FL Patents
The story so far




In 1996 Peter Jones developed a range of quality recessed downlighters that, when fitted, maintained the Fire and Acoustic rating of the ceiling lining without the need for any other form of external protection. In that year he also built up a networking team of professionals and .....

FL1.jpg (35K)
Peter Jones at FL Patents' HQ, Bordesley Hall
1997 Snaplite launched with prototype sales and sample marketing.
1998 Snaplite becomes first domestic downlighter range to have inbuilt Fire Protection
1999 Snaplite becomes first domestic downlighter range,in the world,to have inbuilt Fire and Acoustic Protection. A heavy period of investment follows Four Fire Tests, 30 minutes load bearing, 30 minutes and 60 minutes conventional joists. 90 minutes suspended ceiling are successfully completed One IP Test (to meet bathroom regulations) also successfully completed.
2000 Development and fire testing in a range of structures continues to ensure that the range meets the needs of both the new energy regulations and the new construction materials being introduced. Local Authority Building Control System Type Approval received. DTI Smart Award of £48,150 granted (£23,879 paid in financial year 00 / 01 and £24,271 paid in year 001 / 002) One new composite joist Fire Test
2001 Direct Sales Agent appointed. A marketing consultant, part of the networking team, launches the awareness campaign. One new Eco Joist Fire Test
2003 Influenced the inclusion of downlighters in Ensuring Best Practice for Passive Fire Protection in Buildings ( part of the Governments Best Practice Programme) Appointed Training Affiliate of the Association of Building Engineers One Airborne and Impact Acoustic Test
2004 Influenced the inclusion of downlighters in the July introduction of Building Regulations Part P, which became effective from January 1st 2005 Air leakage testing and the development of a new seal to meet the proposed regulatory requirements of The Loss of Useful Heat and The Transfer of Condensation into the open roof space. Further testing to ensure that the new requirements of Continuity of Insulation would be met. Winner of the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Innovator of the Year Award.
Top Product of the Year Award by the “Professional Electrician and Installer”
2005 Snaplite becomes the first downlighter to be successfully assessed to Robust Details Appendix F Timber Separating Floors.

Successfully re-assessed later for high installation density in a Robust Detail Structure

Successfully assessed for sealing against the progression of Smoke.( Smoke through light fittings is not covered by regulatory guidance but any addition to the life safety features of a building is a very welcome benefit).

Registered CPD ( Continuous Professional Development) Presenter status achieved.

New web site launched giving more advice and detail to the industry and to the homeowner.
2006 Winner of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise : Continuous Innovation 2006

A further one hour Fire Test.

Square Bezel launched.

230 V range introduced.

RIBA approval gained for CPD presentation
2008 New IP 54 version introduced to meet latest Bathroom Regulations ( 17th Edition Wiring Regulations)
2009 With the downturn in the Building Industry, FL Patents look at alternative markets and solutions for fire compliant lighting. Works starts on the Snaplite Marine range of downlighters, where again, the aim is to provide fire compliant lighting without the need for double ceilings or steel box protection. The attraction of the Marine Industry being its strict adherence to fire regulations and specification.
2010 B0 and B15 types launched after successful fire tests, with additional benefits of increased light output, LOR 71.6% and subsequent energy saving.
2011 9 cruise ships now refurbished with Snaplite Marine Lighting.