Saint-Gobain highlights safe and high performance new hardware innovations from its Norton range

Saint-Gobain Abrasives, the world's leading manufacturer and supplier of performance-engineered abrasives officially launched today Quantum Fast Cut, the latest development in grinding wheel technology at the Eisenwarenmesse – International Hardware Fair in Cologne, Germany (March 9-12, 2014) at Hall 10.2, Stand A009. Also showcased at the show is a range of Saint-Gobain Abrasives state-of-the-art hardware applications which provide safe and high performing solutions for the Do-It-Yourself (DIY), Maintenance Repair Operations, and Building sectors.

Quantum Fast Cut Grinding Wheel was developed by the Saint-Gobain Research and Development teams and constitutes the latest advancement to address the steel construction and welding industry's needs for more aggressive, faster and safer grinding. Recommended for grinding large areas it combines revolutionary ceramic grains and a soft bond for massive material removal. "Quantum Fast Cut Grinding Wheel provides safety and increased comfort for the user thanks to its special design and material composition which adapt to all grinding conditions and leads to a reduction in the vibration levels during the operation. This in turn maximizes performance," commented Derk Vruwink, Product Manager Cutting-off & Grinding Wheels, Northern Europe & South Africa at Saint-Gobain Abrasives.

As manufacturers in the metal fabrication and welding markets simultaneously perform different operations during production, they need safe multifunctional tools that will help them cut down on application processes and thus enhance productivity. Saint-Gobain Abrasives, has responded to this need by developing its premium Norton brand, Performance Solutions portfolio for applications using Right Angle Grinders. The Norton team will be holding live demonstrations throughout the show. From cutting and grinding to blending and finishing, visitors to the stand will see every stage of the process. "The Performance Solutions approach unites the three main uses of an angle grinder in the welding and metal fabrication market: cutting, grinding and blending. By offering safe products that cut faster and grind longer, Norton enables stages in the application process to be removed and improved, reducing overall production time and cost," explained Robin Cook, Product Manager Non-Wovens, Europe, Middle East & Africa Saint-Gobain Abrasives.

Also showcased at the show is Norton Essential, the latest line of hand and machine sanding applications suitable for all areas of the habitat industry as well as the latest products from the Norton Clipper range which includes light-weight cut-off saws and the recently launched Duo Extreme+, the fastest cutting diamond blade. "The Clipper range provides high performing products which offer speed, versatility, and ease of use to deliver innovative solutions to all cutting, drilling and sawing needs" said Igor Giglio, Director Product Management EMEA Construction Products, Saint-Gobain Abrasives.

Finally, visitors to Stand A009 received a sneak preview of Norton's first DIY range for automotive restoration due to be launched later in the year. The portfolio complements Norton Expert's existing automotive repair products and aims to provide both novices and DIY enthusiasts' expert results with improved quality of finish and speed of task.