Roto Frank’s state-of-the-art factory.
German firm reveals its latest vision
With fabrication-friendly and cost-effective fittings being the need of the hour, Roto Frank has launched innovative systems that meet these requirements.
01 February 2009
Roto Frank, a leading German window and door hardware manufacturer, has unveiled its new ‘future-oriented’ aluminium hardware — AluVision — which is said to allow dealers and fabricators of windows and doors greater flexibility to respond to the demands of the market.
The high-quality system, which is suitable for all opening types of windows, is described as being highly fabrication-friendly and cost effective. Whether for arched or pitched windows, tilt and turn, tilt-only or dummy-mullion windows and even large and heavy windows, are not a problem for the AluVision system, according to the manufacturer. While the hardware combines state-of-the-art technology with maximum security as well as attractive aesthetics, the modular design of Roto AluVision enables it to be integrated with almost all conventional profile systems.
A pioneer in the manufacture of tilt-and-turn fittings on an industrial scale, Roto Frank has been renowned for creating effective solutions for door and window hardware that suit the varied needs of the international markets in which it operates, providing fabricators and installers with products that are easy to fit and add value to their own product ranges.
Christoph Hugenberg, the director of Roto Frank’s Western business area in the window and door technology division, says: “The company wants the current concept, which is characterised by particularly clear structures, to score points above all with architects and aluminium fabricators.”
Clearly-segmented
“The clearly-segmented product range plays a decisive role in the AluVision success concept,” says Hugenberg.
AluVision is built up on the modular design principle and is categorised according to the four opening types: ‘T' for tilt and turn, ‘S’ for slide (slide, tilt and slide, and fold and slide), ‘O’ for outward opening (top-hung or side-hung) and ‘D’ for door technology. “In addition, there is further subdivision within a product group,” Hugenberg adds.
The turn-only and tilt-only window hardware AluVision T is based on the T300, the low-cost version suitable for all applications.
The T540 model offers the same application spectrum in the standard category and features a consistent design as well as an anti-slam device as standard. In addition, it is applicable for heavy sashes of up to 130 kg. The Superior version can be additionally equipped with plug-in security locking cams against burglary up to BRG 4 (‘WK4’) and can integrate E-Tec drive technology and opening monitoring systems. The T540 Project series, meanwhile, facilitates easy operation of extremely heavy sashes of up to 300 kg, ensuring high security and functionality for large windows.
AluVision T600
The company last month displayed a further top-end model for large windows with a sash weight of up to 130 kg at Bau 2009, a construction trade fair held in the German city of Munich.
The premium innovation AluVision T600 sets new standards with regards to design and functionality by means of a fully-concealed hinge-side that is invisible from the outside. “Hinges visible from the outside – which then have to be colour matched – are now a thing of the past,” says Uwe Jakob, AluVision sales manager.
A further important advantage with the new hardware is that big aluminium windows can be opened up to a maximum angle of 100 degrees — allowing an undisturbed view out.
“Furthermore, the opened sash does not jut out as far into the large opening as with conventional concealed aluminium windows,' explains Jakob.
A single special component, also invisible from the outside, is enough to achieve highest weight stability with the standard hardware, he adds. “Furthermore, the innovative new system offers very good burglary protection for concealed hardware, as high security up to BRG 2 (‘WK2’) or BRG 3 (‘WK3’) is ensured due to the possibility of integrating the modular T540 locking system. Small, compact pivot rests here provide a lot of space for extra security components,” says Jakob.
Due to the fact that it uses the central locking system from the T540 system, the Premium version requires fewer components. This reduces the required space, ultimately lowering warehousing costs.
The following characteristics might also please Roto Frank’s market partners: the design and dimensioning of the pivot rests makes drilling holes in the frame unnecessary. Moreover, all hinge-side elements are clamped to the sash or frame. This simplifies the installation and shortens installation times.
In addition, it’s possible to mount and adjust the AluVision T600 hardware with a maximum of just two tools, according to Jakob. Also the integrated lubrication depots ensure less wear and tear, thanks to their permanent lubrication, and low-maintenance and smooth running of the “top model among aluminium hardware”. Furthermore, the innovation is supplied with the corrosion-resistant RotoSil Nano surface coating without surcharge.
Roto Frank’s aluminium products are produced at the company’s Velbert production plant, which does not produce high-volume products and is designed to focus on customer-specific special solutions in the project business. All processes are carried out in an order-related, flexible manner using ‘kanban’ process (production method) and in close contact with the suppliers – right from the aluminium machining through to packaging. The company’s 120 employees ensure that everything flows smoothly through the 8,000 sq m production plant.
Roto Frank estimates put the worldwide market potential for aluminium hardware technology at €700 to 800 million ($901 million to $1.03 billion). Southern Europe, South America, and Asia account for half of this while the rest of Europe takes 20 per cent and the remaining 30 per cent is absorbed by all other countries. It has established sales specialists as well as special know-how centres in Beijing (China), Montmeló (Spain) and Velbert (Germany).
