Could ‘Texas Big’ Be Better for Business?
Whether it’s steak you’re serving or a trade show experience, when you select Dallas as your host city you must deliver on size. From September 30 – October 2, GlassBuild America plans to meet and exceed those expectations. Billed under the motto, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” the show anticipates nearly 500 exhibitors and over 9,000 attendees at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. For more than two decades now, the event has been a major showcase for innovations and technologies across components, handling and packaging, tools, machinery and more—all tailored to the glass, glazing and fenestration industries.
Following is a preview for some of the companies and products you can expect to see at this year’s event (ordered by booth number). If you’re at the show, stop by booth 25005 to say hello. [DWM]’s staff would love to see you face-to-face.
Booth 12037: GED Integrated Solutions
GED will promote its CleanCut 1700 and 1800 Series machines, including a version with a side-mount cullet system. The CleanCut series, including the 1700 and 1800 models for cutting and the 1700-D and 1800-D models for cutting and deletion, offers enhanced speed, updated technical features, and increased throughput for glass production. Manufacturers are provided with versatile options, including a glass cullet system, which serves as an innovative, high-speed glass fragmentation solution that can be seamlessly integrated with existing cutting equipment. The combined system is engineered to enhance productivity, minimize waste and optimize safety in glass and manufacturing environments, providing a comprehensive, efficient solution for modern glass production needs. The CleanCut series and the glass cullet system together offer a complete solution for improving production processes.
www.gedusa.com
Booth 13018: FlexCost
It wouldn’t be a complete show in 2024 without a little artificial intelligence (AI). FlexCost is the first AI-powered quoting software for door and window manufacturers and fabricators. With it, you can unlock digital distribution and sales growth via custom quoting software, with no major upfront investment or complex master data management projects required, the company reports. Engineers can build and deploy a custom quoting software in as little as two weeks, enabling sales teams to get accurate pricing to customers quickly by eliminating the headaches and delays associated with quoting. With the use of AI, quotes can be generated in hours, not weeks, they say, allowing you to “win orders before your competitors even enter the conversation.”
www.flexcost.ai
Booth 18037: Haffner Machinery
Haffner’s AUTO SCREEN SAC-845/55 automates the application of screen mesh and spline to pre-assembled frames. The estimated cycle time for an 18-inch-by-18-inch window screen frame is about 35 seconds, including handling. For patio doors up to 48 inches by 96 inches in size, the larger SAC-855 AUTOSCREEN takes approximately one minute and 20 seconds to finish, including handling. Each machine is operated by just one operator. Bar code reading helps input size, mesh type and profile, and the SAC-855 AUTOSCREEN can make screens for every window size.
www.haffnerna.us
Booth 19027: EDTM Inc.
EDTM will highlight the latest product offerings in its Window Sales Kit. Officials will demonstrate new case designs offered on an in-stock basis, along with many of the accessories and meters that help to support an effective sales pitch. The company’s GC3200 tool measures the glass and air space of a window, also identifying the surface location and type of low-E coating. An Elite version has the ability to identify laminated glass and measure the inner-layer thickness of lamination. A graphical display shows a drawing of glass profiles, labeling each surface. The unit’s graphical display makes window construction and the location of low-E coatings easier to comprehend, the company suggests. The GC3200’s ability to store recent measurements in its memory is also a convenient feature.
www.edtm.com
Booth 19059: Haeco
The Pro-Assist 1000 system by Haeco is designed for architectural shape glazing. It offers a simpler solution than traditional hand-assisted methods. The machine addresses common problems found in traditional hand-assisted products and employs high-performance servo flow technology instead of gear pumps at the dispense head. Features include Track-Flo Technology, which eliminates the need for a gear pump, resulting in high performance and low maintenance costs. The system provides consistent bead volume at start and stop, audible operator alerts, and teaches operators the optimum acceleration and deceleration to maintain bead quality. With programmable bead tie-in at stop to avoid gaps or excessive overlap, ergonomic handle, selectable pre-programmed bead sizes, and standard size tables for glazing dimensions, the system offers efficient and effective glazing for various needs.
www.haeco.us
Booth 25017: American Renolit Corp.
American Renolit Corp. says its Renolit Exofol FX exterior film is the most technically advanced in the industry. The product has a unique formulation that’s backed by a 20-year warranty covering all climate zones. Officials say the company’s warranty assures that there are “no limits” to performance and application. The product is presented as a high-quality, versatile solution for exterior applications. It’s specially formulated for harsh tropical and subtropical climates and retains its gloss throughout its service life. The product’s low surface tension allows it to repel dirt, making it easy to clean. According to the company, even graffiti can be removed with the use of a special cleaner.
www.renolit.com
Booth 27027: AmesburyTruth
For those looking to suit up large doors, AmesburyTruth will demonstrate its new Maxim HP (high performance) hinge, which allows for sash weights up to 200 pounds when combined with select Encore operators. The hinge fits into the same 7/16-inch profile cavity as the company’s standard Maxim hinge and features a matching track-mount hole pattern to the 10-inch hinge, reducing complexity when assembling larger windows. Maxim HP also includes an Easy Load feature that simplifies the installation process on larger sash sizes and includes a stainless-steel clip stud, track coating and slide shoe to reduce operating forces. The company’s new Around the Corner (ATC) seal will also be on display. It provides improved protection from air and water infiltration when installed on casement windows, while offering single-piece installation. The method saves time, improves reliability and increases thermal performance, according to company information.
www.amesburytruth.com
Booth 32021: Quanex
Last year, Quanex leaned on the theme of Halloween to debut its new impact-, puncture- and cut-resistant screens with Meshtec high-tensile technology, showing how they stand up to even the most severe abuse. This year the company looks to drive that point even farther, showing how the material delivers outstanding overall durability. Meshtec stands up to abuse from pets and humans, providing consumers a screen system that they can enjoy for an entire lifetime, the company suggests. The material also provides the added benefits of securing homes against unwanted break-ins, insects and harmful UV rays.
www.quanex.com
Booth 34027: Guardian Glass
This year, Guardian will showcase SunGuard SNX 70+ and ClimaGuard glass packages. SunGuard SNX 70+, part of the North American SunGuard Triple Silver coatings portfolio, provides a consistent, neutral, triple-silver product with high light transmission and true color. ClimaGuard residential glass aims to enhance living spaces with beauty, comfort and energy efficiency. The focused portfolio offers low-E glass solutions tailored for different climate zones in the U.S. and Canada. According to company information, ClimaGuard glass innovations provide outstanding solar control and thermal insulation to meet energy efficiency codes.
www.guardianglass.com
Booth 34053: Wakefield Equipment
For manufacturers and assemblers, Wakefield will show off its K-51DV Flipping Table and Conveyor. The station remains a top option for companies that need to free up hands in production, allowing one person to handle large doors and windows. The K-51DV offers ergonomic features to help ensure safety and prevents the issue of carpal tunnel syndrome, according to company information. Each table is custom-built to your company’s specific needs.
www.wakefieldequipment.com
Booth 39027: VEKA North America
VEKA’s booth will feature its Softline 76MD Tilt and Turn—a new generation of profiles with a five-chamber system and what the company calls a “time-tested reinforcement and sealing concept.” The system includes integrated sealing that’s in the secondary profile area. The 76-millimeter frame offers a face width of 122 millimeters and a glazing bead height of 25 millimeters, accommodating glazing up to 48 millimeters thick. Also on display will be the company’s Corsair patio door, which officials say represents a “new class of product,” when it comes to operation, performance and style.
www.vekainc.com
Booth 40011: Chelsea Building Products
Chelsea Building Products developed Inoview, an innovative window platform featuring an exterior glaze and a low-profile sash to maximize daylight. The Inoview casement has a triple seal and accepts all the latest advanced hardware systems, while offering DP50 performance with a Zone 3 Coastal Impact rating. The company will also display its 9490 Double Hung window with an integrated flat casing.
www.chelseabuildingproducts.com
Booth 42011: A+W Software USA Inc.
A+W Software USA Inc. will demo A+W Cantor Smart Companion, including a feature that allows for electronic cycle counting of stock. The electronic inventory solution enables employees to track digitally without paper. It’s compatible with tablets and smartphones with active scanning capabilities. The app also ensures that all users remain in sync, always working with current data. The Smart Companion Stock app is seamlessly integrated into A+W Cantor.
www.a-w.com
Booth 42013: Roto North America
Roto’s DuoTilt Hung Window Lock System is one attendees will want to get their hands on in order to experience the full effect. The innovative system combines locking, unlocking and tilting into a single mechanism, streamlining the user experience and enhancing security. Its intuitive operation is further complemented by visual indicators that clearly display a window’s status, whether locked, unlocked or tilted. Tactile feedback from the lever allows users to feel the transition between modes, ensuring the system’s reliability.
www.rotonorthamerica.com
Booth 43025: Vitro Architectural Glass
Vitro will place the spotlight on two of its products: Sungate ThermL and VacuMax vacuum insulating glass (VIG). Sungate ThermL is a new low-E coating for interior use in insulating glass units (IGUs). It offers improved performance when combined with Solarban solar control low-E glass. It is ideal for applications requiring increased insulation performance and is as durable as uncoated glass, officials say. Meanwhile, the newest generation of VacuMax VIG now uses Solarban 70 solar-control, low-E glass, resulting in a 79% improvement in U-values and R-values of up to R20.
www.vitroglazings.com
Booth 43037: FlexScreen
Since the introduction of FlexScreen, manufacturers have expressed great interest in making the product in-house, company officials say. Last year the company teamed up with Erdman Automation Corp. to unveil an automated manufacturing line for producing its screens. This year it will once again demonstrate how manufacturers can utilize the line to incorporate screen production into their operations. With the new machinery, what used to take an entire production crew can now be done with four workers in a less than 1,500-square-foot area. Company officials say Erdman’s engineers delivered what they believe is the fastest, most efficient window screen line in the world. This year the company will also debut a brand-new FS600 line, which is for small manufacturers.
www.flexscreen.com
Booth 46023: FUX
FUX will have its new profile wrapping machine 83-SAM-327 on hand, which is engineered especially for process safety and faster set-up times. The machine features automatic adjustment of its central bed, full profile guide rollers, transport wheels, and foil and nozzle positioning, not only reducing set-up times but also the number of workers required for operation. All position data are stored for each profile. The fully automatic FUX bending table 34-PB-00 will also be on hand, which was especially developed for the North American market, officials say. By regulating 40 servo axles, the unit adjusts to the desired architectural shape of a window, making any configuration possible. Thanks to programming, the machine reduces the number of operators required, while bringing the risk of error to a bare minimum.
www.fux.at
Booth 46023: Continental
Continental is set to unveil new décors tailored specifically for the U.S. market. The company’s newest films offer the “perfect blend of deep matte finishes and astonishingly natural-looking decors,” officials say. The latest Conti Mattex shine and Conti Woodec decors include specially crafted Tropea Oak Cognac. The company is providing live demonstrations of its Cool Colors Plus technology, with low heat buildup.
www.skai.com
Booth 47069: Combilift
Combilift will demonstrate how door and window companies can utilize its forklifts to maximize facility capacity, enhancing operations and improving safety. Multidirectional forklift models, such as the C-Series and CB range, can travel sideways, reducing the risk of injury and allowing for cost-effective use of space. The pedestrian stacker ranges, Combi-WR4 and Combi-CS, ensure maximum safety for the operator and others nearby. The company’s unique tiller arm design allows for safe operation in narrow aisles and reduces the risk of becoming trapped. Forklifts are built with a very low center of gravity, allowing for a low-to-the-ground movement of loads. The C-series also includes an integrated platform, providing a stable base for resting your load during transportation.
www.combilift.com
Booth 51057: Winpro
Winpro will once again show off its Screen Express lines, which automate spline insertion on window screens, raising the bar for productivity, efficiency and cost savings. According to the company, Screen Express machines provide manufacturers with a distinct competitive advantage, eliminating repetitive motion injuries and enabling the production of more high-quality screens per hour, compared to manual assembly. The semi-automatic process is less labor-intensive and addresses the inefficiency and manual challenges previously faced in window fabrication. The company’s Screen Express SS system features a semi-automatic process that is less labor intensive than traditional methods. SS can handle screen assemblies up to 48 inches by 96 inches in size and features a dual-drive design for consistent processing.
Don’t Miss it!
Pro-Line Automation Systems has been engineering and building machinery and automated systems for aluminum and vinyl since 1990. This year, the company plans to unveil a brand-new machine. While officials were mum on the details (to avoid spoiling the surprise), swing by booth 14057 to have a look.
www.prolineautomation.com
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