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Linear Now Offers Operators

© 2001 Door & Access Systems
Publish Date: Summer 2001
Author: Tom Wadsworth
Pages 4-22

NEWSLINES

PRODUCTS

Linear Now Offers Operators

At the IDA 2001 Expo, Linear Corporation launched its own line of chain-drive garage door operators (GDOs), designed exclusively for professional installers. Linear, based in Carlsbad, Calif., has long been known as a manufacturer of garage door and gate operator radio controls.

"We know this business very well," said Joe Bridgman, Linear’s GDO product manager, "and we see a need for a product that is both easy to sell and easy to install."

Operator Features

Bridgman says Linear operators are packaged in an upgraded system, so the installer has everything needed for each job. In addition to the head unit, chain drive, rail, mounting accessories, and obstacle sensor, Linear adds a deluxe three-function wall station and two-channel, two-button handheld transmitter.

Also included are a number of features that reduce installation time, such as a pre-assembled T-rail, a pre-tensioned chain, a standard junction-box-ready wall station, and a splice maker.

To demonstrate reliability of manufacture, Linear performs computer-automated board and operator tests on each unit. The test results are then shipped as documentation. Another installer detail is the design of external wiring connections so that they are not polarity sensitive. Integral self-diagnostics simplify troubleshooting.

Remote Control Features

The handheld transmitter uses Linear’s MegaCode format, which offers over one million codes, all but eliminating any chance of duplication or code grabbing. Two channels allow a second remote control function, making the transmitter ideal for gated applications. The wall station includes a door control, a button for the light, and a vacation switch.

Each Linear operator features a 1/3- or 1/2-HP motor. All up and down limits and obstacle sensing adjustments are external and grouped on one side. The light cover is made of high impact plastic and permits easy access for homeowners to change light bulbs.

The new operator will be available nationally through Linear’s standard distribution network.


Upwardor Launches "Hingeless" Door

In April at the IDA show, Upwardor Corporation launched its Stylistic 3000 residential garage door line. Upwardor is a leading manufacturer of polyurethane insulated commercial and industrial door products. The Stylistic line represents their first involvement in the residential garage door market.

Diane Aquilina, Upwardor’s U.S. sales manager, says the Stylistic 3000 represents "a truly innovative door design concept" based on the firm’s 27 years of engineering and manufacturing experience. The door features pinch-resistant joints, 1-3/8" thickness, R-value of 12, and an exclusive pivoting system that eliminates the use of conventional sheet metal hinges.

The Stylistic door is manufactured on a continuous foam-in-place process and is available in bulk panels including pivoting brackets or as a complete door. The Stylistic 3000 series carries a limited lifetime warranty (sections only) and a 3-year hardware warranty. Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Upwardor has U.S. sales offices in Clemmons, North Carolina.


New Aesthetic Commercial Doors from Wayne-Dalton

In May, Wayne-Dalton expanded its commercial sectional product line with the addition of the new ThermoMark 5150 and 5200 doors. These doors are designed for commercial applications that require a residential aesthetic appeal, while providing insulation value and industrial strength. Both offer a raised panel or flush design with a wood grain pattern.

The ThermoMark 5150 door is 1-1/2" thick of polyurethane foam injected between two sheets of steel, achieving an insulation R-value of 10.96. The ThermoMark 5200 door is 2" thick with an R-value of 14.8. The raised panel design for both models is available in white, brown, almond, and taupe, while the flush is available in white only.

Mark Hedquist, director of commercial products for Wayne-Dalton said the addition of the ThermoMark doors allows Wayne-Dalton dealers to "compete effectively with this niche of the commercial market."


Vitector Introduced at Expo

At Expo 2001, Fraba announced their new Vitector safety edge for wireless power and signal transmission (named TSE). The system allows safety sensors to run on horizontally and vertically closing doors without the use of moving cables. It is the industry's first wireless safety edge system that does not need a battery.

Since the system operates without moving cables, it avoids the frequent problem of sensing-edge failure due to a broken wire in the cables. Cable chains also require more installation time and component costs.

The system (TSE) is based on a non-contacting transmission of the necessary power and signals. The power for the safety edges is transmitted to the moving part. Advanced technology enables the safe transmission of the signals. One TSE unit is mounted on the moving part; the second unit is placed on the frame of the door.

The system fulfills all safety requirements of current U.S. standards for the door and gate industry. Since it operates without contact, the system does not deteriorate and is maintenance free. It is also resistant to moisture, dirt, and temperature changes. The simple setup and assembly enable fast and easy on-site installation.


C.H.I. Introduces Panel Accents

C.H.I. Overhead Doors recently unveiled a new designer option in residential doors. C.H.I.’s Panel Accents are available in eight color choices and are produced from a premium grade 2-mil. cast vinyl with a permanent adhesive. Accents are applied with precision at the production facility but can also be applied in the field.

This new feature is available on residential models in the 2290 series. This series includes three models that are foam injected with polyurethane insulation. The 2290 line has the look of a wood panel door with the structural integrity of steel.


Automatic Swing Doors Proposed

A patent is pending on a new garage door concept known as Automatic Swing Doors, an invention of Ms. Richie Burr of Visalia, Calif. According to a news release, the concept is seeking a manufacturer "for licensing or sale."

The concept depicts a garage door as two connecting doors that are separated in the middle like two swinging barn doors (see illustration). The doors do not open overhead, but outward to each side. The doors would be opened by a standard automatic door opener whereby "a carriage moves arms attached to the door forward."

The concept is said to have the advantage of being installed in low headroom situations. Other advantages:

  • "The weight of this garage door would be supported by the cement floor, thereby reducing the amount of weight on the garage ceiling."
  • The doors "would be easier to manually operate and less stressful physically."
  • Since the door would not ever be in a horizontal position, "dust and debris accumulation could be considerably less."
  • "Another benefit … is that a youngster or a pet cannot be trapped under the door."

More information is available through Advent Product Development at www.adventproduct.net.


New Accounting Software for Door Dealers

APPGEN Accounting for Small Business has introduced a new, lower-priced accounting software package for door dealers.

The package handles accounts receivable, accounts payable, general ledger, inventory control, job cost tracking, sales order processing, purchase order processing, bank reconciliation, professional billing, and payroll.

The software runs on Linux, Macintosh, and Windows platforms and can be modified to larger computing platforms without reentering data or retraining staff.

H. Tarnow & Co. has adapted the package for the door dealer and other service industry companies. Tarnow will also provide installation, training, and technical support. The software is also available to manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers.

The package includes a five-user license, four hours of training or telephone support, and a manual. A free demo can be downloaded from www.appgen.com.


Garaga Offers Long and Mixed Panels

In April, Garaga introduced two new models of garage doors for its "Standard + steel" door. The new XL model features elongated 40" x 13" panels, and the new MIX model alternates the short panel (21" x 13") and the elongated panel.

"With these two new products, we answer the needs of consumers who are looking for a different product. The new door models provide homeowners additional choices, allowing them to create a new look for their home," explains Michel Gendreau, Garaga president. "Garaga wants to offers the largest selection of garage door designs, colors, and windows."

For its Standard + steel door, Garaga now offers five different panel designs (raised panel, XL, MIX panel, flush, and grooved) in four colors (white, metro brown, claystone, and desert sand), and a variety of sizes. Gendreau said a complete range of elongated windows will also be available.


Martec Announces DoorMinder rc

Martec Access Products of Mountainside, N.J., has introduced DoorMinder rc, a new line of wireless commercial door and gate access controls and safety devices.

Bob Erickson, Martec product manager, says the DoorMinder product line will reduce installation time and costs for commercial applications. Wireless installations, he says, can be completed in less than half the time, and they yield even more savings at sites that require conduit for low voltage wiring.

The new DoorMinder wireless radio system centers around the Multi-Task Receiver that can be installed as either a primary or secondary control for commercial openers. It is designed for use with openers that require one-button or three-button inputs for directional control. Rolling code technology is employed for all directional radio control commands. In addition to directional controls, an obstruction safety system is available that can be used with wireless photo-beams or wireless edge transmitters.

A battery saver system will be standard on all accessories. Both the wireless edge transmitter and wireless safety beam system will use proprietary "wake-up" technology that extends battery life by activating the transmitter only when the door is in motion. The system includes a low battery reporting circuit with a self-contained alarm.


Martec Introduces Wireless Safety Edge Transmitter

Martec has added a wireless safety edge transmitter for use with the DoorMinder rc wireless commercial control system. The new wireless edge transmitter works with electric and pneumatic safety edge sensors and reduces installation time and cost because it does not require wiring.

The wireless edge transmitter features Martec’s patented supervised battery saver system. Proprietary "wake-up" technology extends battery life by activating the transmitter only when the door is in motion. The system also features an alarm for reporting low-battery conditions.


DeWalt Announces New Drills

In July, DeWalt is launching a new generation of XRP heavy-duty cordless drills with more torque, three speed settings, and a chuck with tighter bit grip.

The company’s new line of 12V, 14.4V, and 18V drill/drivers, and 14.4V and 18V hammerdrill/drill/drivers use a DeWalt-built high-torque motor that delivers more torque for drilling larger holes and driving bigger screws. Maximum torque is 450 inch/lbs. for the 18V model.

The new drill is the first to add a 3-speed transmission that produces more RPMs for faster drilling and driving applications. Its new MAX third speed is 38 percent faster than high speed on the 18V drill. The new speed is noticeably faster for wood and metal screw driving, wood and metal drilling, and especially for hammerdrilling into masonry.


PEOPLE

New President at Overhead Door

In February, Overhead Door Corporation announced that Dennis Stone has joined the company as president of the Door Group. Stone came to Overhead after a successful 20-year career at Inotek Corporation, a distribution and service organization providing manufacturing solutions.

From 1996 to 2001, Stone served as president of Inotek where he led a successful turnaround of the company. Stone also held several senior leadership positions in operations, sales, and branch operations. He holds a bachelor of business administration from Texas Tech University.

"Dennis Stone brings significant knowledge of manufacturing processes, technology applications, inventory management, product sales, and customer satisfaction initiatives," said Howard Simmons, CEO. "I am confident that he will bring aggressive leadership to our Door Group."

Overhead’s Door Group includes Overhead Door and W.B. McGuire Co.


Ichihashi is Executive V.P. at Overhead

In the new changes at Overhead Door, Hidetoshi Ichihashi will assume the role of executive vice president of strategic planning and business development. He will report directly to Howard Simmons, CEO.

In his new role, Ichihashi will be responsible for overseeing Overhead Door’s business planning process, development of the strategic business plan, internal audit processes, and ongoing assessment of business development including acquisition and joint venture opportunities.

Ichihashi had served as Overhead’s executive vice president and as a director since 1997. Before this latest appointment, he served as president of the Door Systems Group since February 2000.

New President at Genie

In February, John Venema was promoted to president of Overhead Door’s Operator Group, which includes the Genie Company of Alliance, Ohio. Venema has served Overhead Door Corporation since 1996, most recently as executive vice president, sales and marketing for the Overhead Door, Genie, and McGuire divisions.

"John has been a key contributor in driving results for Overhead Door Corporation over the past five years," said Howard Simmons, CEO. "I am confident that he will lead the Genie brand to success and expanded business growth."

Prior to joining the company, Venema gained experience in the durable goods industry with market leaders General Electric, Braun, and Black & Decker.


Roby Returns to Overhead

Wayne Roby has rejoined Overhead Door Corporation as vice president of manufacturing for Overhead’s Door Group. The company says Roby’s significant business experience and demonstrated leadership will help the firm successfully achieving their goals for product and service quality.

Roby’s prior experience includes over 25 years with Overhead Door. He has served as vice president of operations for the Pennsylvania division and vice president/general manager for the Nebraska/California division, and has held several other leadership positions with the Door Group.

In his new role, Roby will be responsible for operations at the Door and
McGuire plants.


Wilson Promoted at Overhead Door

Sandy Wilson has a new role as vice president of marketing for the Door Group at Overhead. Formerly he was the vice president of GeniePro sales, sales centers, and company stores.

Wilson has been with Overhead Door Corporation since 1991, serving a variety of roles from marketing to sales to market development. He has an undergraduate and graduate degree from Loyola University in business and marketing.


New Financial Consultant for Door Dealers

In May, Bruce McConnell, a financial services professional with nine years of experience in the garage door industry, became McConnell and Associates, an independent firm that provides financial analysis and planning services to the garage door dealer industry.

"This critical area of business is often neglected," says McConnell. "Very few dealers have the staff or the time to effectively interpret and utilize the financial reports provided by their accountants."

Formerly the financial services manager with Raynor Garage Doors, McConnell has already helped hundreds of door dealers achieve growth and reach financial goals for their businesses. For more than 20 years, McConnell has been providing financial analysis, planning, and credit management services to hundreds of small businesses. In his work with door dealers, he has also worked closely with accountants and lenders.

With a business degree from Western Illinois University, he and his wife, Vicki, have three children. McConnell and Associates is based in Dixon, Illinois, at 815-288-3556.


Snyder Joins Service Spring

Service Spring Corporation has appointed Terry Snyder to director of business development. He will be responsible for new business development throughout the United States and expanding sales with the company’s major accounts.

"Terry’s industry knowledge and his familiarity with Service Spring’s products will be advantageous in strengthening relationships with door dealers and manufacturers," said Mike McAlear, president of Service Spring.

Snyder, a B.B.A. graduate from the University of Toledo, joins Service Spring after 25 years in the steel and wire industry, most recently with the Fremont Wire Division of Laclede Steel, St. Louis, Missouri. Service Spring supplies torsion and extension springs, replacement slats, solid shaft, door hardware, and dock equipment.


Keen Cornell Dies

Keen Cornell, the former president of Cornell Iron Works, died on January 14, 2001, at the age of 64. He had served as Cornell’s president from 1969 until he retired in 1997. His son, Andrew Cornell, then became president.

In a statement to Door & Access Systems, Andrew Cornell said, "Dad took the company through an incredible transition from a struggling partnership to a modern, progressive company. Using his amazing humility and self-less style, when the journey was through, he gave all of the credit to others. That was Keen Cornell."

Milton Keen Cornell was a graduate of Harvard College, having earned a B.S. in engineering in 1959. He also received an M.B.A. from Wilkes University in 1983. He was an elder of the First Presbyterian Church of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and was active in conservation and environmental concerns in Pennsylvania and Florida.

In April, in his honor, the company’s new headquarters facility was dedicated to M. Keen Cornell. The Cornell family business was established in New York City in 1828. Cornell Iron Works is a family-owned company and leading manufacturer of rolling door products based in Mountaintop, Pa.


New General Manager at Garaga

In March, Garaga announced the appointment of Sylvain Fecteau to the position of general manager at its Barrie facility in Ontario.

"Sylvain Fecteau has proven himself more than capable of helping the manufacturing integration in our Barrie plant," said Michel Gendreau, president of Garaga. "His experience and enthusiasm will be instrumental in enabling us to more effectively manufacture high quality products and enhance service to all of our customers."

With a bachelor’s degree in engineering, Fecteau also has more than 14 years of experience in management. Fecteau is in charge of the markets in Ontario, Western Canada, and North Central United States.


COMPANIES

C.H.I. Expands into Rolling Doors

In May, C.H.I. Overhead Doors announced its new rolling steel door product lines.

C.H.I.’s 6000 Series service door will feature three angle structural steel guides, a half hexagonal formed hood, and 20,000-cycle springs as standard. The 6000 Series will be available in 22, 20, and 18 gauge slats in flat or curved configurations. It will also be available as a polystyrene insulated door, with a 24-gauge painted steel back.

The company also expects to offer fire doors with the 7000 Series Guardian Simple Drop Test fire door. This door features a floor-level disconnect lever that allows repeated drop testing from the floor with no re-tensioning. This UL-listed fire door will carry three- and four-hour ratings and will be available with standard listing and oversize UL labels.

All C.H.I. rolling steel doors will feature G-90 galvanized, high tensile steel slats with a baked-on enamel primer and a polyester finish coat in gray or white as standard. Chain hoist operation, a pre-formed hood, a two-angle hot dip galvanized bottom bar, and a three angle structural steel guide is standard on every door.

C.H.I. will offer a five-year warranty on all rolling door products, giving protection for the end user, and a marketing tool for the dealer.


Cornell Celebrates New Building

In April, Cornell Iron Works commemorated the official opening of its new facility in Mountaintop, Pa. The celebration included a dedication ceremony of the new facility to M. Keen Cornell, president of the company from 1969 to 1997.

Since 1978, Cornell has operated from two separate buildings, but with the new facility, Cornell will operate in one 188,000 square-foot building. The new building affords space for more efficient production methods and room for future growth. Features include a product development laboratory, 10 production bays, a training area and conference center, and an employee gym.

New state of the art production machinery and a new mainframe computer system have also been installed. Cornell says these elements gives the company the most modern, state of the art facility in the industry. The new building also exhibits an extensive collection of pictures and documents that chronicle the company’s existence since 1828.

"The new building, both in its functionality and the excitement it creates, positions Cornell to favorably add to our already rich 173-year history," said Andrew Cornell, president of Cornell Iron Works.


Upwardor Moves Into New Location

Upwardor Corporation has announced its move and expansion to a new location in Milton, Ontario, 20 miles west of Toronto airport. The move is a result of Upwardor’s expanding demand and rapid growth domestically and internationally.

The new facility houses all manufacturing in 65,000 square feet with the possibility of an 80,000-square-foot future expansion. The building holds two state-of-the-art continuous foam-in-place lines for commercial, industrial, and residential door panels and will also house future automated hardware assembly.

Upwardor says its decision to build and expand is their commitment to provide innovative technology and efficient service to dealers throughout Canada, United States, and overseas.


Innovative Home Products Files Chapter 11

According to sources close to the company, Innovative Home Products of Birmingham, Michigan, filed petitions for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May while seeking to reorganize the company.

The filing is the latest in a series of efforts to continue offering the Stanley brand of garage door products. In August 2000, Innovative Home Products shut down its door production line in Birmingham and then began selling Taylor Doors under the Stanley name. The firm continued to assemble its Stanley garage door opener products at its factory in Covington, Ohio.

Stanley first entered the garage door business in 1964 when the company bought Berry Doors. Around 1967, Stanley bought Vemco of Detroit, creating its garage door opener division. Shortly after, it acquired Multi-Elmac of Novi, Michigan, to begin their production of radio controls and electronics.

In 1997, Stanley sold its garage door-related division to Whistler Auto-Mation Products. Whistler then sold the company to Innovative in July 1999.


Steyer Repeats as Quick Install Champion

CAPTION:
The Quick Install Race drew a crowd to the Wayne-Dalton booth.

Randy Steyer of Lucius Door in Tiffin, Ohio, successfully defended his title at the Wayne-Dalton 3rd Annual International Quick Install Race, a contest to determine the "world's fastest garage door installer."

The contest showcases the benefits of Wayne-Dalton’s Quick Install system while allowing door installers the opportunity to win prize money. The Quick Install Championship was held at the Atlantic City Expo in April.

"Randy has taken the Quick Install system to a new level," said David Osso, marketing manager. "He maintained around an eight minute pace for every door he installed. That’s a credit to his skills and the Quick Install design."

This year’s challenge was to install a Wayne-Dalton Thermogard II door with the exclusive TorqueMaster counterbalance system.

Steyer clinched the title with a time of 8:08 to win the $10,000 grand prize. Claiming second place and $5,000 was Sam Stoltzfus of Miller Overhead Door in Millersburg, Ohio. Darren Golec of Creative Door in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, took third for the $4,000 prize.

Wayne-Dalton plans to keep the contest to help promote consistent, safe, and high quality training and products for installers. Next year's competition will be held at Expo 2002 in Nashville.


Fehr Issues New Catalog for 2001

Fehr has completely upgraded their catalog of garage door supplies for 2001. The new resource is said to be easier to use, with clearer descriptions, matching graphics, and pricing on the same page.

Fehr’s products have been organized in a logical manner with complementary parts grouped together. The index includes a "Fast Find" feature that provides page locations for major product groups. Product information, safety alerts, and options have been inserted throughout.


LiftMaster Opener Chosen for Show House

In March, Chamberlain Professional Products announced that their top-of-the-line LiftMaster Model 1280R Formula 1 Garage Door Opener was selected for the refurbishing of an 1800s Victorian home chosen as the 2001 Vassar Show House.

More than 40 designers were chosen to decorate the Show House, and LiftMaster was asked to provide a garage door opener that would complement the aesthetics and character of the home.

The 35th annual Vassar Show House was displayed in May. All proceeds provided funding for Philadelphia-area students attending Vassar College.


GADCO Celebrates 40 Years

In 2001, General American Door Company (GADCO) celebrates its 40th year, having manufactured residential and commercial garage doors since 1961.

Based in Montgomery, Illinois, GADCO says it is committed to pursuing the goals that have sustained it for 40 years: consistent product innovation and trouble-free customer service. GADCO operates distribution centers in Waters, Mich., Twinsburg, Ohio, Allentown, Pa., Bowling Green, Ky., Richmond, Va., Norcross, Ga., Iron Mountain, Mich., Jackson, Mich., Poca, W.Va. and Valdosta, Ga.


Distribution Center Chooses Manaras

A combination of 37 Manaras operators were recently installed at a major soft drink distribution center in Brampton, Ontario. Atlas Rolling Entry Systems of Woodbridge, Ontario, sold the operators, while Dock Products Canada company will install and service the garage doors.

These operators, including several Manaras Opera units, were installed on Atlas rolling steel service doors, fire doors, thermal doors, and insulated sectional overhead doors. "What interested us with the new Manaras Opera is the Hoist-a-Matic," said Scott Willis, territory manager of Dock Products Canada. "It saves 20 minutes on the installation time, because there’s no floor disconnect to install. The Opera also has easy access to the control box, the terminal strip, and the limits."

Dock Products Canada manufactures loading dock equipment, and Atlas Rolling Entry Systems is a nationwide wholesale garage door and parts company.


LiftMaster’s Web Site Redesigned for Consumers

In May, The Chamberlain Group, re-launched their Web site, www.liftmaster.com, with a new look and new advanced functions that will allow customers to quickly and easily locate products and services.

"We are always looking for new ways to improve and enhance our communications with our customers," said Sally Anderson, vice president of marketing communications. "This new site is another step towards staying connected."

The new site includes much information on residential garage door openers, commercial door operators, and accessories, as well as a complete list of LiftMaster Authorized Dealers.


Chamberlain Launches Dealer Extranet

In May, Chamberlain Professional Products announced the launch of a new extranet site for its LiftMaster dealer network. The site is part of Chamberlain’s eBusiness strategy to reduce supply chain costs and strengthen relationships with dealers worldwide.

Chamberlain Professional Products’ dealers will be given a unique password to access personal account information. The site features real-time product ordering and pricing capabilities from online catalogs, and a sophisticated tool that enables customization of complex products.

The site’s order processing functionality allows dealers to perform status checks and save templates for easy product reordering. The extranet also features enhanced dealer information, which includes manuals, promotional news, co-op advertising, trade show information, and advertising slicks that can be downloaded for use.


GADCO Opens New Website

General American Door Company's (GADCO) newly restructured Web site offers tips on how to choose a door, instructions to measure a garage door opening and headroom, and a safety and maintenance guide.

The new site also includes:

  • Detailed descriptions and photographs of GADCO's complete line
  • A Careers link to learn about job opportunities at GADCO
  • A Dealer Locator
  • FAQs, and more

The new site is located at www.gadco.com.


INDUSTRY

Dates Set for New Florida Building Code

The Florida Legislature recently finalized the dates when the new Florida Building Code and the Product Approval program will be implemented. The new Florida Building Code will go into effect on January 1, 2002, and the Product Approval program will be enacted on October 1, 2003.

Although the Code has been completed since 2000, implementation was delayed to allow additional time for publishing the code, conducting training, and allowing manufacturers to make necessary changes to their products.

Meanwhile, the Product Approval program is being finalized by the Florida Building Commission. Complete program details are expected to be released by the end of November 2001.

Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, says, "There will be changes in how garage doors and rolling doors will need to demonstrate performance, and there will be changes in the requirements these products will have to meet." However, he is confident that DASMA members will continue to provide compliant products for the Florida market.

The Florida Department of Community Affairs Building Code Information System provides more information at www.floridabuilding.org.


Door & Hardware Institute Expo in October

The Door and Hardware Institute (DHI) will host its 26th Annual Convention and Exposition at the Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland, October 6-8, 2001. The three-day educational conference boasts "the largest trade show dedicated to architectural openings in North America."

This year’s theme, "Navigating the Channel," refers to DHI’s efforts to prepare its members for success through education and professional development.

DHI’s annual Expo typically draws more than 5,000 attendees made up of distributors, manufacturers, and sales representatives in the architectural openings industry, as well as many architects, code officials, and others in the commercial construction industry. The show features more than 200 exhibiting companies in more than 450 booths, displaying commercial doors, access control products, and bath specialties.

On Friday, October 5, the DHI Education Foundation will host a daylong management seminar on the challenges arising within the architectural opening industry’s channel of distribution. For more information on the convention, go to www.dhi.org.


DASMA Offers Seminars

DASMA has compiled a list of seminars and workshops for presentation to groups of 50 or more attendees. If you are interested in any of the following presentations, contact Brenda Barnett at the DASMA offices in Cleveland by phone at 216-241-7333, by fax at 216-241-0105 or by e-mail at Bbarnett@taol.com.

General Topics

  • DASMA Member Products Compliance - Codes and Standards of Today and Tomorrow
  • An Overview of DASMA’s Standards Documents – Background Behind the

Requirements

  • This Year’s Industry Technical Topics
  • The DASMA Mock Trial (on automated garage doors)
  • The DASMA Mock Trial (on automated vehicular gates)

Vehicular Access Doors

  • Garage Doors, Rolling Doors, and High Winds - Answering the Call for Resistance
  • Inspecting Vehicular Access Door for Compliance with the International Building Code
  • DASMA Garage Door Standards – Promoting Safe Use and Operation
  • The Garage Door Industry’s Safety Awareness Campaign – Keeping You (and Others) from Harm in Your Own Driveway
  • Garage Doors and You – Technically Viewed (A "Large Opening" to Success)
  • Common Rolling Steel Fire Door Technical Topics
  • Garage Doors and the Building Permit Process
  • Garage Door Insulation Values – The Installed Reality

Gate Operator

  • Automatically Operated Vehicular Gate Installations – Compliance with the UL 325 Standard
  • Automatically Operated Vehicular Gate Installations – The Coming AFA/NOMMA/DASMA Standard
  • Automatically Operated Vehicular Gates – Avoiding Potential Operational Problems
  • Common Automatic Vehicular Gate Operator Technical Topics

Accessible Communications Systems

  • Accessible Communications Systems – The Coming DASMA Standard

Examples of UL 325 Compliant Gate Installations Needed

The Ad Hoc Coalition charged with developing a voluntary U.S. gate standard for automated vehicular gates is seeking examples of UL 325 compliant gate installations. The coalition will use the information for educational case studies.

Frank Hinds, Ad Hoc Coalition Chairman, says the Coalition is developing a new seminar for the 2002 AFA Fencetech and 2002 NOMMA Metalfab conferences. The seminar will use photographs of actual automated vehicular gate system installations to highlight relevant provisions of both UL 325 and the gate standard being developed.

The proposed automated vehicular gate standard, initiated in 1998, addresses horizontal slide gates, horizontal swing gates, vertical lift gates, vertical pivot gates, and overhead pivot gates intended for automation. The standard is being harmonized with the provisions of UL 325, which includes provisions for gate operators.

All examples should be submitted by the end of October, 2001. Contact Joe Hetzel, DASMA technical director, at 216-241-7333, fax 216-241-0105, or e-mail at Jhetzel@taol.com.


Sprinklers to Replace Fire Doors?

By Joe Hetzel, DASMA Technical Director

For many years, sprinkler systems installed in buildings have been promoted as an effective means of providing fire protection. In recent years, however, building codes have incorporated various sprinkler protection provisions that would in some cases allow reductions in wall fire resistance ratings. In other cases, the provisions would eliminate the use of some fire-rated building products. These situations are commonly known as "sprinkler trade-offs."

For example, if an exterior wall opening has a rolling steel door, the 2000 International Building Code states that a sprinkler system known as a "water curtain" may protect the wall opening instead of a rolling steel fire door. DASMA, however, proposed a code change to reinstate exterior rolling steel fire doors as a requirement.

Currently, the code does not require an exterior door to close automatically under fire-related conditions. However, an open door could allow flying objects to pass through the opening.

The DASMA proposal has contributed to the spirited debate concerning "active" protection provided through sprinkler systems versus "complementary" (or, as some call it, "passive" or "redundant") protection. DASMA will continue to work for the best, safest, and most reliable means of proving fire protection in buildings.