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Mike Brodie, Managing Director of Chemstore UK, outlines the critical differences between fire-rated and fire-resistant storage and emphasises the importance of correctly distinguishing between them.

As the UK experiences increasingly extreme weather patterns and record-breaking temperatures, the importance of proper fire safety measures has never been more critical. 

With rising temperatures and heatwaves becoming more frequent, the risks associated with improper storage of flammable materials are amplified. This makes it imperative to understand the difference between fire rated and fire-resistant storage, as the consequences of getting it wrong can be devastating.

When it comes to protecting valuable or hazardous items, the terms "fire-rated" and "fire-resistant" are often used interchangeably. This common misunderstanding can lead to dangerous consequences, especially when products that require fire rated storage are mistakenly placed in less effective fire-resistant units. To avoid these pitfalls, it’s crucial to understand the differences between the two and why choosing fire-rated storage from trusted experts like Chemstore is essential.

Understanding Fire Rated vs. Fire Resistant Storage

The confusion often starts with the assumption that "fire-rated" and "fire-resistant" are synonymous. Many believe that a fire rating simply means the storage unit can stop the passage of flames. However, the reality is more complex, especially when safety is on the line.

Fire-resistant storage typically refers to materials or structures that can physically resist the passage of flames but this falls well short of the rigorous standards required for fire-rated storage. Fire-rated storage, is designed to not only resist passage of flames but also to control the internal temperature of a storage module, preventing thermal heat transfer that could ignite the contents within.

According to HS(G)51, an essential guideline on fire safety in the workplace, fire walls (and by extension, fire rated storage units) must be imperforate and provide a minimum of 30 minutes of fire resistance in terms of integrity, insulation, and load-bearing capacity where applicable. This means that a fire-rated storage unit must be capable of maintaining its structural integrity, insulating against heat, and bearing loads even under intense fire conditions.

In terms of spotting the difference between a fire-resistant panel and a fire-rated panel, a fire-resistant panel made of single sheet steel is thin, smooth, and solid, often with a shiny or matte finish but lacking visible insulation. Its primary function is to resist flames, but it provides minimal insulation and may warp or fail under intense heat.

In contrast, a fire-rated panel featuring non-combustible insulation such as Rockwool is much bulkier, with insulating material encased between protective layers. This panel offers superior structural integrity and high insulation performance, effectively delaying heat transfer and maintaining a barrier against flames for extended periods. The key differences are in thickness and construction, which impact how each panel performs in fire situations.

The importance of temperature control in fire-rated units

One of the critical benefits of a fire-rated storage unit is its ability to control the temperature inside the unit. This feature is often overlooked but is vital in scenarios where the stored materials are sensitive to heat. In the case of highly flammable substances or lithium-ion batteries, even a slight increase in temperature can lead to disastrous outcomes.

The assumption that stopping flames is enough to protect the contents of a storage unit can lead to tragic mistakes. For instance, a single-skin metal box, which many mistakenly believe to be fire-rated, offers minimal insulation. In direct sunlight or during a fire, such a box can act like an oven, leading to the overheating and possible ignition of the materials inside. This risk is especially pronounced during hot weather when ambient temperatures can already push the limits of what stored items can safely endure.

It is good practice to maintain lithium-ion batteries at 19°C ±1.5°C to maximise safety yet is not possible for a single skin storage module to provide this level of environmental control as it will consistently overheat and freeze throughout the year. 

The dangers of mislabelling and the importance of expert advice

A significant issue in the UK market is the influx of products labelled as "fire-rated" without meeting the necessary standards. Many of these products are sold based on the misconception that fire rating merely involves preventing flames from passing through. This misunderstanding can lead to businesses and individuals purchasing storage solutions that are woefully inadequate for their needs.

The consequences of using improperly rated storage can be severe. In the event of a fire, a unit that does not provide sufficient insulation and temperature control can allow heat to build up inside, potentially causing primary containers to fail and lead to the release of harmful fumes, or the destruction of critical materials.

To ensure safety, it’s imperative to purchase fire-rated storage from trusted experts like Chemstore. We are a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier and our products are designed and tested to meet the rigorous requirements set out in HS(G)51, ensuring that you have the highest level of protection.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between fire rated and fire-resistant storage is not just a matter of semantics—it’s a matter of safety. In scenarios where the contents of a storage unit are sensitive to heat or flammable, relying on inadequate storage can lead to catastrophic consequences. By choosing fire rated storage solutions from reputable providers like Chemstore, you can ensure that your materials are protected not just from flames, but from the heat that can be just as deadly. Don’t take risks with fire safety; understand what you’re buying and why it matters.

For more information, visit www.chemstore.co.uk

Business and Climate have to work together says Gordon Kipling, Northern Sales Manager, Hart Door Systems. “Climate Change are two words which are in frequent use certainly as we in Britain inevitably discuss the weather. But there is a serious side effect because adverse weather can have grave implications for business be it buildings on a farm, day to day manufacturing and all that entails or residential in particular tower blocks.

“We take a global view with the development of Hart’s Typhoon shutter being a good example of a response to Typhoon storms in the Far East. Typically thanks to Climate Change a major storm hit Northumberland a few years ago inflicting major damage to an isolated grain silo. Here Hart’s Typhoon shutters were retrofitted for protection from future storms.

“As more and more Atlantic storms are forecast to hit the British Isles there has been increasing demand for Hart’s Speedor Storm doors. Speedor is Hart’s trusted, innovative, solution for the ‘high-speed’ door and it has been developed further for specific manufacturing requirements, hence Cleanroom, Conveyor, Mini and of course Storm. All feature cutting-edge technology and a commitment to excellence in applications where operational efficiency, safety and reliability are required.

“The Speedor Storm variant offers protection from the elements, withstanding winds of up to 70 mph. The wind resistance is delivered via a unique guide system working in combination with other carefully designed features. Strength is through multi-layered PVC and textile which are both long-lasting and tear-resistant. Horizontal curtain braces add additional wind resistance. Seals are also a key feature provided by PVC extrusion and rubber draught seals. Safety features are paramount and the Speedor Storm includes a pressure-sensitive bottom edge, anti-fall protection and photocell technology.

“Operating methods include floor loops, radar, photo beam, radio, movement sensors, hand-held or vehicle-mounted radio transmitters, push button and pull cords. Operation can be set to include or exclude pedestrians as desired. Warning lights or klaxons can be incorporated and the operation of a Speedor Storm can be integrated into a Building Management system if required.

“Climate Change is with us for the future and in a similar vein so is Speedor Storm.”

www.hartdoors.com

As the global demand for lithium continues to surge, driven by the rise of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, the maintenance challenges faced by lithium mining operations have become increasingly critical. Belzona, a leader in industrial protective coatings, headquartered in Miami Lakes, Florida, is addressing these challenges head-on with its innovative polymeric solutions. Designed to combat corrosion, abrasion, and chemical damage, Belzona's coatings are playing a pivotal role in extending the life of critical mining equipment, supporting the industry's efforts to meet growing demands while promoting sustainability.

Polymeric Solutions for Maintenance Problems for Lithium Mining

Batteries are a highly sought-after product due to the ever-growing need for green electric appliances and devices. Phones, solar panels, and electric vehicles (EVs) all need batteries to operate, and this has led to an increase in the need for materials used to manufacture batteries. Lithium is one material whose need has increased tenfold. Some of the already large lithium mines in South America, Asia, and Australia have had to expand to meet the high demands of energy and tech companies.

Lithium-ion batteries play an important role in reducing climate change. EVs reduce the need for gasoline and diesel fuel. In addition, energy companies use lithium-ion batteries to store electricity generated from wind and solar farms to mitigate the use of energy generated from coal and natural gas. However, lithium mining does have its drawbacks. It is responsible for over 1.4 million US tons (1.3 million metric tons) of carbon annually. For every one US ton (0.9 metric ton) of mined lithium, 16.5 US tons (15 metric tons) of CO2 are released into the air (earth.org).

Figure 1 An example of a lithium-ion battery for mobile devices

The Environmental Impact of Lithium Mining

Additionally, the lithium mining process is very intense in the surrounding environment. Part of the process involves extracting lithium from saltwater reserves. It risks polluting the local water sources, threatening humans and local animal and plant biodiversity. The batteries themselves can also be harmful to the environment. They can leech damaging chemicals and other byproducts into the environment when they are discarded. It can cause fires, water pollution, air pollution, and health problems. Despite the negatives, the current process is the most cost-effective way to obtain lithium; however, other materials are being researched to manufacture greener batteries (earth.org).

How is Lithium Mined?

The current lithium mining process involves drilling underground to access mineral-rich brine found under salt flats. Then, the brine is pumped into large evaporation pools on the Earth’s surface. The Sun slowly evaporates the brine pools over months or years leaving behind minerals like potassium, sodium, and lithium. The lithium is then extracted in different ways but usually involves a chemical process by which reagents are incorporated to form a saleable compound of lithium at a processing facility that can be transported to customers.

There are other less common lithium mining processes such as extracting directly from mineral ore. During this process, the mineral is extracted, heated, and pulverized. Then, it is combined with reagents to create a slurry that is heated, filtered, and concentrated via evaporation to produce a saleable lithium form (Samco.com).

Figure 2 Evaporation pool used during lithium mining

Solving Corrosion During Lithium Mining

Corrosion is a common maintenance problem found in lithium mines due to the presence of brine, a water-based solution high in minerals, especially salt. Brine accelerates corrosion because of an increase in dissolved ions, which allows electrons to move freely between the brine and metal substrate causing rust. A metal object does not need to be submerged for corrosion to occur as increased moisture in the air and salt spray can also rust metal substrates (sciencing.com).

A manufactured paint or coating can stop corrosion because it can prevent the ions from interacting with the metal substrate. Belzona polymeric coatings are applied on various substrates from aluminum, steel, iron, and more to stop the materials from corroding.

During lithium mining, equipment, and assets often find themselves in the presence of brine or moisture. A pump is used to transport brine from the underground reservoir to the evaporation pools. The pump can suffer from rust and corrosion due to the mineral-rich water; however, a Belzona 1000 Series coating can prevent the piece from corroding. The coatings also repair the piece as specific products such as metal repair epoxy paste, Belzona 1111 (Super Metal), and corroded metal repair material, Belzona 1121 (Super XL-Metal) can help rebuild metal loss. Rebuilding can reduce the need for a new part especially the downtime from waiting for a new part.

Figure 3 Pump repaired with Belzona 1111 (Super Metal) suffering from corrosion due to saltwater medium

Other equipment in contact with water or moisture such as froth flotation cells, pressure leaching tanks, filters, centrifuges, evaporators, mixers-settlers/ extraction columns, and electrolysis equipment can all potentially be coated with a Belzona 1000 Series to protect them from further corrosion and replacement.

Solving Abrasion and Physical Impact During Lithium Mining

The equipment may become physically damaged also as they deal with rough materials like mineral particles of varying sizes. The particles can slowly deteriorate the surface of metal or rubber equipment. Pumps are an example of equipment that is physically damaged by solid particles, but conveyor belts and loaders are also a great example of two pieces of equipment made of different materials that suffer from similar damage. Both assets carry and transport lithium and other solid materials. During this phase of the lithium mining process, the assets endure harsh wear and tear, damaging their integrity. Holes will appear in conveyor belts and metal loss will slowly abrade the surface of the loader.

Belzona can provide a quick return-to-service with the Belzona 2000 Series, a product line engineered to repair flexible components. Tears and abrasions on conveyor belts are repaired without the need for hot work with Belzona’s elastomer products which provide a much-needed increase in durability, elasticity, and tear resistance.

Figure 4 Conveyor belt back in operation after repaired with Belzona 2311

Additionally, loaders and other metal equipment such as filters, haul trucks, drills, crushers, and grinding mills can be coated with Belzona 1000 Series to rebuild metal substrates that have abraded. Belzona 1311 (Ceramic R-Metal) and other products in the range can rebuild the equipment’s surface while safeguarding it from further abrasion. The coating creates a sturdy barrier between the rough material and the substrate, and it is reinforced by the composition of the coating.

Chemical Resistant and High-Temperature Coatings for Lithium Mining

Reagents are an important part of lithium mining. Usually, these reagents are strong chemicals like sulfuric acid. Additionally, depending on the mining process, it can involve high-temperature reactions. Coatings in the Belzona 1000 Series and 4000 Series include products to protect assets during high-temperature operations or with chemicals. If there is a high concentration of sulfuric acid (98%) then Belzona 4311 or Belzona 4341 would be an appropriate choice. Lower concentrations can be resisted with other Belzona 4000 Series coatings; however, any coating performance is highly dependent on temperature.

Belzona 1511 (Super HT-Metal) or Belzona 1813 offer high-temperature resistance of up to 150 °C (302 °F) and 200 °C (392 °F) respectively. They have been formulated to protect metal surfaces from abrasive attack (Belzona 1813) and corrosive attack (Belzona 1511) at high temperatures and are resistant to a wide range of chemicals.

Figure 5 Chute coated with Belzona 1813 for high-temperature resistance

Belzona’s Importance to Greener Lithium Mining Practices

Lithium mining is integral to the production of batteries that power a variety of essential green technologies, from EVs to renewable energy storage systems. Despite its significant environmental footprint, including carbon emissions and potential water pollution, advancements in mining processes and material science are making strides toward mitigating these impacts. One of the critical challenges faced by the industry is the maintenance of equipment exposed to harsh conditions, such as corrosion, abrasion, and chemical attack.

Belzona's range of polymeric solutions offers robust protection and repair options for mining equipment. By preventing corrosion, repairing physical damage, and providing chemical and high-temperature resistance, these solutions not only extend the lifespan of critical assets but also enhance operational efficiency and safety. As the demand for lithium continues to rise, the application of innovative maintenance solutions like Belzona's will be crucial in supporting sustainable mining practices and the transition to a greener, more sustainable future.

Figure 6 Electric vehicle

www.belzona.com

The newly-formed ATEX Particle Counting Company has appointed Dr Kirsty Hunter as Managing Director.

Dr Hunter, an experienced academic, will bring expert scientific oversight to the ATEX team, focusing on quality control and training.

The author of numerous research publications, Dr Hunter says her brief is to ensure that the business is performing to the highest possible quality standards using advanced traceability, and analytical techniques to monitor performance.

“While I am a nutritionist by trade, the core principles of my scientific research background are translatable across many disciplines,” said Dr Hunter. “ATEX is at the cutting-edge of fluid cleanliness, and it will be my job to ensure we maintain this competitive advantage by reinforcing our already stringent quality controls.

“Our customers know they can count on ATEX and a key element of this is our calibration expertise. This is something that I will be heavily involved in – making sure that all our equipment meets the exacting standards required by a range of customers.”

Dr Hunter joins a three-strong management team at ATEX comprising Technical Director and company founder Wayne Hubball and Engineering Director Peter Remmert.

“We’re delighted to welcome Kirsty Hunter to the company,” said Wayne Hubball. “I’m confident that her scientific background and quality-driven insight will take us to a new level. This will be critical going forward as we develop new markets with our range of explosion-proof particle counters for use in hazardous environments.”

atexparticlecountingcompany.com – Atex Particle Counting Company

In the world of electrical installations, the conversation often turns to protection and how best to shield components from the elements and ensure longevity and safety. One common solution that has emerged over the years is the use of shrouds to cover cable glands. However Peppers has taken a different approach, one rooted in a commitment to excellence and a belief that the right design renders such coverings unnecessary.

Shrouds are typically used with the intention of providing an extra layer of protection, shielding the cable gland from dust, moisture, or corrosive substances. The idea is that by covering the gland, the installation is better protected. But at Peppers, they believe that the need for a shroud often points to a deeper issue: the base product itself should be designed to withstand these challenges without requiring an additional layer.

Their ethos revolves around engineering cable glands that are inherently robust and capable of performing in the most demanding environments. This is achieved through superior design, high-quality materials, and rigorous testing. They design their products to be naturally resistant to the very conditions that shrouds are meant to protect against. Whether it’s exposure to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or the risk of mechanical damage, Peppers’ cable glands are built to endure without the need for further covering.

The protection offered by a shroud is, at best, marginal when compared to the built-in durability of a well-designed gland. In fact, in some cases, shrouds can even create issues rather than solve them. They can trap moisture, leading to corrosion over time, or allow for the accumulation of dust and debris, which can compromise the integrity of the installation. These potential drawbacks as unnecessary risks when the right ‘fit for purpose’ product, designed for the job, can offer all the protection needed.

Crucially, Peppers’ products enhance the overall installation, both in terms of performance and appearance. A shroud, while functional, often detracts from the clean, professional look that is achieved when using a well-crafted cable gland. By eliminating the need for shrouds, Peppers’ allows their products to contribute to a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing installation.

Peppers fully support the principle that true protection comes from within the product itself. By focusing on the core design and manufacturing of their cable glands and accessories, ensures that they perform under the most challenging conditions without the need for additional coverings. It’s a philosophy that prioritises reliability, simplicity, and aesthetic integrity, and it’s why Peppers believe that shrouds are simply not necessary.

www.peppers.co.uk

A new team is heading up the organisation of SPE Offshore Europe (OE) at RX Global, in partnership with SPE, in the biennial event next being held at P&J Live, Aberdeen, UK from 2-5 September 2025.

David Ince has been appointed as SPE Offshore Europe Exhibition Director and Michael Enser as Marketing Manager, with both continuing to be responsible for the delivery of Oceanology International (Oi) in London, another RX Global event.

David has spent the last 11 years in event management at RX Global, working on several energy and marine events, including OE from 2013-2016 and the SPE Intelligent Energy and Arctic & Extreme Environment events.

Gareth Rapley is taking over from Jonathan Heastie as Energy & Marine Portfolio Director responsible for All-Energy and Oceanology International as well as OE. Jonathan is now overseeing RX Global’s recently acquired portfolio of worldwide hydrogen events.

Gareth brings more than 15 years of events leadership and energy experience having previously worked for RX Global on OE for nine years, latterly as Exhibition Director before spending three years in the Middle East with dmg events and Informa Markets. Most recently, he returned to London as Director of The London Book Fair.

Gareth Rapley, Portfolio Director – Energy & Marine at RX Global commented: “It is an exciting and challenging time to be rejoining the energy industry. SPE Offshore Europe, All-Energy and Oceanology International combine to represent many facets of the energy and marine industries. These are valuable national assets that need to be secured and developed to continue to deliver for the UK and our events provide very successful platforms to further these aims.” 

Approximately 30,000 people and 800 exhibitors attended the 50^th anniversary edition of SPE Offshore Europe in 2023.

Michael Enser  Marketing Manager 

Gareth Rapley-Portfolio Direcor for Energy and Marine 

David Ince Exhibition Director

Hi-line Industries, a UK-based leader in the design, manufacture and installation of energy-efficient compressed air purification equipment, is announcing its acquisition by US multinational Ingersoll Rand. Important to note is the assurance of complete customer continuity. Hi-line will continue to build and sell all of its products with no price increases. Steve Smith will also remain as Managing Director to maintain the next-day delivery expectations of customers.

The acquisition, effective from 1 July 2024, marks the start of a new and exciting chapter in the history of Hi-line as a progressive UK manufacturing business. It follows 12 months of intensive negotiations and due diligence. With Steve Smith as the sole owner of Hi-line, funding was always going to be the issue in reaching the next level. Now, with the backing of Ingersoll Rand’s financial might, the Burton-upon-Trent based company can grow quickly to become the market’s number one in compressed air treatment solutions.

To celebrate the bright future that the acquisition promises, Hi-line staged a launch day in July at nearby St George’s Park, home of the Football Association’s national football centre. The football analogy is quite pertinent.

“At the launch day I explained to our staff that the acquisition by Ingersoll Rand was akin to a wealthy investor buying a football club,” says Steve Smith. “The investor recognises potential in the team, invests in the purchase of the club, and provides funding to buy players and grow.”

Among the first results of the Ingersoll Rand investment will be the addition of Industry 4.1 IoT capabilities to all Hi-line controllers by the end of 2024. Another change will see Ingersoll Rand companies gain access to Hi-line’s highly popular range of alternative filter elements and its coveted series of Hi-PLEX dual technology dryer skids (fridge and desiccant on the same skid).

“What will not change is our outstanding level of customer service,” states Steve Smith. “Headed up by Craig Watson and Oliver Loewenbach, these guys work tirelessly to support our distributors. In fact, we are looking to grow our ACRIB-registered team of service technicians via a new recruitment drive that will deliver even more support for our broad product range.”

Energy-efficient compressed air equipment available from Hi-line includes desiccant and refrigeration air dryers, nitrogen/oxygen separators, filtration equipment, and condensate systems. A five-year warranty reflects Hi-line’s confidence in its high-quality workmanship and materials. Supplying both standard and bespoke solutions, the company serves customers in sectors that include food and beverage, medical, general manufacturing, automotive, breathing air, and laser cutting to list but a few. The company is a member of the British Compressed Air Society and carries accreditation to the ISO 9001:2015 quality management standard.

www.hilineindustries.com

Customer delight is rooted in front line experiences. So it is satisfying for an SME like Broanmain to see that their sustained efforts and investments in everything from equipment to DE&I initiatives and organisational culture is delivering more than lip service.

Having achieved a 100 percent score in meeting customer requirements in the last 12 months, a 10 percent improvement on 2022/23, Managing Director Jo Davis reviews how this disproves the July 2024 UK Customer Satisfaction Index (UKCSI), which in comparison fell to its lowest level since the report began.

Tracking and comparing customer service performance across the UK economy, the UKCSI twice-yearly report has become one of the strongest barometers for benchmarking satisfaction. Given than one third of UK customers say in the latest report that they will pay more for excellent service, getting it right clearly is good for business.  

Great expectations

Customer underpins the value of most organisations. Even in today’s automated, process driven society, delivering consistently great service is what keeps the cogs turning and business returning. Although some companies define client service their hallmark of success, living up to client expectations is a whole different ballgame. Mastering satisfaction extends way beyond talking a good talk.

In plastics processing, manufacturing especially, having a high level of technical competency, like good service, is table stakes, highlights Jo.   Key elements of good customer service in manufacturing include meeting deadlines reliably, communication and collaborations and delivering high-quality products. 

While the year-on-year UKCSI average rating fell to 76.0 out of 100, dropping 1.7 points compared to, Broanmain’s overall satisfaction result for the same time period rose 4 percent to reach 98 percent. Although there showed a slight decline in order processing satisfaction, the appointment of Sam Matthews, Office, Internal Project, Internal Sales Manager has addressed this with this score already showing improvements since Sam joined the company. Most importantly for the Dorking-based mass technical moulder, product quality satisfaction topped 100 percent.

Quality Assured

Resolutely focused on delivering long-term customer value and providing a more personal touch has long been part of Broanmain’s customer-centric DNA, states Jo. “The results we achieved in the latest customer satisfaction survey exemplify these combined team efforts. Our ability to work together, get stuck in and collaborate on projects is probably the most authentic example of excellence,” reports Jo.

Transparency is another key takeaway from Broanmain’s latest survey. “Communication is a critical part of certainty and filters across all aspects of the manufacturing process. One of the largest lessons we can learn in time-sensitive supply chains like ours is what drives trust. Including why it’s not necessarily mistakes that push customers away, but the speed in which you explain, handle and resolve a situation,” explains Jo.

Increasing communication satisfaction to 93 percent (a rise of 8 percent), was one of the biggest improvements reported in the 2024 Broanmain survey. Bettered only by the 100 percent score (10 percent rise) for meeting customer requirements. The company’s handling of complaints was unchanged at 100 percent, while delivery satisfaction rose from 90 percent in 2023 to 96 percent in 2024.

Ease of doing business was another important point flagged in the recent Make UK Executive Survey 2024, with accessibility listed as a core reason that customers stay or do business with UK manufacturers.

Compared to 30 percent a year ago, more than half of UK manufacturers participating in the Make UK survey now regard the UK as being competitive. Indicative of this, Broanmain has reported another 30 percent uplift in reshoring enquiries from OEMs. Many cite the cost and quality control benefits of having direct access to local polymer processors that can manage all aspects of prototyping, tooling development and mass manufacturing through one partner.

Broanmain’s investments, including relocating production to one site, introducing early and late shifts to increase manufacturing capacity, and allocating dedicated enclosed spaces for compression moulding and assembly, demonstrates the company’s commitment move with the times. “Our survey showed that over 96 percent are confident in our diversity and believe we have the competence, skills and capacity to fulfil their future needs. As the ultimate sign of satisfaction, 96 percent would also recommend Broanmain to others.”

www.broanmainplastics.co.uk

i.safe MOBILE unveils App World, its own digital platform for selected applications

For the first time, device-compatible PTT and MDM solutions will be presented in the i.safe MOBILE App World on the 5G radio IS440.1

Lauda-Koenigshofen, August 8, 2024. i.safe MOBILE is introducing the App World, its own digital platform for specific application software, to coincide with the current delivery of IS440.1. Customers can download selected applications that are compatible with the device directly from the pre-installed App World on the new 5G radio and update them regularly. The App World contains product-related, selected Push-To-Talk and MDM solutions that have proven themselves because of their ease of use and secure application on the IS440.1. This means that customers are free to choose their preferred software from the App World. With the future-proof concept of the platform, i.safe MOBILE rounds off the range of mobile devices for Ex areas, accessories, excellent services and suitable software solutions.

The idea of the i.safe MOBILE App World was born from i.safe MOBILE customers’ suggestions who wanted to have quick and easy access to device-compatible applications. 

i.safe MOBILE App World: secure and user-friendly
The App World was developed by the i.safe MOBILE software team to provide customers with tested and compatible applications from solution partners on devices such as the IS440.1 that have the ISM OS operating system and do not have a Google Play Store installed. The platform is part of the firmware and is already pre-installed on the device. The customer can select, install and regularly update compatible PTT and MDM solutions for the device in the App World. No separate account is needed to access the App World; users can install the selected application with the corresponding license. The App World is regularly updated with additional software solutions.

The App World is currently available on the IS440.1 device. Regarding other GMS devices in the i.safe MOBILE product portfolio, customers still have access to the Google Play Store.

How to install applications via the i.safe MOBILE App World
Installing applications via the i.safe MOBILE App World is as easy as on other digital platforms: The customer opens the App World, selects the desired application, starts the download and can then immediately open and use the software application (if the license is already available). Users can actively and regularly download the latest updates for individual applications in the App World.

Secure and independent: The App World is hosted on a dedicated i.safe MOBILE application server located in Germany. With every firmware update, it is upgraded with the latest security patches, bug fixes and updates. As usual, the user is informed about firmware updates via push notification.

Applications from i.safe MOBILE solution partners
i.safe MOBILE and its solution partners test the applications for compatibility, security and reliability before being included in the App World. This also ensures functionality after each update of applications and device firmware.

Use of the pre-installed App World is free of charge for i.safe MOBILE customers. In advance, it is necessary to purchase licenses for the applications contained in the App World.

The App World is located on the home screen and can be moved individually as usual.

www.isafe-mobile.com
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