Profile 22 has launched its ‘second generation’ Recycled Composite Material (RCM) reinforcement, delivering enhanced thermal values.
Replacing steel or aluminium reinforcements in the window manufacturing process, the patented RCM reinforcement was first launched by Profile 22 as a window reinforcement in 2007.
Now the expanded RCM range features a new multi chambered profile, further improving on the thermal efficiencies delivered by the original product.
Phil Duncombe, Product Manager Epwin Window Systems Division said: “RCM not only brings waste material back into use but by replacing steel and aluminium sections in the window construction process it delivers a wide range of benefits.
“Far less conductive than traditional steel or aluminium reinforcements, the most significant of these is that RCM is much more energy efficient.
“We have now enhanced this performance further with new internal chambers, forming an integral part of our next generation of advanced performance product ranges.”
Introduced to a wider range of products in 2010 including an enhanced doorframe section, a dedicated reinforcer for cills and a reinforcer designed for outer frames, transoms and mullions, increased manufacturing efficiencies mean RCM now accounts for 70 per cent of total reinforcement sales.
In addition to delivering better thermal performance than steel or aluminium, the RCM reinforcement also increases hardware fixing performance. It can also be welded, increasing corner weld strength by up to 20 per cent, compared to traditional reinforcements.
RCM also has additional benefits over traditional reinforcements, being made from PVC-U it doesn’t corrode or oxidize, therefore there is no risk of rusty swarf deposits post drilling.
Duncombe concludes: “RCM offers a host of benefits and at the same time simplifies the manufacturing process. In the current climate these advantages are difficult to ignore.”