Everyone is aware of the problems in the South African roof truss market. A numerous number of countries around the globe have also come to the simple conclusion - timber has a declining future in roof trusses!

South Africa has massive steel resources but few timber ones. Therefore timber will, without fail, be used less and less in the roof truss industry. This is currently being experienced in Australia, New Zealand, America and in many other countries around the globe. In addition to all the other obvious problems with timber in roofing, global pressure to prevent the destruction of forests (whether commercial or natural) will escalate.

In addition to this, an accelerating need for solutions to the other problems in the building and construction markets has started an unstoppable move into the use of lightweight steel framing in every area of these industries.

Carefully consider what the result of this is going to be for your business!

Creative Modular Solutions has a diverse portfolio of projects ranging from complete framing solutions  such as hospitals and hotels, to bathroom and kitchen pods for both residential and commercial markets.  As the business is enjoying rapid growth, with several large scale projects underway and others in the pipeline, Director, Jim Murdoch,  recognises the need to maximise production levels, whilst maintaining quality.  Jim commented,

“To fulfil client demands and the level of business we are attracting, Creative Modular Solutions identified the H500 as a major asset which met our objectives to increase efficiency in terms of materials, time and resources”. 

The intelligence behind the machine is the Vertex software that has the ability to read drawings created by our Design Team, eliminating the need to manually input information.  Frame components are then produced with absolute precision, ready for self clip assembly with no drilling or clamping required.  The 3D software can automate a schedule of material detailing quantities  required for each job.

Steven Hoey, Production  Manager, added “As well as the ability to produce quality components with complete accuracy, an added benefit to my team is that it is simple to train personnel in the operation of the H500 and is less labour intensive, with no requirement to manipulate rivets”.

Nick Coubray, European Manager of Howick stated, “As a global company, Howick equipment is operational throughout the world in many different environments.  I am particularly impressed by the progressive attitude within Creative Modular Solutions in Scotland and am delighted they have chosen the Howick H500 in conjunction with Vertex software.  The machine has the scope and ability to manage the diversity of the projects undertaken within this forward thinking company”.

We will be at Designbuild Australasia at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

15 - 18 June 2008

Come and see us on Stand E45

On the 10th, 11th and 12th of March Henrob, Howick and Vertex will be holding a joint demonstration of their technology to show how they integrate to create a cutting edge framing system. The demonstration will take place at Henrob’s plant in Deeside, Flintshire.

The demonstration will consist of three parts, firstly Vertex will give an overview of their software and its advantages for the construction industry. A sample project will be designed to demonstrate the specific steel framing design process and customised joint details to work with the Howick Framing Machine. A machine file will then be generated. 

This will then move to the second part of the demonstration. Howick will give a brief description of the history behind the machines and an update on some of the latest features and future development. Then the file which has been produced in Vertex will be run from the machine.

Once the panel is produced we will begin the third part of the demonstration where Henrob will discuss the details and advantages of the self piercing riveting system and how the process that is widely used in the automotive industry can be used to great effect in the framing and modular construction industries. The frame that was produced will then be assembled using the E Frame riveting tool. The demonstration will conclude with a tour of the Henrob manufacturing plant.

If you are interested in attending please contact Nick at the UK Office,

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