Railings that are resourcefully engineered and manufactured with cutting-edge technology and components are a perfect architectural hardware solution, says Sohil Mistry, Director, Neki Group, adding India is a key supplier of architectural hardware in the world.
The architectural hardware industry has evolved over the years. Technology and its use have increased many folds giving precision to products with quality and sustenance. Along with the use of technology, design has also evolved over these years.
Railings that are resourcefully engineered and manufactured with cutting-edge technology and components are a perfect architectural hardware solution. They also are one of the most challenging fixtures of a building that require maintenance. Therefore, there was a need to incorporate technology to create sturdy and maintenance free hand railing systems.
The evolution of railing materials has been extensive and diverse. While all the materials require extensive maintenance, it was important to make use of technology to create and maintain different finishes, use of protective “sealants,” paints, coatings etc. More importantly, the use of technology aids in strengthening these railings that act as security guards.
From stainless steel, aluminium, metal, plastic, wooden etc, there are various types of hand railing systems available today. Nowadays, the combination of stainless steel and glass is being widely used. An example of this combination is stainless steel hand railing system with glass that has interior as well as exterior application properties. No welding or fabrication is required at site as it is a knock down system. Additionally, it is also suitable for interior and exterior application due to corrosion resistant high grade AISI 316 stainless steel. With almost no maintenance required, this stainless steel railing system has better durability and reliability. These applications can be used on staircase railing, as well as simple railing for atrium, balcony, staircase landing.
The railing systems have evolved drastically; the use of systems has increased and as a result lowered on site handling and fabrication. With the advent of technology, a complete knock down system has been introduced where in a complete factory finished product is installed on site. Owing to technology, the handrail system can be completely customised today with every client having a different requirement.
In terms of design aspect, the railing systems are designed keeping strength and basic usage of the customers as the primary focus. The designs available are in forms of flat section balusters, square sections and round sections.
Due to high level of quality and excellence desired by clients for their spaces in form of balconies, patios etc., there is a need to design a system which is visually appealing. Seamless design, clear vision due to no vertical balusters, appropriate certification and load bearing capacity of the bracket along with precision installation are key areas that have evolved over time due to the use of updated technology.
As the skyline of Indian architecture and buildings is changing, one has to come out with aptly tested and certified products. Accrediting certification to products is extremely important as they should pass all quality control checks and tests. Since railing is a non-welded on site product the major finishing of the products remains intact even after the entire civil and interior work is completed. The joineries and various other parts are fitted on factory to give more strength.
There is therefore a constant need for innovation in the entire process from product manufacturing to installation and after sale service so as to cater to the changing market requirements.
