SFS Group Fastening Technology has launched its Centre Point System, a patented fixing solution designed to improve the installation of flat façade panels on both steel and aluminium subframes. Building on the company’s track record in cladding support systems and high‑performance fasteners, the new system is intended to enhance accuracy, visual quality and environmental performance on rainscreen and façade projects.
A key benefit of the Centre Point System is its ability to position the self‑drilling, double‑thread fastener exactly at the centre of the panel hole. This precise alignment helps prevent surface damage caused by thermal movement, which can otherwise lead to cracking or potting and disfigure façades within a short period after completion.
The system also addresses site waste by using a biodegradable, pre‑fitted centring sleeve instead of conventional plastic components. As the installer tightens the fixing, the sleeve is ejected from the hole and then breaks down in line with recognised scientific guidance, avoiding residual material that could constrict movement around the fastener shaft.
Andrew Stolworthy, director of product and market development at SFS, said the Centre Point System removes the need for separate, costly centring devices and reduces the risk of misalignment during installation. He added that the double‑thread shaft prevents the fastener being pulled off‑centre, while a thread‑free zone is designed to stop it unwinding or loosening under vibration.
The centring sleeves, designated CS11/4, are manufactured from biopolymers and other materials that are recognised as biodegradable under DIN EN ISO 14855. They also comply with limits on heavy metals and hazardous substances set out in EN 13432:2000, and are expected to decompose fully in normal soil and moderate climate conditions over the life of the building.
Centre Point is being rolled out through SFS stockists nationwide in a range of clamping lengths to suit different panel thicknesses. The SDA4 and SX4 fasteners, for steel and aluminium subframes respectively, are available in four sizes covering 6mm, 8mm, 10mm and 12mm–13mm panels, with corresponding variations in clamping length.
Initially introduced in Europe with a standard centring sleeve, the SDA4 and SX4 ranges have already been appraised for compatibility by several leading OEMs and major UK installers. The products are also being recognised within European Technical Assessments (ETAs), supporting their use on projects where third‑party approvals are required.
According to SFS, the well‑engineered fixing can double installation productivity compared with traditional methods, while reducing the risk of post‑completion façade defects. From early in Q3, Centre Point will be offered in a full selection of RAL colours on a five‑working‑day lead time, which SFS notes is comfortably within the typical six‑ to eight‑week delivery period for façade panels.
