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Tag: Vic Grizzle

Armstrong World Industries to launch ceiling products to improve indoor air quality in commercial spaces

The new Armstrong VidaShield UV24 system is uniquely designed to pair an active UV-C air purification system with Armstrong ceiling panels, pictured, Armstrong World Industries said in a statement Monday.  PHOTO/PROVIDED

 

Armstrong World Industries is introducing a portfolio of air quality products to assist companies in adapting to emerging standards of health and safety protocols in indoor spaces, with anticipated availability in December.

The Lancaster manufacturer and designer has partnered with California-based Medical Illumination International Inc. to offer a customized version of the medical supplier’s ultraviolet air purification system. The system is designed to be integrated with Armstrong’s other upcoming product, AirAssure panels, and other Armstrong ceiling systems, according to a statement released Monday by the companies.

AirAssure ceiling systems, designed to self-seal into ceiling grids to prevent air leaks, and in-ceiling ultraviolet air purification systems will be introduced as part of the Lancaster-based manufacturer’s “24/7 Defend” product line.

The company said it’s adapting technology used in health care facilities for work offices, schools and other indoor spaces.

“As employers, educators and building owners seek to reopen their facilities, they are looking for ways to meet the heightened expectations of their co-workers and occupants,” Vic Grizzle, president and CEO of Armstrong World Industries, said in a statement Monday announcing the new product line. “These Armstrong solutions can help everyone get back to life and work with greater confidence.”

A company spokesperson said AirAssure ceiling panels are “swappable” with existing ceiling tiles, which she said makes for a simple, fast and retrofit installation process using existing suspension systems.

AirAssure ceiling panels form a tight seal to reduce air leaks, which can significantly increase the effectiveness of ventilation and filtration systems, particularly if those systems have limited capacity to increase airflow or add fresh air, according to Armstrong World Industries.

For buildings where the air space above ceilings is shared among multiple rooms, AirAssure panels could help reduce the risk of pathogen transfer, the company said in Monday’s announcement. Armstrong’s panels allow ventilation systems to filter up to 40% more air, according to independent testing.

Officials with the company said the newly created Armstrong VidaShield UV24 system is “uniquely designed” to pair active ultraviolet-C air purification systems with Armstrong’s ceiling panels. The products include shielded ultraviolet light that deactivates pathogens while protecting individuals from exposure to ultraviolet light.

Products can reportedly treat a volume of air equivalent to an 8-foot by 10-foot by 10-foot room four times per hour, the companies said in their Monday announcement.

Drawing on Armstrong’s years of experience in materials science, engineering and sustainability, along with its partnerships with companies like Medical Illumination, Armstrong will continue to “innovate around and expand its healthy space solutions,” said Charlie Chiappone, Armstrong senior vice president of ceiling and wall solutions.

 

Armstrong World Industries acquires Chicago maker of felt ceiling and wall coverings

An example of Turf Design’s custom felt ceilings. PHOTO PROVIDED

Lancaster-based Armstrong World Industries is expanding its offerings of custom felt ceiling and wall solutions with the acquisition of Chicago-based Turf Design Inc.

Turf Design, a commercial interiors design company, was purchased by the Lancaster-based commercial and residential ceiling, wall and suspension company for an undisclosed sum, Armstrong World announced Tuesday.

“In a relatively short period of time, Turf has rapidly developed the felt category and established itself as the innovative leader in the space,” said Charlie Chiappone, senior vice president of ceiling solutions at Armstrong World. “Turf’s success is clearly attributable to a commitment to inspirational design, innovation and customer service by every member of their team.”

Turf’s custom ceilings and wall products are made primarily of recycled plastics from water and soda bottles and are 100% recyclable. The company’s annual revenues are at approximately $25 million.

Vic Grizzle, CEO of Armstrong World, said the acquisition allows the company to take advantage of an increased demand for acoustical and sustainable interior solutions.

“Felt is one of the fastest growing specified products in the architectural specialty product space,” he said. “Turf is the category leader that architects and designers have come to depend on to bring their creative designs to life.”

As part of the acquisition, Turf will continue to operate its current facilities, including an 8,000-square-foot innovation center and design showroom in downtown Chicago and a 75,000-square-foot fabrication facility in Elgin, Illinois.

Turf Design will also retain its company name, brands and organizational structures as part of the deal.

Armstrong World Industries employs 2,500 employees and maintains a manufacturing network of 13 facilities. The company made over $1 billion in revenue last year.