Behfar will lead the UK team as it continues to champion the adoption of sustainable heating technologies, offer comfort solutions, and support customers in their drive to reduce carbon emissions.

With distinguished roles at large organisations such as EDF, SSE, and E.ON, Behfar has a proven-track record of navigating intricate regulatory environments. By establishing collaborations with industry stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and government departments Behfar has previously secured funding for energy efficiency initiatives, particularly those backed by government schemes.

His profound understanding of heat network technologies will fortify Taconova UK’s commitment to delivering sustainable, cost-effective metering and billing solutions.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Behfar to the Taconova UK team,” said Ralph Seewald, Managing Director of Taconova. “With over two decades of deep-rooted experience in energy efficiency, Behfar’s expertise is an invaluable addition to Taconova UK.”

Reflecting on his new role, Behfar remarked, “Being appointed as the General Manager for Taconova UK is a tremendous honour. The company, distinguished for its high-quality, resource-efficient products, caters to a diverse range of sectors – from residential properties to commercial edifices and public facilities. I am keenly looking forward to offering unparalleled service to our customers, harmonising sustainability with fiscal prudence.”

Under Behfar’s leadership, Taconova UK is well-positioned to continue its mission of offering reliable, low-maintenance, and highly efficient solutions that save customers time, effort, and money.

For more information about Taconova, its products and services, please visit http://www.taconova.com.

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Travis Perkins plc, the UK’s largest distributor of building materials, has announced a multi-million pound investment in 400 new truck loader cranes.

These new HIAB iX.162 HIPRO BSS-2 cranes are the first of their kind and will replace the existing cranes on the Group’s heavy side delivery vehicles in the Travis Perkins merchanting and Keyline Civils Specialist businesses over a three year period.

This version of the HIAB iX.162 crane is around 150 kgs lighter in weight than the previous model, HIAB X-HIDUO 162. This allows the truck to increase its payload and lower its fuel consumption. To further reduce carbon emissions, the new cranes have been developed so the engine can be stopped and restarted from the crane remote control. This results in a significant reduction in idle time emissions and noise.

Despite being lighter, the new crane model is stronger than the previous model. This gives operators more flexibility and enables them to deliver heavy loads in even the most challenging customer environments safely and with greater accuracy. They also come with Hiab’s all-new CombiDrive 4 remote control, which has confirmed view sensors and automatically detects operator positioning to minimise accident risk and promote better safety for operators, customers and the public.

“These new cranes represent a significant investment. They support our plans to innovate and grow, and they cement our place as a leading partner to construction by serving our customers with improved safety and efficiency. All new cranes will come with a maintenance contract, which means they will be maintained to the highest standards by Hiab. They also support our own commitment to net zero and the decarbonisation of our customers’ supply chain; a commitment we share with Hiab, whose values very much align with our own,” explained Richard Byrne, Travis Perkins Group HSE & Fleet Director.

Gage Roberts, Hiab Key Account Manager – UK & Ireland, said: “We are all very excited to introduce the first HIAB iX.162 HIPRO  BSS-2 to Travis Perkins and get this unit out working in the field. It became very apparent that when specifying a crane for our customers, the safety features alongside the environmental factors are much more prominent considerations than they ever have been previously. The new crane has an abundance of innovations that will all work towards this crane being the safest, most efficient and most productive crane in the industry. It is also great to work alongside a strategic partner such as Travis Perkins plc; a company that always demands the very best – something that benefits both businesses enormously.”

“There has never been a product on the market before like the HIAB iX.162 HIPRO BSS-2 in its category. Our innovation teams have been working on this round-the-clock for several years and no stone has been left unturned, from hose routing and weight savings, to enhanced safety features and technology that will help companies achieve sustainability  targets. When the new HIAB iX.162 HIPRO BSS-2 cranes are rolled out, we expect the crane operators to see immediate benefits. We look forward to working with Travis Perkins and bringing about real change to the wider UK industry,” Vice President for Sales & Product Management, Loader Cranes Light & Medium, at Hiab, Alexander Gelis, added.

The new 400 HIAB cranes will be rolled out from January 2024, and will be supplied to Travis Perkins and Keyline with HiConnect telematics in order to monitor the performance and safe operation of the crane.

They will also be supplied with, the comprehensive service contract solution ProCare, available for Hiab equipment. It provides proactive maintenance and expert assistance to maximise equipment performance, reliability and lifespan.

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Collaborating alongside long-standing director, Adrian Buttress, Duncan brings with him more than 30 years of experience in the roofing and building products industry, having held senior positions at the likes of Marley Building Materials, Icopal Limited and most recently as MD of Carlisle Construction Materials.  

Duncan said: “I’ve known of PermaGroup for many years and have always admired the business and Adrian’s vision for it. For me, now is the perfect time to take on this new challenge at a business that I really believe in. I just love roofing and have been passionate about it my entire career, but I’m equally excited to expand my knowledge to the other areas of the business including modular builds and fencing – I can see real opportunities to grow the group as a whole.”  

PermaGroup has plans to extend its products, services and training capabilities, with its successful PermaRoof Registered Installer Scheme potentially rolling out across other facets of the business.  

Duncan added: “With me being based in the south, I’ve got fantastic connections that can further expand PermaGroup’s presence down here and into London. Adrian and I already have ambitious plans that we can’t wait to action but for me, it starts internally.  

“Company culture is hugely important, and I’m eager to implement things that improve on what Adrian has already established across the group. Of course, no company growth can happen unless the employees and clients are brought on the journey too.” 

Duncan will take on much of the day-to-day activities working with Adrian on the strategic development plans.  

Adrian said: “Welcoming Duncan to the team is exactly the right move for us to take the next steps as a business. We both have the best interests of PermaGroup in mind, not just for the investors but for our team and clients too and we’re excited to unlock the business’ full potential. It’s fantastic to have Duncan’s expertise and a fresh pair of eyes on the PermaGroup, ready to drive it forward and I’m eager for us to start working together.” 

To find out more about PermaGroup, please visit: www.permagroup.co.uk/   

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The DX20ZE-7 mini-excavator is the first mass-produced electric-powered excavator manufactured by DEVELON, formerly known as Doosan Construction Equipment. This 2 tonne excavator combines low-noise and zero emissions with the features and performance enhancements that are found on the next-generation DX-7 Series family of mini-excavators.

“The DX20ZE-7 is designed to meet a growing demand for electric machines,” says Stephane Dieu, Excavators Product Manager for Europe at DEVELON. “As compact equipment, such as mini-excavators, has a higher tendency to work in cities and residential areas, where it has proximity to other workers, it has a great advantage over the diesel counterpart due to less noise and no emissions.”

Retractable tracks allow the new excavator to pass through narrow passages and entrances/exits, making it ideal for working in confined spaces or indoor applications such as demolition and construction. Once the excavator reaches the work area, the operator can expand the tracks for better stability and lifting capacity. With its compact dimensions, the DX20ZE-7 is an excellent solution for construction and rental companies working in sensitive areas where low noise or night-time work is necessary.

The DX20ZE-7 mini-excavator is powered by an in-house-developed 20.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with all of the electrical system and components on the machine optimized for work in harsh environments. A quick-charger system restores 80% of the battery power after only one hour and 20 minutes of charging, while the on-board charger restores the maximum charge after eight hours of charging.

Telematics as Standard

Telematics is standard on the DX20ZE-7 mini-excavator. Operators and dealers can remotely monitor their machine’s health, location and productivity from an app or website. Telematics can help owners:

• Minimize equipment theft and allow for machine tracking.
• Avoid unauthorized use of the machine.
• See when maintenance is due.
• Customize alerts to a customer’s schedule.
• Track oil pressure, operating temperature and more.
• Use data to train operators for maximum productivity.

DX20ZE-7 Mini-Excavator Specs

Rated power, electric motor: 13.7 kW (18.4 HP)

Battery capacity: 51.6 V (20.4 kWh)

Operating weight: 1941 kg

Maximum digging depth: 2350 mm

Maximum digging reach (ground): 3875 mm

Maximum loading height: 2625 mm

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James joins Baxi with a wealth of experience gained from previous roles within the construction industry, most recently as Business Development Director at Polypipe.

Rob Erwood, Commercial Sales and Specification Director at Baxi, said: “We’re delighted to welcome James as our new Head of Public Health, working alongside Anne Wraith, our Head of Building Services, and Michelle Wright, our Head of Key Accounts. Commercial hot water generation is a vital service with unique challenges and opportunities, and James’s appointment reflects our commitment to providing exceptional support for our customers in this sector.”

Experts in hot water systems and renewable/LZC technologies, Baxi’s Public Health team assists public health and mechanical engineers, contractors and commercial end-users in achieving the best solutions for every commercial hot water application. The company’s comprehensive commercial hot water portfolio includes Heatrae Sadia electric hot water solutions, Andrews Water Heaters gas-fired water heaters, buffer vessels and cylinders, Remeha air source heat pumps, and prefabricated packaged plant rooms.

James said: “This is an exciting time to be joining Baxi, given the increasing focus on decarbonising heating and hot water in buildings. From specification to supply and commissioning, I am looking forward to leading my team in providing the best solutions and technical support for our existing and new customers as they transition to a low/zero carbon future.”

For more information on the Baxi range of commercial hot water products, click here.

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TICA, together with the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), first raised their concerns over the suitability of pre-insulated pipework and ductwork product, when utilised inside buildings, in July 2022.

Chris Ridge, TICA’s Technical Policy Manager said “Twelve months after our initial communications it has become necessary for TICA to raise this issue again. BS 5422:2023 now defines Reaction to Fire in terms of the Euroclass system and states a minimum performance of Euroclass C-s3, d2 in dwelling applications and B-s3, d2 in non-dwelling applications. Many pre-insulated systems that are being marketed for use inside of buildings simply do not meet these criteria.”

In addition, TICA is raising questions over the testing regimes employed by some manufacturers of pre-insulated pipe and duct systems.

“We are seeing vastly differing reaction to fire results for products that appear to be of a similar nature,” added Chris. “In some cases, the testing processes adopted by manufacturers of pre-insulated product appear to have diverged from the agreed testing methods commonly understood for traditional thermal insulation products.

“Ultimately, manufacturers are marketing a system by combining pipe and duct products with an insulation product – this cannot negate the responsibility of testing the insulation element to the prescribed standards.”

TICA has also highlighted the fact that some pre-insulated products are being marketed for applications where they simply cannot meet the required maximum heat loss requirements prescribed in BS 5422:2023 and Approved Document L Volumes 1 & 2.

Chris said: “Those responsible for specifying and installing pre-insulated systems should be prepared to ask some detailed questions first. Ultimately, this is not just a combination of products but a junction of trades.

“No-one would automatically assume that a thermal insulator is competent to install or specify pipework and ductwork – why, then, should we assume that a ductwork contractor or pipework contractor is competent to install or specify thermal insulation?” 

BS 5422:2023 applies to thermal insulating materials for pipes, tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment operating between-40ºc and +700ºc. The first update in since 2009, it is the cornerstone of UK thermal insulation standards, setting out minimum levels of performance for different operating conditions.

TICA can provide further information, complete with a list of questions that can be put to manufacturers and distributors of pre-insulated products, upon request.

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Who: ThermoSphere, a leading British-based electrical heating manufacturer, has been using its technical expertise to drive innovation for over 25 years.

Why: In electric underfloor heating installation, most faults occur at the connection or ‘joint’ where the hot underfloor cable meets the cold cable running to the thermostat. These joints are typically crimped or soldered and then heat shrink wrapped, making them three times thicker than the cable. Their bulky size forces installers to carve holes into the subfloor, insulation, and membrane mats using sharp blades and even grinders.

ThermoSphere Ultimate^®drastically improves installation time and removes all these issues installers currently face:

• cable failure due to the high risk of damaging the cable
• compromising the waterproofing layer and membrane mat guarantee
• overheating and cable failure because the holes don’t carry away heat
• damage to reputation with customers
• loss of time and money to revisit, replace and repair installations.

How: ThermoSphere have incorporated the hot-to-cold joint connections into the primary manufacturing process, creating invisible joints and a reliable, award-winning cable that’s uniform in thickness from end-to-end

ThermoSphere Ultimate^®offers many benefits to installers and merchants:

• A one-step cable installation saves time and effort, and speeds up and simplifies the installation process.
• Prevents cable damage during installation and stops cable failure by removing the number one fault in underfloor heating installations.
• Helps to preserves the waterproofing layer of the decoupling membrane.
• Allows for quick quality workmanship with an automatically flush finish ready for tiling.
• Compatible with all membranes on the market so installers can rely on trusted products.
• Reduces environmental impact and waste to dispose of. There is no plastic, so the reel is recyclable and compostable.
• Comes in four cable lengths so installers can reduce the number of multi-cable installations.

If the cable fails in first 12 months due to manufacturing, ThermoSphere will replace the system and flooring*. The guarantee means merchants and installers never need to worry about damage or dead stock.

Where: For more information on cable specifications, pricing and to get your hands on ThermoSphere Ultimate^® visit https://www.thermosphere.com/products/floor-heating/ultimate

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In Malta’s biggest harbor, a big electrification project is ongoing to energize cruise liners and cargo ships with clean electric energy instead of diesel fuel. For the intensive underwater works, contractor Pina Dalgıçlık İnşaat San and Trade is using an Atlas Copco handheld breaker and power pack. An ideal fit for the ultra-tough and unusual cable laying project.

Rock breaking projects on land are tough, but nothing your Atlas Copco handheld breaker can’t handle. Fracturing rocks underwater, on the other hand… now there’s a challenge of a much higher order. Just ask Pina Dalgıçlık İnşaat San and Trade (PDIST), a specialist underwater contractor based in Bakırköy, one of the oldest districts in Istanbul, Turkey.

The company is currently using Atlas Copco’s robust LH 390 pneumatic breaker for an intensive eight-month underwater electrical infrastructure project, as part of a wider effort to energize cruise liners and cargo ships across Turkey and Malta. The ‘Malta Medium Voltage Underwater Cable Laying’ project will enable vessels to plug into shoreside electricity to charge onboard systems while berthed at port, swapping out the need for fuel-dependency in place of clean electric.

Coupled with Atlas Copco’s LP 18-40PE Hydraulic Power Pack, the LH 390 handheld hydraulic breaker is being used to crush rocks beneath the water’s surface in order to prepare the area for underwater electric cables. On land, the LP 18-40PE Hydraulic Power Pack transmits power to drive the submerged LH 390 breaker unit, which is tasked with the demanding job of fragmenting rocks and dislodging them from the ground to forge a clear path for the cables, which will transmit electricity to allotted on-land charging ports.

The Atlas Copco LH 390 hydraulic breaker is designed for tough applications

While such a demanding application may land other air units in troubled waters, Atlas Copco’s LH 390 hydraulic unit has proven itself to be tough enough to take such a challenge in its stride. As one of the most powerful handheld breakers in the world, the titan LH 390 is designed to break anything, anywhere. Weighing 33 kg and offering 125 bar of pressure, its high pressure-to-weight ratio also means users can achieve optimal performance without compromising on portability.

The LH 390 handheld breaker is coated with premium water resistant, anti-corrosion and anti-rust paint, meaning it can be plunged in saline ocean water and remerge unscathed. Before use, the machine’s unparalleled robust design and high-quality components are also rigorously tested at Atlas Copco’s in-house testing facility, ensuring it is suitable to weather any storm.

Vibro-reduction technology

The PDIST team is required to physically dive underwater to power their tools, which is why it is important to not only have a breaker unit that is tough enough to crack rocks underwater, but also easy to manoeuvre and work with. Fortunately, Atlas Copco’s LH 390 handheld breaker’s slim design and lightweight design offers a smooth user experience.

“Mobility is one factor that is really critical to this operation; we are routinely diving into the water to remove rocks and debris from the seabed, then swimming back up to the surface again – all while operating and carrying our handheld breaker. The LH 390’s high power to weight ratio means we can get plenty done in a short space of time, improving our team’s productivity and enabling us to ‘crack’ on with our project with ease – pun intended”

Serdar Yaygili, General Manager from PDIST

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The new catalogue features all of Werner’s products and has been updated to include the recently launched Pro Plus Tower, as well as other new bestselling products including the LEANSAFE^® X3 and Adjustable & Linking PRO Platform.  

For over 100 years, the Werner brand has been revered across the industry for its broad product line and its commitment to placing safety at its fore. Its vast range of products have been designed with the user in mind, helping to make working at height safer and faster, whatever the job. 

The catalogue includes Werner’s entire portfolio of extension ladders; stepladders; roof ladders; fibreglass ladders; aluminium ladders; telescopic ladders; stepstools; work platforms; access towers; loft ladders, and lock-in accessories such as paint cups and utility buckets. 

Mark Robson, Product Manager at Werner, said: “Werner takes considerable pride in its continued investment in new products, markets and technologies. The Werner brand has achieved some exciting new developments and milestones over the past year, such as its 100-year anniversary and the launch of new innovative products such as the Pro Plus Tower, and we are excited to launch a new catalogue which reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation, and also its reputation as the number one choice for professionals.”  

Featuring product specifications, designated usage and key benefits, as well as explaining European safety standards, the catalogue is the ideal tool to assist professionals with choosing the most suitable working at height equipment for their professions.  

In addition to extensive information and guidance in the brochure, Werner’s recent campaign, Stepping Up to Ladder Safety, offers five individual guides highlighting how professionals can choose the right equipment for the job and how to undertake best practice when working at height.    

To view Werner’s new product catalogue, visit www.wernerco.com/uk/literature.  

To find out more about the products available from WernerCo, visit www.wernerco.co.uk 

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HydroPro Floor Paint boasts a unique formula that combines the strength of cross-linking technology with the convenience of water-based application. This innovation results in a tough, hard-wearing mid-sheen finish that’s ideal for a variety of spaces, from domestic garages and workshops to light-industrial environments. Once cured, HydroPro Floor Paint becomes resistant to oils, grease, and light industrial traffic, providing a long-lasting solution for a number of areas.

“We’re very excited by the launch of our new HydroPro Floor Paint with its superior drying and recoat times, this offers so many possibilities for the professional decorator and maintenance teams.  A real alternative for solvent based floor paints,” commented James Burton of HMG Paints. “This is the first product that is part of a new portfolio we’ve been putting together for the professional decorator and light industrial market and we’re excited to reveal even more in the coming months.”

One of the standout features of HydroPro Floor Paint is its remarkable fast drying times, allowing professionals to apply multiple coats within a single day. This not only expedites the painting process but also minimizes downtime, enabling quicker project completion. With HydroPro, efficiency and quality go hand in hand.

Key Advantages of HydroPro Floor Paint:

• Cross-linking Formulation: The cross-linking technology in HydroPro ensures exceptional adhesion and durability, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
• Smooth Finish: HydroPro Floor Paint leaves behind a flawless finish that enhances the aesthetics of any space.
• Low Odour/VOC: Say goodbye to strong paint odours. HydroPro’s low odour and VOC content make it a preferable choice for enclosed environments.
• Quick Drying: HydroPro’s rapid drying times mean less waiting and more productivity.
• Stain Resistant: The paint’s resilience extends to its resistance and has been tested against everything from Diesel and engine oils to wine and coffee.

Available in a range of stock colours including Light Grey, Mid Grey, Dark Grey, Yellow, Tile Red, and Mid Blue. HydroPro Floor Paint lets you tailor the look of your floors to your specific preferences. Each colour is available in a convenient 5-litre size, ensuring you have ample coverage for your projects.

HMG Paints’ HydroPro Floor Paint redefines the standard for floor finishes, offering a blend of durability, efficiency, and aesthetics. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, HydroPro is the ultimate choice for achieving stunning and enduring floor surfaces.

HydroPro Floor Paint is available directly from HMG via shop.hmgpaint.com or via their ever-expanding network of specifically chosen distributors. All of HMG Paints portfolio is Made in Britain certified and is produced entirely at its Riverside Works factory in Manchester. HMG has also launched a new Product Tester campaign where users can sign up to get early access to new HMG products you can sign up via.: https://shop.hmgpaint.com/product-tester-sign-up-page.

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