Developed by Accsys Technologies and NFP Europe, and distributed in the UK by International Timber, Face Laminated Components comprise three or four lamellas of redwood and an outer lamella of Accoya, all bonded with Akzo Nobel (Casco) EPI glue. Depending on the component size, the product is finger-joined to produce 6m lengths.
FLC was developed specifically for the window, door and conservatory sectors and International Timber product director Steve Rogers believes it is an exciting addition to the UK market.
"They provide the joinery industry with a competitively priced timber solution that can compete with PVCu and aluminium counterparts, while also achieving the low U-value and sustainable credentials that are required by current and forthcoming legislation," he said.
FLC also provides a lower cost, high-performance alternative to solid Accoya window frames and doors.
"Face Laminated Components cost around 25% less than a solid Accoya window frame, while still offering many of the benefits you’d expect from Accoya, including dimensional stability and Class 1 durability on the weather-facing elements," said Mr Rogers.
"The other benefit is that the fittings are attached to the softwood as opposed to being fitted directly to the Accoya, which means you don’t need to use costly galvanised or stainless steel ironmongery."
FLC underwent 18 months of testing, including delamination and dimensional stability and external weathering, by Germany’s window and façade institute ift Rossenheim and it has been widely used in Germany’s window and door market since its launch in 2009.
Mr Rogers predicts similar success in the UK. "We believe it will be of interest to many business areas, particularly local authorities as it gives them a high-quality timber option to consider when replacing PVCu windows in their housing," he said.
