(57) An element (110), e.g. for a window frame has a load-bearing member (12) (e.g. of
aluminium) which provides a flange (20); and a cladding member (14) of thin-walled,
flexible plastics whose flexibility allows it to snap-engage with the flange (20)
(by means of formations (22;40) and (32,34;48,50) to define a channel (16). This channel
(16) has a filling (18) which resists flexing of the cladding member (14). The filling
(18) is preferably a solid foam produced by expansion of a composition (400) within
the cavity (16), the cladding member being supported during the expansion to prevent
distortion. Thus the members (12,14) may be partially (22;40) engaged and receive
the foam composition (400) within the cladding member (14), then pass through a gap
(409) between the conveyors (408,410) which squeeze the assembly to effect the snap-engagement
and to provide the support.
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