Aptus Fasteners Services Update: UKTA for Aptus structural timber screw
Aptus has secured UK Technical Assessment (UKTA) certification for its pro-struct® structural timber screws.
The approval follows an in-depth assessment conducted by the British Board of Agrement (BBA). It certifies that the entire pro-struct® range complies with the requirements set out for screws by European Assessment Document (EAD) 130118-01-060.
These parameters assess a product's performance against no less than 14 different criteria - including tensile strength, bending angle, insertion movement, head pull-through, yield strength, reaction to fire and durability against corrosion.
EAD 130118-01-060, which has been developed using the latest technical and scientific knowledge, ultimately aims to provide independent verification that specific screws and are suitable for use in timber construction where static and quasi-static loads are present. To ensure they can offer a working life of 50 years when used in timber construction applications such as forming connections or securing insulation to rafters, Aptus pro-struct® screws employ a number of innovative features.
Specifically, they are manufactured from a specialised grade of steel which is combined with an advanced heat treatment process. This enables pro-struct® screws to accommodate the natural movements of the timber without shearing. pro-struct® screws also benefit from cutting-edge thread geometry for a quicker drive and better pull-out resistance, as well as a larger diameter head, which improves resistance to head pull-through. In addition, they have a zinc plated coating which has been salt spray tested to 500hrs ensuring compliance with service class 2 of Eurocode 5.
Aptus Fasteners urges caution on Part L screw claims!
The company wanted to offer impartial advice on Part L fixing requirements in order to minimise any confusion.
Specialist supplier of fixings and fasteners, Aptus Fasteners is highlighting the need for caution over claims that some screws on the market specifically meet the updated requirements of The Building Regulations 2010 Part L Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings.
To pave the way for the implementation of the Future Homes and Building Standards in 2025, Part L has recently been updated and now sets out energy efficiency targets that must be adhered to when constructing, renovating or extending properties. By focusing on aspects of the building envelope such as airtightness and insulation to conserve fuel and power, the now enhanced Part L aims to help decarbonise the UK’s building stock and contribute to the Government’s plans to achieve net zero by 2050.
“We wanted to offer impartial advice on Part L fixing requirements in order to minimise any confusion,” said Winston Kilburn, Commercial Sales Manager at Aptus Fasteners. “We feel there is a very real risk of people choosing the wrong solutions based on inaccurate information and our concern is that this could have major implications in terms of quality, reliability, conformity and even safety.
“Approved Document L of the Building Regulations, which applies to England and Wales, as well as Section 6 in Scotland, set out a limiting U-value for different elements of a structure such as its doors, windows and walls.
Aptus reaffirms commitment to design innovation
Specialist supplier of fixings and fastenings to the construction and related industries, Aptus is making a stand on the need to protect original and innovative product design.
The business, which has helped to pioneer a number of advanced product solutions over its thirty year history, has become a signatory of the Anti-Copying in Design (ACID) IP Charter.
Stewart Taylor, managing director at Aptus, explains: "Aptus offers a comprehensive range that includes a number of products such as our timberfix® 360 and pro-struct® screws that employ proprietary design features. These unique features deliver major benefits in areas such as speed and ease of use, durability and fixing performance.
"Due to the success of these innovative products, they are occasionally copied and we feel it's important that users have the reassurance of knowing they are benefiting from the real deal and not an inferior imitation.
"Signing up to the ACID IP Charter reflects that commitment to authenticity and demonstrates our support of the need to protect intellectual property and prevent design theft."
With a diverse membership of designers, designer-makers and manufacturers, ACID is the UK's leading campaigner for design and intellectual property (IP) rights.
For almost 25 years, it has been a positive force for change, working to raise awareness and to encourage respect for IP amongst both individuals and organisations.
Innovative Wood Connection Systems
Aptus are proud to be UK partner for Pitzl offering a comprehensive range of technically assessed products from concealed connectors, post bases and solid timber lifting devices certified by their European Technical Assessment (ETA).
As a German manufacture Pitzl have the agility to manufacture custom made products to your own specifications, with full technical back up available upon request.
For further information - download the product overview here >>
Contact us directly for further information - email:sales@aptusfasteners.co.uk or Tel: 01773 740410.
