Snowflex
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Snowflex is a snow sports surfacing product, invented and manufactured by Briton Engineering Developments Ltd of Holmfirth, West Yorkshire in the UK.
The surface system is made of a polymer composite, comprising a monofilament fibre and impregnated carrier layer. This sits on top of a shock absorption layer in an attempt to give an authentic responsive and reactive feel. Other components in Snowflex include an integrated misting system, known as BritonMist, for friction reduction and an impervious membrane for recycling of water. The base is a woven controlling layer which prevents earth movement. The surface layer is manufactured in tile form and as such Snowflex forms a homogenous system which can be cut and formed into features and shapes such as those found in alpine environments.
Due to the complex nature of Snowflex, it is not possible to self-install. Instead the company which designed and manufactures it operates as installers as well. This is a first for snowsports surfaces as previous materials were able to be installed by slope operators at their own cost.
Following its launch in 1996 Snowflex has been installed at around twenty slope operations, most recently in Bearsden, Glasgow and at Noeux les Mines, in northern France.
[edit] Alternatives
- Artificial ski slopes
- Permasnow
- Astroride
[edit] External links
- http://www.snowflex.com/ (Official Web Site)
