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    BULLETINS & ARTICLES

    PRESS RELEASE + USER GUIDELINES

    Improved Reliability For Plastic Greenhouses

    Two new profiles of the proven Lockstrip Greenhouse Film Fastening Systems are now available.

    Lockstrip was first manufactured and trialed in the field in 1979.  The development of this clipping system was brought about by the continuing problems that battens, nails and tapes were causing, with ripping and tearing of greenhouse film covers.

    Lockstrip is a self-locking 3-piece system that retains the poly film continuously along its edge and offers extended film life and quicker installation.

    Now in addition to the single and twin groove versions, there are now ‘Upstand’ and ‘Gutter’ and ‘Rail’ Lockstrip profiles.  These three new profiles have been designed for specific applications on the greenhouse and provide dual duties in respect of condensation control (Gutter) and an improved seal around ventilator mechanisms and alter openings (Upstand). The ‘Rail’ lockstrip can be used as a lightweight structural rail (base or mid rail) on the sides of structures.

    The new profiles accept the standard white locking insert and are acceptable for both singleskin and twinskin applications.

    Redpath also offer the “Duralock 2” continuous bead clipping system – please refer to Greenhouse Accessories section on the home page.

    For a free catalogue or free sample please return to our home page and click on the appropriate links.

    September 2001
     

    REDPATH LOCKSTRIP & INSTALLATION

    To be read in conjunction with 
    a)  Redpath greenhouse film handling guidelines
    b)  Redpath greenhouse film installation guidelines
    c)  Redpath suppliers statement in current catalogue

1) Locking Clip, 125/150mm apart
2) White U.P.V.C. insert
3) Alloy Base
Steel or Timber Fastening screw with neo washer
    OTHER LOCKSTRIP PROFILES AVAILABLE
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Fastening Screws
Steel 12 x 20mm x Timber 12 x 25/30mm
are most commonly used.  Experience indicates that a screw with a galvanized coating of approximately 40 microns with a neoprene washer is sufficient.
Screw spacings  150mm–200mm.  If screws are to be exposed to higher than expected corrosion levels i.e. foundation or gutter areas,  a longer
life fastener should be considered.  If in doubt please check with your lockstrip supplier. 
Note:  Screw spacing may reduce for very large covers or in high wind area.
Positioning Base Profiles
Typically the lockstrip system is located around the perimeter edge of the cover being held, however it may also be used for joining covers on rafters, top rails etc.  Using the correct screws fix the lockstrip in a continuous strip to a structural beam or rail* with rounded edge facing toward film.  Take care to align the profile grooves at any joins & also to keep groove clear of dirt & debris.
Note:  If fixing lockstrip to a galvanized steel rail ensure a barrier membrane is provided to prevent electrolysis.  The Lockstrip base should overlap any structural joints.  Lockstrip should not be used to form gutters or be fixed in a position where water can pond.
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Typical Lockstrip Locations
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Lockstrip Assembly
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The drawing above shows the direction of the three lockstrip components.  The longer leg of the clip & the insert plus the rounded edge of the aluminium base always faces toward the film being held.

Lockstrip Film Width Tolerances
Experience suggests that in a medium wind zone on a sheltered site, the following sheet widths would be acceptable.  These recommendations are based on a 5 year wind return period.

Singleskins batten each 3m
Twinskins – note instructions		 Singleskins 200mu film
Twinskins: note instructions 

NOTE:  Read Redpath film installation guidelines before installing film.  Greater widths than those listed above, may be used, however, consultation with your supplier & your design engineer will be needed.

LOCKSTRIP FILM CLIPPING PROCESS

Always begin any clipping in middle of sheet and work toward corners.  Read Redpath film installation & film handling guidelines before proceeding.
a)  Use a batten or similar to roll the film edge and draw it across the lockstrip groove.
b)  Position a length of white insert (tilting it forward slightly) above the film & lockstrip groove.
c)  Press the insert gently down whilst slightly relieving film tension from behind.
b) Ensure that the insert is seated back in alloy groove & locate a locking clip, every 125/150mm apart.
c) Repeat process for all inserts/clips for full length whilst maintaining a constant length “tag” of film behind the lockstrip.

Helpful Hints:

The white insert should clearspan any aluminium joins
Do not apply tension to “tag” of film behind lockstrip once insert insert installed & clipped
To ease locking clip installation press white firmly into the lockstrip.
Avoid placing locking clips directly on wrinkled or bunched up film
Always locate a locking clip within 50mm of all white insert ends
Snip corners from insert as shown below to aid insertion
Keep locking clips warm to aid flexibility & ease installation
Leave a minimum of 75mm of excess tag film behind back  groove
Ensure that alloy groove is clear of dirt & debris
Position locking clips initially with thumb & then press home with a soft tool
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