Architectural Hardware for uPVC and Aluminium Doors & Windows

The benefit of sustainable construction is extremely far-reaching

environments. However, waste can still feature here, and decision-makers must continue to recognise their responsibility in choosing the more sustainable product option to avoid sending any waste to landfill where possible.

The benefit of sustainable construction is in fact extremely far-reaching. Already, most AEC organisations are seeing the advantages, as 3 in 4 construction firms say the introduction of sustainability initiatives has led to better use of resources. ‘Greener’ investments can pay dividends across the supply chain in various ways, from contractual wins to building managers seeing a reduction in their running costs over time.

As manufacturers continue to improve the longevity of their architectural components and materials, building performance will continue to peak. When adopted, the use of better, more sustainable materials will diminish the need to replace or refurbish poor-quality products over time, decreasing the costs associated with maintenance. From an environmental standpoint, as the need for replacements decreases, so too will the material and packaging waste that has previously contributed to the industry’s eyeopening waste statistics – a win-win for all.

The advantage of applying certified architectural hardware is now clearer than ever. From performance benefits to dependability, all hardware - even the often-overlooked lever handles and flush bolts - should meet the requirements of their building, and there is no better way to ensure this than with certified products. From a sustainability standpoint, as hardware and building design continues to adapt, sustainable construction will progress, providing social, environmental and economic benefits for years to come. In general, building design will benefit from these raised standards, and right now, decision-makers can benefit from certification-led design. DANIEL MAY

Director,

Consort Architectural Hardware

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Daniel May has played a fundamental role in supporting product development and commercial growth at Consort. In 2010, Dan had the opportunity to build upon Consort’s international success, relocating to Dubai to serve as Head of Overseas Operations and Regional Director, Middle East. During his tenure there, Dan oversaw a significant expansion of the company’s geographical footprint, including new offices in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, India, the Philippines, the US and Hong Kong. In 2020, Dan returned to the UK to further focus on product innovation, diversification and expansion within the UK and globally. Dan has prioritised achieving the highest safety and performance certifications to meet today’s stringent industry standards, expanding upon the company’s bespoke specification capabilities.

Testing, Standards & Certifications for Quality Assurance of Hardware

VMC (Vertical Machine Centre)

When we look around, we are surrounded by fittings. Be it as evident as a door handle or as discreet as a cabinet hinge. We take it for granted that these products are built well and tested to ensure safe performance.

You’ll be surprised to know that not many consumers know what they should look out for when purchasing a hardware fitting. For many years, consumers have been relying on ‘Brand Identity’ to make an informed decision about a product. Besides, not all brand products will be thoroughly examined as per required standards, simply because testing is expensive and demands a sophisticated circuit.

Why does Quality Matter? The product needs to stay put for years to come – in longevity and functionality while assuring utmost safety to the consumer. By far, it has become a necessity. Certain quality checks are meant to determine how efficiently a product is crafted. Organisations are now committed to improving customer satisfaction by manufacturing and supplying excellent products per agreed customer requirements. Along with this, on-time delivery and smooth experience contribute to customer retention in the future.

Moving further, quality is directly proportionate to the environment. The better the quality, the better the environment around you. Locally sourced materials emit fewer carbon emissions than one being sourced from thousand kilometers apart. Sticking to this phenomenon, organisations win consumers’ trust and maintain their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) simultaneously.

Quality certifications such as EMS 14001:2015, OHSAS 45001:2018, and QMS 9001:2015 assist consumers in relying on a product’s quality. Carrying these certifications, the product assures you of rigorous testing, authorised distribution, longevity, and more.

Testing Cycle for Hardware Fittings The hardware lifecycle begins at the onset of the fitting. It goes through at least six different processes before being declared fit for use.

Salt Spray Testing Machine The cycle namely consists of the following: • Endurance • Humidity • Ultra-high temperature • Ultra-low temperature • Coating thickness • Material testing

The critical parameters are inspected under the expert observation of the technically qualified engineers at the testing lab to ensure the best quality of products. Each product is required to complete this cycle in order to reach the packaging stage.

The purpose of the testing cycle: • Ensures the reliability of the product • Verifies and validates the product application in an intense condition • To meet the regulatory compliance and standards • Real-time monitoring for any possible defect or deformity • Accelerating time to market • Evaluating product design or improvement specifications with the set parameters

The list goes on and can extend to a great length. Suffice to say that multiple elements provided and laid out here typically enter into a discussion paving the way for the nature of the product and its application.

The number of certifications would depend upon a variety of factors. For example, some are required by law while some by the trading region. And while tests are essential, the drive to create something new should be the end goal always.

Post-Covid Impact on the Hardware Industry The focus has increased to broaden the R&D resources and create credibility in the market to reach more people. Strategically placed testing labs help to substantiate quality and the standard to be followed. This not only leads to healthy competition but also promotes powerful knowledge and insights for the consumers.

Localised manufacturing is the need to keep the industry running while cutting down costs and pollution, without compromising on standards, quality and reliability. RAJAN AGGARWAL

Sr. Vice President Head of R&D and Manufacturing,

Ozone Group

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rajan Aggarwal is an alumnus of the School of Planning & Architecture(SPA), New Delhi. A Gold medallist in Masters in Product Design, with more than 20 years of experience in Metal Architecture. He believes in the right mix of aesthetics and functionality while designing a product. “We engineer aesthetic at Ozone by keeping all functional Aspects, Raw material & Pricing in mind while developing any product”. He visions establishing Ozone as the leader of Architectural Hardware & Security Solutions in the Global Market. Under his leadership, Ozone is the fastest growing brand in the Indian market, constantly innovating for the better.