Mesh passes the test for rock fall protection

A National Metals Technology Centre (NAMTEC) product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Feb 18, 2008

As part of securing a major new contract, Betafence needed to demonstrate that its PVC-coated woven wire mesh was nonflammable.

A worldwide manufacturer and supplier of fencing and perimeter control products has secured new business thanks to the independent testing facilities provided by the Surface Engineering Group (SEG) managed by NAMTEC (The National Metals Technology Centre).

Within its product portfolio, Betafence, based in Sheffield, has a PVC-coated woven wire mesh range, which is sold as a rock fall protection system throughout the UK.

As part of securing a major new contract, Betafence needed to demonstrate to an existing customer looking to place future business that the product was nonflammable as it was to be used on a large contract where vandalism is a major issue.

Betafence Account Manager Andy Fields approached SEG to provide an independent analysis of the product.

The work was delivered by SEG partner Corus RD and T in its technology facility based at Swinden Technology Centre in Rotherham.

Corus devised a full scale testing programme, including fire tests under the conditions in which they could be exposed once installed.

The results proved beyond any doubt that the PVC coating was nonflammable and therefore suitable for the application.

As a result, Betafence managed to retain its existing supply contract and generate future sales of the product.

Andy Fields of Betafence explains: "SEG provided us with a very professional and responsive service which will safeguard future business for the company".

"They understood our requirements perfectly and were able to understand and interpret the testing requirements and provide an excellent result for us in the very tight time constraints we set them".

The Surface Engineering Group is a collaborative venture designed to deliver innovative surface engineering solutions to companies within the manufacturing sector.

The Group draws on the resources within NAMTEC, Corus' RD and T, the Research Centre in Surface Engineering within the Engineering Materials Department at the University of Sheffield, the Materials and Engineering Research Institute at Sheffield Hallam University and TWI.

Key support services available through the centre include a targeted R and D programme, information services, an industry liaison agenda, a targeted supply chain development strategy and a series of industry briefings, workshops and training activities.

There are currently over 20 companies engaged in SEG research projects across South Yorkshire.

These projects tackle manufacturing industry issues such as erosion, corrosion and abrasion whilst also offering technology support for process and product developments.

SEG aims to develop and drive the capabilities and competencies of the region's advanced engineering and manufacturing companies, using state-of-the-art surface engineering and coatings technologies, tools and techniques.

It also supports economic growth in the region by increasing the profitability of regional engineering and manufacturing companies.