Types of fittings

Locks

Locks are fittings that give frames security and functionality. 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 the use of so-called 'mechanisms' has become predominant.

In the case of entrance doors and simple sliding systems there are numerous options and combinations for their security and functionality that a lock can provide. Regarding security:

• The number of locking points of a lock is one of the security features it provides. The Alumil range features locks with single and multiple locking points (up to 5 on doors, up to 4 on simple sliding doors) as an upgraded security solution.
• The type of locks also differentiates the locks, with types such as hooks or pins.

In terms of functionality:

• The use of a ball bearing lock on an entrance door allows it to be opened from the outside with a simple push, which is generally found in shops for ease of access. Similarly, locks with tongue locks that require the use of a key for entry are used on house entrance doors.
• There is the possibility of automatic locking of the door when it is closed
• Similarly, there is the possibility of automatic unlocking and opening of the door using a remote control or fingerprint sensor. This feature is extremely important in applications where there are users with limited capabilities.

Based on the above characteristics, Alumil has a full range of products ranging from simple locks for everyday use to multi-point locks that incorporate automation for more specialized needs and the highest levels of security.

Hinges

Hinges are a key feature of all hinged frames. Depending on the application and requirements, hinges can have different structures and characteristics, the most important of which is the weight they can carry:

• In terms of aesthetics, hinges can either be visible on the system or hidden as a more upgraded solution. In the case of visible hinges, both their geometry and their colour make up their final form. As a rule, the hinges are cylindrical in shape and are available in the most popular electrostatic paint and anodising colours.
• Depending on the application, the hinges used meet different technical requirements and can be found under different names:
  1. In projected windows the hinges used are called "stay arms"
  2. In pivot windows they are called "pivot hinges"
  3. In folding doors we have "roller-hinges", a combination of hinges with rollers
  4. Depending on the way they are mounted on windows and doors, hinges can be classified as screw-fixed or clamped

Finally, a key feature is their certified durability and corrosion resistance. Alumil range hinges have top certifications at all levels.

Handles

The handles are the fittings with which we come into contact for the use of the frame. The handle or knob essentially gives life to the individual fittings of the frame, which give the frame its functionality. As can be seen from the above, the handle is a very important part of the whole. The main features of the handles are:

• Their type. Depending on the application, handles are divided into hinged systems, door handles, sliding systems, retractable systems, etc. In addition, the above types can be divided into subgroups also with distinct characteristics.
• The security they provide. Handles can enrich the security of the frame mainly in two ways:
  1. With an integrated key. In this way, the unacceptable use of the window from the inside can be avoided but it also improves the anti-burglary protection of the frame.
  2. With the Secustic anti-burglary mechanism, through which it is 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, thus completing the aesthetics of its systems. Alumil handles are available in all popular electrostatic painting and anodising colours, as well as special colours upon request.
• Their certified resistance to use and corrosion. The handles in the Alumil range have top certifications at all levels.
  

Mechanisms

The mechanisms, similar to what was mentioned for the locks, are components that give the frames security and functionality. The term "mechanism" refers to a set of fittings 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 additional 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 the security requirements we have.
• The type of handle with which they work. The mechanisms of the Alumil range work well with Alumil handles in all cases.
• 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, of course, 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 leaf. Based on the technical characteristics of each mechanism, this angle may vary. Thus there are mechanisms that allow the leaf to open up to 100°, while others allow the leaf to open up to 180°.
• The maximum dimensions they can support.
• Their certified resistance to use and corrosion. Alumil's range of mechanisms have top certifications at all levels.

The mechanisms of retrieval systems are characterised by the following main points:

• The weight that their guide rollers can support. Alumil has two basic mechanisms, the standard type for leaves up to 200kg and the heavy duty type for leaves 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 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 to a malicious person to lift them.
• Ease of use. Alumil mechanisms offer excellent comfort in everyday use. The rolling of the sashes is smooth and silent, while the mechanism is easy and safe to use even for small children.
• The maximum dimensions they can support.
• The type of handle with which they work. The mechanisms of the Alumil range work well with Alumil handles in all cases.
• Their certified resistance to use and corrosion. Alumil's range of mechanisms have top certifications at all levels.