Aichi (Aichi Prefecture)
Technical Case Studies
As of today, AICHI METALS installs glass balustrades in four different ways: first, by fixing the glass with a round fixing metal called ‘point fix’ and a flat bar; second, by building the metal in a ‘U’ shape like a sash used for window frames and The third method is to construct a frame made to exacting tolerances, into which the glass is inserted. The fourth method is the ALGRID, which we have developed. The first three methods are conventional. Both have a long history and offer various advantages. Pointfix is highly design-oriented, unexpected and preferred. As for sash frames, they are less design-oriented but safer and more widely used in society. However, both have the disadvantage of being slightly more difficult to work with on site and less adaptable. As for sash frames, the installation itself is easy, but the ‘holding edge’ that holds the glass is fitted last, so a difference in accuracy of 0.5 mm can result in the holding edge not fitting.
How ALGRID was developed
After all, we thought that the biggest drawback of hardware for fixing glass was the lack of ‘on-site processing flexibility’. We wondered if it would be possible to create a glass fixing item that would be flexible and tactile on site, yet still be able to be used securely and to the highest quality. If it could be used for anything, that would be even better. This is how the development of ALGRID started. As a result, a single bar became the final form in terms of shape. However, a complex idea was used. ALGRID is all of this and more.
ALGRID’ potential
We have already used “ALGRID” on numerous sites. Although it is a basic interior component, the sash frame itself is aesthetically pleasing because the screws in the holding rim are not visible. It also contributes to the design of the architectural design, as it gives the impression that the glass is framed by a single metal bar. A notable feature was the ease of cutting the bars to the desired size on site, without the need for drilling screws or cutting threads. This has greatly reduced the stress our site workers have had to deal with when installing the glass, and with the official ALGRID online store opening at the end of February 2022 (click on the top image below to go to the online store), we hope you will be able to take advantage of this new product too. We hope you will enjoy our products.
