Hardware Options

Locks

Locks are accessories that enhance the security and functionality of your frames. A "lock" as a term is a general one and refers to "securing" an entry point to restrict/control entry. In the aluminium industry, this term is mainly used for entrance doors and simple sliding systems, whereas in hinged and lift and slide systems they are known as 'mechanisms'.

In case of entrance doors and sliding systems, multiple options of locks are available, depending on the level of security and usability required by the user. Regarding security:

• The number of locking points is a major security factor. Single point locks and multi point locks (up to 5 for doors, and 4 for simple sliding windows and doors) as an enhanced security solution are available in the Alumil range.
• Locks can also have different types of locking, ranging from hooks, to bolts and pins.

In terms of functionality:

• Roller locks can be used for easy access from the outside without the need of a key. Doors with roller locks can be pushed open and are usually found in commercial applications. Respectively, for domestic applications latch locks are used to allow entrance to key users only.
• Automatic locks can be fitted to ensure the 'locking' of the door when pushed closed without the need of turning the key.
• Further, automatic mechanisms can be fitted for opening and closing the door sash with the use of a button or a remote. This can be very useful for applications in areas with users of limited abilities.

Based on the above, Alumil offers a full range of locks, from simple ones to multi point locks with integrated automations to meet even the highest requirements.

Hinges

Hinges are a key feature of all hinged frames. Depending on application and requirements, hinges can have varied structures and characteristics, the most important being their load capacity:

• In terms of aesthetics, hinges can be visible or hidden for a more refined solution. In case of visible hinges, their final form depends on their shape and color. As a rule, hinges are typically cylindrical, available in popular powder coating and anodized finishes.
• Depending on the application, hinges meet different technical requirements and can be found with different names:
  1. In projecting windows hinges are called "stay arms”
  2. In pivoting windows they are called "pivot hinges"
  3. In bifolding doors, 'roller-hinges' are used, as a combination of rollers and hinges.
  4. Finally, they can be screw-fixed or clamped according to their installation on windows or doors.

Last but not least, a key characteristic is their certification for durability and corrosion resistance. Alumil range hinges are fully certified at all levels.

Handles

Handles are the fittings with which we come most into contact when using our windows and doors. The handle or knob essentially brings the individual components of the frame to life, enabling its functionality. As such, the handle is a crucial part of the entire system. . The main features of the handles are:

• Their type. Depending on the application, there are different handles for hinged systems, doors, sliding systems, retractable systems, etc. In addition, these types can be divided into subgroups, with distinct characteristics.
• The safety they provide. Handles can enhance the security of a frame in two key ways:
  1. With an integrated key. This prevents the unauthorized use of the window from the inside can be avoided and improves the anti-burglary protection of the frame.
  2. With the Secustic anti-burglary mechanism, which makes it particularly difficult to violate the window. Both of these solutions are available in the Alumil range.
• Their aesthetics. Alumil almost exclusively uses handles of its own design, to complementing the refined look of its systems. Alumil handles are available in all popular powder coating and anodizing colors, including special colors upon request.
• Their certified resistance to use and corrosion. The handles of the Alumil range are fully certified at all levels.
  

Mechanisms

The mechanisms, similar to what was mentioned for the locks, are hardware that give the frames security and functionality. The term "mechanism" refers to a set of accessories that work together. In general, we can distinguish between two types of mechanisms, those for tilt & turn systems and those for lift & slide systems.

• Their material of construction and their mode of operation. They are thus divided into two main categories, the 'aluminium mechanism', which consists of individual parts joined together with aluminium gaskets, and the 'peripheral mechanism', which consists of metal parts joined together without any additions.
• Their number and their locking points. Both mechanisms mentioned above have the possibility of multiple locks at various points around the perimeter of the frame, which are selected according to our security requirements.
• The type of handle used. The mechanisms of the Alumil range fit with Alumil handles in any case.
• The weight that their hinges can support. In the case of large openings and/or heavy glass panes, the use of heavy-duty mechanisms may be required. In the majority of cases, the standard mechanisms are perfectly adequate.
• The aesthetics of their hinges, whether they are visible and in what shades, or if they are hidden.
• The opening angle of the sash. Based on the technical characteristics of each mechanism, this angle may vary. There are mechanisms that allow the sash to open up to 100°, while others allow up to 180°.
• The maximum dimensions they can support.
• Their certified resistance to use and corrosion. Alumil's range of mechanisms have leading certifications at all levels.

The mechanisms of lift and slide systems have the following main features:

• The weight that their guide rollers can support. Alumil has two basic mechanisms, the standard type for sashes up to 200kg and the heavy duty type for sashes up to 400kg, covering every requirement.
• Their number and their locking points. Both mechanisms mentioned above have two locks and the option of using a third one for increased security. In addition to the number of locks, lift & slide systems are considered particularly secure, as when locked the sashes sit under their own weight, making it very difficult for a malicious person to lift them.
• Ease of use. Alumil mechanisms offer excellent comfort in their everyday use. The sashes slide in a smooth and silent manner, while the mechanism is easy and safe to use even for small children.
• The maximum dimensions they can support.
• The type of handle used. The mechanisms of the Alumil range work well with Alumil handles in any case.
• Their certified resistance to use and corrosion. Alumil's range of mechanisms have leading certifications at all levels.