SFL Flues & Chimneys becomes the first Flue & Chimney Manufacturer to join the Industrial and Commercial Heating Equipment Association (ICOM).

23 July 2024

We are delighted to announce the ICOM Boards decision to approve SFL Flues and Chimneys application as the first UK based flue and chimneys manufacturer to join the Association. As a leading UK manufacturer of flue, chimney, and exhaust systems SFL are proud to be associated with such a prestigious industry body such as ICOM.

The company looks forward to making an active contribution towards ICOM’s mission to deliver safe reliable and efficient products and services for the commercial and industrial heating sector.

ICOM offers SFL the opportunity to partner with other Commercial and Industrial heating providers to deliver flue, chimney and exhaust products alongside information, advice and guidance always maintaining the highest of standards. Whatever a project demands we have a system to suit.

At SFL we specify to the latest standards of Commercial and Industrial flues and exhaust systems – tested to BS EN 1366-13. We promote and support the introduction of EN1366-13, that chimneys now have an official test to assess the fire resistance of both the product and penetration components when passing through a fire rated compartment wall or floor, etc. Although EN1366-13 is a test standard, it is important that the test results are classified in accordance with the latest revision of EN13501-2, allowing specifiers to correctly assess the fire resistance classification of the product required for the project. Both SFL Flue and Chimneys residential and commercial Europa Plus and Nova (100-350) systems are tested to EN1366-13.

As a member, we look forward to embracing the benefits of being part of the trade association that supports and protects the industry.

About ICOM

The Industrial and Commercial Heating Equipment Association (ICOM) is a not-for-profit trade association, representing and promoting the interests of the commercial heating sector since 1933. ICOM began life as the British Oil Burner Manufacturer’s Association (BOBMA), which was formed in response to competition from imported combustion equipment. In 2003 the Council decided to widen the remit to engage in all aspects of energy related business activities, work more closely with government, non-governmental offices, research establishments and industry trade associations towards a greener future.

Then in May 2004 the Association became the Industrial and Commercial Energy Association (ICOM). ICOM has now, since 2021, become the Industrial and Commercial Heating Equipment Association, a name which better suits the membership group it represents.

By working closely with governments, professional bodies, and associations at National and European level, ICOM work to generate tangible benefits for members and is instrumental in the development of product and installation standards which SFL Flue and Chimneys support.

Editor’s Notes:

SFL is a leading manufacturer of flues and chimneys in the UK with well-established distribution in the USA and Far East. SFL has over 55 years of experience in flue & chimney systems across Residential, Commercial, and Industrial markets.

For installations in commercial buildings, SFL manufacture a range of flue systems from complex header configurations to large-diameter stacks. SFL are committed to offering industry-leading technical support services, throughout the whole process of design, manufacture, and supply.

SFL also provide high-quality residential flue and chimney components via a network of distribution partners. With fast delivery times and comprehensive product warranties, SFL ensure quality and reliability.

SFL became part of the Sphering Group in 2022, the market leader in Flue and Air Care across Europe. This new acquisition added R&D capabilities to SFL and a sixth, (UK based) manufacturing plant to the Group’s industrial capacities already operating in France, Italy, Belgium, Germany, and Poland. The Group now employs over one thousand people across Europe with a turnover of c.190 million euros, with each business renowned for expertise in the design, manufacturing and distribution of innovative, high-quality chimney and ventilation systems.

The Sphering Group includes Apros, Eurotip, Joncoux, Lorflex, MK, SFL and more recently EKA in Germany. As a committed company, determined to play an active role towards the environment and society, Sphering has its own R&D Center: “We Lab.” This facility has allowed the group to comply with the newest European standards in terms of security, safety, and performance of their products and adopt a responsible innovation approach.

Sphering celebrated a century of existence in 2019. Faithful to its historic values implemented its CARE policy with customers, employees, secured and efficient products, environment, and society. Supported by committed local teams and backed by controlled financial stability, the Group has demonstrated its ability to conduct rapid, structured, and profitable growth.

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