The company has opened a new state-of-the-art R&D laboratory at its Merseyside headquarters and taken the innovative step of employing a specialist polymer chemist as it aims to continually improve the performance and functionality of its safety glass products.
Chemist Dr Vince Crook will lead testing and development of CGI’s interlayer which is used in its Pyroguard fire glass range to provide integrity, fire and heat resistance. Dr Crook has more than seven years experience in developing fire retardant coatings and associated products.
Phill Millward, General Manager at CGI, commented: “Architects and developers are faced with the tough challenge of designing contemporary buildings that are practical, aesthetically pleasing and comply with stringent health and safety, building and fire regulations.
“Our investment in R&D is focused on continuous improvement to enable CGI to develop versatile safety glasses which withstand high temperatures and extreme testing.
“This presents architects with a product that enhances design, is flexible to work with and fit, maximises safety and meets legislation. Furthermore, using high-spec fire safety glasses can help to satisfy insurance standards and increase market appeal and value of the finished building.”
CGI produces a range of fire and security glasses including Pyroguard and Fireswiss Foam. The products range from 30 minutes integrity to 120 minutes insulation depending on the thickness of the glass and are listed on the RIBA NBS Plus Specification Programme.
Phill added: “Glass will continue to prove a popular design feature of modern buildings as it harnesses natural light and allows for the combination of old and new architecture. Constantly investing in R&D enables CGI to effectively meet burgeoning market demand and the evolving and ambitious plans of architects.”
ENDS
Notes to Editor:
• CGI International was formed as a management buy out in 1998.
• The Merseyside-based company is a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialist fire and security glass and supplies markets around the world.
• CGI products have been used in many renowned buildings including Hong Kong Airport, the Houses of Parliament, Manchester Airport, Ritz London and Warwick Castle. Its range of fire glass ranks as the largest available from any one supplier.
• The company recently invested in excess of £200,000 in new R&D facilities as part of its commitment to the continuous improvement of the functionality and performance of its glass.
www.cgii.co.uk