Gulf Construction Online - RMD Kwikform unveils safety screen solution

Manufacturers & Procurement

Ascent 200 has fewer components that allow for faster assembly time and a reduction in transport costs.

RMD Kwikform unveils safety screen solution

01 December 2019

RMD Kwikform, a global leader in formwork, falsework and ground shoring solutions, has launched its new safety screen system to accommodate the changing requirements of the commercial sector, covering mid- to high-rise buildings.

The new system, Ascent 200, represents the next generation of debris protection and was developed by the company using feedback from its customers. Ascent 200 is the latest evolution of the award-winning Ascent safety screen system. Innovative features include a new mast design improving strength-to-weight ratios and allowing construction of two wet decks and columns. Ascent screens are also slimmer in profile, improving logistics and transport costs.

After conducting extensive market and customer research, RMD Kwikform recognised some of the common challenges contractors face when constructing commercial buildings. These called for health and safety and debris containment, ease of assembly and solution flexibility, says a spokesman for the UK-based company

RMD Kwikform’s Ascent 200 encompasses a double-height cantilever design.

In light of this, RMD Kwikform’s Ascent 200 encompasses a double-height cantilever design, has a stronger mast which enables the class-leading single-depth structure that aids transport efficiency, and boasts additional cladding options. These include a corrugated perforated profiled steel sheeting, a fixed and sliding mesh panel that can be adjusted in situ, and the already popular plastic sheeting that allows for customer branding and advertising. There are even hybrid options that combine multiple options.

Alongside its advanced hydraulic climbing system, Ascent 200 has fewer, yet newly designed, components that allow for quicker assembly time and a reduction in transport costs. The new system also has the ability to provide fully sealed enclosures on angled facades of up to 10 degrees.

Ian Fryer, divisional product innovation manager at RMD Kwikform, comments: “Prior to commencing the design of Ascent 200, we spoke to our customers about some of the challenges faced when constructing mid- to high-rise buildings. The core challenge was around health and safety; not only for site teams but for the general public.

“With the new Ascent 200, we have delivered the highest level of manufacturing specification and design to ensure maximum debris sealing around the site perimeter. Another feature of the Ascent 200 is the slab jaw brackets that have been specifically designed for the new system. Once opened, the jaws allow for the screens to be removed without having to lift the system up the building. Ultimately, this reduces the crane height, and overall usage of cranes, in order to exit the solution.”

Fryer points out that another key point raised by the company’s customers was around efficiency. “It was vital that we provided a solution to our customers that could be transported, assembled and climbed with ease without impacting other areas of development on the project, or indeed, the surrounding locations outside of the site,” he explains.

“Finally, what the Ascent 200 embodies is complete flexibility with the ability to accommodate complex building shapes. This is where the multiple screen options were developed. Each option delivers the highest levels of protection and sealant, but it gives the customer more choice depending on the project and the shape of the building,” Fryer adds.

RMD Kwikform has also designed a range of additional components that further support the safety and efficiency of Ascent 200. This includes various containment and debris seal accessories, main slab anchors, edge seals and access platforms.