of a window is directly related to the choice of correct hardware and systems, says Uday Shetty. “We recommend the process of compatibility check to sampling to quality installation methods”, he adds.

According to Visen, any hardware selection should be primarily based on specification and suitability. It is highly important and advisable to consider the below-mentioned points to avoid application failures: • Does the hardware require any adjustment to frame cutting sizes?

• Does the hardware fixing penetrate reinforcement or special anchorage points?

• Does the hardware fit into profiles without additional machining?

• Does the hardware come with life cycle data?

• Does the hardware meet the expected corrosion resistance for India?

• Does the hardware meet the basic security requirement?

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Cover Story

Door Knob, Antique

“Traditional or contemporary, we choose hardware that comes in a variety of architectural styles and finishes for aesthetic needs and design goals”, says Uma Subbaraman.

Hardware are smartly designed for effortless operation even at large window and door sizes and is built to years, with optional PVD finishes for door hardware to resist fading and discoloration in even the harshest environments.

In general, the entire industry today is more conscious about design, says Sapru. As a direct effect of this, several products provide solutions that are practical, technically sound and aesthetically appealing. These products have also evolved to incorporate technological aspects thereby enhancing their appeal in the eyes of the end consumer.

Despite economic conditions, it is always the product that manages to strike the right balance between aesthetics, utility and pricing that becomes a bestseller.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHILE SPECIFYING ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE FOR DOORS & WINDOWS A lot of factors need to be considered while specifying architectural hardware, states Kale, like the ease of assembly, maintenance, number of life cycles, and most importantly, corrosion resistance. Most of the hardware are delivered in halfassembled kits. Like complete handle comes as handle cover and

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Door Knob, Heritage building

inner mechanism separately. The fabricator has to assemble them which again consumes time of fabricator and the fabricator has to bear the responsibility of correct assembly.

Talking about the uPVC window and door system design, Visen from Encraft, observes that all systems are slightly different, therefore there is a need for systems specific hardware and profile related components like strikers and keeps. Consideration must be given to the system-specific hardware requirements like roller width and roller height, friction stays stack height, espagnolette backset, mushroom height, etc. Deviation from the systems supplier’s hardware specification will affect the function and the performance of the frame, states Visen. Also, the hardware supplier’s guidelines and recommendations must be adhered to in terms of maximum weight carrying capacity, maximum frame sizes, suggested locking points, routine maintenance and lubrication instructions, etc.

Visen adds that the ‘correct set’ overlap will ensure the functioning of the frame; it is, therefore, advisable to position the sash always from the lock side (critical dimension) thereby allowing the hinge side to take‐up any tolerances (floating dimension).

Builders factor in specifications like brands, usability, quality, makes and models and products are required by specific project designs, says Eshwar. All products

selected go through stringent quality checks to meet customer satisfaction standards.

According to Raman Sapru, even before embarking on the selection process of hardware, it is important to understand factors that will affect the long-term performance.

These are: life-safety, emergency egress, loss prevention and security for building occupants.

Each of these factors should be examined for every application to determine the door’s performance level. It must be noted that some factors will be deemed to be more important than others for a particular set of products.

Another aspect to consider is the kind of facility where the door is being installed, adds Sapru. For example, doors in educational institutions, such as middle schools or high schools, will be subjected to different levels of use than those in an office or retail building. In addition to this, one must also keep in mind standardisation of hardware which helps reduce the cost of procurement and maintenance.

Uday Shetty stresses on the need to consider quality (test standards), local technical support, after sales support & local availability / replacement in case of abuse of hardware.

First of all, consider the weight of the hardware, says Subbaraman.

Just by looking at a photo of hardware, one cannot decide on the weight and quality, hence it may not be a great idea. It is important to determine if it

Window pull Handle

Cover Story

Door Lock - Antique

Door Handle - Anique

will look “cheap” once installed.

One needs to definitely check out multiple options as per the requirements before finalising a final one, adds Subbraman.

Regardless of the price, heavier weight is typically a good indication of a better quality product that will look good. Always order a sample to check before placing the full order, adds Subbaraman. Finishing the product has to be up to the mark which makes it more reliable to use.

Check the material.

With hardware, it’s easy to differentiate good materials from the bad.

Metals, glass, wood and leather, for instance, are great materials.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, avoid plastic, hollow and painted products. “Ensure that the measurements are correct before you go ahead, even a minor error in the size can create a big impact,” adds Subbaraman.

One more thing that most of the buyers don’t realise is more the use of local products the better it is for maintenance purposes. All the buyers get excited and happy when builders offer them homes furnished with foreign products (tiles, fittings, windows, etc.) and make their decision to buy from these builders. Which later, down the years causes issues, when the products wear and tear is all loose and it is very difficult to find neither a replacement of the products nor anyone who can help repair it.

That is why, we always, prefer, local market products.

Window hardware

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THE EVOLUTION OF DOOR & WINDOW HARDWARE The evolution of door and window

hardware has close relations to window types and opening styles of windows. In the late 19th century, door and window hardware became very ornate. Simple knobs and roses gave way to elaborate brass and bronze sets that left no surface undecorated. The best and most expensive sets were made of cast brass, bronze, or iron with crisp details accented by various finishes. However, after World War 2, these products gave way to meet the needs of the post-war building boom. They were cleanlooking and easy to install by way of a 2” hole drilled in the door/ window. In modern times, most of the windows are of ‘flat opening’ or ‘rolling-over’ ones. The door and window hardware has to balance style with function.

Earlier buyers didn’t have much knowledge to differentiate between good or bad products.

It used to be a basic design and structure for almost all the apartments. Now it is a different scenario, buyers get involved with the type of windows and doors that the builders provide, the kind of material being used, etc, says Uma Subbaraman. Different buyers have different kinds of demands, to fulfill their new home’s theme or design according to which they want to select or customise their window and door. Since the previous decade, the industry has witnessed some tremendous choices when it comes to windows and doors. Right from your wooden door, to uPVC door and composite doors. Depending on the location of the door, now we have a full glass door to half glass half wooden door. Also, this decade has witnessed safety doors made from metal or iron. There are also revolving doors, sliding doors, swing doors and many more may be. Windows also have seen a lot of changes and upgrades. Your basic glass window to sliding, double hung windows mostly used in bathrooms, fixed windows that

Cover Story Kale said that the evolution in style and material of the hardware is also related to demand from the market. “A decade early class 3 corrosion class was acceptable but customers are now demanding for corrosion class 4 min and class 5 as desired. More focus is now given on aesthetics and ease of operation,” says Kale.

don’t open, there are also pivoted windows, casement windows which are there for decades now, louvered windows and few more that you can find. Depending on the llocation, the style and material or texture of the window and door will keep changing.

Doors and winds have seen a marked change in hardware over the last two decades, observes Eshwar. The most significant of these are in terms of safety and functionality. Two decades ago, locks were simple four-cylinder padlocks and were easier to break.

Windows were simple wood or iron constructs. But that has completely changed. Nowadays, we have a variety of locks to secure doors and gates. Padlocks have become sturdier with hardened steel that can’t be sawed off or easily picked.

We have computerised locks and a variety of latches for windows and doors, says Eshwar. The market has also changed and we see a number of regional and global brands with a variety of products right from hinges to deadbolts and handles. There are products to

suit every customer’s requirements and at every budget.

Sapru too points out that the Indian architecture space for façades has tremendously evolved over the last few years. Some of the key drivers of this have been the entry of international systems, equipment and hardware firms, and technology. The latter has led to more precise products that are of high quality and sustainable at the same time. Designers have been encouraged to think out-ofthe-box to keep up with trends like higher façades, lighter support structures and lesser hardware/ connection points. One of the trends that has defined the last decade or so is the emergence of highly transparent façades, making reflective glass and punched openings for buildings a thing of the past.

According to Uday Shetty, hardware in doors & windows has evolved from low-quality raw materials to high-performance hardware using the best noncorrosive materials and low maintenance.

©Encraft

Hardware - choices available in plenty

LATEST TECHNOLOGIES AND MATERIALS FOR ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE We have all the architectural, Furniture and Façade fittings available here as is available anywhere in the world. It’s important to keep in mind that design must be sensitive to context, climate, client, environment and business processes. Architects typically prefer hardware that is engineered for long life cycles with low maintenance. It’s these materials that work in the market, says Sapru.

Modern hardware manufacturing is very innovative with new equipment and processes, enabling better materials, coatings and finishes such as PVD / shining chrome, says Visen. The market is seeing many new developments, for instance, production of zinc has grown three times over the last few years.

Zinc die cast, aluminum and brass production are also seeing high growth since the last few years.

According to Kale, clipable casement hardware, self sanitising handles, concealed window and

Seclude mussoorie resort sliding door

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Soft closing hinge

Concealed door hinge - details

Consealed door hinge

door hinges will be the future trends. Shetty adds that the world is moving towards automation and our Indian market shall follow soon.

Architectural hardware is referred to the manufacturing of the items such as door handles, hinges, and fittings. This architectural hardware are made from various materials, such as aluminum, iron, steel, brass, and other metals. These are also used in all types of construction works, especially in residential and commercial buildings. Plastic is also considered as a material in architectural hardware. At present,

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STANDARDS FOLLOWED BY ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE MANUFACTURERS IN INDIA Every manufacturer boasts of unique standards of manufacturing and design. “As builders, we look for improvements by aesthetics, ergonomics and performance and on post-sale services to the end consumer,” says Eshwar.

Modern hardware manufacturing has become very innovative with new equipment and processes, enabling the use of better materials, coatings and finishes such as PVD / shining chrome. Some of the standards that have been followed by architectural hardware manufacturers in India are best in the world, notes Sapru. With the Residential sector being a large consumer of builder hardware, the rise in housing units augurs well for the builder hardware industry.

The Indian Standard (Fifth Revision) was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, explains Uma Subbaraman, after the draft finalised by the Builders Hardware Sectional Committee had been approved by the Civil

©Encraft

the larger market in the hardware industry is mainly concentrated in mechanical hardware, construction hardware, decorative hardware, daily hardware, and other large blocks, observes Uma Subbaraman.

Retail project sliding window

Engineering Division Council.

The present revision has been undertaken to incorporate the necessary modifications as a result of the experience gained during the use of this standard. In this revision, apart from the general updation of the cross referred standards, some dimensions have been changed and the sampling clause has been modified. To decide whether a particular requirement of this standard is complied with, the final value, observed or calculated, expressing the result of a test or analysis, shall be rounded off following IS 2: 1960 ‘Rules for rounding off numerical values (revised)’. The number of significant places retained in the rounded off value should be the same as that of the specified value in this standard.

Critical hardware components like hinges, rollers and locking devices are being life cycle tested in accordance with BS EN 1191 (for

Test Standard

Remarks (Test Name)

EN 13126

Durability, strength and functionality

ISO 9227:2006

Corrosion resistance

ISO1183

Density

ISO3146

Melting point

EN ISO10077-2

Thermal conductivity

ISO 868

Hardness

UNI EN 1670 :2007

Mass

UNI EN 13126-5:2005

Fire resistance

UNI EN13126-1:2006

Safty in use / Security

(Courtesy, Uday Shetty, Director, Caldwell SEA Private Limited)

©Encraft

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Retail project at surat - casement window

windows and doors, resistance to repeated opening and closing test method) and must achieve 20,000 operating cycles (i.e. opening and closing) without deterioration, failure or excessive wear, says Visen.

All hardware when tested under BS EN ISO 9227 (Corrosion test in the artificial atmosphere – salt spray tests) shall meet in accordance with BS EN 1670 (Building hardware: corrosion resistance – Requirement and test methods) minimum Grade 4 (240 hours) and for coastal locations Grade 5 (480 hours) without exhibiting red rust, adds Visen.

AVAILABILITY OF HARDWARE PRODUCTS IN THE MARKET According to Eshwar N, and Kale, the Indian market today has a

variety of products for architects at different budgets to match project or customer requirements.

The availability of designs is only limited by our imagination as many manufactures can also custom make hardware to specific requirements. India is spoiled for choices.

Uday Shetty too agrees that there are good quality hardware manufacturers/Importers who are available in India to provide products in need by developers/ architects. The budgets need to be made available.

Architects often approach a project from appearance rather than function and as a result, they have a clear idea of the execution and find it easier to adapt their concepts into workable ideas, notes Sapru. This has proven to be significantly successful in the last few years and has led to a new vertical for architectural hardware being added in the market. Broadly speaking, today’s competitive market has a wide range of options available to architects/ developers all because we live in a global village and distance is not a barrier anymore, adds Sapru.

Contrary to the above views, Subbaraman points out that there are not too many products available in the market. Times are changing and so is the needs of the customers. In her opinion, the more variety of material and products the merrier it is for the customers to choose from. “As a buyer, if we think, the place where we get more options to choose from we will go there,” says Subbaraman.

cultures, value systems co-exist.

One needs to be able to adapt and operate with flexibility to stay relevant in today’s times. The hardware manufacturing industry has become highly malleable in its working and implementation while always allocating a window for the addition of technologies or design thinking from a futureready perspective.

If the requirement is not defined correctly, it will lead to the creation of multiple options and in the end,

CUSTOMISED ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE: ADVANTAGES & HURDLES According to Sapru, when you look at things realistically, large projects take a long time to be completed and during the course of this there are several trends that come and go. Manufacturing firms operate in a dynamic world where different

Modern door handle and lock

Smart door locks

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Smart door lock with Biometric sensor

there is a chance of getting rejected, says Kale. This consumes time and final result is very unpredictable.

Also, customers are not aware about the advantages of creating customised hardware. “There is no commitment for customisation, still you do it for customers,” adds Kale. Indian business is more opportunity-based than creating brand position.

Eshwar gives an example: Digital door locks on the main door can be provided with the hinges of the door closing mechanism which will be a perfect solution. Instead, we need to provide door closers attached to meet this requirement, since the hinges with the door closing mechanisms available are failure models in the market.

Uday Shetty recommends using standard hardware solutions unless absolutely critical since after sales is a big challenge for customised hardware concerning delivery lead times and minimum order quantity.

FUTURE OF HARDWARE INDUSTRY FOR FAÇADES AND FENESTRATIONS The Indian architecture hardware

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industry, though rife with challenges, is slowly gaining more acceptance as consumers become aware of using good quality products.

Currently, it is in an evolutionary stage when it comes to technology, capability and size. This is directly linked to the construction industry’s performance, which is expected to grow by 20 percent annually, points out Sapru.

Going forward, hardware manufacturers are likely to see a variety of options for using cutting edge technologies and materials to optimize existing buildings and for pioneering plants for new building projects. The construction industry is poised for monumental change as issues like density and resource conservation will need to be addressed by design solutions.

Shetty too predicts that the hardware industry is bound to grow across all segments with demand for high-quality material to increase consistently. Local manufacturing will help boost demand because of lesser lead times and better cost structure to service the industry.

Subbaraman too agrees that there is a great future for this hardware in our country. The buyer has become more and more smarter as we go, they like to see variety and options to make their new home perfect.

That is where architectural hardware comes in place, to help us built the perfect home as expected by our buyers.

With various construction techniques and methods being followed across geographical locations, architectural hardware will play a major role in determining which construction method or technique an architect or builder will follow to design facade and fenestrations model in the future.

Currently, we see a growing trend in digitalisation which will also extend to doors and windows making them compatible with smart homes, says Eshwar. This can manifest in digitally controlled doors and windows, through proximity sensors, air

Bronze window hardware

quality, daylight or temperature sensors, remote access through mobile apps and much more. In the future, we will see technology functionality determining the design of doors and windows.

According to Kale, the future for hardware is in automation and ease of maintenance.

INNOVATIVE HARDWARE PRODUCTS FOR WINDOWS/ DOORS Eshwar from Casagrand says that they have explored the following innovative design at some of their projects: • Glass hand railings being used as an interesting element in facade design • The usage of the patch fittings for main doors and main doors with automated types

Window Stays in brass

©Encraft

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Smart touch bolt

• Longer windows with sliding details provided along with railings for bedrooms, and French doors/windows for the living and dining facing balconies.

CONCLUSION: A door with the right hardware

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©Encraft

A project in Surat with fixed sliding door & window

©Encraft

Kale spoke about innovative products from Sobinco like chrono casement, multipoint door locks, and concealed hinges for casement and turn tilt windows.

When it comes to glass façade buildings, observes Shetty, we see a growing concern in the minds of fire officers related to fire and one of its major consequences, i.e immense smoke generation.

Remember, smoke is the real killer, reminds Shetty. He adds that with innovative systems, we can use the openable windows in buildings now with automation capabilities connected to the fire alarm system and/or BMS to vent the smoke in the early stages of the fire using the AOV (automatic opening vents). We can achieve this by using projectspecific smoke control solutions coupled with window automation on façades with systems tested to EN 12101 respectively. For a successful implementation, this would require us to be on board from the design stages of the façade. This will prove beneficial for the occupants, fire officers and reduce the damages to the buildings itself.

Parnkuti Resort at Yeour Hills, Thane, Maharashtra - sliding door

A retail project in Pune with sliding door, casement window & fixed window

serves the purpose; without it, the door is merely a plank of wood.

The right hardware including hinges, door closers, handles, locks and accessories, when installed, provides the true functionality of assembly, operation, security and convenience to a door or a window. Hardware should be chosen carefully for their reliability, technical performance, aesthetic appeal and value for money.

The key factors to consider are compatibility with the profile, corrosion resistance, cycle performance backed by proper testing and certification.

It is natural that aesthetics gets importance along with

the functionality and durability of products. the wrong kind of hardware not only will render the door/window inoperative but will also result in losses in terms of cost and time. The right kind of hardware should be chosen to protect the building from the climatic effects as also for the safety and aesthetics of the building.

Choosing the right product supplier over the available range of suppliers is easy if the criteria is based on quality and safety. The future of the hardware industry is bright and the focus needs to be on innovation and adaptation to the requirements of the customers as also on sustainability and quality.

Cover Story

“It is Important that We Use the Right Hardware for Our Own Security & Safety”

SHIJU BHASKARAN

Project Manager, Turner Project Management India

P

l e as e m e n tio n a fe w i m p or t ant hardw are t hat g oe s o n the do o rs a nd w i nd ows?

Mortice or cylinder lock, lever handle or pull handle or knob, surface mounted or concealed door closer, card reader, eye viewer, electromagnetic door holder, flush bolt, panic bar, floor stops, hinges, glass hardware patch fittings are some of the hardware commonly used in doors and windows.

Please comment on the need for choosing the right kind of

Façade bracket

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hardware for windows, doors and façades?

Primarily, openings in a building are the easiest locations to break in. Also, controlled openings like windows and doors are dynamic in comparison with other building components. So, it is important that we use the right hardware for our own security and safety. Secondly, the entrance door and its handle will be the first component that gets sighted or used by anyone entering your house, so it should be aesthetically appealing.

List a few factors to consider while specifying architectural hardware for doors and windows?

Door and window hardware are of day to day use. Therefore, it is imperative that factors like hardware durability, strength and easiness in use should be kept in mind during the selection process.

It is also better to avoid sharp edges. The designer may specify a product by considering the extent of exposure, the function of the building and individual room. It is also advisable to use products with quality standard certifications. Fire resisting requirements should be specified.

Bracket cover

Please brief on the evolution of door and window hardware over the past two decades.

Globalisation has allowed the economic and industrial institutions to interact freely without any major border restrictions. This facilitated many international companies to market their products in the Indian market at competitive rates. This influx of products increased the competition, which in turn benefited the customers by providing them with innovative hardware products with an assortment of finishes and mechanisms. The gyration in the field of information technology has brought about access control and access management systems.

Kindly throw some light on the latest technologies and materials for architectural hardware available in the Indian market?

Door and window automation has gained more popularity in India in recent years. Key card using magnetic strip or RFID reader technology is used for the security systems for office, commercial and hospitality buildings.

Also, many of the hardware manufacturers have added a variety of shades and finishes in their

Insert U channel

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Unitised façade installation

standard product portfolio. Colour customisation to match with the design theme became easy to achieve. Heavy-duty pivots with adjustable points are now available to support large shutters that require minimum efforts to operate.

Concealed hinges and concealed door closures have provided more design flexibility to the designers.

Glass partitions, shutters and patch fittings are immensely used.

Are there enough products available in the market, which would satisfy the needs of architects/developers and builders?

There is no dearth of products in the market for the common uses. Continuous improvement and innovation are inevitable and the Indian market can definitely accommodate more competitive products.

Please explain the standards and certifications you look for, to make sure that their products are of superior quality?

BIS / ISI marks are the general quality marks for the products in India. However, the Indian market has a great scope of improvement in ensuring quality marks for many architectural hardware products.

Many hardware companies have achieved ISO 9001 certifications for quality management though, which can be looked into. Products with CE mark represent conformity to EU standards.

Tell us about customised architectural hardware? What are the advantages and hurdles façade by you regarding customisation?

Customisation of hardware is generally done to satisfy the specific design intent or to take care of a unique function of a building or room.

Customisation helps to improve aesthetic performance and also caters to individual customer preferences. Quality, functionality and durability should not be compromised during customisation.

Stick system

Tell us about the future of the Architecture Hardware industry for façades and fenestrations?

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 6-7% annual growth was expected in the field of architectural hardware industry in the next five years. The economic slowdown is anticipated to last for one year due to the virus.

More IT and smartphonebased automation is expected

in the near future, hence suitable hardware will be required. Also, the contribution of Nanotechnologies like Nanomyte coating and the contribution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the design and manufacturing may be future revolutions.

Please give us a brief note on your latest project in which façade / fenestration hardware products are used innovatively?

Turner International has successfully handed over ‘Talan Towers’, a mixed-use project comprising luxurious hotel and residence in Nur Sultan, Kazakhstan during the end of 2017.

The performance of external doors and windows were extremely important to reduce the impact of stack effect due to pressure differences caused by extreme outdoor temperatures which may even go lower than -350C. The selection of air and acoustic seal and gaskets was done carefully to minimise the draft. Also, heavyduty customised pull/push handles were used to open the doors in high air pressure conditions.

The above project had a stateof-the-art façade, which is a combination of natural limestone, insulated aluminium and triple glazing filled with inert glass.

Unitised panels were heavy due to the above combination. Heavyduty insert channels and brackets were therefore used to connect the façade panels with the concrete structure.

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Cover Story

“Use Right Hardware for the Right Applications”

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l e as e m e n tio n a fe w i m p or t ant hardw are t hat g oe s o n the do o rs a nd w i nd ows?

Apart from the standard model of single-point locking with Cockspur Handles, PVC-U doors and windows are characterised by the ability to be locked at multiple points for added safety and better sealing.

This is done by Espagnolettes with multiple locking points, strikers and operated by an appropriate handle, both in casement as well as sliding doors and windows.

Friction hinges for windows and 3D, 2D and Butt hinges for doors provide the necessary hinge action in casement doors and windows, while rollers, both single and double nylon or steel-wheeled, swing or adjustable, provide the movement to sliding doors and windows.

However, of late, a plethora of specialised hardware for tilt & turn, slide & fold, lift & slide, tilt & slide, slide & pivot and vertical windows and doors have evolved and are increasingly being brought into use.

Please comment on the need for choosing the right kind of hardware for windows and doors?

Hardware to a window/door is like the true engine oil, lubricant, wheels and parts which is to a car. You may choose the best, most durable, profiles and glass, but compromise to the hardware

Outward opening PVC-U casement window handles

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is critical to the life durability and functionality to the operations of the door/ window.

List a few factors to consider while specifying architectural hardware for doors and windows?

• Size of the window/door • Weight of the window/door • Static and dynamic load conditions on-site • Safety and security requirements • Atmospheric conditions, like corrosive environment at the point of use • Profile dimensions like width, depth and, presence/absence of Euro Groove on profile • Severity of recurrence of use per unit time interval • Any special client specified requirements like night ventilation or ergonomic requirements, etc.

Type of hardware determines the profile to be used, not vice versa Please brief on the evolution of door and window hardware over the past decade Well, as concerned with the evolution, the growth of the uPVC Industry has driven the prices south and also increased the use of sliding windows especially in major parts of south and north India and least is taken into account for the hardware. Even now, some touch locks with absolutely least

Sliding window handles for PVC-U

AMIT MALHOTRA Leader, McCoy Group

functionality are being used. Also, espags and locking devices and handles causing poor quality are frequently used in windows.

Kindly throw some light on the latest technologies and materials for architectural hardware available in the Indian market?

The entire range of products from around the world are fully available in India and also at most affordable prices. The inclination to use them by own choice is not moving ahead.

I hope that after this disaster ‘Covid’, we could expect an accelerative movement to use the right hardware for the right applications.

Just to explain, for a 70 Kg door, two small rollers of Nylon which can hardly bear 20 kg cannot suffice.

Similar are the examples applied for handles, friction hinges and espags of even quality of SS 304 vs SS 201 in use of friction stays. Mental awareness and consciousness must arise to use the best suitable, quality hardware.

Low neck PVC-U sliding window handles

Cover Story

Friction hinges Thunder Magnum, Power and Rock for PVC-U and aluminium

Please explain the standards followed by architectural hardware manufacturers in India, to make sure that their products are of superior quality?

Most of the hardware used or manufactured for uPVC or aluminium doors and windows come from Germany, Italy, Turkey Spain, France and China and are mostly top-end products, following best standards. Quality awareness is high among the users and fabricators.

Are there enough products available in the market which would satisfy the needs of architects/developers?

Yes, in most cases.

Tell us about customised architectural hardware? What are the advantages and hurdles façade by you regarding

Single/double, grooved/flat nylon wheel rollers for PVC-U

Heavy duty adjustable double wheeled rollers for PVC-U

customisation?

Customisation usually needs economies of scale and functionality. The total market in India for low-cost aluminum windows are still the highest.

Therefore, cheaper, just operable, not the best functional hardware is used in a lot of projects.

for windows and doors?

At McCoy 8 M, we produce the entire range of hardware products from the top manufacturers globally, who focus on quality, consistency, and tested certified products, We offer complete test reports from the UK/European and Singapore test labs for the products.

We believe in our experience.

McCoy has been around for more than 20 years in business and do plan to be around for long. So our reputation and quality is most important to us. Therefore, we focus on quality, consistency and strong integrity.

Tell us about the future of the hardware industry for façades and fenestrations?

The future is where people look for safety and security and more durable solutions. The fabricator needs to say ‘No’ to the lowest quote answers to their customers.

Customers need to look for and should buy the most cost-effective yet durable and functional doors and windows with a focus on safety and security.

Please tell us about some innovative technologies used in some of your hardware products

Single point locking handles for aluminium casement windows

Multi point locking espags for PVC-U casement and sliding doors and windows

D handle sets for PVC-U sliding doors

Single point locking handles for aluminium sliding windows

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Face to Face

BRINDA SOMAYA Founder & Principal Architect, Somaya and Kalappa Consultants

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Brinda Somaya is an architect and urban conservationist. Upon completion of her Bachelor of Architecture from Mumbai University and her Master of Arts from Smith College in Northampton, MA, U.S.A, she started her firm Somaya and Kalappa Consultants in 1978 in Mumbai, India. Over four decades, she has merged architecture, conservation and social equity in projects ranging from institutional campuses and rehabilitation of an earthquake-torn village to the restoration of an 18th-century Cathedral, showing that progress and history need not be at odds.’ With MAPIN Publishing and the HECAR Foundation, she has recently brought out the book “Brinda Somaya – Works & Continuities” covering four decades of her practice. Over the years, she has won numerous international and national awards.

Face to Face

“Our Approach to Building Form is to Design It Substantially for Daylight and Focus on Ventilation”

NANDINI SAMPAT Director, Somaya and Kalappa Consultants

Nandini Sampat completed her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Smith College, USA. She then went to study law at the College of Law, London. Later she completed her Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Interior Design from the prestigious Inchbald School of Design, London. She returned to Mumbai in 2007 and she joined Somaya & Kalappa Consultants while also completing her Bachelor of Architecture from Rizvi College of Architecture in Mumbai. As the Director at Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, Nandini is involved in all aspects of design, coordination and execution of projects.

Brinda Somaya and Nandini Sampat spoke about their practice, their ongoing architectural projects, the role of façades and fenestration in buildings, latest trends and technologies in façade cladding, on the importance of energy conservation and the role of façades and fenestration in achieving the same, on intelligent and future façades and on renovation/restoration of façades of existing buildings.

Here is the excerpt from the interview.

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Face to Face

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lease tell us about your practice?

Brinda Somaya (BS): It was in 1978 that my sister Ranjini Kalappa and I started our architectural consultancy firm.

However, in two years she moved out of India and I was on my own. This led to the formation of Somaya & Kalappa, the company I founded and have headed for the last four decades. My work includes corporate, industrial and institutional designs that extends to public spaces, which has been rebuilt and sometimes reinvented as pavements, parks and plazas.

Each project is different, and each has to be part of its natural environment. We strive to produce work that is innovative, and practical while keeping in mind the social, economic, environmental and aesthetic issues relevant to each project.

Could you please talk about a few of your ongoing architectural projects?

Nandini Sampat (NS): We are presently involved in two projects with foreign partners. One project is an extension to an IT campus that Somaya & Kalappa started many years ago. We have been working with the New York firm for over 10 years now. I am sure both design firms have learnt from each other and mutually benefited from this relationship. The other project we have been working on with a New York firm concerns a very tall building in Mumbai. We have enjoyed the process of gaining technical knowledge from the New York team of architects, structural engineers and MEP consultants.

Tell us about your completed projects featuring innovative façade and fenestration designs?

BS: Our approach to building form is to design it substantially for daylight and focus on ventilation.

Natural ventilation and lighting

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TCS House, Mumbai

require façade openings in the form of windows, panels or grilles.

For the 100-acre campus in Indore for TCS, we conceptualised it based on the Narmada river that flows nearby. The northern side forms are oriented such that they open up to vistas integrating the landscape just like the river exits the delta at the Gulf of Khambat.

We worked with local craftsmen to bring in fabrics, jaalis and sculpture.

At the ground level, the buildings have been recessed to incorporate shaded walkways and the use of glass at this level maintains the connection between the inside and the outside. This element of glass also forms slivers of light in the night by providing illumination to the walkway and landscape beyond.

The buildings thus appear to be floating and giving the architectural forms a sense of

lightness while also providing deep shadows and reflections in the river plaza at night.

Façades and cladding industries in India have gone through a sea change in the past decade.

Tell us about the latest in façade & cladding material and technologies available in the Indian market and those used in your projects?

BS: Architecture, whether formal or vernacular, when studied globally, reveals many climatically specific responses to shading and daylight, ventilation and breeze and thermal capacity. Sun shading devices inhibit the solar radiation incident on a building. They can be a dynamic façade, projections, cantilever louvers, fins, jaalis or even fabric, which can be used internally or externally or in between the

IIM Ahmedabad, Gujarat – Restoration project by SNK, conserving the built fabric of the iconic and modern heritage structures, originally designed by Louis I Kahn

Face to Face without compromising the amount of visible light that is transmitted.

World One Towers, Mumbai - This project was planned in collaboration with Pei Cobb Freed & Partners New York, USA

building space, with the objective to cut the heat in summer and keep it warm in winter.

Glass is one of the most popular and versatile building materials used today. Solar control is important on south to west facing façades, since solar gains will be maximum during the hottest part of the day. Low-E coatings have been developed to minimise the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through glass

NS: The privilege of working in a country like India is the ability to experience and discover an incredibly diverse range of cultures, historical narratives, geographical topographies, arts and crafts and much more. As Architects, this gives us a very wide range of options when working with materials, methods of construction and innovative topographical solutions. As a studio we spend a large amount of our initial conceptual design time in researching and understanding these aspects based on our site location.

What are the key factors to consider while designing and installing façades & fenestration?

NS: Passive façade and fenestration design in the tropics relies on the shading of spaces and façades from the heat of the sun and harnessing cooling breezes through appropriate parts of the building. Circulation systems can be thermally open, shaded from sunlight, and where possible, cooled by local breezes. The extent of fully enclosed (and frequently air-conditioned) space is thus kept to a minimum. Building orientation should predominantly face north-

south, to allow for façade shading, and simultaneously allow generous glazed areas to admit reflected light into the interior. East and west façades should be designed with less glazing, as to prevent substantial heat gain.

BS: The concept of green is more than just a fashion statement.

Everything must come as part of a bigger whole, one can’t design a glass box, add a windmill and claim to be eco-friendly. I also feel that the success of attaining an eco-friendly environment is measured by the sustainability of that environment. Many aspects of a project may prove to be ecofriendly when newly installed, but the true test is visiting that project four to five years down the line and making sure everything works.

Sustainability is achieved through understanding the site, designing appropriately, the judicious use of materials and various other parameters to be respected.

Please brief on the technical factors which help to build energy-efficient façades and fenestrations.

BS: There are several reasons to control the amount of sunlight that is admitted into a building.

Whilst daylight is very important

Gokuldas Images, Bengaluru: The corporate headquarters of a garment export firm. Architecture reveals many climatically specific responses to shading and daylight, ventilation and breeze and thermal capacity

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Face to Face about ideating, innovating and working together. It will be about looking after our planet and conserving our resources and how we use technology. Upcycling and recycling remain the keywords for the future.

Acron Waterfront Resort, Goa: The concept of green is more than just a fashion statement

for the well-being of humans, well-designed sun control and shading devices can dramatically reduce building peak heat gain and cooling requirements and improve the quality of natural light of the building. Depending on the amount and location of fenestration, annual cooling energy consumption can be reduced.

When thinking of window designs, the size, tint and other aesthetic qualities come to mind. Low-e coatings play an equally important role and significantly affect the overall performance of a window and the total heating, lighting, and cooling costs of a building.

What are your views on future façades & fenestration technologies, and materials?

BS: Glazing has a large role to play in a building and research has proven that daylight has major positive impact on productivity and human health. The challenge remains on usage of optimum quantity and quality of glass in a building. We thus, need to understand on how heat is transferred through glass and the subsequent correlation between energy consumption and usage of glass.

NS: The future of design will be about collaboration. It will be

The Cathedral and John Connon Middle School, Mumbai: The stone building was restored to its original character

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BS: in this time of economic and climatic change, architects need to understand the value of retrofitting and re-architecture. We have a huge body of existing buildings which need to be adapted for the new generations ahead.

According to you, what is an intelligent façade? How can intelligent façades bring in the greenhouse effect and restricting intensive use of air conditioners?

BS: An intelligent façade is one that responds to the context in the most appropriate manner. Sustainability is too broad a term for me, and because it is so broad, people can say anything and construe it whichever way they want. My studio’s vocabulary determines sustainability from treading the land lightly to designing good lighting and ventilation.

For instance, SNK built a school spread over 12 acres without any air conditioning, by designing courtyards, using double walls

Nalanda International Senior School, Vadodara

Face to Face and planting trees strategically to maintain the air flow through the buildings during cooler hours of the day. We used the humble brick inside and outside and to create an “intelligent” façade.

You are doing several conservation projects. Tell us about your approach to façade/ fenestration conservation/ replacement in such projects?

BS: I believe there is a need for professional concern with the environment and an improved quality of human life for all Indians.

I think that is a belief which I have had from the very first building I designed over thirty years ago. This was long before “green” became such an important word in an architect’s practice. We have to go beyond buildings and work with programs that transform society.

Conservation of buildings ally with the green movement because of the embodied energy present in existing structures.

In Bombay House, where SNK architects did complete restoration and refurbishment, the old windows are replaced with doubleglazed units that are comprised of high-performance glass on the outer side and double-glazed glass on the inner side thereby lowering the heat gain and the load of the HVAC systems. This also mitigated the noise levels inside the building by 40 decibels.

Façade lighting was done with energy efficient LED fittings designed on three different circuits for need based use.

There are many cladding materials available in the market.

How do you choose the apt one for your project? What are the criteria?

NS: For us, the location of the project and the context, are the most important considerations while selecting materials. We strive to find the most appropriate

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Garware House, Nashik

response to the climatic and site conditions.

Architectural and sustainable strategy must go hand in hand in the design of the façades of buildings, with both, passive and active approaches. In addition to facilitating views and the appearance of the building, the materials of the façade (and each part of that façade) can contribute to natural ventilation strategies and heat gain and loss.

What is your advice to young, aspiring architects?

BS: Young architects are doing good work and I have full

faith that they will protect our environment and our heritage and yet contemporise design and take it forward into our new tech-savvy world. As an architect, you need to understand people’s needs and anticipate changes. One needs to focus on the aspirations of young people and the changes happening in technology and their lives.

I have always been very optimistic and there are great young architects in our country today and I am sure they will take India on to the world map of architecture; I have no doubt about it.

Rajabai Clock Tower, Mumbai: A challenging conservation project. The project required research and understanding of the structure's past and sensitive interventions to restore and upgrade using innovative solutions to resurrect the building and its beauty while making it function efficiently for today

Bombay House

Case Study

Fort, Mumbai

Somaya and Kalappa Consultants

The project, Bombay House is the corporate headquarters of the TATA Group of companies

The renovated lobby

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he project, Bombay House, involved the restoration and redesign of a Grade II heritage building. As the corporate headquarters of the TATA Group of companies the new design included high-tech facilities and agile workspaces.

The refurbishment required integration of building services internally, as they had occurred organically over the years. The design was conceptualised floorwise to represent the 'Evolution, Reflection and Metamorphosis' of the organisation.

Redesigned Core: All the services were confined to the core and rationalised within the building for efficient operation and monitoring.

Window Design: The old windows were replaced with double glazed units that are comprised of high-

Beautiful interiors of the Bombay House: The trees are a metaphor of growth of the company over time

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Case Study QUICK FACTS:

Project: Bombay House Location: Fort, Mumbai Client: Tata Sons Limited Architect: SNK Architects Materials used for façade & fenestration: Double glazed units Commencement Date: 2017 Completion Date: 2018 The trees are a metaphor of growth of the company over time.

The workstations are designed as an open office concept. The colour palette has been derived from the individual company logos incorporating the brand identity in the office space.

The workstations are designed as an open office concept with ample sunlight. The colour palette has been derived from the individual company logos incorporating the brand identity

performance glass on the outer side and double-glazed glass on the inner side thereby lowering the heat gain and the load of the HVAC systems. This also mitigates the noise levels inside the building by 40 decibels.

Façade lighting was done with energy-efficient LED fittings

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designed on three different circuits for need-based use.

Interior and Work Station Design: The ground floor depicts the company's inception and evolution, giving the visitor an introduction to the history, philosophy and contribution to nation-building.

Green Practices: This building is an IGBC Platinum certified building. The following practices were adhered to during the refurbishment process: • Water and energy meters installed on each floor for localised monitoring and operation • The UNICO system enables fresh air intake and is controlled through a synchronised building management system • Energy-efficient LED fittings are used throughout the building • Proximity sensors for lighting and toilet fixtures, low flow fixtures, water-efficient urinals are maintained • Low VOC based solvents for carpet fixing and paints • Modular furniture in this workspace is certified to be environment friendly facilitating IGBC and LEED Certification

TCS Banyan Park

Case Study

Andheri, Mumbai

Somaya and Kalappa Consultants

Water features, found throughout the campus, help to provide soothing relief from the intense heat

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he design of the project is an analogue response to a digital campus. The campus, designed in collaboration with Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects|partners, New York, is intended to be experienced on foot. Rather than grouping the entire program into one structure, the project is divided into separate buildings that are low to the ground to emphasise the natural beauty of the site.

The Context: It is a new architectural sensibility, based on the inputs of sunlight, daylight and air temperature in time and space.

The architecture and environment went hand in hand through the design process. The existing foliage was retained, and courtyards are a prominent feature of the design for cross ventilation.

The Design: The buildings are connected by the network of raised, shaded passageways, providing refuge from Mumbai’s intense heat and seasonal monsoons. Secondary skins were designed to insulate the building from heat. Rain skin cladding was used to reduce heat gains. Water features, found throughout the campus, help to provide soothing

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Case Study relief from the intense heat. Even when walking within one building, hallways remain outdoor spaces and the corridors had double sandwiched stone jaalis. They are connected by generous exterior stairways, encouraging people to move from floor to floor on foot.

Breakout spaces are incorporated into the hallways, allowing people to interact with views of the

verdant landscape.

The building was designed as a “thin” building to facilitate crossventilation, to reduce the heat load and to allow entry of sunlight.

QUICK FACTS:

Project: Tata Consultancy Services

As we were on a budget, we used cavity walls for thermal insulation to act as a heat barrier. We added more depth to the windows for sun protection, and to cut the heat and glare. This planning approach greatly reduces the building's cooling demands and energy usage by limiting the airconditioned space to the areas where it was required.

Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra Client: Tata Sons Private Limited Architect: SNK Architects in collaboration with Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects|partners, New York Materials used for façade & fenestration: Stone, jaali, glass Commencement Date: 2005 The buildings are connected by the network of raised, shaded passageways

Cavity walls for thermal insulation to act as a heat barrier

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Completion Date: Ongoing

Entrance Canopy

The corridors have double sandwiched stone jaalis

The work stations with ample daylight

Industry Speaks

“Partnership, Performance, Quality, Innovation and Beauty are the Values that Underpin Our Identity” Sayed Anwar Ali is the Country Manager, Giesse S.p.A. and is with the company since 2007. A management graduate, Anwar has a vast experience in the fenestration industry incremented by a relentless drive to strive for excellence through sheer grit and an endeavour to succeed by attention to detail. His customer-centric approach and leading by example, have led SchlegelGiesse to be one of the apex hardware companies in India and the region.

SchlegelGiesse provides innovative and high quality engineered components for the fenestration industry.

The products are sold into residential and commercial applications all over the world under the SCHLEGEL brand for sealing solutions to the aluminium, uPVC and timber applications, the GIESSE brand for hardware systems in aluminium doors and windows and the REGUITTI brand for doors and window handles.

SAYED ANWAR ALI Country Manager, Giesse S.p.A.

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In an interview with WFM, Sayed Anwar Ali talks about his company, its growth, various products, facilities, the evolution of fenestration and the architectural hardware industry in India, the company’s contribution to bringing about the current revolution in the fenestration sector, some of their major projects, and the future of façade and fenestration industry in India. Excerpts from the interview with WFM.

P

lease tell us about your company SchlegelGiesse, and yourself? How long the company has been in this business in the Indian market?

SchlegelGiesse came into being in 2016 as a result of the business integration between SCHLEGEL, a leading English company operating on the sealing-systems market, and GIESSE, an Italian company specialised in aluminium window and door accessories.

The merger led to the creation of one of the foremost companies in the window and door sector with 19 sites, 8 production centres, around 1200 crores in annual turnover and a business presence that spans continents, going from Latin America to Oceania with over 800 strong workforce. We are the international division of TYMAN PLC, a group listed on the London Stock Exchange, with an annual turnover of around 6000 crores, and whose commercial

Industry Speaks network reaches clients in over 100 countries, and our goal is to exceed customer expectations everywhere under the dynamic leadership of Peter Santo, Chief Executive Officer.

In India, we established ourselves as a branch office in 2007 of Giesse S.p.A, the inventors of “Cortina” the first Cremone handle in 1968 and have been a frontrunner in the gamut of hardware for aluminium windows since then. Our market presence has been reinforced since the merger with Schlegel and we are a one-stop solution for all kinds of doors windows and curtainwall accessories ever since.

SchlegelGiesse offers its customers a vast range of standard components and boasts over 150 registered patents. What this means is that we provide integrated hardware solutions and sealing systems for doors and windows in aluminium, wood and uPVC, in India, under the expert guidance of our General Manger Stefano Celani, who is responsible for the Middle

Branded Residence (Bhartiya City), Bangalore is a 24-story residential tower in which we supplied our Champion plus multipoint locking hardware for Sliding doors and windows

East and India market.

Partnership, Performance, Quality, Innovation and Beauty these are the values that underpin our identity, serving as a beacon to us as we explore new ideas.

The secret to our success lies in our ability to design, manufacture and implement cutting-edge solutions and in our single-minded determination to deliver added value in the field of windows, doors and curtain walls.

Tell us briefly about your journey with the company over the past 13 years, also about your major success stories in India?

I was working for a uPVC window manufacturing company (Fenesta) when I was offered this opportunity to bring and establish GIESSE in India, by Massimiliano Palumbo our Business Development Director in 2007. The hunger for accomplishment and youthful zeal in me jumped at the chance and I grabbed it with utmost enthusiasm. The beginning was

Reliance Twin Towers – Navi Mumbai: For this project, we supplied top-hung multipoint locking hardware and it was tested for 4.75 KPa wind pressure

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Industry Speaks humble. After initial rounds of discussions on the products and services to be offered in India, I had to register the company in India as a Branch office, find out an office space – not too big but big enough to house a modest team and a small sample display area. We had our first office in Mahalaxmi in Mumbai. Started with 1 person in 2007 (myself), we gradually grew the team and added sales, technical and logistics support and office help. In the initial years, we kept the stock only through distributors, but as the business needs evolved, and the business grew, the need for a bigger facility aroused. Thus we moved to a bigger premise that has our office, warehouse, experience centre and training facility in Juinagar in Navi Mumbai in 2014. Customers started appreciating our products and services and now we supply and service hundreds of customers, thanks to the acquisition as we got a larger and more diverse gamut of products in our portfolio along with the existing ones.

It has been an exciting journey and I would say that each customer signed, each project supplied and executed successfully, and each question answered is a success story.

What are the product categories offered by SchlegelGiesse?

As I mentioned, we have a full range of integrated hardware for doors, windows and curtainwall in aluminium, wood and uPVC vis-àvis a. Hardware for side-hung, (inward and outward), tilt-and-turn and security windows b. Hardware for sliding windows and doors with single and multipoint locking options c. Hardware for top-hung, sidehung in structural glazing and curtain wall systems d. Hardware for doors with single and multipoint locking options e. Automations

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Giesse Tilt and Turn

Top hung window

You name it and we have it. And we don’t shy away from new developments, as and when the market needs it. Besides, we have some unique range of products and boast of over 150 patents.

Please tell us about your company's facilities and structure?

SchlegelGiesse has eight manufacturing plants and a combined workforce of more than 800 team players. We also have a research & development laboratory which focuses not only on new developments, but also on the improvement of existing ones.

Our laboratory mainly engages in experimental work to find the best solutions for accessories and sealing systems during the

Washington House is a 43 floors luxury residential tower, at Altamont road in Mumbai. We supplied top-hung hardware, and it was tested for 6 KPa wind pressure

product development phase. Our manufacturing facilities follow strict LEED guidelines for building sustainability.

In India, we have an office in Navi Mumbai with a complete support system for the developers, metal builders (fabricators) and consultants. We have technical experts Suheil Syed to guide and assist on special or even mundane requirements. We have a solid sales team spread over all the regions

Industry Speaks of the country, along with a sturdy distribution network, assisting the customers on a daily basis on their requirements.

We have a warehouse having a stock of more than 500 items that we maintain at all times, enabling timely supplies, alleviating the most common problem in our industry – long lead times.

We also have a fully functional experience centre where lifesized samples of operable doors and windows are installed demonstrating various functionalities and applications of hardware and accessories.

Architects, consultants and even the fabricators can experience the working of such functionalities at the experience centre and make an informed choice about the type of opening they would like to have in their buildings. We have a complete range in the display, like casement inward & outwards windows, sliding with different types of multipoint locking systems, tilt & turn, tilt & slide, lift & slide, pivot, parallel window, out swing operator and many more.

How do you see the fenestration industry and the architectural hardware industry evolving in

India?

Architectural hardware and its understanding has evolved

Fully functional experience centre where life-sized samples of operable doors and windows are installed demonstrating various functionalities and applications of hardware and accessories

Giesse manufacturing plant at Budrio, Italy

SchlegelGiesse HQ - Budrio, Italy

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Industry Speaks considerably in the past decade or so. From the primitive hasps made of metal bars to secure the door/ window panels, now is the time of electronic locks and hardware ensuring complete tightness of the window/door sashes. The customers have been educated and they now understand the importance of having a properly sealed and secure door/window in their building. Much credit goes to the façade consultants who have through the course of years advised the importance of proper hardware, multipoint locking and other security measures for windows, doors and curtainwall openings wherein you can enjoy the outdoors when you want to while being secure inside when required. Educational conferences like World of Facades, World of Fenestration, World of Windows, journals like WFM and numerous other educational platforms have ensured that the end customer now knows that good hardware is not only necessary but is the backbone of a proper functional window. So yes, the customer has evolved and so has the market along with him.

What has been your or your organization’s contribution

Compatibility studies for each requirement and study of drawings are essential before proposing solutions

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Antigerm is the exclusive SchlegelGiesse antibacterial treatment for handles

to bringing about the current revolution in the fenestration sector?

When we started off, we used to get run of the mill enquiries for hardware like rollers, locks, handles, etc. We started meeting the designers and work shop professionals to understand their needs and realised that a lot of makeshift arrangements, as we call them jugaads, were rampant.

We initiated compatibility studies for each requirement and started pushing for drawings before proposing solutions. Once we received the drawings, we would study them and come up with the optimum solution for the individual requirement from our large portfolio. This helped us to understand the requirement and the customers to get the correct solution instead of just complying with whatever they thought was available. This, I believe, was one of the key steps that our organisation undertook in order to provide optimum solutions to the customer.

Secondly, we have a training centre where we organise periodic training on “Application and the importance of hardware” for the metal builders/ façade contractors, and other stakeholders on the functionality, selection and compatibility of various hardware components and to use them properly for desired results.

Please tell us about a few of your iconic and innovative products?

We don’t just look to the future – We create it. Innovation is at the heart of our organisation and we take pride in taking the lead. Some of our iconic products include: Antigerm™, which is the exclusive SchlegelGiesse antibacterial treatment for handles. It is based on resin composed of silver ions and water-based varnish and contains no chemical solvents.

Antigerm™ is the ideal solution for applications where hygiene is critical, such as nurseries, nursing homes, schools, hospitals, leisure centres, hotels and laboratories.

Antigerm™ antibacterial treatment for handles is certified

by IMSL international laboratories (UK Industrial Microbiological Services Limited), in accordance with the requirements of the ISO 22196:2007 OS Operator: With

Giesse OS Operator

Giesse

OS

Industry Speaks Operator, three functions are combined into one piece of hardware, with only 180-degree movement of a single Cremone handle, a user can now open and close the window, engage and disengage multipoint locking and ensure security and safety with a limited opening, also a provision of mesh as handle is fixed on frame profile and not on the sash profile.

C.H.I.C Concealed Hardware Innovative Components: A new generation of windows calls for a new generation of hardware:

C.H.I.C concealed hardware innovative components

Omkar 1973, Mumbai, 72 floors residential towers, we supplied multipoint locking lever-activated door hardware, and it was tested for 2.6 KPa wind pressure

Supra7-Handles

Concealed hardware for Side-hung and Tilt-and-Turn windows

C.H.I.C. and NP SUPRA handle with exclusive technology Giesse NP. The result is a revolutionary system of concealed hardware for Sidehung and Tilt-and-Turn windows through which it is possible to create a new kind of window, with reduced front section and hinges which are concealed within the profile.

As per your view, how important is the role of the right hardware in fenestration?

Hardware is like backbone for the body, engine for the car or the roots for the trees. None can function without the other. Thus, selecting and installing the correct hardware

is like giving life to the otherwise lifeless fenestration element. You cannot imagine a Mercedes to function if there is no engine or a substandard engine, likewise, you cannot imagine a window to function if there is a lack of proper and suitable hardware.

How well aware do you think the decision-makers are in general about the availability of the hardware products for fenestration, their functionality & categories? And how do they gauge the effectivity of the same?

I would say the decision-makers getting more aware by the day.

Now-a-days most of the developers

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Industry Speaks have a dedicated façade team that evaluates each and every façade/ fenestration element. Aided by the façade consultants and their expert advice, they take a fully informed decision based on the requirement at hand. Moreover, awareness is an ongoing process. Every day there is something new or something that has not been experienced before, in that case, we make ensure that they are presented with all the options that are available or can be considered.

For gauging effectivity, they demand the test certificated or ask for mock-up tests to be carried out at a third-party laboratory which is usually project-specific. All in all, the decision-making process is now much more advanced than it was ever before thanks to rising awareness.

What is the emphasis laid on R&D, especially for the Indian market?

Our laboratory’s tireless quest for excellence means you always get the best.

As mentioned before, R&D is one of the pillars SchlegelGiesse stands on. SchlegelGiesse laboratory is a powerhouse of ideas. This is the place where they take shape and become reality. Created in 1995, it is a specialised structure that provides support for research-

SchlegelGiesse laboratory is a powerhouse of ideas

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One Crest, Chennai is a 17-story residential building, in which we supplied sliding windows and door hardware

and-design activities and gives impetus to the development of new products. The SchlegelGiesse laboratory has a test facility that uses proprietary software to manage different testing and classification procedures in keeping with the most widely used international standards. Our laboratory mainly engages in experimental work in order to find the best solutions for accessories and sealing systems during the product development phase. In order to provide our clients and partners with the best service possible, we also carry out official tests on windows and doors in compliance with EC regulations (EN 14351). Once an expert assessment has been performed on a sample, we go on to run tests at our facilities in the presence of the Notified Body that subsequently issues the official report (ITT). We have a test area specially equipped with cuttingedge machinery where we perform operational and mechanical tests at regular intervals to assess the lifespan of hinges, handles, rails, tilt-and-turn windows, variablegeometry arms and other systems in compliance with the strictest

international technical standards.

We also have a test chamber for salt-spray corrosion tests.

Every SG product that has seen the market through the years, in India or anyplace else, has gone through the aforementioned process.

M3M Latitude, Gurugram is a 45-story residential tower in which we supplied Missmo multipoint locking in sliding doors with Asia Cremone, and lever-activated multipoint locking systems in doors

Industry Speaks What do you see as the main challenges faced by the architectural hardware industry?

Challenges are faced by all industries and push one to innovate and excel. The same goes for the architectural hardware industry as well. We too face numerous challenges like the flooding of the market with substandard cheaper products, price sensitivity of the projects, etc. But nothing that can’t be overcome by creating more awareness, providing good quality products and best services.

Buyers do realise that the nominal difference of the price paid for

Reguitti R60 recessed handle

good quality hardware eliminates the need for repeated repairs and service and saves them the cost in the long run.

Tell us about your channel expansion strategies in the market.

We have a network of well-stocked distributors across all the regions – north, west, south and a companyowned warehouse. Architectural hardware is more of a solution product than a commodity, so consulting selling is required. We have a sturdy team of well-versed sales and technical personnel who leave no stone unturned to help and support the customers. We expand our sales network through one on one interaction with the developers and consultants along with well-oiled distribution machinery.

What keeps your company ahead of its competitors in terms of services offered?

• innovation • integrated portfolio of products • outstanding products & services – ranging from presale compatibility studies, complete back up during the performance test, mock-up fabrication and installation to after-sale service • well maintained stocks so as to reduce the burden on façade contractors and enabling reduced lead times We take responsibility for what

Paras Quartier, Gurugram is a 42-story residential tower in which we supplied Missmo multipoint locking in sliding doors, and lever-activated multipoint locking systems in doors

we say and what we do, being transparent in our operations along with all the things mentioned above, have helped us to have an edge over our compatriots.

How do you see the architectural hardware industry evolving over the next 5 years?

Architectural hardware industry is the direct reflection of the real estate industry. Despite of the current bump in the economy, the overall outlook remains positive. As long as the country is being built, we are there to play our part and supply the best quality hardware and accessories.

Reguitti Q-Line handle for doors

Schlegel extruded profiles

Exclusive SchlegelGiesse handles

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BRIO EVO One idea, two designs

Two designs: rounded and square, for a complete range.

Redesigned recess handle for easy manoeuvring.

Easier and faster application on profiles up to 3mm.

Compatible with all nibs and counterplates.

GIESSE S.p.A - India Branch Office D 362, MIDC, TTC Industrial Area, Kukshet Village, Juinagar, Navi Mumbai, 400705, India Tel: 0091 22 27612146 / 64 l info.in@schlegelgiesse.com

www.schlegelgiesse.com

www.osakarubber.com

Regd. Off: 6/103, Mittal Industrial Estate, Andheri-Kurla Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai - 400 059, Maharashtra, India.

Ph.: 91-22-4204-4204 | E-mail: sales@osakarubber.com

Post Event Report

Discusses the Difficult Situation Faced by the Glass Processing Industries Due to Covid-19 Lockdown

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n view of the financial uncertainties and risk of life and business to the outbreak of Covid-19 and subsequent lockdown, Federation of Safety Glass (FOSG) called upon its members to conduct a webinar on ‘zero credit policy”. The webinar was attended by 281 participants across India.

The past few months have been rather tough for the industry in general and for Glass industry in particular on account of Covid-19 issues, due to sudden lockdown of entire industries to prevent the spread of Corona (Covid-19) which resulted in a heavy financial loss to all the companies with all ready to dispatch orders, orders in progress which mostly got cancelled by the customers as their customers refused to take delivery of any products due to the shutdown of projects where the materials were supposed to be used. The cost incurred by the processors in terms of raw materials, manufacturing cost, etc. got stuck with no customer ready to pay against their given orders.

The problem for the processors will persist even after the lockdown is revoked with labour and financial

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crises globally. The very viability of glass business in India is in question if this trend continues, especially when significant capital investments have been made in the glass industry and the depreciation of the Indian rupee in the last two months has further exacerbated the situation. The lockdown is having a very severe impact on business and industry with no inward payment and virtually no reserves, it is impossible for the industries to bear the entire business expenses such as salaries, PF, ESI, rentals, Bank interest, Bank EMI, electricity bills, etc. and it is certain that we cannot come out of this situation to normal in many years to come.

The webinar on ‘zero credit policy’ was moderated by Tariq Kachwala (FG Glass), who gave a presentation on the subject focused on the adoption of zero credit policy by processors and at the same time asking their customers to do the same. It was stressed on the payment should be before delivery or by irrevocable L/C and looking at the uncertainties involved in PDC’s it was advised to say no to PDC. The panellists comprising of Farhat Kamil (Kaenat Glass

Industries), Suresh Shah (Ridhi Sidhi Glasses), Ajay Patel (Krishna Tuff Glass), Ali Asgar (Sapphire Glass Solutions), Palaniappan (Masss Glass India) and Varsha Konidala (Balaji Building Technologies).

Farhat Kamil highlighted the problem of cash flow and the shortage of liquidity. He confirmed extending credit to its customers and taking the utmost care of those who were releasing payments even at the time of crisis and also offered discounts to customers for payments that were due.

Suresh Shah emphasised on not extending credit to customers at

TARIQ KACHWALA, FG Glass (Moderator)

Post Event Report

FARHAT KAMIL,

SURESH SHAH,

AJAY PATEL,

ALI ASGAR,

PALANIAPPAN,

VARSHA KONIDALA,

Kaenat Glass Industries (Panellist)

Sapphire Glass Solutions (Panellist)

this hour of crisis and suggested all processors should join hands together and this time of need and communicate to all at the zonal level to obtain unison.

Ajay Patel agreed to adopt the zero credit policy and assured to organise a regional meeting and communicate to all regional members to adopt the said policy for the survival of the processing industry.

Ali Asgar mentioned that he was accepting PDC’s only from the clients that regularly clear their previous PDC’s on time. He also confirmed reducing the credit period for all the customers.

Palaniappan highlighted on the problems to be faced post lockdown mainly the shortage of

Ridhi Sidhi Glasses (Panellist)

Masss Glass India (Panellist)

labour as a majority of them went back to their home states after the operations were suspended, and every industry will have to face the acute shortage of labour post lockdown.

Varsha Konidala termed credit a disease that will make the industry ill and called for a collective effort from all the members to fight against it.

Each panellist gave their opinion, which emphasised on the fact that the entire industry should come together and adopt the zero credit policy. It was decided to hold similar webinars/meetings at the zonal level and communicate with those members who could not attend the webinar.

Keeping in view of the decision

Krishna Tuff Glass (Panellist)

Balaji Building Technologies (Panellist)

taken, a zonal level meeting was held in Tamil Nadu and Gujrat which was lead by Palaniappan and Ajay Patel respectively, which was attended by all the respective regional processors and concluded with a very positive response. A letter for customers from both the regions has been sent to all respective regional processors which further to be sent to their respective customers regarding no credit policy coming into force from 1st June 2020 for information.

Other regions will organise similar meetings shortly to propagate the adoption of Zero Credit Policy in their regions and make sure the entire processing industry is made to a ‘NO CREDIT ZONE’.

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Post Event Report

Scaling the Vertex of Window Technology Zak World of Windows l March 6th, 2020 l Le Meredian, Surat

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ddressing the performance and functional aspect of fenestration and after successfully completing 16 editions in various cities of India, Zak World of Windows was held in Surat, at the Le Meredian on 6th March 2020.

The event was a great success which saw a turnout of more than 150 people in attendance.

Iconic cosmopolitan buildings require all the stake holders to strike the right balance between a host of parameters from conceiving the correct design to specifying the optimum materials and finally putting them together in place to materialise the epochal building envelope. What cannot be missed here is the extensive quality checks at every stage to ensure what is delivered is in line with what is proposed.

Despite a general slowdown the Indian industry has been witnessing, building construction industry in Gujarat has succeeded in continuing the momentum it gained after the last few years of territorial troubles. Surat, being the largest city in the state, is home to some of the most innovative and acclaimed modern architectural landmarks with glittering bespoke fenestration, which are holistic and high performing, research

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Post Event Report

SATHYA SIVAN

Vice President - Sales & Marketing, Zak Trade Fairs & Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd.

driven and sustainable. This utmost responsibility for efficiency and sustainability can only be achieved by precision engineering and exploring novel ideas for sustainable designs. In this quest, the event featured some of the most promising architects from Surat, who are working their way to make our "space of living "more exciting and comfortable.

With 16 completed editions in bustling and contemporary cities in India, Zak World of Windows was held in Surat, at Le Meridien on 6th March 2020. Specialists from the industry aimed at understanding fenestration and discussion on topics like design and application challenges, sustainability, building more energy-efficient building

SNEHAL SHAH

Partner, Essteam Design

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YOGESH SHARMA

National Sales Manager, Profine India

envelopes, the performance of a window, typology of a window, et al.

The experts from the fraternity had been involved in a panel discussion debating on some of the subject matters like - The key elements of window opening, new techniques, and technology for the aesthetic look of a window, and parameters while considering a window for projects and residential use.

The conference began with a presentation on the Koemmerling uPVC Window & Door by Yogesh Sharma, National Sales Manager, Profine India followed by Sayed Anwar, Country manager, Schlegel Giesse who spoke about Engineered Components for Windows & Doors. Architect Snehal Shah, Partner, Essteam

SAYED ANWAR

Country Manager, Schlegel Giesse

Design was the keynote speaker who discussed The Responsible Expression.

Ashish Kapoor, Director - Sales, India, Schueco

ASHISH KAPOOR

Director - Sales, India, Schueco India

The experts were engaged in discussing and debating some of the pressing technical issues in fenestration sector

Post Event Report

GAURAV GURALE

Regional Product Manager, Kinlong

India spoke about the German Aluminium System from Schueco for the Indian Market.

Gaurav Gurale, Regional Product Manager, Kinlong gave a presentation on the Influence of Hardware Selection on the Performance of Windows, followed

by Dhagash Acharya, Business Manager, Dow on Innovations in Sealant Solutions and Dhiraj Tewani, Deputy Manager - Sales, McCoy spoke on Innovative Sealant for Windows & Doors.

The event ended with a panel discussion on Evolving Window Scenario in Surat for which Urvakhsh Chichgar, Partner, Utopia design moderated the discussion which was empanelled with Ashish Kapoor, Director – Sales,

The networking dinner

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DHAGASH ACHARYA

Business Manager, Dow

Schueco India, Amir Hashmi, Chief Marketing & Sales Officer, Profine India, Vishal Shah, Founder & Partner, Aangan Architects, Adarsh

DHIRAJ TEWANI

Deputy Manager - Sales, McCoy

Patel, Director, Sangini Group, Pavvan Iyengar, Though Leader, Facaade, Jignesh Revawala, Director, Telesia German Windows

The panel discussion on Evolving Window Scenario in Surat

The moderator for the panel discussion was Urvakhsh Chichgar, Partner, Utopia Designs

Post Event Report & Doors. The discussion revolved around components defining a perfect window, challenges faced in installing a good quality window as per design parameters, variables defining the retail market and projects etc. making the event a grand success. The panel discussed components defining a perfect window, challenges faced in suggesting and installing a good quality window as per design parameters, parameters defining the retail market and projects, and consideration for selecting

a window type for an apartment complex, high end villas, hospitality and retail projects.

The aim of the conference was proper understanding of fenestration and addressed the issues like design and application challenges, measuring the performance of windows and their affectivity in bringing life to the interior spaces. The experts from the respective fields were engaged in discussing and debating some of the pressing technical issues vis-avis sustainability through windows,

functionality and usability, etc. The event also provided an opportunity to explore finest new technologies and products, which were displayed at the venue and that help redefining the way windows are looked at.

Organized by Zak Trade Fairs & Exhibition Pvt Ltd, one of India's most renowned exhibition on Glass, Fenestration & Aluminium Extrusion which will be held in Mumbai from 03-06 December 2020, Bombay Exhibition Center (BEC).

Many new technologies and products were displayed at the venue

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Project Watch

Façade Lighting Stunning & Functional

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ature and nature’s laws hide in the night, thus any austere or complex structures during the moonlight demand beautifications, which can only be done by artificial lighting.

The elements of the building, where an architect and structural engineers have put up a lot of efforts, making it a benchmark has to be highlighted as one of the most prominent elements of the structure, thus appropriate lighting can complement its exterior. The façade lighting does not only help

to localise the buildings and provide security, it also plays a key role in the architectural expression.

The illumination of façades should be done keeping an eye on the surfaces, materials and the degree of reflectance - the step to basic illumination of a façade is normally executed by breaking it into simple shapes to which a uniform illumination is applied and accent lighting is applied in order to emphasise a particular element.

The façade lighting approach initiates based on the type

of building (corporate office, hospitality, residential towers, malls, worship centers), and the type of façades like the solid façades, vertical façades, horizontal façades, façade with projecting or recessed sections, perforated façades, banded façades, or transparent façades.

Brainwave Design, one of the well-known names among lighting designers, is associated with many prestigious projects in India and abroad. Here are some of their projects showcasing innovative lighting designs:

The project showcases elegant and glamorous lighting without upsetting the contemporary architectural elements

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Project Watch

93 Avenue, a perfect space for modern businesses at Pune, has faรงades highlighted with elegant and glamorous lighting

93 Avenue, Pune

F

rom highly functional design to stunning contemporary architecture with art and sustainability features, 93 Avenue is an all-round center and perfect space for modern businesses. The new shopping mall & commercial space in Pune is spread in 500,000 Sq ft of retail space with 20,000 Sq ft of air-conditioned atrium space for a multitude of activities.

The client Raviraj Realty desired simple but elegant and glamorous lighting without upsetting the contemporary architectural elements. The concept started with picking up the vertical lines with

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direct view linear LED lights 3000K, and highlighting the canopy ceiling to look like sun spreading its rays the faรงade is integrated with giant media screen.

QUICK FACTS:

Project: 93 Avenue Location: Pune Client: Raviraj Realty Architect: VKA Architects Other Consultants: Sekkei By Maithili Materials used for faรงade & fenestration: ACP and Glass Commencement Date: April 2018

The canopy ceiling looks like sun spreading its rays

Completion Date: June 2019

Project Watch

Parshwnath Business Park, Ahmedabad

tilt 540 degrees to 270 degrees.

The façade was given even wash from a mast which was placed at 45 degrees to the building façade.

There was no light fixture mounted on the façade hence less cabling and easy maintenance. The lights used for the façade are DMX controlled and were programmed online from Mumbai.

The elevated glass façade was conceptualised as a rippled skin that covers the building. To add mutability to the form, these films were given a ripple effect based on preset parameters using the DMX dedicated software. With minimalistic appeal to the façade, the desired look was achieved with minimal light fixtures.

The elevated glass façade was conceptualised as a rippled skin that covers the building

QUICK FACTS: The lighting concept started with vertical features (fins)

P

laced along the corner of the Prahladnager and S.G. highway in Ahmedabad, the Parshwanath Business Park is not just a new landmark but a visual treat.

“As a designer the main intent was to realise the determined concept into modest budget without surrendering the design intent. We wanted to fashion a rhythm & dynamism while lighting the façade. At the same time,

the building has now become a benchmark in Ahmedabad. And it has become the talk of the town across India,” says Rushabh Patel of Apical Reforms.

The concept started with vertical features (fins). These were picked out by IP 65 RGB Moving headlight which has many features like colour changing along with animation, zoom in, zoom out, 17000 lumens, colour temperatures ranging from 2000K to 10000K, as well as pan-

Project: Parshwanath Business Park Location: Ahmedabad Client: Rushabh Patel Architect: Apical Reforms Materials used for façade & fenestration: Glass and ACP Commencement Date: January 2013 Completion Date: October 2014 WFM | MAY - JUNE 2020

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Project Watch

The façade looks impressive at night with its warm glow

Tropical Retreat Resort, Igatpuri

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he Tropical Retreat is located in the hills of Igatpuri off the Mumbai Nasik Highway, A resort project completed in 2016.

Tropical Retreat Luxury Resort & Spa is one of the Mumbai city's best getaways. Sprawling over 8.5 acres with lush green landscaping, with 63 luxurious guest rooms The client desired to have a façade lighting to reflect in the

QUICK FACTS:

water body and ensure the façade not only looked impressive at night, unsightly cabling should not detract from the architectural charm and beauty during the day, attracting tourists from Mumbai and Pune, by giving the development presence and charisma. The project brief was to amalgamate the block of buildings by picking out the features that would render the façades character best at night.

The concept started with the vertical features – These are picked out by narrow up- & down-lights in 2700K, giving an inviting warm glow to the vertical column. Narrow beam up-lighting was methodically planned to ensure the right amount of shadow and highlights, allowing the form of the building to be expressed from wherever your viewpoint. With minimalistic appeal to the façade, the desired look was achieved.

Project: Tropical Retreat Location: Igatpuri Client: Sudhir Mishra Architect: Arun Kumar Associates Materials used for façade & fenestration: Paint & Concrete Commencement Date: January 2015 Completion Date: October 2016

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The lighting concept started with the vertical features – These are picked out by narrow up & down lights

SUSHANT SURVE

Founder & Principal Designer, Brainwave Designs & Associate

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sushant Surve is the Founder and Principal designer of Brainwave designs, and an associate member of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), an award-winning lighting consulting firm based in Mumbai, India. He has over 13 years of experience in lighting design and has managed various types of small-and large-scale projects in India, Africa, Dubai, Oman & Nepal, including museum, residential, commercial, house of worship, hospitality, ultra-lounges, and façade. His critical eye for detail ensures that all designs that are churned out by the team are unique, correct and best suited for his clients. Surve’s role in each project is to ensure that the best technical solutions are flawless, unfailingly and powerfully integrated into an artistic whole.

Buzz

Centre Approves Land Use Change for Central Vista Redevelopment Project

T

he Union Government has approved the land-use change for the execution of its ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project in Lutyens’ Delhi. The Central Vista is an iconic 3 km stretch in the heart of New Delhi that runs from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate, skirted by large green spaces and comprising significant structures such as Parliament, the Secretariat buildings and the National Archives. The Central government’s plan to redevelop the Central Vista, announced in September 2019, has attracted a flurry of debates on cut down on public and green spaces, arguments on distruction of many national heritages, and on the project being awarded to a Gujarat-based architecture firm.

In this connection, the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry has issued a notification. The Central Vista, the nation's power

corridor, envisages a triangular Parliament building next to the existing one, common Central Secretariat and revamping of the 3-km-long Rajpath, from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate.

The new Parliament House building will come upon a 9.5-acre land near the existing building. Sources said that the Prime Minister's residence and office are likely to be shifted near the South Block and the vicepresident's new house will also be in the vicinity of the North Block. The vice president's current residence is amongst the buildings identified by the government for demolition for the project. According to the notification, a residential complex will be developed in the north direction of South Block and another in the south of Dalhousie Road, paving the way for shifting of the prime minister's office and residence.

The Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) is also likely to be

shifted. According to the proposed plan, the IGNCA building and nine others including Udyog Bhawan, Nirman Bhawan, Shashtri Bhawan, Vice President's residence are likely to be demolished for the construction of a common Central Secretariat which is likely to comprise 10 buildings, four on each side of the Central Vista, with eight floors each which will house various ministries.

MDDA to Hold Façade Contest for Students of Architecture and Civil Engineers

T

he Mussoorie and Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) has introduced the MDDA façade contest 2020. The contest will be organised for students of architecture, practicing architects, and civil engineers from Dehradun-based universities and colleges who have an interest in the local Uttarakhand architecture. This contest aims to seek different architectural designs from youngsters. The designs can be submitted on the link available at the MDDA’s website.

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CONTEST DETAILS Eligibility: Students of architecture, practicing architects, civil engineers, and other professionals.

Duration: The design can be submitted to MDDA using following google forms latest by 5 pm, 15th July 2020 (IST).

Prizes: The prize money for each

individual for the first prize is Rs. 100000.00 (Rs. One Lakh only), Rs 75,000.00 (Rs. Seventy thousand only) for the second prize and Rs. 50000.00 (Rs. Fifty thousand) for the third prize.

Buzz

Tall Residential Buildings in Kolkata Passes Wind Test Unscathed

A

ll the tall buildings in Kolkata have passed the Amphan test with only ornamental features like metal cladding and canopies being blown away by the express

velocity winds. The two buildings, in particular, the city’s only skyscraper The 42, and The Atmosphere which has a deck hanging between the twin towers, 152m above the

ground, underwent a litmus test when Amphan came. Both these buildings passed with aplomb.

All tall buildings are designed to sway in high-velocity winds to prevent the pressure from buckling under the force. So, when Amphan roared in at 133km/h, they swayed merrily for an hour.

The building’s façade, including balcony railings and glass, held up in the wind whose speed would have reached 150km/h on the floors above. The façade was designed after wind-tunnel tests were carried out by RWDI, Canada, and Windtech Consultants, Australia. Façade design firm BES Consultants used the data to determine the structural strength required for various parts of the façade. After the cyclone, it’s completely intact.

Pradeep Sachdeva, Architect of Dilli Haat & Garden of Five Senses, Passes Away

T

he famous architect Pradeep Sachdeva who designed Dilli Haat has passed away on May 31.

For Delhiites and for those visiting the national capital, Dilli Haat has always been a must-visit place.

It is one place that has left every Indian city in awe and a desire to have their version of the iconic ‘Dilli Haat.’ The 63-year-old fell victim to a heart attack. He also earned plaudits for his work on The Garden of Five Senses and research on the streetscape during the 2010

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Commonwealth Games.

Sachdeva's work has been a blueprint for many of the country’s

public projects. He believed that the streets should be lively spaces for all, and it was because of this theory of architecture that Chandni Chowk was roped in to pedestrianise. In an interview with a national newspaper, Sachdeva had suggested that the Chandni Chowk redevelopment should take place on a similar concept to that of Shimla’s Mall Road, Gangtok’s MG Road and the area surrounding the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Buzz

CP Kukreja Architects to Design Indian Oil Corporation’s Headquarters in Punjab

C

P Kukreja Architects has won a contract to design the state headquarters for Indian Oil Corporation Limited at Mohali, Punjab.

The project was won through a National design competition.

The design for the State Headquarters was selected based on the architects’ concept of understanding of three factors that includes corporate governance, climate responsiveness, and introducing workspaces thriving with culture.

The project encompasses the design of IOCL headquarter building, senior management centre, transit camp and residences. With a striking façade, the fluidity of oil inspires the viscous curvaceous forms, instilling a sense of curiosity over its visitors and allowing the edifice

to emerge as a beacon of progress for the city.

A confluence of art in architecture, deriving inspiration from the industrial nature of the corporation, inspires a fusion between a high profile functionality and imbibing an aesthetic appeal to the edifice.

The proposal also has been

appreciated for its resolve to manifest as a leading example of Net-Zero energy complex. Through careful implementation of energy, water and electricity conservation strategies, the architects present a visionary module of design which heralds as a smart development for the city.

“Greener Cities could be a Key Component of COVID-19 Recovery” - A Report by Experts

A

collaboration of industry, government and university experts in Australia have released the Roadmap, which provides six action-based strategies to grow more plants on, and on top of, building roofs, walls, and façades.

Sachdeva's co-author and Senior Deputy Dean of UNSW Business School, Professor Leisa Sargent, says, looking towards our recovery after the coronavirus pandemic provides an opportunity to change the way we think about our living and working spaces by combining green infrastructure with grey infrastructure.

She said, “Green roofs, walls, and façades require a diverse

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WFM | MAY - JUNE 2020

mix of professions and trades to build them and many jobs will be created as the sector grows. In Toronto, a 2009 bylaw that made green roofs mandatory on large new buildings is estimated to have created 1600-plus jobs in their construction and 25 jobs annually to maintain them.”

A Roadmap for green roofs, walls, and facades in Australia’s urban landscapes 2020-2030 was compiled by UNSW Sydney and University of Melbourne researchers with funding from HORT Innovation and draws on the collective knowledge of over 60 experts in the building and horticultural industries,

government agencies and universities.

Key recommendations include establishing an industry knowledge hub, government leadership, policies combining incentives and regulation, and education and advocacy to ensure standards in design, installation, and maintenance.

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SILICONE SEALANTS PU FOAMS & CLEANER SCREWS & FASTENERS

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IN A FIRE, SMOKE KILLS. FIRE SAFETY | GIVE OCCUPANTS A FIGHTING CHANCE

EXTRACT SMOKE TO SAVE LIVES. DON’T TAKE RISKS. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY

Smoke Ventilation is an integral part of a building’s design for fire safety, without it you compromise the life saftey of occupants.

The most common cause of death for fire-related fatalities is being overcome by gas or smoke.

For over 35 years, SE Controls has been developing innovative control systems that automatically open vents in a fire to facilitate the extraction of smoke, keeping escape routes clear for the fire service to enter the building and allowing occupants to escape safely.

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Creating a healthier & safer environment