Bilco UK is supporting architects, facilities managers and roofing contractors in achieving the highest standards in safety, efficiency and aesthetics with the launch of its new SKY Flatglass smoke vent.

The innovative product, which can be installed on flat roofs across a wide range of commercial and residential building types, offers professionals a diverse ‘three in one’ solution, as it can be utilised as a smoke vent, roof access hatch and rooflight.

Suitable for installation on new build developments or retrofitted onto existing projects, the CE marked smoke vent can be wired into the Building Management System to provide a fully compliant solution that will automatically open in the event of a fire or smoke.

The SKY Flatglass adheres to all relevant building regulations outlined in Approved Document B and is tested to BS EN 12101-2, to support professionals in achieving constant compliance in line with latest legislations.

Unlike many competitor products that use polycarbonate, the smoke vent features a single leaf flat glass sliding cover, offering a functional yet aesthetic approach to natural smoke ventilation, particularly for exposed areas where a hinged opening may not be suitable. The streamlined flat glass enables the smoke vent to also be utilised as a rooflight, flooding interior spaces, including corridors and stairwells, with natural light.

When used in conjunction with a fixed ladder, it can also be utilised as a roof access hatch that is available with either manual or powered operation, opening to 180 for safe and secure access. Bilco UK’s team of experts can advise and supply the most appropriate ladder for each individual installation.

The powered smoke vent features an innovative sliding cover design that includes an electric actuator, which opens the cover in a smooth and controlled motion with a single push of a button. The motors are integrated within its construction for a sleek and streamlined aesthetic. The cover of the manual option can be unlocked and unlatched by the operator using an internal handle, before physically sliding the cover open.

The latest range has been tested for impact resistance, meeting standard BS EN 1873: 2014 Class SB1200. This is achieved through its innovative construction, which features a top layer of toughened glass, spacer filled with 90% argon and a low-E laminated glass layer. This is combined with a lightweight external white powdered coated aluminium frame and internal frame of reinforced PVC.

Every element of the SKY Flatglass’ construction has been developed with thermal efficiency in mind. This includes a 2cm slope on the top of the unit to allow water outflow, combined with a polyester upstand that is fully insulated for weathertightness. The addition of an inner layer of low-emissivity (Low-E) glass also reflects infrared and ultraviolet light from inside the building.

This prevents the light from escaping, without minimising the level of light that enters, controlling the high thermal performance of the product, while simultaneously maintaining an attractive design. An optional third layer of glass, which can also be solar control glass, can be specified upon request.

The standard size of the new SKY Flatglass smoke vent is 1000 mm x 1500 mm, which provides a 1m² clear vent area. Bilco UK is also able to offer this product in special sizes to meet individual specification requirements through its team of inhouse designers, engineers and technical estimators.

Darren Waters, Managing Director of Bilco UK, which is part of the Access 360 division of ERA, said: “Our new SKY Flatglass sets the standard within the industry for safety, thermal performance and efficiency. It demonstrates our continued investment in product development, as part of our wider commitment to providing the highest quality smoke ventilation and access solutions to professionals serving and maintaining the built environment.

“We look forward to working with our clients over the coming months throughout the specification and delivery stages to introduce our new SKY Flatglass smoke vent and the wide range of benefits it has to offer.”

The SKY Flatglass is suitable for installation on both public and private housing projects, in addition to developments across the industrial, commercial and education sectors, including schools, hospitals and museums and is supported by an impressive warranty offering.