Based on market feedback, there was a need for a new balustrade system, which not only offered an aesthetically pleasing design but was also locally produced, easy to install, and available in a range of colours to offer a wide variety of design alternatives to both Architects and Specifiers.

The Crystal balustrade system incorporates clear toughened glass infill panels, offering uninterrupted views with no vertical steel supports or structure. This system is commonly used on balconies, staircases, and double volume areas. It’s an ideal solution as a swimming pool fence since it meets with SANS regulations for height restrictions at pools. This versatile system can also be used as wind/access control screens or around restaurant seating areas.

In August 2020 Alsysco SA launched their new Crystal Balustrade System meeting the local and international demand whilst keeping up with the current architectural trend for such a system.

“During the early days of the COVID lockdown period, we took the opportunity to focus on refining our existing architectural systems alongside the development of additional products,” explained Brad Pepper, Director: Alsysco SA.

Alsysco took on the challenge to design and develop a glass balustrade system by capitalizing on aluminium’s weight advantage whilst still achieving and exceeding the required SANS design loading requirements.

Apart from its unique features, there is a further advantage for fabricators and installers since the system is lightweight, allowing for larger loads onsite making it easier to carry and simpler to install. The Crystal balustrade range requires no on-site welding and requires only a basic set of tools to complete a successful installation.

“Our range of purpose-made handrail profiles are also available in the same range of colours and finishes along with all required hardware and fittings for a hassle-free installation,” added Pepper.

Whilst the existing market has a range of structural glass balustrade systems incorporating a base channel, the majority is manufactured in either mild steel or stainless steel, which are very heavy and costly by comparison. This aluminium systems company carries the full range of Crystal balustrade components from base channel to handrails and associated hardware nationwide, making the stock easily accessible.

Alsysco also stands behind every architectural system, offering full system training, design support, technical backup, and site monitoring to their Accredited Fabricators, which ensures the end-user is getting a system that is fit for purpose, extremely good value for money, and of the highest quality.

“Samples of the system have been produced to undergo physical load testing by SANS 10400 and SANS 10160, including sandbag testing, line load testing, and point load testing. These tests were undertaken in a dedicated purpose-built test rig, witnessed and signed off with flying colours, by Professional Structural Engineers,” said Pepper.