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Operation

Single Casement

The window is fitted with concealed locking points on the opening stile. When the handle is turned to the horizontal position it releases the catches allowing the vent to ease forward. Where rosette, fireman's axe handles or flush locks have been specified, a suitable operating key is required. The vent is supported on a seating block and this will provide a small amount of resistance to opening. A sliding arm limits opening to approximately 90°. Avoid fast movement since this could damage the stay. The handle should not be turned when the window is in the open position since the locking catches could be damaged if an attempt is then made to close the window.

Double Casement

The main leaf is operated in the same way as the single casement. The 'slave' leaf has a small retention bolt which engages in the bottom frame. This bolt must be released to allow the vent to swing open and, to ensure a proper seal, should be re-engaged before closing the main leaf.

Maintenance

Cleaning

The cleaning cycle will be dictated by local conditions and should consist of washing down the glass and aluminium with a non alkaline detergent in warm water using a soft cloth. For more stubborn marks on the aluminium a soft brush or nylon pad should be used. Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool, strong acids or alkalis. After cleaning it is advisable to rinse the surfaces with clean water and then wipe dry. Chips or scratches in a paint finish can be touched in using a matching non cellulose paint and care must be taken not to get this into draught seals or moving parts. Repair of anodised finishes is not practical other than by touching in with a colour matched paint but the finished appearance is seldom complementary.

Lubrication

The handle gear is sealed with lubricant before assembly but hinges should receive occasional lubrication with a silicone spray.

Locking points

These operate on a cam action. If there is too much resistance to opening or closing the window the cams can be adjusted laterally using an allen key.

Vent adjustment

If the opening vent drops in the frame causing difficulty in closing, locate the four small allen screws found on the bottom hinge style and top opening stile (see illustration). Unscrew two to three turns and applying smooth leverage to the bottom of the opening stile, lift the aluminium vent back to square. Re-tighten the corner allen screws.

Reglazing

If the glass is broken, the vent can be detached after first making a manual handling risk assessment. Open the window and detach the stay arm. Whilst supporting the vent remove the vent hinge screws and carefully lift it off its hinges. On no account should the frame hinge screws be removed since it would be extremely difficult to re-centre the vent upon re-fixing. Lay the vent on a bench and release, but do not remove, the allen screws shown arrowed and then remove the corner fixing screws. Ease the aluminium bars off the channel gasket and carefully wrap the gasket onto the new piece of glass. Re-apply the aluminium bars using initial hand pressure and then knock on with a block and mallet ensuring that they are straight and true. Replace the corner screws and 'dress' the gasket with a smooth flat pointed object (see illustration). Re-attach the vent to the hinges and once it is squared to the frame, re-tighten the corner allen screws.