Industrial Fire Journal - October 2009
Steel Slides – “an accident waiting to happen”
GSF Slides, a UK-based drawer slide company, has announced that its 20.0007 slide (yes, that’s its name) is four times stronger than the standard type of heavy duty 500lb (227kg) class slide, typically specified for many US fire truck drawer trays.
The company conducted several tests to simulate standard operating conditions of slides mounted on fire apparatus.
The result of the test was that GSF’s 20.0007 slide can operate comfortably with a 1,000lb (455kg) load, even if the 100lb load is dropped onto the drawer. By contrast, GSF’s equivalent of an industry standard 500lb cold-rolled drawer slide irretrievably broke when carrying its rated load of 500lb after only 27 cycles of a 5,000 cycle operational test.
Disbelieving this result, GSF retested the slide at half the 500lb rating – with only a 250lb (114kg) load; this time the slide failed after 576 cycles.
GSF’s Export Director Alec Don explains that the standard industry slides (heavy duty 500lb class slides) are made out of cold-rolled steel formed to shape, whereas the 20.007 has been designed especially with the heavy duty use of fire trucks in mind.
Based on the test results, Don sees a risk in the use of conventional cold rolled steel slide on fire apparatus. “In our opinion the standard slide should not be specified on fire trucks,” he continues. “This is based on our UK experience where there is substantial movement away from these slides, because they have been identified as a cause of injury and claims.
“As these slides are still being specified on fire trucks in the US, we can safely say they are an accident waiting to happen.”
Don considers the options facing vehicle builders: either use a strong product that cost more, or a less costly product that isn’t as strong. In GSF’s view no risks should be taken where fire-fighters are concerned, so quality is what counts.
“The 20.0007 slide operates perfectly under the most demanding circumstances. You can even drop the weight on it from a height of six to eight inches, and it doesn’t even flinch.”
For more information about GSF's 20.0007 slide visit www.gsfslides.com or contact us on +44 (0)1691 770 303
Land Rover Monthly - October 2009
A Secure Solution
PROMOUNT HAS been designed for the off-road, hard-wear market and its innovative quick lock fast release action means whatever it is you want to secure, Promount can hold it down.
Made from Polypropylene, glass filled nylons and a mixture of high silicon/high rubber elastic, Promount is a highly durable, anti corrosive system highly favoured by the US military and used on Humvees to store tools, ammunition and essential kit.
Promount has been adopted by the British defence industry and emergency services.
For more information on the Promount range call GSF on +44 (0)1691 770303 or visit www.gsf-promounts.com.
Total Off Road - September 2009
GSF Slides - Tool Mounting
Are things getting a bit messy? Heard the phrase ‘a place for everything and everything in its place’ but never quite managed to apply it to your old faithful vehicle? The Promount Tool Mounting system could be the answer to you problems. Jeremy Binnington of GSF Explains:
‘By fitting different Promount tool mounts to an aluminium tool board, equipment can be organised safely without having to re-design stowage facilities. The Promount range has been made from highly durable and non corrosive materials, making it impressively tough.’
‘Promount is perfect for Land Rover enthusiasts and professionals can use every inch of space to store their equipment.’
Tel: 01691 770303
Fax: 01691 770900
Email: info@gsfslides.com
Web: www.gsfslides.com
Safety At Sea International - September 2009
 Trusted, robust tool mounting.
Tool-mounting systems on merchant vessels are generally made from fibre glass and Velcro products, which can suffer in harsh maritime conditions. The Promount system from GSF Slides, however, offers horizontal or vertical tool boards that house different Promount products. It is claimed to be easy to fit without hole drilling needed.
“Loose equipment in a drawer or locker or unsuitable strapping is not safe and does not allow instant and immediate access when needed,” Jeremy Binnington, head of UK sales for GSF Slides told SASI. “Promount steel boards fit directly to the hull of a ship and, since each board is configured for that precise piece of equipment, Promount holds it down fast.”
It is said to have been rigorously tested by the US Navy and to have proved dependable in hostile environments. GSF Slides says the products are built from highly durable and non-corrosive materials. For more details, visit www.gsf-promounts.com
Fire & Rescue - August 2009
Slide and tilt systems with a focus on safety
Clients of US vehicle manufacturer KME can now be assured of even higher quality drawer and slide systems on board their vehicles, as the company recently started working with UK drawer manufacturer, GSF Slides. Known for its safety and high quality, these systems already had a strong reputation in the UK, and now the company has jumped across the pond and has received great acclaim for its products. KME produces over 600 fire trucks a year, and according to International Sales Director for GSF Slides, Alec Don, it was impressed by the quality of GSF’s products and the ability to use the product to achieve a large number of different drawer combinations.
GSF’s slide and tilt systems were on show on the KME vehicles at the recent FDIC in Indianapolis. “The feedback was great and visitors really liked the the way motion of the system and the easy grip that the handle in the middle of the drawer provided. They could see that the quality of the system was good, and all reactions were extremely positive.”
When designing drawer systems it is extremely important to keep safety factors and the potential treatment of the drawer in mind. Don warns that often manufacturers use systems that are not suitable for the heavy-duty use of the fire service, causing an array of problems. For instance, the wrong placement of the latches can cause fingers to be pinched, and with a heavy-duty load placed on the drawer this is no laughing matter.
Don explains that there has been a long established safety culture in the UK and this is now also establishing itself in the USA and Canada. “We have a culture of designing and selecting products for their safety with an equal weight function. Engineers for the US fire truck manufacturers are extremely well rained and knowledgeable people know a good product when they see it The fact that KME’s customers have endorsed the GSF’s slide & tilt system means a great deal to us, their exact standards have needed to be met and GSF has managed achieved this.
“In the current climate, there has to be a degree of differentiation to make sure you stand out from the others as a vehicle builder, and quality is of prime importance. We have had interest from other parties as well, but conditions are generally quite tough at the moment. However, we’re not complacent and GSF are currently developing new product ranges that work alongside our traditional lines and fit with our experience and industry knowledge. By listening and responding to our customers we continue to move forward, which in these tough times is of paramount importance,” explained Don.
Indeed GSF’s new product ranges have been eagerly adopted by new and existing clients. The new Promount range of fast lock instant release tool mounts are highly innovative and they have proved popular beyond the companies’ expectations. A new workbench balance box has recently been launched and GSF is unveiling a new mobile hydraulic power unit which will revolutionise the way emergency personnel can access and respond to emergency situations. The Interfron range consists of battery run power packs that operate hydraulic tools such as cutters and spreaders without any need to for further hydraulic extensions, meaning no emissions and no entanglements, which in low visibility high risk environments reduce accidents and increase access to enclosed and otherwise inaccessible spaces.
For more information visit:
www.fire&rescue.net
www.gsfslides.com
International Fire Fighter - August 2009
 GSF Group Launches Revolutionary Power Pack Unit For Emergency Services
GSF Slides, the UK’s leading supplier and manufacture of telescopic slides and slide and tilt systems, announced the launch of the Interfron Hydraulic Rescue System, a range of backpacks and hydraulic power units for the emergency and blue light industries, earlier this week.
Jon Lye, Managing Director of GSF explains: “GSF is unique in the respect that we’re able to respond to operational needs of the emergency, defence and blue light industries quickly and efficiently. The uniqueness of the Interfron range definitely improves emergency operations; it’s an innovation in design and one we believe will make a dramatic difference to the industry.”
Indeed the range of battery powered backpacks are unique in the respect that it gives emergency crews complete freedom from power suppliers; no hydraulic extensions and no attachments mean no entanglements, which, in low visibility high risk environments, reduce accidents and increase access to enclosed and otherwise inaccessible spaces.
At the heart of the range is the SP700 and the VP700, both of which can be fitted with the appropriate hydraulic connectors, enabling the units to operate rescue tools from all major manufacturers, including: Holmatro, Amkus, Lukas, Zumro, Weber, TNT, Lancier, Nike Centaur, ResOtec and Enerpac. The units can be adjusted to use hydraulic pressure at 5100, 9200 and 10500 psi. Each unit has a total weight (approx) 18kg (40lbs).
“Feedback from the enquiries we’ve been receiving, confirm our belief that hydraulic hoses powered by fixed fuel generators will be a thing of the past,” declared Jon. “Our backpacks have 30 minutes of operational use and it takes seconds to refit a new battery. Early adopters of the Interfron power-packs are already seeing more operational advantages opposed the heavier, less efficient combustion units currently available. Essentially, when all’s said and done, the most important considerations are user safety, equipment efficiency and accessibility at the point of operation; the Interfron range delivers to these objectives unconditionally.”
Other key features include (on the VP700) integral control valves, which enable control of equipment extensions, such as hydraulic rams, which often have no inbuilt controls. In addition the VP700 has been designed for varying emergency conditions; the VP700 is water tight to a depth of 2m, meaning it’s a quick, free-moving system, making it suitable for sea and water rescues.
The Interfron range also includes three conventional, free-standing petrol driven hydraulic pump units, which are designed with protective roll cages, scope to connect two tools at once and an in-built controls.
For more information on the INTERFRON range please call GSF on +44 (0)1691 770303 or visit www.gsfslides.com
Fire Buyers Guide - July 2009
 
GSF the UK's leading supplier of safe storage solutions.
GSF understand the importance of safe storage and choose their product portfolio with utmost consideration.With a specialist range of telescopic slides, linear motion systems and tool mounting brackets they provide a complete tool storage solution for emergency service, blue light and defence industries.
Their range of drawer slides, drawer handles and slide and tilt systems have been commended across the UK, Europe and America with more and more fire departments and vehicle builders adopting GSF products as standard.
With the introduction of Promount , last year, GSF was able to further their reputation as the UK's leading supplier of safe storage solutions.
Promount is manufactured from glass filled nylons and corrosion resistant elastometers.
These mount brackets safely secure a variety of tools, from folding ladders and cutting equipment to handle tools and nozzles. The flexible tool board allows you to move, remove and custom position the brackets, according to you and your department needs, without having to drill any holes.
To see the complete range of Promount please visit our shop at www.gsf-promounts.com or if you have any questions or would like any more information please call us on +44(0)1691770303.
Fire Risk Management - July 2009
 GSF Launches the Interfron Hydraulic Rescue System
GSF Slides, the UK’s leading supplier and manufacture of telescopic slides and slide & tilt systems, announced the launch of the Interfron range of backpack and hydraulic power units for the emergency and blue light industries, earlier this week.
Jon Lye, Managing Director of GSF explains: “GSF is unique in the respect that we’re able to respond to operational needs of the emergency, defence and blue light industries quickly and efficiently. The uniqueness of the Interfron range definitely improves emergency operations; its an innovation in design and one we believe will make a dramatic difference to the industry.
Indeed the range of battery powered backpacks are unique in the respect that it gives emergency crews complete freedom from power suppliers; no hydraulic extensions and no attachments mean no entanglements, which, in low visibility high risk environments, reduce accidents and increase access to enclosed and otherwise inaccessible spaces.
At the heart of the range is the SP700 and the VP700, both of which can be fitted with the appropriate hydraulic connectors, enabling the units to operate rescue tools from all major manufacturers, including: Holmatro, Amkus, Lukas, Zumro, Weber, TNT, Lancier, Nike Centaur, ResOtec and Enerpac. The units can be adjusted to use hydraulic pressure at 5100, 9200 and 10500 psi. Each unit has a total weight (approx) 18kg (40lbs).
“Feedback from the enquiries we’ve been receiving, confirm our belief that hydraulic hoses powered by fixed fuel generators will be a thing of the past,” declared Jon. “Our backpacks have 30 minutes of operational use and it takes seconds to refit a new battery. Early adopters of the Interfron power-packs are already seeing more operational advantages opposed the heavier, less efficient combustion units currently available. Essentially, when all’s said and done, the most important considerations are user safety, equipment efficiency and accessibility at the point of operation; the Interfron range delivers to these objectives unconditionally.”
Other key features include (on the VP700) integral control valves, which enable control of equipment extensions, such as hydraulic rams, which often have no inbuilt controls. In addition the VP700 has been designed for varying emergency conditions; the VP700 is water tight to a depth of 2m, meaning it’s a quick, free-moving system, making it suitable for sea and water rescues,
The Interfron range also includes three conventional, free-standing petrol driven hydraulic pump units, which are designed with protective roll cages, scope to connect two tools at once and an in-built controls.
For more information on the INTERFRON range please call GSF on +44 (0)1691 770303 or visit www.gsfslides.com
Fire Buyers Guide - July 2009
 GSF Group Launches Revolutionary Power Pack Unit For Emergency Services
The SP700 and VP700 are new battery powered backpack units weighing no more than 18KG providing hydraulic power for cutting tools, and other hydraulic equipment such as Jaws of Life and hydraulic jacks as used by emergency services and in many other situations.
GSF Slides, the UK's supplier of the promounts range of state of the art highest quality tool mounting systems and brackets for use on emergency and defence vehicles, and for 20 years the UK's leading supplier of telescopic slides and tilt systems, announces that it has been appointed sole distributor for the UK, Ireland and Australia for this exciting new Interfron range of backpack and hydraulic power units.
Jon Lye, Managing Director of GSF explains: “GSF is unique in the respect that we're able to respond to operational needs of the emergency, defence and blue light industries quickly and efficiently. The uniqueness of the Interfron range definitely improves emergency operations; it's an innovation in design and one we believe will make a dramatic difference to the industry.
Indeed the range of battery powered backpacks are unique in the respect that it gives emergency crews complete freedom from petrol driven or vehicle mounted power supplies; no hydraulic extensions and no attachments mean no entanglements, which, in low visibility high risk environments, reduce accidents and increase access to enclosed and otherwise inaccessible spaces.
At the heart of the range is the SP700 and the VP700, both of which can be fitted with the appropriate hydraulic connectors, enabling the units to operate rescue tools from all major manufacturers, including: Holmatro, Amkus, Lukas, Zumro, Weber, TNT, Lancier, Nike Centaur, ResOtec and Enerpac. The units can be adjusted to use hydraulic pressure at 5100, 9200 and 10500 psi. Each unit has a total weight (approx) 18kg (40lbs).
“Feedback from the enquiries we've been receiving confirm our belief that hydraulic hoses powered by fixed fuel generators will be a thing of the past,” declared Jon. “Our backpacks have 30 minutes of operational use and it takes seconds to refit a new battery. Early adopters of the Interfron power-packs are already seeing more operational advantages opposed the heavier, less efficient combustion units currently available. Essentially, when all's said and done, the most important considerations are user safety, equipment efficiency and accessibility at the point of operation; the Interfron range delivers to these objectives unconditionally.”
Other key features include (on the VP700) integral control valves, which enable control of equipment extensions, such as hydraulic rams, which often have no inbuilt controls. In addition the VP700 has been designed for varying emergency conditions; the VP700 is water tight to a depth of 2m, meaning it's a quick, free-moving system, making it suitable for sea and water rescues,
The Interfron range also includes three conventional, free-standing petrol driven hydraulic pump units, which are designed with protective roll cages, scope to connect two tools at once and an in-built controls.
This Interfron range represents a very exciting addition to GSF's long established market leadership on high strength shock resistant telescopic slides, and our state of the art Promounts range of mounting gear, used to secure every type of gear and equipment onto emergency and defence vehicles
Industrial Fire Journal - June 2009
 
Tool mounting solution
UK company GSF slides has launched a new brand called Promount – a versatile and unique tool mounting system, Jeremy Binnington GSF’s sales and marketing director explained at the Fire and Rescue Show held in Birmingham this month, that he was very pleased to discover that Promount is already making a name for itself in the industry.
“The Promount tool mounting system is unique in the respect that not only does it lock down a host of fire-fighting equipment, but because Promount can be fixed upside down it therefore squeezes every usable space out of a vehicle.”
Indeed Promount is an innovation in fast-lock, quick release tool storage. Made from a number of highly durable and non corrosive materials, including polypropylene, glassed filled nylons and a mixture of high silicon and high rubber elastics. Tests carried out by the US Army were so successful that all US land vehicles currently use the system in one form or another.
“Fire Vehicles tend to meet some pretty tough challenges. Most vehicles these days have a working life of 15 to 20 years but a fire-fighter’s kit changes almost yearly and we need a solution that would work around that problem. Promount isn’t future-proofing but in a multi-tool, multi application tool storage unit, it keeps up constant kit changes very well.”
The secret to Promount’s unique tool storage ability are the aluminium tool boards, or alternatively ‘peg-boards’, that use one-inch spaces between holes. This means that when equipment does need changing the brigades can configure the space and specific storage solution to each tool and health and safety regulations.
“Promount,” concludes Binnington, “is a logical fixed solution that can be used simply and effectively by a gloved hand, as well as giving fire-fighters a means to add more essential equipment to the vehicle.”
International Fire Fighter - May 2009
 
KME rolls out GSF Slides Accross Fleet
As one of the largest manufacturers of commercial and custom designed chassis in the USA, KME Fire Apparatus builds a full range of bodies designed to tackle all aspects of fire and rescue.
Unlike our own services US brigades are not centralised by government, which is reflected in the varying chassis configurations seen throughout the country. Therefore unique, custom designed chassis are not the exception – they’re the rule – and overseas suppliers need to consider this difference.
One company who has managed to adapt is UK company GSF Slides, whose cold drawn steel slides are used throughout Europe’s emergency response industries. Andrew Yenser, Rescue Product Development manager at KME, explains why he decided to partner with GSF Slides. “It was the strength and quality of the GSF slides that caught our attention; both are qualities to which we build our apparatus.”
Indeed KME’s apparatus range is so extensive, from rescue vehicles to pumpers, that such a decision wouldn’t be taken lightly. “Prior to offering GSF products on our apparatus,” continues Andrew, “an evaluating committee at KME thoroughly reviewed the materials, mechanics, serviceability and availability of the slides. Approving new products by committee allow KME to ensure components meet both our safety and quality requirements. Currently the slides are being integrated onto our rescue trucks and then to the balance of our product lines. The first GSF product we will be using will be the slide and tilt rollers and we will be later adding the RA5 and RA7 slide assemblies to production.”
KME’s production is by no means simple; in addition to rescue vehicles, the company also custom manufacturers its own custom chassis, pumpers, tankers, aerials, and airport crash tenders. The rescue product group alone comes with 300 custom cab configurations, including a host of other specs like Light Towers, Cascade Systems, Generators and other walk-round/ walk-in body structures.
This is where GSF Slides has really come into its own; apart from its ability to move heavy equipment directly to where its needed, its slides are easy to install and maintain. Andrew Yenser concludes, “One of the key benefits for us is that the installation of the product has been easy to integrate into our production. The strength and reliability of the GSF products allow us to offer an additional component to enhance the safety and efficiency which our customers require from our apparatus.”
Industrial Fire Journal - June 2009
Tool-mounting solution
UK company GSF slides has launched a new brand called Promount – a versatile and unique tool mounting system. Jeremy Binnington, GSF’s Sales and Marketing Director explained at the Fire and Rescue Show held in Birmingham, this month, that he was very pleased to discover that Promount is already making a name for itself in the industry.
“The Promount tool mounting system is unique in the respect that not only does it lock down a host of firefighting equipment, but because Promount can be fixed upside down, it squeezes every useable space out of a vehicle.”
Indeed Promount is an innovation in hard-lock, fast release tool storage. Made from a number of highly durable and non corrosive materials, including polypropylene, glassed filled nylons and a mixture of high silicon/high rubber elastics; tests carried out by the US Army (MIL-S-901D qualification) were so successful that all US land vehicles currently use the system in one form or another.
”Fire vehicles need to meet some pretty tough challenges. Most vehicles these days have a working life of 15 to 20 years but a firefighter’s kit changes almost yearly and we needed a solution that would work round that problem. Promount isn’t future-proofing, but as a multi-tool, multi-application tool storage unit, it keeps up constant kit changes very well.”
The secret to Promount’s unique tool storage ability is the steel tool boards or alternatively “peg-boards” that use one-inch spaces between holes. This means when equipment does need changing the brigades can configure the space and specific storage solution to each tool and Health and Safety Requirement.
“Promount,” concludes Binnington, “is a logical, fixed solution that can be used simply and efficiently by a gloved hand, as well us giving the firefighters a means to add more essential kit to the vehicle.”
Links:
www.hemmingfire.com
www.gsfslides.com
www.gsf-promounts.com
Find The Needle - May 2009
GSF Announces New Product Range for Safe Tool Storage Across Land, Sea and Air.
GSF Slides, the UK’s leading specialist supplier of telescopic slides and linear motion systems, announced this week an addition to their current product range – The Pro Mount Tool Mounting System – which promises to offer an alternative to current tool storage units.
Jeremy Binnington, Head of UK Sales explains: “Manufactures of tool mounting systems have always struggled to keep up with new product developments and with so many different types of equipment across the different services it’s hard for health and safety regulators to keep up with the constant change in vehicle usage and equipment developments.”
The benefits of the Pro Mount system side-step these issues by fitting aluminium horizontal or vertical tool boards providing greater space efficiency and flexibility, as well as offering a quick and easy installation that can be later reconfigured or removed without drilling a single hole.
The US military have commended the products’ rugged fast lock and instant release mechanisms, which have proved highly dependable in emergency and hostile environments. The products are built from a number of highly durable and non corrosive materials, including polypropylene, glassed filled nylons and a mixture of high silicon / high rubber elastics in its strengthening straps and soft mounts.
The Pro Mount Tool Mounting range includes:
• Aluminium Tool Board
A patented, install-anywhere, tool board that is designed to hold a host of Pro Mount inserts and mounts. Can also be used as shelving with brackets mounted both top and bottom. The aluminium tool board enables new fittings to be replaced directly without any holes.
• Handleloks & Adjustamounts
The Handlelok is the most popular adjustable tool-mounting bracket being manufactured today. Coming in a number of grip-sizes the Handlelok is unique in that it’s fast locking and has an instant release. The Adjustamount is an original and versatile mounting system, which can be custom positioned and can hold anything from folding-ladders to bolt-cutters.
• Cylinder Mate
Cylinder Mate’s are self-supporting units, which can be stacked and mounted together either horizontally or vertically. They are made from non-corrosive materials and use self-adjusting support slides that cannot cause damage to the cylinder. Additional benefits include an automatic fit to different cylinder sizes and a push release high strength elastomer locking strap for additional security.
Links:
www.findtheneedle.co.uk
www.gsfslides.com
www.gsf-promounts.com
Press Box - May 2009
KME rolls out GSF Slides Across Fleet
As one of the US’s largest manufacturer’s of commercial and custom designed chassis, KME Fire Apparatus builds a full range of bodies designed to tackle all aspects of Fire and Rescue. Unlike our own services US brigades are not centralised by government, which is reflected in the varying chassis configurations seen throughout the US. Therefore unique, custom designed chassis are not the exception they’re the rule and British suppliers need to consider this difference.
One company who has managed to adapt is GSF Slides, whose cold drawn steel slides are used throughout the UK and Europe’s blue light and fire industries. Andrew Yenser, Rescue Product Development manager at KME explains: “It was the strength and quality of the GSF slides that caught our attention; both are qualities to which we build our apparatus.”
Indeed, KME’s apparatus range is so extensive, from Rescue vehicles to Pumpers, that such a decision cannot be taken lightly. “Prior to offering GSF products on our apparatus,” continues Andrew, “an evaluating committee at KME thoroughly reviewed the materials, mechanics, serviceability and availability of the slides. Approving new products by committee allow KME to ensure components meet both our safety and quality requirements.”
“Currently the slides are being integrated onto our Rescue trucks and then to the balance of our product lines. The first GSF product we will be using will be the slide and tilt rollers and we will be later adding the RA5R and RA7R slide assemblies to production.”
KME’s production is by no means simple; in addition to Rescue vehicles, the company also custom manufacturers its own custom chassis, pumpers, tankers, aerials, and airport crash rescue vehicles. The rescue product group alone comes with 300 custom cab configurations, including a host of other specs like Light Towers, Cascade systems, Generators and other walk-round / walk-in body structures.
This is where GSF Slides have really come into their own; apart from their ability move heavy equipment directly to where it’s needed, GSF slides are easy to install and maintain. Andrew Yenser Concludes: “One of the key benefits for us is that the installation of the product has been easy to integrate into our production. The strength and reliability of the GSF products allow us to offer an additional component to enhance the safety and efficiency which our customers require from our apparatus.”
Links:
www.gsfslides.com
www.gsftilt.com
www.kovatch.com
Your Horse – May 2009
 A Horsebox Fit for Champion Drivers
Living in a horsebox for sixth months can be gruelling even when you’re as enthusiastic about competitive racing as Sue Denney and Simon Willis. The twice national champions, and bronze medal winners of the FEI World Combined Pony Championships, needed more space. With a budget of only £55k and new lorries costing £200k, they decided to build their own. That’s when they met Dan Twitchen.
As an experienced horse-box builder his advice was invaluable in the refit of their 3 year old Renault 18 ton lorry.
“The plan was to build a lorry with as much interior space as possible,” says Dan. “We decided to add an extra large cabin in the form of an extendable pod operated via hydraulics. Once extended the pod would give an extra 9sqm of floor space to the vehicle. The problem we faced was finding a slide system that was easy to fit, could take the weight, and could be repaired without dismantling the whole cabin.”
The only slide system compact and strong enough was GSF slide draws. Made from cold rolled steel, the three beam slide is strong enough to take heavy punishment and be constantly reliable in harsh environments. Gas and electrical lockers were also fitted with GSF slides to allow easy access necessary equipment. The upshot of these slides has meant Dan has been able to create an impressive mobile home and business for Sue and Simon, allowing them to spend the better part of the competing season in comfort.
To read the full article click here
For more information visit www.gsfslides.com
Industrial Fire Journal - April 2009
 As one of the largest manufacturers of commercial and custom designed chassis in the USA, KME Fire Apparatus builds a full range of bodies designed to tackle all aspects of fire and rescue.
US brigades are not centralised by government, which is reflected in the varying chassis configurations seen throughout the country. Therefore unique, custom designed chassis are not the exception – they’re the rule – and overseas suppliers need to consider this difference.
One company who has managed to adapt is UK company GSF Slides, whose cold drawn steel slides are used throughout Europe’s emergency response industries. Andrew Yenser, Rescue Product Development manager at KME, explains why he decided to partner with GSF Slides. “It was the strength and quality of the GSF slides that caught our attention; both are qualities to which we build our apparatus.”
Indeed KME’s apparatus range is so extensive, from rescue vehicles to pumpers, that such a decision wouldn’t be taken lightly. “Prior to offering GSF products on our apparatus,” continues Andrew, “an evaluating committee at KME thoroughly reviewed the materials, mechanics, serviceability and availability of the slides. Approving new products by committee allow KME to ensure components meet both our safety and quality requirements. Currently the slides are being integrated onto our rescue trucks and then to the balance of our product lines. The first GSF product we will be using will be the slide and tilt rollers and we will be later adding the RA5 and RA7 slide assemblies to production.”
KME’s production is by no means simple; in addition to rescue vehicles, the company also custom manufacturers its own custom chassis, pumpers, tankers, aerials, and airport crash tenders. The rescue product group alone comes with 300 custom cab configurations, including a host of other specs.
This is where GSF Slides has really come into its own; apart from its ability to move heavy equipment directly to where its needed, its slides are easy to install and maintain. Andrew Yenser concludes, “One of the key benefits for us is that the installation of the product has been easy to integrate into our production. The strength and reliability of the GSF products allow us to offer an additional component to enhance the safety and efficiency which our customers require from our apparatus.”
Fire & Rescue – April 2009
 KME partners with GSF Slides
As one of the largest manufacturers of commercial and custom designed chassis in the USA, KME Fire Apparatus builds a full range of bodies designed to tackle all aspects of fire and rescue.
As one of the largest manufacturers of commercial and custom designed chassis in the USA, KME Fire Apparatus builds a full range of bodies designed to tackle all aspects of fire and rescue.
US brigades are not centralised by government, which is reflected in the varying chassis configurations seen throughout the country. Therefore unique, custom designed chassis are not the exception – they’re the rule – and overseas suppliers need to consider this difference.
One company who has managed to adapt is UK company GSF Slides, whose cold drawn steel slides are used throughout Europe’s emergency response industries. Andrew Yenser, Rescue Product Development manager at KME, explains why he decided to partner with GSF Slides. “It was the strength and quality of the GSF slides that caught our attention; both are qualities to which we build our apparatus.”
Indeed KME’s apparatus range is so extensive, from rescue vehicles to pumpers, that such a decision wouldn’t be taken lightly. “Prior to offering GSF products on our apparatus,” continues Andrew, “an evaluating committee at KME thoroughly reviewed the materials, mechanics, serviceability and availability of the slides. Approving new products by committee allow KME to ensure components meet both our safety and quality requirements. Currently the slides are being integrated onto our rescue trucks and then to the balance of our product lines. The first GSF product we will be using will be the slide and tilt rollers and we will be later adding the RA5 and RA7 slide assemblies to production.”
KME’s production is by no means simple; in addition to rescue vehicles, the company also custom manufacturers its own custom chassis, pumpers, tankers, aerials, and airport crash tenders. The rescue product group alone comes with 300 custom cab configurations, including a host of other specs.
This is where GSF Slides has really come into its own; apart from its ability to move heavy equipment directly to where its needed, its slides are easy to install and maintain. Andrew Yenser concludes, “One of the key benefits for us is that the installation of the product has been easy to integrate into our production. The strength and reliability of the GSF products allow us to offer an additional component to enhance the safety and efficiency which our customers require from our apparatus.”
To read the full article click here
International Fire Buyers Guide – March 2009
 KME rolls out GSF Slides Across Fleet
As one of the US's largest manufacturer's of commercial and custom designed chassis, KME Fire Apparatus builds a full range of bodies designed to tackle or all aspects of Fire and Rescue.
Unlike our own services US brigades are not centralised by government, which is reflected in the varying chassis configurations seen throughout the US. Therefore unique, custom designed chassis are not the exception they're the rule and British suppliers need to consider this difference.
One company who has managed to adapt is GSF Slides, whose cold drawn steel slides are used throughout the UK and Europe's blue light and fire industries.
Andrew Yenser, Rescue Product Development manager at KME explains: “It was the strength and quality of the GSF slides that caught our attention; both are qualities to which we build our apparatus.”
ndeed, KME's apparatus range is so extensive, from Rescue vehicles to Pumpers, that such a decision cannot be taken lightly. “Prior to offering GSF products on our apparatus,” continues Andrew, “an evaluating committee at KME thoroughly reviewed the materials, mechanics, serviceability and availability of the slides.
Approving new products by committee allow KME to ensure components meet both our safety and quality requirements.”
“Currently the slides are being integrated onto our Rescue trucks and then to the balance of our product lines. The first GSF product we will be using will be the slide and tilt rollers and we will be later adding the RA5 and RA7 slide assemblies to production.”
KME's production is by no means simple; in addition to Rescue vehicles, the company also custom manufacturers its own custom chassis, pumpers, tankers, aerials, and airport crash rescue vehicles. The rescue product group alone comes with 300 custom cab configurations, including a host of other specs like Light Towers, Cascade systems, Generators and other walk-round / walk-in body structures.
This is where GSF Slides have really come into their own; apart from their ability move heavy equipment directly to where its needed, GSF slides are easy to install and maintain. Andrew Yenser Concludes: “One of the key benefits for us is that the installation of the product has been easy to integrate into our production. The strength and reliability of the GSF products allow us to offer an additional component to enhance the safety and efficiency which our customers require from our apparatus.”
To read the full article click here
Horsescene – February 2009
 A Horsebox Fit for Champion Drivers
Living in a horsebox for sixth months can be gruelling even when you’re as enthusiastic about competitive racing as Sue Denney and Simon Willis. The twice national champions, and bronze medal winners of the FEI World Combined Pony Championships, needed more space. With a budget of only £55k and new lorries costing £200k, they decided to build their own. That’s when they met Dan Twitchen.
As foreman at a horse-box building company in Suffolk his advice was invaluable in the refit of their 3 year old Renault 18 ton lorry.
“The plan was to build a lorry with as much interior space as possible,” says Dan. “We decided to add an extra large cabin in the form of an extendable pod operated via hydraulics. Once extended the pod would give an extra 9sqm of floor space to the vehicle. The problem we faced was finding a slide system that was easy to fit, could take the weight, and could be repaired without dismantling the whole cabin.”
The only slide system compact and strong enough was GSF slide draws. Made from cold rolled steel, the three beam slide is strong enough to take heavy punishment and be constantly reliable in harsh environments. Gas and electrical lockers were also fitted with GSF slides to allow easy access necessary equipment. The upshot of these slides has meant Dan has been able to create an impressive mobile home and business for Sue and Simon, allowing them to spend the better part of the competing season in comfort.
Total Off Road- January 2009
 
Don’t make a mounting out of a molehill!
GSF Slides has launched the PAC TRAC Tool Mounting System, which promises to make tool mounting easy and stress-free with tough, durable yet light components.
Aluminium Tool Board
A patented, install anywhere, tool board that is designed to hold a host of PAC TRAC inserts and mounts. It can be used as shelving too. The aluminium ‘TRAC’ enables new fittings to be replaced directly without any holes.
Handleloks & Adjustamounts
The Handlelok is a popular adjustable tool mounting bracket, available in a number of grip sizes. It is fast locking and has an instant release. The Adjustamount is an original and versatile mounting system which can be custom positioned and can hold anything from folding ladders to bolt cutters.
Cylinder Mate
These self supporting units which can be stacked and mounted together horizontally or vertically. They have an automatic fit to different cylinder sizes, a high strength elastomer locking strap for additional security and are designed to ensure no damage is caused to the cylinder.
Web: www.gsfslides.com
E-mail: info@gsfslides.com
4x4 Magazine- January2009
  Mounting Rescue
Telescopic and linear motion systems specialist GSF Slides has come up with a new range of Pro Mount Tool Mounting solutions, primarily for the emergency services and military, but with obvious bespoke applications for commercial 4x4 and off-road vehicles.
The range includes an aluminium tool board to hold racking inserts and mounts, Handlelok & Adjustamount brackets with varying sizes of fast locking grips to hold items such as ladders, bolt cutters. And Cylinder Mate – non-corrosive self supporting units that stack together either horizontally or vertically and have push-release high-strength elastomer locking straps.
Price: POA
Tel: +44(0)1691 770303
www.gsf-promounts.com
Horsemart- January2009
 
A Horsebox fit for Champion Drivers
Living in a horsebox for sixth months sounds like one of the more gruelling experiences one might face as professional carriage drivers, even when you’re as enthusiastic about the sport as Sue Denney and Simon Willis, twice national champions and bronze medal winners for 2005 Great British Single Pony Carriage driving team. As professional drivers Sue and Simon often spend prolonged periods away from their home, based in the Isle of Man, to compete at national and international levels.
Both knew the new lorry would need to cope with the ever increasing loads – including up to 200 hundred stainless steel bits, essential office equipment, as well as feed, domestic appliances and of course a power generator that would allow them to be on the road for months at a time.
The budget they had to work with was 55k, which is meagre when you come to think that lorries of this standard can easily come in at £200k and since there was nothing to be found on the market, suitable for their needs, they soon realised they would need to build their own.
That’s when they met Dan Twitchen, whose experience as foreman for a horse-box building company in Suffolk, was invaluable in deciding how to refit their new 3 year old Renault 18 ton lorry.
“The plan was to build a lorry with as much interior space as we could possibly squeeze out of her and which would also be a home from home for Sue and Simon,” says Dan. “To overcome this we decided to add an extra large single cabin, designed to contain the bathroom, which meant dropping the extend on both sides of the vehicles. We decided that we would operate the extendable pod via hydraulics. By using the GSF slide that process was simplified because we only needed to use one cylinder. Once extended - a process which, thanks to the hydraulic system, takes about 5 seconds - the space adds an additional 9sqm to the vehicle. The problem we faced was finding a slide system that would take the weight, was easy to fit and could be repaired without dismantling the whole cabin.”
The only slide system compact and strong enough was GSF slide draws. Made from cold rolled steel, the triple bar-design means it is strong enough to take heavy punishment and be constantly reliable in harsh environments. Gas and electrical lockers also needed to be fitted with slides to allow easy access to gas bottle and batteries. The upshot of these slides has meant Dan has been able to create an impressive mobile home and business for Sue and Simon, allowing them to spend the better part of the competing season in comfort.
Truck and Plant Trader - December 2008
 
A Christmas Tale. No Room At The INN
Living in a horsebox for six months might not be the first choice of temporary accommodation for most folk, but for Sue Denney and Simon Willis it’s a fact of working life. The twice national champions and bronze medal winners for 2005 Great British Single Pony Carriage driving team often spend prolonged periods away from their home in the
Isle of Man
, to compete at national and international levels. Apart from the obvious restrictions, like lack of amenities and the weather, plus the practicalities of running a successful business on the road, there is the additional pressure of actually competing at events.
On that basis their latest horsebox had to be a bit special. The vehicle would have to cope with the ever increasing loads demanded of it, including up to 200 stainless steel bits, essential office equipment, food for man and beast, domestic appliances and of course a power generator. The vehicle also needed the power to tow a portable stabling trailer, as well as providing comfortable living quarters. The budget was £55k! And since there was nothing suitable to be found on the market, they soon realised they would need to build their own.
That’s where Dan Twitchen comes in. He used to be a foreman for a horse-box building company in Suffolk and advised the couple on how to refit their three year old Renault 18 tonne 270 dCi Midlum.
“We needed to squeeze out as much interior space as possible and create a home from home for Sue and Simon,” says Dan. “We therefore decided to add an extra-large single cabin, designed to contain the bathroom, which meant dropping the extend on both sides of the vehicle. This extendable pod would be operated by hydraulics. By using the GSF Slide this process was simplified because we only needed to use one cylinder. Once extended- a process which, thanks to the hydraulic system, takes about 5 seconds- the space adds an additional 9 sq m to the vehicle. The initial problem we faced was finding a slide system that could take the weight, was easy to fit and could be repaired without dismantling the whole cabin.”
That problem was solved by using GSF slide draws. Made from cold rolled steel, the triple bar design is strong enough to take heavy punishment and be constantly reliable in harsh environments. Gas and electric lockers also needed to be fitted with the slides to allow easy access to gas bottle and batteries.
Over the last few months Sue and Simon have just won the first selection event that might see them once again taking part in the British Championships in Germany.
Land Rover World- December 2008
 
Sliding Scale
The PAC TRAC Tool Mounting System is an alternative to current tool storage units which aren’t conducive to accommodating the ever-evolving types of equipment emergency services and busy outdoor enthusiasts need to carry these days.
The new system fits aluminium horizontal or vertical tool boards to provide greater space efficiency and flexibility, as well as offering a quick and easy instillation that can be later reconfigured or removed without drilling a hole. They are built from highly durable and non-corrosive materials, including polypropylene, glass filled nylons and a mixture of high silicon/ high rubber elastics in strengthening straps and soft mounts.
The range includes the Aluminium Tool Board that holds a host of PAC TRAC inserts and mounts. The HandleLok is the most popular adjustable tool-mounting bracket and comes in a number of grip-sizes, is fast locking and has an instant release; Adjustamount is an original and versatile mounting system. Finally, there are Cylinder Mates, self-supporting units, to be stacked and mounted together either horizontally or vertically.
Price: Cylinder Mate: £101.33; Adjustamounts: £92.12; Handleloks; £20.59
Passenger Ship Technology- October/November 2008
 
New Onboard Tool Storage System
UK-based GSF Slides has launched the PAC TRAC Tool Mounting System, as an alternative to current onboard tool storage units.
The package includes an aluminium tool board, an adjustable tool mounting bracket and a mounting system, which can be custom positioned and can hold anything from folding ladders to bolt cutters.
The Pac Trac Tool Mounting System is designed specifically to secure shipboard machinery to a ship’s hull, and has been tested by the US Navy. GSF states that these tests have demonstrated health and safety benefits and long-wearing work life.
Fire & Rescue- August-October 2008
 
A Slide that’s four times stronger than the standard
GSF Slides, a UK-based drawer slide company, has announced that its 20.0007 slide (yes, this is its name) is four times stronger than the standard type of heavy duty 500lb (227kg) class slide, typically specified for the US fire drawer trays. The company conducted several tests to stimulate standard operating conditions of slides mounted on fire apparatus.
The result of the test was that GSF’s 20.0007 slide can operate comfortably with a 1,000lb (455kg) load, even if the 1,000lb load is dropped onto the drawer. By contrast, GSF’s equivalent of an industry standard 500lb cold-rolled drawer slide irretrievably broke when carrying its rated load of 500lb after only 27 cycles of a 5,000 cycle operated test.
Disbelieving this result, GSF retested the slide with half of the 500lb rating – with only a 250lb (114kg) load; this time the slide failed after 576 cycles.
GSF’s export Director Alec Don explains that the standard industry slides (heavy duty 500lb class slides) are made out of cold-rolled steel formed to shape, whereas the 20.0007 has been designed especially with the heavy duty use of fire trucks in mind. Based on the test results, Don sees a risk in the use of conventional cold rolled steel slide on fire apparatus. “In our opinion the standard slide should not be specified on fire trucks,” he continues. “This is also based on our UK experience where there is a substantial movement away from these slides, because they have been identified as a cause of injury and claims.
“As these slides are still being specified on fire trucks in the US, we can safely say they are an accident waiting to happen.”
Don considers the options facing vehicle builders: either use a strong product that costs more, or a less costly product that isn’t as strong. In GSF’s view no risks should be taken where fire-fighters are concerned, so quality is what counts.
“The 20.0007 slide operates perfectly under the most demanding circumstances. You can even drop the weight on it from a height of six to eight inches, and it doesn’t even flinch,” concludes Don.
Safety at Sea International- October 2008
 
Keeping Tools in their Place
When a ship hits rough weather it can be difficult to keep equipment in its proper place. So a range of mounting systems from GSF Slides could give officers and crews some welcome relief from unruly tools when the vessel is underway in heavy seas.
GSF’s Pac Trac Tool Mounting System includes aluminium tool boards that can double as shelving with brackets. Dubbed ‘HandleLoks’, they are available in several grip sizes and are fast locking. They incorporate instant-release ‘Adjustamounts’ that can hold anything from folding ladders to bolt-cutters. The system also includes the ‘cylinder mate’ – a self supporting unit constructed from non-corrosive materials that can be stacked and mounted either horizontally or vertically.
GSF is the UK’s leading supplier of telescopic ball bearing slides and slide and tilt systems. Jeremy Binnington, head of the company’s UK sales says; “Manufacturers of tool mounting systems have always struggled to keep up with new product developments, and with so many different types of equipment across the different services it’s hard for health and safety regulators to keep up with the constant changes in vehicle usage and equipment developments.”
Polypropylene, glass-filled nylons and a mixture of high silicone and high runner elastics are used for their strengthening straps and soft mounts.
For more information visit:
www.gsfslides.com
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