The magazine of AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG December 2008

Division Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment Heating Technology Successful in business – Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment responsible in action

Heating Technology

Heating Technology

Division Kitchens and Refrigeration

Kitchens

Refrigeration

Kitchens

Division Windows and Doors Windows and Doors

Doors

Windows and Doors

Division Steel Technology

Precision steel tubes

Profile systems

Division Surface Technology n Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment Pages 12 – 19 n Kitchens and Refrigeration Pages 20 – 27 Surface Technology n Windows and Doors Pages 28 – 37 n Steel Technology Pages 38 – 43 Logistics n Surface Technology Pages 44 – 49 Logistics Vision Page 4 Premiere Page 29 Growth Page 37 AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG Amriswilerstrasse 50 · P.O. Box 134 AFG is committed Two AFG Slovaktual: CH-9320 Arbon T +41 71 447 41 41 · F +41 71 447 45 88 to sustainability companies eleven new items [email protected] · www.afg.ch supply SFS introduced Surface Technology 49 Contents

n Prelude n Windows and Doors Editorial ...... 1 Premiere in façade engineering: perfected competence ...... 29 EgoKiefer thermography campaign ...... 30 n In a nutshell 50 years EgoKiefer in West Switzerland ...... 30 News ...... 2 980 EgoKiefer XL® windows for the Trio building complex . 32 EgoKiefer wins innovation prize 08 ...... 33 n Focus RWD Schlatter supports «Bimboli» day-care centre ...... 33 AFG: sustainably into the future ...... 4 «The future of the economy is ethical – or it has no future at all.» ...... 34 n AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG Cash Employer Award: RWD Schlatter in fourth place ...... 34 AFG provides sustained sponsorship in education ...... 8 PFAP-48G SD57 EI 30 S200 C5: what does this mean? ...... 35 «Bilanz» rating: AFG placed 33rd and 34th ...... 9 Police safety advisers at RWD Schlatter ...... 36 AFG takes an active hand in promoting sailing as a sport .... 10 Nomination as the «Manager of the Year» ...... 36 Slovaktual: eleven new dealers ...... 37 n Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment Kermi flat panel radiators: 50 million times innovation ...... 13 n Steel Technology Golden elegance ...... 14 Forster gains new chances from the automobile crisis ...... 39 In future, STI | Hartchrom will focus on micro- and nanodispersions as well as coatings with nanocrystalline structures. Second Kermi Research Camp: female grammar school Fire protection certificate requires comprehensive tests ...... 40 students discover technology ...... 14 Factory network: www.forster-profile.ch ...... 41 12th TGA Congress on the Kermi premises: French architecture for an English park ...... 42 norms, safety and ecology ...... 15 Forster Profile at the BAU 2009 ...... 42 Ice cold politics in blissfully warm rooms ...... 16 Forster unico is mobile in Italy ...... 43 were looking for surface functions with high problem-solving Aqualux equips a naval school ...... 16 and cost-reducing potential. The special exhibition NanoPubli Miele Kitchens and Kermi: a joint appearance in London .... 17 n Surface Technology was designed for the technically minded public and featured Heating. Ventilation. Cooling: Hard chrome surfaces: also in demand in the food industry . 45 the title «Experiencing Nanotechnology». The conference Arbonia expands its product programme ...... 18 Future shipbuilding means efficiency and environmental under the heading «Nanoregulation» was addressing the re- A top executive with profile and experience...... 18 compatibility ...... 46 duction of risk through voluntary measures. This is important IHK Forum with Minister Dr. Markus Söder at Kermi ...... 19 Nanotechnology: venturing into the world of the smallest .. 48 in nanotechnology because, as yet, it is a field with hardly any laws and regulations. Nanotechnology works with extremely n Kitchens and Refrigeration small particles. It offers many opportunities for technical appli- Miele Kitchens once more in the limelight cations but also involves risk, about which little is known to at the Küchenmeile A30 ...... 21 Imprint date. « Forster steel kitchens at the St.Jakob’s Tower in Basle...... 22 AFG WORLD, the magazine of AFG Arbonia-Forster- Holding AG, appears three times a year in four Multengut complex in Berne: Forster steel kitchens languages in Switzerland, Germany, the UK, the leave a lasting impression ...... 22 Czech Republic, in Slovakia as well as in other countries around the world. A Forster steel kitchen for Pope Benedict XVI ...... 23 Circulation 23,000 Miele Kitchens opens flagship store in Zurich ...... 24 Miele Kitchens: an order worth millions in value Editorial address AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG from Russia and Hong Kong ...... 25 Editorial AFG WORLD Dr. Christoph Schönenberger Kitchen renovation with Piatti: minor details – major effect ... 26 P.O. Box 134 «Since 2002 STI | Hartchrom Frauentalweg residential estate goes for CH-9320 Arbon T +41 71 447 41 41 has been using elegant Piatti kitchens ...... 27 F +41 71 447 45 88 [email protected] nanotechnology.»­ Production Concept/Layout/Text Editorial: E,T&H Werbeagentur AG BSW, CH-9401 Rorschach Printing: Druckerei Flawil AG, CH-9230 Flawil

Title image: AFG is now committed to energy conservation to be sure that comfort and well being is still possible in the future. STI | Hartchrom works with nanochrome coatings reducing the required cleaning by 85%. 2 FocusIn a nutshell news 3 Kermi: the triple plus Piatti kitchens in Westside

So young and already successful: the shower enclosure series Atea by Kermi The Westside leisure and shopping centre in Berne combines the functions of marketplace and place of adventure. Here, in the has conquered the comfort class with its excellent value for money. Atea nursing home SeneCasita with 95 close care apartments, live wins you over with its elegant design, exclusive complimentary features and, in young-minded senior citizens who enjoy the advantages of a Piatti kitchen. In this development the senior citizens maintain their addition, a triple plus: 1. The comprehensive serial mass programme of four Atea own household, but can also call on a wide range of care services as base models offers individual options. 2. The Atea side wall with its uncomplicated well as a 24-hour emergency service with appropriate care provision. The apartments have a modern and friendly feel about them due to the combination profi le ensures that it is extremely effi cient to install. 3. What is new, clever selection of colours and materials. The Piatti kitchens chosen blend is that the Atea side wall can also be fi tted over the bathtub in a shortened version. in with the style of the modern, playful architecture used in the Westside development. In this outstanding project Piatti was able to show once This means that in the future, there are three additional good points in favour of again that economic solutions can provide a high degree of fl exibility as A real hit: the Atea shower enclosure. Atea. « well as meet top aesthetic requirements. Bert Poeckes, Senior Manager of ARGE TU Westside Rhomberg Bau AG/Strabag AG, explains why Piatti The nursing home SeneCasita in Berne’s Westside: was awarded the contract: «Piatti won us over with its good value for young-minded senior citizens enjoy cooking in stylish Piatti kitchens. money and timely delivery.» The strong performance and fl exibility of this market leading Swiss company are until now unsurpassed. « Managing Director as author

Roger Herzig, Managing Director of RWD Schlatter AG, has written a book entitled «Der Schlüssel zum Tao Te King» (The key to Tao Te Ching). The main character, William, is an entrepreneur who visits a Chinese sage to ask him to explain the secret of the Tao Te Ching. This determines the clear structure of the book: on the left are the old Chinese texts. On the right the dialogue be- tween the sage and William unfolds. The book provides valuable insights for all that are interested in sustainable company management (Roger Herzig, «Der Schlüssel zum Tao Te King», R.G. Fischer Verlag, Frankfurt/Main, Kermi: 50 million ISBN 978-3-8301-1133-7). « «Der Schlüssel zum Tao Te King» builds flat panel radiators! bridges between old Chinese wisdom and modern company management. In 2008 Kermi manufactured its 50 millionth fl at panel radiator. This impressive fi gure reminds us how, over a 40-year period, the company has developed from a well- reputed craft workshop into a leading supplier of heating For excellent prospects: EgoKiefer lift-and-slide doors. technology products. Now Kermi is one of the few manu- facturers that produce panel radiators exclusively in Germany. The company regularly engages in pioneering KMU Campus: «innovation» work and today holds a leading position in environment- EgoKiefer lift-and-slide friendly low temperature technology. « Successful companies have to get a few things right: quality products at 2 competitive prices, delivered on time. However, that by itself is not enough. door: 11 m – 36 m ! The KMU Campus of 18 September 2008 in Arbon, Thurgau, brought to Glass fronts are becoming more and more popular – light further fi ndings. Consistently successful companies grow faster than the and larger. You cannot imagine modern architecture market. This growth is usually based on excellent products or cost-advantages without them. It goes without saying that EgoKiefer offers achieved with innovative production processes. In consequence, AFG has made an attractive solution in line with this trend. During the sum- «innovation» a top priority. On 18 September 2008 «Innovation as a Strategic Suc- mer of 2008, the company supplied the largest wood and cess Factor» was presented and discussed for the second time as part of a one-day aluminium EgoKiefer lift-and-slide door manufactured to KMU Campus seminar in Arbon, Thurgau. The high-calibre attendees consisted of date. With a width of over 11 m and a surface area with all two dozen managers, managing directors and associates of KMU from Switzerland, Visit www.kmu-campus.org to fi nd of 36 m2 it was not only the production that was a challenge, Austria and Germany. The contributions had practical relevance, the lively discus- interesting information on the topic but also its transport and installation. The end result is now of company management. sions and exciting solution proposals were proof of the fact that «innovation» is enjoyed by the host and guests of the well-known gourmet Kermi is one of the few manufacturers a highly topical subject, particularly in today’s economic environment. « restaurant «Bad Balgach» in Balgach. « that produce panel radiators exclusively in Germany. 4 Focus 5

AFG: sustainably into the future

AFG follows the principles of sustainability and is guided by the objectives of the various interested parties. These can be subdivided into an economic and ecological concern, as well as a social dimension. The following examples show how AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG follows these criteria.

«Sustainability is a binding commitment for our corporation», decision: which material lends itself to processing in an environ- states Dr. Edgar Oehler. «Our resources on this planet are mentally compatible way? What are the qualities it provides? limited. And the current problems with the economy confirm What are the ecological consequences of its use? And what our belief that we clearly need to subscribe to transparency, are the ways by which it can be re-entered into the material fairness and genuine competition in our commercial dealings.» cycle? The manufacturing process has been designed to use However, sustainability not only relates to ecology and the resources as sparingly as possible and with the least possible economy, but also to social responsibility. This includes human emissions. All AFG products boast above average quality; resources policies which create a working environment that already now the majority of the whole product range can benefits employers and employees alike. be recycled without any problems.

Ecology as seen by AFG Motivating innovation culture For AFG, ecology means much more than «protection of the Ecology is only one element of sustainability. Equally important environment». We start with the material flow. All products is the interaction with stakeholders outside as well as inside manufactured in the divisions are examined for their creden- the company, e.g. the employees. AFG offers fair working tials regarding materials, manufacturing processes, service life conditions to its workforce. Members of staff are encouraged and recyclability. Selecting the right material is an important to actively consider working processes and optimise existing

Economy and ecology are rarely in opposing camps: saving energy and resources usually also saves money.

«Sustainability aims at maintaining long-term sound living conditions Sustainability in thought and action is important so that future generations can also have a good life. in the economic and social sphere.» 6 Focus 7

«As a company we always want to behave in such a way that the macro economy can prosper in the long term.» Values

innovations in manufacturing and the fi nal product on an insulation values; the doors made by RWD Schlatter have on-going basis. The group has been practising forward look- gained recognition even with security authorities abroad. ing human resource policies for a long time. An important Kitchens by Miele, Piatti and Forster belong to the world objective is low staff turnover because frequent changes of class in their respective segments. And the companies of the employees are expensive, ineffi cient and have an unfavoura- Division Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment create ble effect on the working environment. With its clear manage- comfortable conditions in residential and commercial premises ment style promoting motivation by participation, and its throughout Europe and increasingly also in Eastern Europe internal and external continuing education programmes and and China’s emerging market. a transparent incentive system, AFG has already achieved im- portant objectives: loyal, committed employees who share More performance – less consumption common concerns with the company and their colleagues The Division Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment has in or out of work time. The staff magazine AFG INSIDE reacted promptly to the increase in energy costs. With its pa- illustrates this constructive company culture. tented ThermX2 radiator, which in 2008 was supplemented With its beautiful and high-quality products, AFG puts the emphasis on long life cycles – and thereby on an economic use of resources. with the Verteo version, it has been proven that you can save For a free and healthy commercial system up to 11% in energy – without any loss in comfort. With the Focused internally on solidarity and performance – and clearly introduction of the environmental management system in ac- aiming for market leadership in all areas externally: this is a cordance with DIN EN ISO 14001 at the production locations concise description of AFG’s company policy. «As long as com- Arbon, Riesa, Plattling and Stčíbro in 2009, the Division has petition is fair, it may also be tough», says Dr. Edgar Oehler. further pursued its ecological objectives. Likewise, the Division also be fully recycled. In 2008 Forster Precision Steel Tubes Likewise, STI | Hartchrom has made sustainability a priority «Lack of transparency, incompetence, red tape and blind Kitchens and Refrigeration has long recognised the trend of and Profi le Systems qualifi ed for certifi cation in accordance in all its operations. For example, the company, which has the faith in the national authority endanger the sustainability the times: all kitchen appliances used by the company are with ISO 14001; since 2005 the company has been a member benefi t of ISO 14001 (environment) and ISO 9001 (process of our economic system. As a company we always want to in the top energy effi ciency class A++ (EU energy label). This of «CO2 Reduced», the energy agency of the commercial sec- management) certifi cation, uses groundwater directly rather behave in such a way that the regional, national and global means that legal requirements are already being far exceeded. tor. With its modern fl eet of HGV’s the logistics company Asta than using treated drinking water for cooling its rectifyer economy prosper in the long term.» As a globally active build- About half of the overall energy consumption in Switzerland is contributing signifi cantly to a reduction in fuel consumption: diodes. By using solvent-free agents and reusing chemical ing material supplier and technology group, AFG is already results from inadequately insulated buildings. This is where the values achieved are far below the legal limits. substances several times it was possible to drastically reduce leading the fi eld in many areas: STI | Hartchrom is the un- EgoKiefer comes in: the new plastic/aluminium window XL® consumption and the amount of emissions. STI | Hartchrom 2 challenged market leader in technical hard chrome surfacing, with an insulation value of Uw 0.7 W/m K reduces energy Exemplary company culture also made large investments to improve health and safety Forster Precision Steel Tubes and Forster Profi le Systems make consumption from losses through the window by up to 75%. RWD Schlatter has not only made its name as an outstanding at work. In addition the company has increased the number a contribution to numerous modern and historic buildings As its name suggests, the Division Steel Technology is focused door manufacturer, but also as an exemplary employer. This of available training positions in recognition of its social re- all over Europe with elegant façades, stabilising elements completely on 100% recyclable long-life steel. The Forster is clearly proven by the fact that the company was chosen sponsibility. Today, 24 apprentices in the fi eld of zinc coating and tried-and-tested fi re protection systems. EgoKiefer win- Profi le System unico provides outstanding thermal insulation as the fourth best employer in Switzerland during the Cash benefi t from an interesting future-orientated training pro- dows today are among the world champions with respect to without plastic insulation profi les so that this product can Employer Award 2008 – based on comprehensive criteria. gramme. «

As an international building material supply company and technology group, AFG stresses the importance of innovation as a driving force for appealing, sustainable solutions. 8 AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG 9

AFG provides sustained AFG’s 2007 annual report placed 33rd (design) and 34th (value reporting) sponsorship in education out of a total of 129 company reports.

«Recht Staat Wirtschaft» (Law, Politics, Economy) is the leading free of charge educational publication on the subjects of law, politics and economics for secondary grade 2 levels in German and French parts of Switzerland. AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG is the main sponsor.

Since 2004, Schatz Verlag in Rorschach, St.Gallen publishes «Recht Staat Wirtschaft» (Law, Politics, Economy) in the German and French languages, producing 150,000 copies. The publication’s content is oriented towards the offi cial curriculum of secondary schools, vocational and technical colleges and also advanced education schools. From the beginning, Schatz Verlag publishers opted for close co-operation with partners in both business and government, resulting in relevant and useful content information. As students begin to see that the publication topics are directly related to their surroundings, their interest in the subject increases. Accordingly the publication has been well accepted by the teachers who are an important factor in promoting this free of charge publication. «Bilanz» rating: rd th A genuine win-win situation AFG placed 33 and 34 Because of the publication’s up-to-date effectiveness, it has become a useful class- room learning tool which can be used for several years. The popularity of the pub- lication also creates a platform which spotlights the sponsoring company. During The «Bilanz» rating of annual reports is the largest of its kind in Switzerland. their training students at the continuing education colleges work for three to four Two professional juries assessed the 2007 annual reports of the 129 largest companies. years with this publication. AFG provides an educational tool that is mandatory for AFG were placed 33rd in design and 34th in information content. The publication «Recht Staat Wirtschaft» the curriculum (market strategy and company structure of AFG), a positive contribu- (Law, Politics, Economy) is available free tion to the educational efforts. The AFG website (www.afg.ch) has been integrated of charge from Schatz Verlag, Rorschach St.Gallen, at: www.schatzverlag.ch. in the publication and will be used by the students on several occasions. It was AFG contributes as the main sponsor possible to supplement the publication each year with new topics, among them The «Bilanz» rating is worked out in close co-operation with This assessment process then led to the value report ranking. and provider of know-how. the section on «Economic Theory» in the fourth edition. It covers all basic aspects the Harbour Club, the association of leading communications Parallel to this, ten highly qualifi ed professionals headed up of economic theory in accordance with the curriculum and thereby increases the professionals of Swiss companies. Only the strongest Swiss by Peter Vetter of Studio Coande evaluated the design side of materials’ acceptance with schools and teachers as well as its range of application. companies are accepted into the Rating assessment. These the annual reports. The jury complained that many annual In order to improve the quality and to bring the publication up to date, the teach- are the 100 companies with the highest market capitalisation, reports lacked new ideas. The tried-and-tested concepts ers’ feedback is taken into account for each new edition. The authors the 50 companies with the highest turnover, the 25 largest of previous years had simply been adapted and there was a are themselves professional teachers and contribute their experience banks and the 10 insurance companies with the highest lack of courage to incorporate more innovative features. from classrooms, meetings and curriculum discussions. « premium volume. This resulted in a sample of 129 annual The evaluation from the design jury resulted in the second reports for 2007, which were subjected to a two-fold ranking list. examination. First placed Assessed by specialist professionals On 25 September 2008, the award ceremony for best annual Prof. Rudolf Volkart from the Institute for Swiss Banking at report took place at the ZHW in Zurich. The top three awards the University of Zurich evaluated the annual reports for the were received by Straumann, Novartis and Credit Suisse. information content. The main focus of the evaluation was Straumann and Novartis were already winner and runner-up whether the annual report managed to reduce the informa- in 2007 while Credit Suisse is new amongst the top contend- tion asymmetry between companies and stakeholders. ers. This year the annual report from AFG made it into the The reason is that plausible value reporting builds and sup- competition’s top 50. In design it achieved 33rd place (last ports the trust and reputation of the company amongst in- year 109th) and in value reporting, 34th place (last year 74th). vestors, analysts, customers and suppliers. For this purpose For further information please refer to: 35 criteria were defi ned and subdivided into nine categories. www.isb.uzh.ch/publikationen/geschaeftsberichte2008.php « 10 AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG 11

Nathalie Brugger is one of the successful members of the Swiss Sailing Team. Olympic Games 2008

Results of the Swiss Sailing Team 470 Men 23rd Tobias Etter / Felix Steiger

470 Women AFG takes an active hand in 17th Emmanuelle Rol / Anne-Sophie Thilo Laser Women promoting sailing as a sport 6th Nathalie Brugger

RS:X Men When you hear the word «sailing» you may think of wind, waves and romantic settings. 14th Richard Stauffacher However, there is a lot more involved with this sport: top performances, team spirit – and Photo: Max Ranchi Star Men success. As the main sponsor of the Swiss Sailing Team, AFG takes a close look at its activities. th Photo: Tom Rüegge 5 Flavio Marazzi / Enrico De Maria

Well-knit team: Emmanuelle Rol and Anne-Sophie Thilo.

With the support by AFG, the Swiss Sailing Team AG takes sailing élite in Qing Dao. Although the results are not bad care of the tasks and duties of the «Performance Sport» de- (see box), the Swiss Sailing Team would like to improve partment of the «Swiss Sailing» association. The main task its performance for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. is the creation of the professional structures to ensure that Preparations are already in full swing. Swiss sailors are in a position to win medals regularly at the Olympic Games and in continental championships. «This St.Moritz Match Race – another racing event the 6th St.Moritz Match Race. In the final finish between the committment reflects exactly our company philosophy», AFG also supports the popular St.Moritz Match Race, which two best Match racers, the Nantes-born sailor was better on stresses Dr. Edgar Oehler, Chairman of the Board of Directors took place from 2 – 7 September 2008. For the organising the day. «It is great to be winning here», said the happy win- and CEO of AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG. «As a company Sailing Club St.Moritz, this is welcomed support because ner on behalf of his crew. Despite the rainy weather with low we also aim for leading position, yet at the same time we it is the only way to make such an event possible. The stakes winds on the final day, the 6th St.Moritz Race saw some excit- have strong local roots and therefore support popular local area high: the Frenchman Mathieu Richard took Englishman ing races. On Friday and Saturday in particular, the spectators Smiling faces: the sailing team at the St.Moritz Match Race. sports.» The highlight for the Swiss Sailing Team was certainly Ian Williams’ place as «Mountain King of St.Moritz». With could watch Match racing at its highest level. The idea of the 2008 Olympic Games in China. The Swiss Sailing Team two convincing wins taking place during very light winds, the inviting young sailors from Scandinavia, Australia and New entered various disciplines to compete with the international vice world-champion of Match Race 2007 secured victory in Zealand has proven successful. «

«After the races is before the races»

Tom Rüegge is Managing Director and Team Leader of So that means that you’re happy on all counts? Along with the Swissalis Group, AFG is the main spon- Swiss Sailing Team AG. He takes a brief look back at the past season, Tom Rüegge: That depends on how you define «happy». sor of the Swiss Sailing Team. What do you see as the however the new focus is on the future. One thing is clear for me: we do not want to rest on our lau- benefit of a sponsoring partnership? rels, but build on our success systematically, with a view to Tom Rüegge: The main point for us is the financial support. Mr Rüegge, what are the highlights when looking back the future. We have one rule in the Swiss Sailing Team: «after Without that it would not be possible to carry out our train- at the 2008 season? the race is before the race.» For this reason we already focus ing, to co-operate with specialist professionals and to travel Tom Rüegge: On the one hand we can point to our good our preparations on the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. to the different racing venues throughout the world. Just placing at the Olympic Games in Qing Dao. Flavio Marazzi think about the logistics involved for the Olympic Games in and Enrico De Maria achieved fifth place (Star men), What does that involve? China – the entire equipment had to be transported in extra Nathalie Brugger got sixth (Laser women). Tom Rüegge: In order that we can carry out a focussed train- large containers. However, we consider our sponsors to be ing programme, we are already now appointing the team for much more than financial donors. We also aim at building a And what happened apart from the Olympic Games? the next Olympic Games. For this purpose we are aiming for a partnership and making sure that they are re­warded in the Tom Rüegge: Lots of encouraging events. For example: fourth good combination of experienced and successful sailors as form of publicity, image enhancement and attractive customer place for Marazzi / De Maria in the World Championship in well as many promising young sportsmen and women. events. « Miami, Florida; also the title of Vice-European champion for Rol / Thilo in Class 470 women. We are also happy with our What are your other priorities? consistency in windsurfing: in the run-up to the 2008 Olym- Tom Rüegge: In the future we want to focus more on our pics, Richard Stauffacher placed three times amongst the top junior team members. Our training programme and the whole ten in the RS:X class. Then there was fourth place for Nathalie back-up organisation should become more focussed and Aiming for a successful future: Tom Rüegge, Managing Director and Team Leader of the Swiss Sailing Team AG. Brugger during the Eurolymp-Regatta in the Laser Radial class. structured. Our long term aim is the 2016 Olympic Games. Heating Technology and 12 Sanitary Equipment 13

Heating Technology and Sanitary

Dr. Roger Schönborn, Sales and Marketing Director of Kermi GmbH Plattling, presented the 50 millionth fl at radiator in the presence of specialised journalists of the heating and sanitary Equipment equipment sector.

Kermi fl at panel radiators: 50 million times innovation

To the rhythmic beat of the welding track, Kermi’s 50 millionth fl at radiator left the conveyor belt. In more than four decades the company has developed from a solid craft enterprise to the leading provider of heating technology products.

Today, Kermi is one of the few manufacturers that exclusively ator solution developed for bathrooms. By now, the design produce fl at radiators in Germany. The company is a regular radiators of the Credo line have become a synonym for bath- pioneer. «In the past 40 years we have processed roughly room radiators in Germany. The patented energy-saving radi- 1.75 mil. t of steel. That results in 325 km² of sheet metal, ator Therm X2 with serial perfusion of the radiator plates was enough to cover the whole city state of Bremen», says Hans- introduced at the ISH 2005. Jürgen Heigl smiling. As engineer and product manager, he is intimately familiar with every detail of fl at panel radiators. Complete product range With its innovative technology and the factory-set valves, the Company principle innovation Therm X2 radiator contributes up to 11% towards energy The energy crisis of the seventies fi rmly planted the subject savings and additionally creates more comfort due to the up of «energy saving» into the consumers’ conscience. With the to 100% higher radiation rate of the front plate. This much innovative low-temperature radiator NT 2000 Kermi sets the noted innovation is an ideal supplement to all modern heat standards. During the manufacturing process itself improve- generators such as calorifi c boilers, solar thermals or heat ments are also continuously implemented. In 1985 the fi rst pumps; it was honoured within the scope of the Bavarian KTL painting system for radiators was put into operation. Energy Award. In spring 2008 three new products were si- Utilising the technology which was taken from the automo- multaneously introduced: the Jive design radiators, the new tive industry enabled Kermi to assume a top position in tech- Credo-Uno and the vertical fl at radiator Verteo. The area nical development once more. heating system xnet has completed the heating technology product range since 2001. « Impressive milestones At the International Sanitary Equipment and Heating Trade Fair ISH in Frankfurt in 1989 the new plan radiator with its smooth front attracted as much attention as an unusual radi-

Kermi is one of the few companies who manufacture fl at radiators exclusively in Germany. Heating Technology and 14 Sanitary Equipment 15

Golden elegance 12th TGA Congress on the Kermi

At the Interbuild 2008 in Cairo, Kermi presented the golden design radiator premises: norms, safety and ecology «The new Credo-Uno». The Interbuild is the largest heating and air condition- ing exhibition in Egypt and at the same time the place to go for many architects and designers. Kermi shared a partner stand with a German heating installation Plattling, 22 and 23 September 2008: at the 12th TGA Congress on the Kermi premises, planning company that has its headquarters in Cairo. The golden bathroom radiator was specialists, architects and users from all over Germany acquainted themselves with new norms, the main attraction at the exhibition stand, alongside shower enclosures and ra- regulations and problems of energetically evaluating radiator systems. diators. One visitor was so impressed with the new Credo-Uno that he immedi- ately purchased it for his villa. In addition to the enthusiasm for the golden design radiator, the partner company stand was honoured as the number one in design and products by the American Society of Heating. Kermi’s new, exclusive product Against the background of the announced VDI Guideline range impressed many guests and designers and will open doors in the exclusive 6036 «Mounting Radiators – Planning and Calculation Re- The new Credo-Uno by Kermi shines both and design-oriented world of interiors. « quirements» Dr. Ing. Lothar Höher of the Institute for Façade technically and visually – even in gold. and Fastening Technology, IFBT GmbH, gave a presentation on objectives and status of the VDI Guideline, which is meant to close a gap in the current regulations and norms. In doing so, the foreseeable wrong applications, the quantification of the overall system of radiator and mounting as well as the deriving safety concept are the focal points of the consider­ ations from the guideline commission to which Dr. Ing. Höher belongs. The connection to the various potential liabilities for planners, installation companies, manufacturers and traders Second Kermi Research Camp: female was established by Prof. Dr. Josef Scherer, who knowledgeably grammar school students discover technology illuminated the various aspects of the problem in his function The 12th TGA Congress at Kermi once more resulted as a renowned lawyer specialising in risk and crisis manage- in current first-hand information on the subjects of safety, risk management and ecology. From 24 – 29 August 2008, Kermi GmbH in Plattling once again welcomed 10 girls that spent their holidays ment. In particular, the demonstrated measures for risk avoid- at a camp for female researchers with the purpose of occupational orientation. ance, reduction and shifting were of great interest to the congress participants. The first day of the congress ended Camps for female researchers are part of the educational and practical work. The girls additionally benefited from in- with a dinner and a programme by vernacular singer Horst Sanitary Equipment, Heating and Climate) and the ZIV he project «Technology – A Future in Bavaria?!» and are the teresting information on career choice, applicant training and Eberl, who entertained the participants with his satirical and illustrated the huge relevance of the heating check, as both result of an initiative of the bbw e.V. (Vocational Training interview tips. A diversified leisure time programme rounded cheerful songs. tests impressively prove the large energy saving potential in Institution of Bavarian Economy). Its objective is to motivate off the week. On the last day of the camp the «temporary existing heating systems. When explaining the heating check, more young women to take on studies in engineering. Only engineers» presented the research results to a select audience Energy efficiency as an important topic he included practical questions of the participants and out- an approximate 10% of all students studying to date are consisting of representatives from regional politics, education, Prof. Dr. Ing. Bert Oschatz, Professor for Technical Building lined optimisation possibilities as well as the hydraulic equali- women. For Kermi GmbH this is also one step of many to be economy, parents and the press. The research assignment was Services specialising in Heating Technology at the University sation process. According to the engineer with a postdoctoral able to meet the future requirements for engineers. In cooper- entitled: «The Development of Radiators with Emphasis on of Zittau/Görlitz (FH), explained the comprehensive range of teaching qualification, the procedure, which is standardised ation with the University of Applied Sciences in Deggendorf, the Future Trends in Technology». The group of ten grammar instruments of DIN V 18599 on the energetic evaluation of according to DIN EN 15378, is simple and quick for an ap- this year’s participants of the 2nd camp for female researchers school pupils was accompanied by a project team consisting non-resident buildings. His arguments based on theory and proximate evaluation of the energy efficiency of radiators in were also able to obtain insights into the engineering profes- of representatives of Kermi GmbH, the University for Applied practice, in particular, enlivened the discussion. In his second residential buildings. The event ended with a guided factory sion – through lectures, project work, laboratory experiments Sciences as well as bbw e.V. advisors. « presentation, Bert Oschatz introduced the energetic inspec- tour through Kermi’s radiator manufacturing facilities. The tion of heating systems by means of the heating check. Based documents relating to the expert presentations can be down- on the field tests of the ZVSHK (the Central Association for loaded from the partner section at www.kermi.de «

An overview of the VDI

With approximately 135,000 individual members, includ- As a non-profit organisation independent of economic ing 20% students and young engineers under 33 years and party political interests, it represents the engineers’ of age, the VDI (German Engineer Association) is one of and students’ professional and sociopolitical interests. Europe’s largest technological scientific associations. In Its work’s objective is transferring technical knowledge Germany it is seen as the voice of engineers and technology as a service for all professional and student engineers as well as the leading institute for further training and ex- and natural scientists, for the companies, the State and Engineering – a profession with a future: change of experiences for technical experts and managers. the public. the female researchers camp is meant to specifically address young women. Heating Technology and 16 Sanitary Equipment 17

Ice cold politics

in blissfully warm

rooms

The Federal parliament building is the site of the Swiss government (Federal Council) and place of assembly of the National Council and Council of States (Parliament). Here, Prolux radiators guarantee con­ sistently pleasant room temperatures during heated debates and ice-cold politics.

800 Prolux radiators guarantee pleasant temperatures in the Federal The Federal Parliament Building was completed in 1902 ac- Invisible to guests and MPs: the Prolux radiators in the National Council Hall. Elegant and discreetly integrated: Parliament Building in Berne. cording to plans by architect Hans Wilhelm Auer (1847 to the Prolux radiators. 1906) while exclusively using Swiss materials. The building consists of three parts: the Federal Parliament Building West (former Federal Townhall 1852 to 1857), the Federal Parliament Building East (1888 to 1892) and the imposing Parliament Building at the centre (completed in 1902). The building’s unusually rich décor with ornamental natural stone is always remarked upon and is presented in a specially de- part­ment of Foreign Affairs (Foreign Office). Prolux AG has signed publication. The three edifices are cultural artifacts provided all radiators – approximately 800 – in all kinds of and historical landmarks. different versions, shapes and colours for all three sections of «The Federal the building as well as the government building «Bernerhof». Parliament Building shines A pleasant ambience thanks to Prolux Most of the radiators are integrated in such a way that they Since May 2006 the Federal Parliament Building underwent are not visible to the MPs. In close collaboration with the en- in its old splendour – renovations worth approximately CHF 96 mil. and stayed true gineer on site measurements were taken, solutions explored heated by Prolux radiators. to the motto «shine in old splendour» until the construction and measures implemented to meet the «Bundeshaus» chal- »­ work was completed in 2008. The objective was to perma- lenge to the client’s satisfaction. In doing so, particular em- nently accommodate the Federal Chancellery, the Parliamen- phasis was placed on the diligent interior design and the har- tary Services, the Federal Department of Justice and the De­ monious integration of the radiators into the building. «

Aqualux equips Miele Kitchens and Kermi: a naval school a joint appearance in London

Aqualux has won a tender of the British Ministry of Defence and will equip From 4 to 5 November 2008 «The Sleep Event – Hotel Design, Development the tradition-rich navy school with the «Elite Xtra» series. The school on & Architecture» took place in London. At the event, Miele Kitchens and Whale Island off Portsmouth prepares naval officers for life on the sea. Contractual Kermi demonstrated the effect cosiness and good design can have. Miele partner Dewco was looking for durable, easy-to-install shower doors which were Kitchens and Kermi appeared together on an area of 25 m². Under the general supposed to be robust and affordable. The tender comprised a total of 138 pivot theme of «cosiness, functionality, innovation and design» visitors were able to doors with a width of 760 mm in polished chrome. Aqualux won the tender, not experience both companies’ products «live»: taste­fully staged radiators, shower least because of the guaranteed services and timely assembly. «Aqualux was the enclosures and also a kitchen. The exhibition attracts Europe’s leading hotel own- only company able to offer a pivot door that met our expectations. In addition, ers and operators, architects, investors, owners and consultants – and of course the service and the price were right», says Tony Head, Project Manager at Dewco. service providers who support and deliver to the industry. Exhibition visitors were The Elite Xtra range offers installers the highest possible degree of flexibility during deeply impressed by the products and systems of the AFG companies. « installation. The side walls boast integrated towel holders and the swinging doors Aqualux was able to deliver 138 of these Miele Kitchens and Kermi attracted are equipped with stylish handles. « elegant yet robust pivot doors to the numerous exhibition visitors with renowned Naval School at HMS Excellent. their elegant and functional products. Heating Technology and 18 Sanitary Equipment 19

Heating. Ventilation. Cooling: Arbonia expands its product programme

With the introduction of ceiling cooling convectors and wall convectors to the German market, Arbonia’s comprehensive product portfolio is supplemented further.

Large glass fronts are in fashion. Cooling is required to ensure IHK Forum with Minister a comfortable indoor climate. By developing ceiling cooling convectors, Arbonia reacts to the market’s needs and offers Dr. Markus Söder at Kermi an economically convincing solution. With little spatial re- quirements and the low assembly height without foregoing an equally high specific performance, the Arbonia ceiling «Lower Bavaria has a good chance, because it lies at a former border which has become cooling convectors are ideal for quiet cooling in comfort a bridge.» That was Minister of State Dr. Markus Söder’s conclusion on the occasion of zones, e.g. office areas or entrance halls. Various installation the IHK Forum (the Chamber of Industry and Commerce Forum) which took place under the options facilitate individual planning and a high level of flexi- central theme «The future of Lower Bavaria in a Europe of Regions». bility. Visually, this room cooling version fits into any concept: from hidden corners under suspended ceilings to a matching colour design. Arbonia’s new wall convectors offer excellent value for money. Their low weight makes them incredibly Minister of State Dr. Markus Söder showed the just under powerful and enables them to react quickly. With their linear, 100 listeners from economy, science and politics how Euro- clear and elegant look they fit into modern architecture pean politics are made and how these politics can be opti- beautifully. Their exceptionally user-friendly assembly is also mised, in particular for Bavaria and Lower Bavaria. After the very convenient. « welcoming and an introduction of the company by Kermi CEO Knut Bartsch, Chamber of Industry and Commerce Pres- ident Gerhard Thiele expressed Lower Bavaria’s expectations of politics. The low unemployment rate, the high level of education and the strong export-orientation put the region in a strong position. To maintain and expand this position, The Arbonia ceiling cooling convectors guarantee a pleasant indoor however, various initiatives are necessary, e.g. the speedy climate even in case of strong solar radiation. abolishment of restrictions for skilled foreign workers, an inheritance tax reform as well as an expansion of transport routes in a «European East Expansion» transport pact. Minister of State Dr. Markus Söder accepted these sugges- tions and amongst other things stressed the importance of an economy coined by medium-sized companies. Subse- Photo: Chamber of Industry and Commerce Lower Bavaria quently, the present entrepreneurs expressed their concerns F.l.t.r.: Walter Keilbart, Chamber of Industry and Commerce CEO; in a very active discussion. In particular the opening of the Christian Bernreiter, Head of the District Authority; Knut Bartsch, A top executive with profile Spokesperson of the Kermi Management; Dr. Markus Söder, borders for foreign skilled workers again stood out as an im- Minister of State for Federal and European Affairs and the current and experience portant subject for Lower Bavaria’s economy. But education, Minister of State for Environment and Health; Gerhard Thiele, fiscal policy and the expansion of the transport infrastructure Chamber of Industry and Commerce President for Lower Bavaria. Rolf Steiger, Managing Director of Arbonia AG and Heizkörper Prolux AG were also addressed. Concluding the forum, Chamber of since 1 September 2008, has acquired and developed his technical know- Industry and Commerce President Gerhard Thiele thanked how and his management expertise from scratch. After his internship as a Minister of State Dr. Markus Söder for the informative report mechanic at the Harting company Rolf Steiger was initially on the road as an install- and the organisers for the very successful event, and bid fare- company’s economic performance. Additionally, many inter- er. Very soon he was promoted to CNC Manufacturing Group Manager. His further well to the forum participants. The event was a great oppor- esting and promising contacts were established between the professional stages document his excellent abilities: Head of the CNC Manufacturing tunity for Kermi to showcase itself to guests and present the companies. « Department, Assistant to the Technical Director, Head of Prefabrication, Head of Production Technology, Production Director and Member of the Management Board Rolf Steiger, Managing Director of the Nussbaum Group. On 1 February 2006 he joined Arbonia as Plant Manager. of Arbonia and Prolux since 1 September. Apart from his impressive professional career, Rolf Steiger underwent further train- ing to qualify as an IT Technician at the Grenchen SO School of Engineering and as a European Industrial Engineer (MTM Association and SWISSMEM Specialist Training Institutes). Rolf Steiger is married and has four sons. In his spare time he enjoys meeting further challenges as mountaineer and skier. « Vision 20 Kitchens and Refrigeration 21

Miele Kitchens once more in the limelight at the Küchenmeile A30

The Miele Kitchens presentations at the Küchenmeile A30 in Gut Böckel showed once again that the company is continuing to focus on perfecting the living quality of its kitchens.

Kitchens and Miele Kitchens presented new designs, fi ttings and features at the Küchenmeile A30, held from 20 – 26 September 2008 in Rödinghausen. These allow sophisticated concepts for the living, food preparation and dining areas, which are tending Refrigeration to become more closely interlinked in contemporary homes. This enables the implementation of the following trends: elegant interior design with glass fronts in elegant bronze or pure black and white as well as natural-style kitchen fronts with a new range of earth colours. These can be combined with one another and also with contrasting colours. An inter- esting design feature is the new metal edge which accentuates the famous clean lines of Miele Kitchens. This is also empha- sised by the automatic opening mechanism on pull-outs and Topaz grey combined with sandy ash accentuates the original drawers, pivoting doors and now also wall units with lift-up handcrafted style: minimalist design with a professional fi nish due to the metal edge. doors as well as pantry units. They open when lightly pushed or tapped and therefore do not require handles. Miele Kitchens echoes this external elegance in the interiors of pull-outs and drawers. The optional combination of dark stained interior kitchens in the high-end segment through to family-friendly, elements combined with stainless steel is particularly sleek appealing interior designs», comments Werner Hörnschemeyer, yet cosy. Standard solutions were once more sought in vain CEO of Warendorfer Küchen GmbH. This was confi rmed by at Gut Böckel: «With our 2008 Miele kitchens we are able to the more than 1,000 visitors throughout the seven days of fulfi l individual wishes: everything is possible from premium the fair. «

The black and white of the wall and base units as well as the tall units has a special three-dimensional effect with the elegant matt glass. The furniture contrasts with the open shelves with colour-changing lighting and panel walls with wall units.

An understated colour scheme of cream-white gloss lacquer combined with the new terra shade creates a very special, cosy atmosphere. The elegant niche wall lighting with the integrated screen emphasises the warm character. 22 Kitchens and Refrigeration 23

Forster steel kitchens at the St.Jakob’s Tower in Basle

In addition to the famous St.Jakob’s football stadium, Basle now has a new Outside – clean-cut and timeless design. landmark, the 71 m St.Jakob’s Tower. The unusual building designed by Inside – Forster steel kitchens lend a per- Herzog & de Meuron was equipped with Forster kitchens. When the fect finishing touch. St.Jakob’s Park was opened in 2001 with its shopping centre, senior citizens’ resi- dential home and the St.Jakob’s Arena, the vision arose to develop the St.Jakob area further by creating the St.Jakob’s community centre. This vision became real- ity with the extension of the shopping centre, the creation of an event platform and the construction of the St.Jakob’s tower. The overall project, managed by Herzog & de Meuron, was crowned by the official opening of the 71 m St.Jakob’s residential and commercial building. The 17-storey glass tower accommodates Ideally integrated into the historical architecture of the Seminary in Bressanone (Brixen): the Forster steel kitchen. office and business premises as well as 38 exclusive apartments. The room-high window fronts and loggias are almost all south-facing and offer a fantastic view of the surrounding area. The special construction and design also required a unique interior design, to which Forster was able to contribute with 38 high-quality steel kitchens. « A Forster steel kitchen for Pope Benedict XVI

Forster was given the task of planning and installing a private kitchen for the Pope at the Seminary Multengut complex in Berne: Forster steel in Bressanone in South Tyrol, where he regularly spends his summer holidays. kitchens leave a lasting impression

The architectural firm B from Berne were already inter- and furnishing ideas into practice. With the two-colour de- A Forster steel kitchen for His Holiness personally, delivered was supplied in pale yellow. All worktops are of brushed ested in Forster steel kitchens in June 2005. The archi- sign the Forster kitchens are integrated harmoniously into and installed by the subsidiary AFG Arbonia Forster Italien stainless steel with a welded sink and Ceran hob. The cook- tects had no difficulty deciding on this unique solution the colour scheme of the entire apartment. The luxury venti- GmbH in Burgstall: Forster was commissioned with planning ing block and the units which can be used from both sides for the Multengut project. The higher price is more than lation unit, responsible for the excellent indoor climate of and installing the private kitchen for the Pope for his summer are fitted with steel panels down to the floor and create a compensated by the long service life of the steel kitchens – the Minergie standard, was installed into a tall unit of the holiday this year. The renowned architect Dr. Christian A. clean, cubist form in the kitchen. In this kitchen two sisters a fact recognised by the building contractor, the municipal Forster kitchen as a space-saving and low-noise solution. Mahlknecht approached AFG as he wanted to use a Forster of the order prepare all the Pope’s meals which he and his authority of the city of Berne. In addition the concept of the With its 72 apartments the Multengut complex offers a truly steel kitchen for this unusual project. In addition to many brother George eat during their holidays. Both of them have environmentally friendly steel kitchen material was fully in high quality of life, perfectly accentuated by the steel kitchens. projects in the region, this talented architect has already spent their holidays together in South Tyrol since the end of keeping with the Minergie standard. The simple layout offers No wonder that practically all apartments were already rented installed a number of Forster kitchens in Rome, Milan and the sixties. « the inhabitants a generous scope for putting their own design before building work even began! « London. These references played an important role in the decisions to convert the Bressanone Seminary.

Classic kitchen in historic walls The seminary, built in 1607, is a landmark of Bressanone. Its square construction is based on El Escorial, the Spanish monastery. The old library is located above the entrance in the axis opposite the splendid church. This arrangement shows that one path to Christ leads through the study of theology. The wings on both sides also accommodate the seminary stu-

dents. The functional Forster steel kitchen, which optimally Photo: Konrad Willeit fits into the prestigious rooms of the seminary in Bressanone,

Due to its two-colour design, Forster kitchens fit harmoniously Pope Benedict XVI – also into the design of the apartments. a welcome guest in Bressanone. 24 Kitchens and Refrigeration 25

Miele Kitchens opens fl agship store in Zurich

After acquiring premises in Amsterdam and Düsseldorf, Miele Kitchens opened yet another fl agship store in Zurich on 9 September 2008. Exclusive kitchens are harmoniously combined with interior elements of kitchen furniture in this showroom covering a fl oor space of 360 m2.

The new Miele LED lighting system which can be controlled by the BUS house installation creates a unique, warm atmosphere throughout the showroom. Nine kitchens are displayed in breathtaking variety. Elegant veneers, contemporary lacquered surfaces as well as free-mounted lowboards and trendy sideboards lend

The unit fronts showroom area – the room a comfortably lived-in feel. Handles on the doors and pull-outs have professionally explained. been replaced by offset rails and fully electric opening mechanisms. The fl agship The new fl agship store in Zurich has a generously dimensioned, inviting interior. store in Zurich also offers a wide range of services. The sound customer advisory service is augmented by an innovative planning programme with 3D visualisation. This makes it possible to take an advance peek on the computer screen at how a dream kitchen would look at the planning phase. After buying a Miele kitchen «The best address in town: customers can rely on the Miele customer service at all times. The fl agship store the new fl agship store in the in the Hardturmstrasse 135 is in best company in its prime location in the «Zurich Zurich Kitchen Mile.» Kitchen Mile»: an absolute must for prospective new kitchen owners! «

Dr. Edgar Oehler, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of AFG Arbonia-Forster- Holding AG, informed the invited guests about the studio installation.

Miele Kitchens: an order worth millions in value from Russia and Hong Kong

The new export department of Warendorfer Küchen GmbH, created two years after integration of the company into the Swiss AFG Group, is on the road to success: two luxury apartment blocks in Moscow and Hong Kong are being equipped with Miele kitchens. The luxury apartments in the tower in the «Moscow City» residential and business centre at the heart of the Russian metropolis will be equipped with 222 kitchens, and the 60-storey Tai Kok Tsui Tower in Hong Kong at the ferry near the Metro Harbourview with 320 kitchens. The order is valued at several million Euros. Both objects are of a high architectural standard. Kerstin Loeser, CEO of Miele Kitchens, commented the award of both contracts as follows: «Our dedicated export strategy has especially paid off in the high-end international building furnishing business. These orders confi rm our innovative skill and design strategy is on the highest level.» «

Both towers of the residential and business centre «Moscow City» are equipped with 222 Miele kitchens. 26 Kitchens and Refrigeration 27

Frauentalweg residential estate goes for elegant Piatti kitchens

A new residential estate designed by the architect Tilla Theus has been built at the foot of the Üetliberg in Zurich. The stylish buildings with 42 apartments were equipped with Piatti kitchens.

The Frauentalweg estate satisfies all the needs of a modern These photos impressively show how colour can change a room – on the left with a conventional colour scheme, on the right with modern design: the wall and tall unit create a uniform white entity. This creates a positive feeling of «lightness» and «more space». urban style of living: close proximity to both the town and nature, exclusive living space dimensions, high-quality interior fittings and a modern, open architecture. The complex bears the signature of the renowned architect Tilla Theus. She Kitchen renovation with Piatti: achieved her fame with unique buildings such as the Swiss Re building, the Home of Fifa and the Widder Hotel and is minor details – major effect currently one of the most sought-after contemporary archi- tects. Her typically daring architectural style is clearly com- A feast for the eyes: presentation is important, in kitchens as well. For this bined with the aim of ensuring that people feel at home in reason a fresh look is always appreciated after a few years. A few selective changes are enough to give a kitchen a completely new look. Piatti shows how. these rooms and can develop freely and individually. The demands to be met by suppliers were correspondingly high. «In addition to a good cost-benefit ratio, we placed emphasis Many people are wary of revamping their kitchen, as they also the stomach. A kitchen renovation with Piatti offers on a wide range and experience with sophisticated design think it means too much work and is too expensive. However, substantial advantages: the customer can define the scope of it is not always necessary to start from scratch. Subtle renova- refurbishment at an affordable price. Kitchen experts in one of concepts», emphasised Marino Küng, project manager of tion can also have a tremendous effect. This can be achieved the 80 sales outlets provide free advice on how to give a kitch- Swiss Life Property Management AG. For these reasons the simply by changing the handles, which is very easy to do and en a facelift. Contact addresses are given at www.piatti.ch « changes the overall impression of the kitchen completely. choice of Piatti kitchens was obvious. « Those wanting to go one step further can transform the ap- pearance of their kitchen completely by fitting new kitchen fronts. Piatti supplies a wide range of different colours and Further information materials to create an individualised, personal dream kitchen. On the subject of dreams: buying a new worktop will not Bruno Piatti AG only boost the aesthetic appeal of a kitchen, but also offers Riedmühlestrasse 16 practical advantages such as high scratch resistance and easy- CH-8305 Dietlikon to-clean properties. The modern glass splashbacks which re- Phone +41 44 835 51 11 At a glance place the old-style tiles are also attractive and practical. And [email protected] when the multifunctional steamer takes the place of the old www.piatti.ch ■ 42 rental apartments microwave oven, this is not only appealing to the eye, but ■ 6 apartment blocks 3 ■ 43,838 m volume SIA 116 2 ■ 6,608 m gross floor area BGF

■ Construction started in 2006

■ Construction completed in 2008

■ Kitchen: resin fronts in Primo grey

■ Kitchen: granite worktop

A glimpse into a Piatti kitchen: this is where urban dwellers Transformation really feel at home. 28 Windows and Doors 29

Windows and Doors The EgoKiefer specialists De Meeuw AG demonstrated their expertise with a high-performance infrastructure and a professional assembly team.

Premiere in façade engineering: perfected competence

In January 2008, EgoKiefer received an interesting order from SFS Services in Heerbrugg, St.Gallen: two companies of the AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG worked together on this high-profi le façade project.

Eighty large surface transom and mullion elements were pro- solutions: a combination of Forster thermfi x light profi le sys- duced and assembled in close collaboration with Forster Profi le tems with the EgoKiefer XL® window technology produces Systems and the EgoKiefer specialists De Meeuw AG from a transom and mullion system with integrated window units Oberriet, St.Gallen for the new SFS Services building. Large for the highest demands. With their narrow profi les the glazed areas and glazed fronts are more popular than ever MINERGIE-certifi ed XL® windows fi t perfectly into the timber/ before. EgoKiefer and Forster Profi le Systems offer excellent metal and metal constructions and have an impressively unique heat insulation. The assembly of the individual com- ponents – the largest element weighs around a ton – requires an effi cient infrastructure and a professional assembly team. After undergoing a Forster Profi le Systems training course, the staff at De Meeuw AG assembled the components to elements measuring up to 7.5 x 3.3 m. Transport to the con- struction site and assembly of the huge elements also required careful planning and a particularly high level of skill and sen- sitivity. All façade elements were fi tted by the beginning of July 2008. The rooms in the new building will be ready for occupancy by March 2009. «

Assembly of the EgoKiefer XL® timber/aluminium windows required a great deal of skill.

The huge elements must be transported and installed with the utmost care. 30 Windows and Doors 31

EgoKiefer thermography campaign

This winter one hundred home owners will fi nd out how well their houses are insulated – with a thermography analysis enabled by EgoKiefer. The 1,400 other participants in the competition naturally won’t go away empty-handed. The weak points in the heat insulation can be seen at a glance.

Within the framework of their energy saving campaign, EgoKiefer launched the «Thermography» project in collaboration with the «Neue Ideen» publishing house in October 2008. During the project a prize draw of 100 analyses with a total value empty-handed. All 1,500 competitors received an energy-saving calculation from «Using The best heat-insulating window currently of CHF 15,000 was organised. During thermographic building analyses the various EgoKiefer customised to their specifi c situation. This shows how much energy and ® thermography on the market: the EgoKiefer XL plastic temperature zones of the outer shell of a house are displayed in colour with the money could be saved with EgoKiefer XL® plastic windows over the next ten years. window. aid of an infrared camera. This shows exactly where the building may be losing With this commitment EgoKiefer is continuing to set standards in the energy saving to spot heat. Around 1,500 interested home-owners from all over Switzerland took part fi eld. As a MINERGIE® specialist partner EgoKiefer has been working closely together weak points. in the EgoKiefer competition. The 100 winners were announced at the beginning with the MINERGIE® offi ces. All EgoKiefer window designs are certifi ed to their » of November 2008, and this winter they will already be able to benefi t from in- standards. « formative thermography images. Naturally no-one will go away from EgoKiefer

50 years EgoKiefer in West Switzerland

50 years after its foundation, the EgoKiefer works in Villeneuve VD is one of the most modern window pro- duction facilities in Europe. This is where high-quality EgoKiefer plastic and plastic/aluminium window sys- tems have been manufactured – with great success.

In 1958 EgoKiefer acquired Guyot SA in Villeneuve VD and expanded into West Switzerland. The company was integrated A success story started here 50 years ago. into EgoKiefer as a second production works under the name of Usines Ego SA Villeneuve (UEV). At the time so-called Carda In the fi fties the Carda windows (pivoting windows) were produced in Villeneuve for The EgoKiefer window production facilities in Villeneuve VD are regarded as the most modern in Europe. window was regarded as an innovation (image the fi rst time. In the middle of the sixties UEV started making on right). Today it is timber/aluminium windows which soon became established the XL® window of on the market. Production of these windows was then moved EgoKiefer. to Altstätten, St.Gallen. Since then the EgoKiefer works in plastic and plastic/aluminium window systems. Due to the went into operation. In the EgoKiefer XL® window production Villeneuve has specialised exclusively in the production of fast-growing demand for its products, in 2006 EgoKiefer shop the exclusive EgoVerre® high-performance glass is glued expanded its production capacity with the construction of a to the window frames. The gluing technology is unique and hall extension – a clear commitment to the West Swiss pro- is already being used for aviation construction applications. duction site. In November 2007 the fl exible high-performance EgoKiefer is the fi rst window and door manufacturer to use processing centre as well as the fully automatic gluing plant this technology on an industrial scale. « History for EgoKiefer plastic and plastic/aluminium windows XL® 32 Windows and Doors 33

EgoKiefer wins innovation prize 08

At the Building and Modernising trade fair 2008 in Zurich the «Häuser Modernisieren» magazine of Etzel- Verlags AG publishing house presented awards for innovative ideas and products from the construction sector for the fourth time. With its SECCO window ventilation system, EgoKiefer won the innovation prize 2008. The products selected by a jury of specialists were presented between 4 and 8 September 2008 at the accumulated moisture. The efficient EgoKiefer high-per- Etzel-Verlags AG stand at the Building and Modernising formance windows with the integrated SECCO ventilation trade fair in Zurich. With the aid of the trade fair audience system therefore really deliver the goods. This high perform- and the readers of the «Häuser Modernisieren» magazine ance window reduces energy losses that escape through a winner was selected from three products out of the four the windows – depending on the type and age of the re- categories kitchens, bathrooms, building equipment and placed windows – by up to 75 percent. At the same time appliances and extensions. In the extensions category the rooms are always supplied with sufficient fresh air even It also impressed the builders of the Trio building complex: the plastic window XL® from EgoKiefer. EgoKiefer SECCO window ventilation system won the day when the windows are closed. The air enters the EgoKiefer and was awarded the innovation prize 2008. Saving energy plastic and plastic/aluminium window through small slits in is now a very important issue. However, a house must be the window frame, is heated and is then transported into able to «breathe» so that the climate is right and that no the living space. This prevents draughts while maintaining damage can occur, which can be caused, for example, by the high heat and noise insulation levels. « 980 EgoKiefer XL® windows for the Trio building complex

In December 2005 the Trio building complex was granted planning permission. By autumn 2009 five residential and commercial properties and a multi-storey car park will be built in the centre of Dietikon, Zurich. EgoKiefer is supplying around 980 plastic windows XL® for the project. Truly an XL order! RWD Schlatter supports «Bimboli» day-care centre

The «Bimboli» day-care centre was officially opened The energy-related details were of great importance during of the replaced windows – by up to 75 percent. When energy- on Saturday 20 September 2008. RWD Schlatter AG planning and implementation of this large-scale project. To efficient design is called for, EgoKiefer XL® windows are the congratulated the centre with a suitable gift: fire pro­ achieve the MINERGIE® standard the focus was mainly on the best choice! They also have an appealing design. With its tection doors. The «Bimboli» day-care centre in Engelburg design and construction of the roof and façade. The demands narrow profiles the EgoKiefer XL® window technology opens SG already opened its doors for business on 8 September to be met by the heat insulating properties of the windows up completely new perspectives in creative façade design. « 2008. RWD Schlatter AG decided to sponsor the centre in were correspondingly high. To the great delight of EgoKiefer practical manner and to make use of its core competencies. the planners and client decided on the MINERGIE® certified Within a short period of time the company supplied the EgoKiefer plastic window XL®, the best heat insulating window centre with the required fire protection doors. The demand in Switzerland. EgoKiefer XL® windows are also very suitable for day-care centres is on the steady increase and there are for MINERGIE-P® and passive house construction. With the definitely good reasons to offer such facilities. We will only new, exclusive EgoKiefer high-performance EgoVerre® 0.4 be able to see whether this social trend has a positive effect glass, all EgoKiefer XL® windows achieve the excellent heat in around twenty years time. No matter what these results 2 insulation value of Uw 0.7 W/m K. The window reduces energy will be; on the official opening day all guests were able to losses through the windows – depending on the type and age see for themselves that the «Bimboli» day-care centre is a resounding success. The light, child-friendly rooms, the local surroundings with a neighbouring school and the generous lawns create an environment in which the children will feel Were very pleased with the success of the project (l. to r.): Roger Herzig, happy. « CEO RWD Schlatter AG with Naemi Herzig; Gabriela Mahrle, President of the Day-Care Centre Association Gaiserwald, with Cohen Herzig. Space Cosy and inviting home comfort – thanks to the EgoKiefer windows. 34 Windows and Doors 35

Prof. Dr. Hans Ruh gave a presentation focussing on ethics Book tip as a new economic model. Ethics and sustainability are now ac- cepted as being important topics. This does not mean «moral» in a conven- tional sense, but mainly the realisation that living on our planet in the future «The future of the economy is will only be possible if certain principles ethical – or it has no future at all.» are observed. The book «Der Schlüssel zum Tao Te King» by Roger Herzig, Prof. Dr. Hans Ruh, Professor Emeritus for Systematic Theology, specialising in Social Ethics CEO of RWD Schlatter AG, examines at the University of Zurich, gave a presentation on this topic at the traditional series of economic ethics from the viewpoint PFAP-48G SD57 EI 30 S200 C5: lectures of RWD Schlatter AG in autumn 2008. of ancient Chinese wisdom (R.G. Fischer Verlag, what does this mean? During the fi rst part of the event all business partners of RWD with the backdrop of the global fi nancial crisis was purely ISBN 978-3-8301-1133-7). The incorporation of European regulations in Swiss legislation puts Schlatter were given insightful information on the engineering accidental but obviously made it very up-to-date. According great demands on Swiss door manufacturers and in this regard, standards SIA 343 and SIA 343/118 that are in the process of to Hans Ruh we are currently experiencing the end of the RWD Schlatter AG progresses as a leader. being approved. In future it will be able to differentiate more social market economy. In his opinion the market is now the closely between the «included» and «non-included» services. only effective control instrument in our globalised world, The term PFAP-48G SD57 EI 30 S200 C5 is the European defi nition of a fi re and The passage concerning payment methods will probably give and only regulation of the small, less important things is still smoke protection door from RWD Schlatter and refers to a Pafaviber door leaf with rise to the most discussion. The current draft stipulates that possible. Large scale developments such as the fast spread an aluminium insert and a glass panel with a thickness of 28 mm on an SD57 frame, in the door business, one third of the price will be paid when of computers and mobile phones or the actual globalisation a fi re resistance of at least 30 minutes and a leakage rate in the smoke protection ordering, one third upon delivery and one third after installa- itself occur exclusively in accordance with market principles. test of less than 20 m3 per hour for single-leaf doors at a temperature of 200° cel- tion. Whether this passage of the draft will be ratifi ed or not This increases the risk of an ecological or economic catas- sius as well as a successful long-term function test of 200,000 opening and closing remains to be seen. trophe. Hans Ruh regards ethics as the new economic model cycles. Smoke protection and long-term function tests are still relatively seldom in of the 21st century. It should not only become part of the Switzerland; they are also not legally mandatory. This may soon change. The smoke Fair trade as a role model market, but regulate the market. Professor Ruh stated that protection and long-term function tests are technically fully feasible testing meth- In the second part Prof. Dr. Hans Ruh held an exciting presen- he has great hopes for the future, and that public awareness ods. Both aspects are included in the new SIA 343 standard, «Doors and Gates», tation on the topic «The future of the economy is ethical – or is already increasing. One example he named was fair trade, currently in the process of being approved. It is only a matter of time before this is it has no future at all». The subject of this presentation was ethical money investment and also the tropical wood project also part of practical testing and is ultimately included in legislation. Industry often already selected one year ago, so that its current relevance of the Swiss Door Sector Association (VST). « lags behind legislation. RWD Schlatter AG wants to demonstrate the current state of the art and what is currently possible in the hope that it will be accepted by legislative bodies and incorporated into future legislation. «

Cash Employer Award: RWD Schlatter in fourth place

In spite of a large number of competitors and a busy year, RWD Schlatter AG is once more among the top four of the Cash Employer Award 2008. «In 2007 we were ranked in second place, and in fourth place in 2008. In light of the dynamic development which our company has experienced this year, we are more than proud to be among the most popular employers», says CEO Roger Herzig happily. The exceptional market success of the innovative door manufacturer resulted in determined expansion: the workforce grew from 120 to 160, and production is now running in three shifts. To ensure more customer proximity, RWD Schlatter

opened a subsidiary in West Switzerland and Ticino. « The test report documents the quality and properties of a smoke protection door.

A door element from the fi rst smoke protection test series of RWD Schlatter AG before testing. 36 Windows and Doors 37 1st second 2nd second 3rd second 4th second 5th second 6th second 7th second

This series of photos shows how a misting system works within a period of seven Police safety advisers seconds. at RWD Schlatter

On 22 August 2008 the «Ostpol» safety advisers staged a safety day at Spectacular demonstration RWD Schlatter. The emphasis of the event was on burglary prevention – During the second part Valentin Siedler from Siedler Alarm GmbH from Frauenfeld, a highlight was the effect of a misting system. Thurgau, informed attendees about the advantages and disadvantages of various alarm systems and also video surveillance. The presentation focussed on everything Ostpol is the East Swiss police liaison department which also coordinates the insti- that is possible and also what is allowed. This was followed by a spectacular demon- tution of the criminal safety advice in the various police corps (AI, AR, FL, GR, GL, stration of a misting system. During the demonstration «Ostpol» and RWD Schlatter SG, SH, TG). Ostpol safety advisers are active canton police officers with previous employees were able to experience the effect in a room first-hand – obviously after experience in criminal investigation. During the first part of the day Peter Janutin the smoke protection systems had been taken out of operation and the appropriate from RWD Schlatter discussed the topics of burglary protection, escape routes and authorities had been informed. Some of the jewellers affected by smash-and-grab resulting conflicts of interest. The ballistic protection of doors was another topic raids (battering ram burglaries) have already installed such a misting system. Within which was dealt with. The course instructor demonstrated the interaction of the an extremely short period of time a shop must be misted completely through to the individual components using practical examples and models. last corner so that the maximum visibility is 30 cm. The effect is impressive. With a visibility of 30 cm you are effectively blind and therefore completely disoriented. Misting systems are an extremely efficient method of preventing smash-and-grab raids and are generally triggered by the existing burglary alarm system. «

Slovaktual: eleven new dealers

Slovaktual has been operating on the Slovakian market advice and assistance for opening the agency and also during Nomination as the with plastic windows and aluminium doors for 18 years everyday business. Naturally all Slovaktual dealers must be «Manager of the Year» – with success! Since August 2008 eleven new dealers able to identify with the philosophy of the company. In addi- have joined the network. The company is well represented tion the sales premises and service vehicles must comply with Marian Krč, founder and CEO of Slovaktual, the largest in all large towns in the Czech Republic and in Slovakia as the corporate design specifications of Slovaktual. Slovaktual manufacturer of plastic windows and aluminium doors well as in the neighbouring countries of Hungary and Austria is currently concentrating on extending the sales network in in Slovakia, reached the finals of the «Manager of the with a well-established dealer network. Potential Slovaktual the Czech Republic, where eight new agencies have opened Year» competition organised by TREND business maga- partners receive optimum support from the company if they since August 2008. Slovakian customers are now able to visit zine. With 80,000 readers TREND is one of the leading busi- meet the right requirements, are willing to work hard and are three new Slovaktual sales agencies in Galanta, Košice and ness magazines in Slovakia. In 2008 the TREND editors organ- located in a suitable sales area. This includes initial clarifica- Malacky. « ised the «Manager of the Year» competition for the fourth tion meetings through to intensive training courses as well as time. The evaluation was made on the basis of various infor- mation and analyses. Ten candidates reached the final round Career and had a chance of becoming «Manager of the Year». The winner was finally voted by both TREND readers and Marian Krč (51) trained as an electrician. In 1979 he selected personalities from the business world. Slovaktual emigrated to Austria. Here he worked for ten years for CEO Marian Krč was among the ten nominees for the award. a company which had specialised in the manufacture, To those familiar with his track record, this is no surprise, installation and sale of plastic windows. In 1990 he and as the Slovaktual company which he built up is now the his partner Ján Svoboda founded the company Krč, Number 1 in the Slovakian plastic windows and aluminium which was renamed to Slovaktual in 1993. door market. The company employs more than 300 people and has 100 business partners which in turn employ more than 200 installation teams. Slovaktual has been a member «In the production shop, from competitors, suppliers and of AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG since January 2008. colleagues. I have never done anything other than windows The sales rooms have a pleasant ambience and clearly showcase Slovaktual sales agency opened When asked where he acquired all his knowledge, he replied: before.» « the Slovaktual brand. in Prievidza in 2008. 38 Steel Technology 39

Forster gains new chances from the automobile crisis

The automotive industry is currently in a phase of increased acquisition activity. Financially strong companies are trying to increase in size. Those who suffer from the diffi cult market conditions often lose their independence. This further increases the price pressure in the supplier industry.

American suppliers are faced with constantly decreasing turnovers. Five of the former ten largest companies have al- ready fi led for insolvency according to chapter 11 (see box). In contrast to the parent company, the subsidiaries in Europe Steel Technology are not in fi nancial diffi culties and thus interesting for acqui- sitions. It remains to be seen in what way and to what degree the division of business in the supplier industry is going to change. Signifi cant parts of the added value will be shifted to the third or fourth level (see box). The total number of companies will therefore not decrease. On the contrary it might even increase. The enormous price pressure on many Vision ‹Ego›: VW in the year 2028 suppliers, however, will increase further. The price demands (www.volkswagen2028.com) of the automobile manufacturers towards their suppliers cur- rently ask for a yearly reduction of 3 to 5%. For many small and medium-sized supplier companies it will become increas- ingly diffi cult to withstand this price pressure by optimising productivity. position in the process chain. This unique position facilitates the development of far-reaching and intensive customer rela- Affordable through innovation tionships. The consolidation process in the automotive industry Forster Precision Steel Tubes offers a sensible solution for will continue and remain a motivating factor for developing meeting these challenges by substituting drawn tubes with production procedures that generate cost advantages. This cheaper welded precision steel tubes. This technical compe- strengthens the competitiveness of Forster customers as well tence makes it possible to pass on a large part of the cost as Forster’s own profi tability. Thus, future innovations can still advantage to the customer and therefore take a secure be funded. «

Chapter 11 The supplier pyramid Hardly a car without Forster!

A company which has fi led for in- A supplier pyramid is the hierarchy of Worldwide 23 auto brands use Forster solvency according to Chapter 11 in supplies for one manufacturer. At the precision steel tubes as semi-fi nished the US aspires to reorganise and top of the pyramid there is the manufac- products. The specially developed steel restructure its debts, leasing agree- turer as the suppliers’ «end customer». tubes are used for steering, shock ab- ments, contracts as well as its capital The manufacturer receives deliveries sorbers, impact absorbers, stabilisers, and other fi nancial obligations. The directly from the so-called «1st-tier sup- fl uid pipelines, seats, belt pretensioners application for insolvency according plier», i.e. the fi rst-line supplier. This and bodywork parts. to Chapter 11 legal proceedings of supplier in turn has other suppliers the creditors against the debtors are delivering to him. These are called supposed to be prohibited until the «2nd-tier suppliers» who again have reorganisation is complete. other suppliers delivering to them accordingly.

Audi A1 Sportback Concept – equipped with precision steel tubes. 40 Steel Technology 41

Fire protection certificate safe requires comprehensive tests

To expand the fire protection system range, Forster Profile Systems are developing an automated sliding door, which will set the standards additional test elements are produced. A total of six door ver- both technically and aesthetically. sions are tested. The next obstacle is the continuous operation test. The authorities require proof of 200,000 opening cycles. The fire protection sliding door by Forster Profile Systems has now completed more than 1 mil. cycles and still functions During the fire test the inspection office engineers check all The Swiss market gave the impulse for developing a fire pro- For the fire protection slide to function well all components perfectly. This attests to the quality and resilience of each safety-relevant criteria such as temperatures and deformations. tection sliding door according to the European EI30 classifica- have to be ideally adapted to each other, which is a challenging individual door component. After the successful tests are tion – a challenge we were happy to meet. All requirements task for the constructors. Due to the vast amount of experi- completed, the first pilot projects are implemented in close were listed in detail in a specification sheet, also taken into ence the responsible development team has in fire protection, collaboration with the metal construction workers. This also consideration were the wishes of planners and processors: a first prototype can already be built in the very near future. gives valuable impulses for the further optimisation of the construction versions. The new fire protection sliding door

■ In the entrance area the door should not have any addi- The resulting experiences will further serve to optimise several product. Currently, detailed planning and processing docu- Forster fuego optimally supplements the fire protection tional guides in the ground. This contributes to avoiding details. ments are being created. The comprehensive documentation product range and is an impressive demonstration of the malfunctions or contaminations during daily operations. reflects the system’s high level of flexibility and diversified company’s innovation ability. « ■ The construction has to be designed for various tested Testing six door versions drive systems, enabling metal construction workers to Together with an accredited testing centre a testing pro- collaborate with their usual drive partners. gramme is designed and the first test element produced.

■ All applications ensure the compatibility with the Forster There is a lot of suspense surrounding the first fire test, as fuego light system. that will show whether the newly developed door is able to Factory network: ■ The door will be available in both steel and stainless steel. withstand the extreme strains. After this first successful test www.forster-profile.ch

Since the end of September 2008, the new Forster Profile Systems website has been online. There was plenty of largely positive feedback endorsing the chosen concept. When the new website was designed, a clear layout and its functionality were the top priorities. The web is increasingly used as a tool in the true sense of the word and not just for sourcing information anymore. For this reason it was consciously decided not to include any gimmickry. Visitors are supposed to be able to reach the required information quickly with just a few clicks. Menu navigation and structure have been adapted to today’s requirements, and the contents have been optimised and significantly expanded:

■ The corporate division and the group present themselves briefly and concisely.

Clear: Forster Profile’s new website. ■ Under «Products» the individual systems are introduced. In the right column viewers have the opportunity to access further detailed information and data on the selected system.

■ Reference objects can be filtered and displayed according to various search criteria in a comprehensive database.

■ A comprehensive download area provides a host of information and data, including country-specific approvals, tender texts, brochures and processing information.

■ The addresses of distribution partners and contact persons are listed by country in drop-down menus – Germany has been additionally divided into sales regions. The respective location can also be displayed via GoogleMap.

■ The international orientation of the Forster Profile Systems business unit is also accounted for by the fact that the website contents are presented in four Convincing: the references. languages throughout the entire site. Further language versions are currently being developed. « We would like to hear your opinion! The approval of several installa- Please visit our new website. Our web team tion versions also requires a will be happy to hear your comments and successfully passed fire test of a suggestions. door in the glazing. 42 Steel Technology 43

French architecture Forster unico is mobile in Italy for an English park Italian dealer Tu.bi.fer thought up something special for the introduction of the Paris-based internationally renowned architecture fi rm Dominique Perrault new profi le system Forster unico and hits the road with the Forster unico mobile. realised its fi rst project in England, the pavilion in Priory Park in Reigate, south of London. The new Forster unico profi le system was also involved. Pavilion Priory Park The pavilion, a multifaceted rotunda with many mirrored surfaces, is harmoniously integrated into the park’s expanses. With its pavilion design, Dominique Perrault 2 At Tu.bi.fer innovative marketing activities for Forster Profi le Forster Profi le System documentation, samples that can be ■ Floor area 340 m Architecture, known for various large-scale projects such as the Bibliothèque Systems have always been very important. The Forster unico handed over to customers right away, posters as well as PR ■ Height 4.10 m Nationale de France in Paris, the Velodrome in Berlin and the European Court of mobile is evidence thereof. The idea was born with the gadgets. When the Forster unico mobile hits the road, four ■ Competition submission 2005 Justice in Luxembourg, was looking for a dialogue between architectural art and thought of presenting the new system Forster unico on site desks and tools are additionally loaded into the vehicle. This ■ Construction period June 2007 nature. The architecture fi rm’s project was well-received by the competition jury at the processor’s facilities and brief them at the same time facilitates hands-on processing demonstrations on site, rang- to May 2008 as well as the public. On 12 June 2008 the building was offi ciallyinaugurated. The without delay. Thus, the decision was made to acquire a ing from cutting the profi les to the grinding and the assembly pavilion belongs to a comprehensive project for maintaining the huge Priory Park, transportation vehicle and equip it as a mini showroom on of fi ttings. The Forster unico mobile was already utilised at Design Dominique Perrault the origins of which go back as far as the 13th century. It is home to the informa- wheels. Steel and stainless steel profi le samples provide an various open house events hosted by metal construction cus- Architecture, FR-Paris tion centre and an inviting café. The fl oor-to-ceiling glass surfaces are embedded overview of the numerous construction options and the large tomers; one dealer organised a «Unico Day». In between (www.perraultarchitecture.com) in polished stainless steel frames and open up spectacular views of the park’s ex- variety of fi ttings. Further workings such as cutting or bend- events the Forster unico mobile also directly drives to individual Local architect CRGP Limited, panses. The seven entrance doors, produced from the Forster unico profi le system, ing, which Tu.bi.fer offer their clients, are also demonstrated. customers. The extremely positive reactions confi rm the path UK-Glasgow (www.crgp.co.uk) are made of stainless steel and seemlessly integrate into the building’s exterior. Corner samples of the other Forster systems are also displayed taken by the dealer: to actively shape customer-orientation Metal construction Arkoni Limited, Arkoni Ltd’s David Lockwood on the door system choice: «Forster unico was the in the vehicle. Thus, the whole product range can be presented with specifi c measures and at the same time promote the use UK-Brighouse (www.arkoni.co.uk) logical choice due to its outstanding statical values, suitability for large wings and to the processors. The furniture in the transporter contains of Forster unico throughout Italy. « the additional heat-insulating characteristics.» The system is a true innovation. «

Forster Profile systems at the BAU 2009

The BAU 2009 in Munich, the most important leading opening version, the fi re protection sliding door EI30 and trade fair of the German speaking regions, is an the cladded tube frame door EI30 enhance the product interesting platform for Forster Profi le systems to range. Various solutions in the door automation domain as present their innovations to a broad audience. From well as in escape route protection make Forster fuego light 12 – 17 January 2009 more than 2,000 exhibitors showcase elements a trendsetting component. The subject of «Safety» their products on an area of 180,000 m2. This includes pro- also applies to façades. The post-and-beam system Forster fi le systems by Forster with trendsetting inno vations. The thermfi x vario was successfully tested as a burglary resistant core themes are the subjects of fi re protection, safety and façade WK 1 – 3 and can therefore be used in constructions Tu.bi.fer srl. – Forster’s Italian partner heat-insulated building seals. The recently launched Forster with increased safety requirements, such as shop windows, unico system for heat-insulated windows and doors will be bank buildings and correctional facilities. « Tu.bi.fer srl. with its headquarters in Erba (near Como) expanded by additional construction versions. Particularly has been the Forster Profi le Systems dealer for Italy since slim profi les supplement the range and open up new design 1996. The cooperation with various sub-agencies guaran- opportunities and transparency – in particular for renova- tees that the products are available throughout the country. tion projects. In the safety domain there have also been Tu.bi.fer also runs a technical offi ce for material samples many new developments at Forster unico: the system now and construction suggestions. In three showrooms in Cantù also offers burglary resistant and bullet-proof elements and (Como), Milano and Sicily architects and metal construction glazings for safety-relevant building seals. workers can inspect the Forster systems and seek advice. At the MADEexpo Milano and the Expoedilizia Roma, both Steel and fi re protection, an ideal combination important construction trade shows in Italy, Tu.bi.fer have Fire protection has been one of Forster’s core strengths for their own exhibit stands to present the Forster products. many years. As a proven system in the market Forster fuego light enjoys wide acceptance, not least because of the com- prehensive approvals and test certifi cates in various countries. At the BAU 2009 several novelties are introduced. As a new The Forster unico mobile – an important customer acquisition instrument. 44 Surface Technology 45

Hard chrome surfaces: also in demand in the food industry

Rollers and components with surface fi nishing by STI | Hartchrom are diversely used in the food industry. The hard chrome surfaces are characterised by low adhesion Surface of dried substances and good adhesion of damp substances.

Powder from fruit and vegetables, in any form, is used partic- Technology ularly in baby food, soups and sauces, spice mixtures or diet products. The drying rollers used for manufacturing the pow- der substances have the function of drying the powder (as the name suggests) and have a special coating by STI | Hartchrom. The dried powder mixture can easily be detached from the functional layer with its anti-adhesive qualities. The good detachability is also required in the so-called preform process of foodstuffs. Thus for example, a foodstuff mixture which has been pressed into various shapes, is preformed, or pre- shaped, in a preforming process and then when it is partially dried, is pressed into its fi nal shape. The refi ned components fulfi l their purpose when used with moist pastes since their coated surfaces feature excellent adhesion properties.

Protection against abrasive wear Compared to other wear resistance coatings, hard chrome surfacing ensures very good detachability of the processed product due to its low surface energy. Special tubes are used for the manufacturing of chilled foodstuffs. A scraper system is used to remove the chilled or dried mixture from the cold walls. The coating with its pre-defi ned hardness also serves to The completed dish: dumplings gratiné – food rollers coated by protect against wear during this process. Mixing and knead- STI | Hartchrom were involved during production of this meal. ing systems are used in the food industry as well as pharma- ceutical production to mix different types of powders and pastes. The surface-coated kneading equipment is protected Trend products in hard chrome against the abrasiveness of pharmaceutical powders by STI Fat or cooked food detaches easily from hard chrome coated GuardCoat®. Likewise, the pipes or components in conveyor surfaces which is why they are in popular use in modern kitch- systems that are used in food production for the transport of en equipment. Customers from all over the world use rollers powders or pastes often have to be protected against abrasive and equipment coated by STI | Hartchrom for producing milk wear. The STI coatings have a wide variety of applications and powder, cereal products, margarine, fat or other powders. are optimised for each respective situation. Innovative surface solutions with a wide range of functions are universally in demand. «

The Nanochrome surfacing system combines the properties of hard chrome, such as hardness and resistance to wear and corrosion, with special functions that are based on nanotechnology. 46 Surface Technology 47

Future shipbuilding means efficiency and environmental compatibility

More than 52,000 leading personnel and specialists from all over the world came to visit the 23rd SMM 2008, the leading international marine and shipbuilding technology trade fair which is held in Hamburg. The largest trade fair of its kind was also another success for STI | Hartchrom.

With more than 52,000 delegates from the industry from all STI | Hartchrom is on course over the world (2006: 46,946) the 23rd SMM 2008 from 23 – The business success and dynamics of the marine industry 26 September set a new record. 17% of the delegates were can also be felt at STI | Hartchrom. As ships have to be more from shipping companies, with the second largest group and more reliable, and faster and longer at sea, the service coming from either shipyards or mechanical engineering life of the engine construction plays a crucial role. By hard- companies. 72% of visitors were decision-makers. The chrome coating the piston heads, it is possible to significantly 1,965 exhibitors from 56 nations were in high spirits. With extend the time between overhauls. Shipping companies and its high-calibre framework programme of congresses and shipyards are in a much better position to schedule their workshops on topics of global interest, this vitally important planning and maintenence work efficiently and thus avoid The 23rd SMM 2008 (Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine technology international trade fair Hamburg) attracted a record number of delegates meeting point for the industry once again proved its special failures that are expensive to repair at sea. Part of the service over the four days of its duration. importance amongst maritime trade fairs. range of STI | Hartchrom aside from the coating and grinding

of ring grooves of new piston heads and piston heads in need of repair, is also the coating of piston rings. The strong per- formance of the shipbuilding industry was also reflected by the many visitors to the STI | Hartchrom stand. Existing and future customers showed interest in the latest surfacing tech- nologies and were particularly impressed by the high quality of the surfaced piston that was on display. The first orders following the company’s presence at the exhibition have already been received. The fact that the suppliers’ relevance has grown can be seen by the partnerships that have been forged over the years. When building highly complex ships, the sharing of responsibilities and the reliable co-operation be- tween suppliers is necessary. In the new STI | Westside Center Current strong demand in the shipbuilding industry was reflected in Steinach St.Gallen, new production area is also available for by the numerous visitors to the STI | Hartchrom stand. the booming marine business in 2009 that nearly doubles existing space with the additional 7,500 m2. A particularly effective contribution to the company’s delivery performance is the processing center and the infrastructure for pistons of large diesel engines. This means that STI | Hartchrom can calculation system was tested at the fair that automatically maintain its reliable and fast service and is available on short determines the safest route with the lowest fuel consump- notice. tion. For STI | Hartchrom it is the ideal opportunity to meet all important people of the maritime industries under one roof, Marine industry as innovation driver ship owners as well as leading personnel from shipyards and The SMM 2008 brought a number of surprises with many suppliers. The SMM is the right place for exchanging high- new developments, particularly in regard to fuel conservation, level experience and information. The SMM clearly showed lowering toxic emissions and environmental compatibility. that the ship repair and construction is also an industry seg- The trade fair demonstrated that increased efficiency and ment in demand. This clearly means that STI | Hart­chrom will environmental protection do not contradict each other. be taking part at the next SMM in 2010. The 24th SMM will Given that ships need to be ever more reliable, faster and longer at sea, the service life in engines plays a crucial role. According to the motto «what succeeds at the SMM has take place from 7 – 10 September 2010 at the Hamburg market potential» the acceptance of a new weather-routing exhibition ground. « 48

Nanotechnology: venturing into the world of the smallest

It measures one millionth of a millimeter and is 80,000 times smaller than the diameter of a hair – that is a nanometer. That is the dimension in which nanotechnology produces structures with customised characteristics: through targeted manipulation of atoms and molecules.

Under the name Nanochrom, STI | Hartchrom has been using guiding rollers so that the required cleaning can be reduced nanotechnology since 2002 to improve the characteristics of from once-daily to once-weekly. In future, STI | Hartchrom will hard-chrome surfaces. Owing to the self-organisation of nano- focus increasingly on the functionalisation of the coating rather particles in the coating material, it is possible to combine the than just the surface. The emphasis is on micro- and nanodis- properties of hard chrome with additional functions. This persions as well as coatings with nanocrystalline structures. In produces customised surfaces with an easy-to-clean effect future, projects with Nanochrom coating as well as Nickel-PFA and high resistance to wear, corrosion and fluctuations in nanodispersion will continue to be utilised in co-operation with temperature. These surfaces are particularly suitable for Nanogate GmbH. equipment subject to a high degree of soiling such as in the paper, print or foil industries. By extending production times NanoEurope 2008 as well as cleaning intervals, it is possible to achieve signifi- At the 6th NanoEurope 2008 from 16 – 17 September in cant savings. St.Gallen, the main topic once again was technology transfer. Topics of interest were multi-functional textiles as well as in­ Up to 85% less cleaning telligent systems and surfaces. In this respect NanoEurope was The Nanochrom coating system is used on certain series of able to present its 3,000 visitors not only with current research newsprint machinery. In rotary offset printing, the cleaning of results, but thanks to its orientation towards industrial applica- paper guiding rollers that have been coated with Nanochrom tions, they were also able to present a wide range of practical can be reduced by up to 85%. Practical testing has revealed implementations. STI | Hartchrom presented its Nanochrom a strong reduction in the absorption of ink on the paper coating technology to numerous industry professionals who

Technology and know-how transfer were once again the main topic at the 6th NanoEurope in St.Gallen.