// PRODUCT NEWS Profile: Michael Simpson - Technical Advisor at SFS


SFS Group Fastening Technology’s Construction Division is the world’s largest manufacturer and distributor of carbon and stainless-steel fastening solutions for roofing, cladding and façade systems. Here, Michael Simpson, technical advisor at SFS, talks about his role in helping clients find solutions to their construction challenges. What were your previous roles?


I have 28 years’ experience in the cladding industry. I’ve done pretty much everything from installing a wide range of rainscreen cladding systems.


What do you enjoy most about your job?


I just love cladding and love working with people to get the job done! I now have direct contact with customers and enjoy talking them through all aspects of their projects and helping them find solutions to the most challenging jobs.


What new ideas and strategies are you working on at the moment? Strategically, I view my work as a way to secure the future of my customers by offering excellent, yet practical advice based on my experience.


Describe how you provide technical support to customers?


Our priorities include providing our customers with the technical support they need by making recommendations based on our SFS NVELOPE subframe and fixing systems.


When SFS introduces a new product, do you undertake training to get to know the product and its application to help you assist customers?


Yes, I’ve already supported the launch of our SFS NVELOPE NVS RP system. I really enjoyed this.


How does the technical department fit in with other departments at SFS UK? We are always on hand to support our sales team so they can offer their customers a knowledgeable service.


For further information, call 0330 0555888 or visit https://uk.sfs.com


AIM Fire Stop Blocks now tested for wider application


AIM - Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing Fire Stop Blocks are now backed by test evidence covering a wider range of applications. Tested to the principles of BS EN 1366-4:2021, AIM’s Fire Stop Blocks also have IFC Certification Ltd third-party certification.


Made from high density stonewool, AIM Fire Stop Blocks are incorporated into multi storey buildings during construction to seal apertures. They are used where the underside of a profiled metal sheet, typically a composite deck, needs to be filled to prevent the passage of smoke and fire to maintain fire compartment lines and to reduce the transmission of sound.


“At AIM we continuously strive to improve our product certification. We now have test evidence covering a much wider range than previously – we think the widest of all fire stop block manufacturers,” explains Ian Exall, AIM’s Commercial Director.


“Our Fire Stop Block range is comprehensive. Additionally, our CNC machine can manufacture Fire Stop Blocks to pretty much any profile,” he adds.


A new AIM Fire Stop Block technical datasheet, which explains the application, scope of test evidence and fixing instructions, is available to


download at: www.aimlimited.co.uk/solutions/fire-stop-blocks-2 22 Autumn 2024 M33


Bid farewell to noisy offices with lights that absorb sound


Glamox, a world leader in lighting, has announced a new family of indoor luminaires that can absorb sound called FX Silence. The suspended energy- efficient LED luminaires are aimed at transforming noisy open-plan offices and workspaces. The secret to their noise-dampening properties is a unique acoustic sandwich construction and an external fibre coating made largely from recycled PET plastic bottles.


“Our acoustic luminaires have been specifically designed to dampen down sound and proved to be effective during independent laboratory testing at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow, Poland,” said Andreas Wendestam.


Using a fire-resistant acoustic sandwich comprising two 9mm outer layers of compacted recycled fibres which are odourless, non-toxic, and do not create dust. The interior of the luminaire is filled with rock wool. Together they work to absorb sound.


Each stylish-looking luminaire contains energy-saving LED lights that provide downward and upward light The luminaires may be connected and wirelessly controlled and versions can incorporate presence and daylight sensors to further help reduce electricity use.


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