All content copyright Tom Rubenoff 2010-2021
Von Duprin offers several versions of its QEL (Quiet Electric Latch retraction) conversion kits for its 33, 35, 98 and 99 series exit devices. The variations are: Modular (no baseplate) Modular, with connectors (Molex) Modular with hex dogging Modular with hex dogging and connectors With baseplate, specify 3-ft. or 4-ft. With 3- or 4-ft. baseplate … Continue reading “Von Duprin QEL Kit Diversity”
I have mentioned this before, but it bears revisiting. Lock problems and door problems are often related. If the door is does not swing or is not hung properly the lock may not work properly either. I bring this up now because I was recently called upon to go out and do actual work. I … Continue reading “Door Sag”
Last year Von Duprin began shipping Chexit self-contained delayed egress exit devices that are motorized instead of solenoid driven. Since they are motorized, the new Chexits draw less current and will probably be more reliable than the previous solenoid-driven version. This means a less serious, less expensive power supply, less need for high capacity, high … Continue reading “Experiencing the New Von Duprin Chexit”
Delayed egress is a process that delays unauthorized exit from a space while complying with NFPA 101 life safety code. Use of this process is strictly regulated with the help of building inspectors and fire marshals across the United Sates. With that in mind it is always a good idea to get your local AHJ … Continue reading “Choosing a Delayed Egress System: Self-Contained, or Built from Components?”
The Medical Metaphor As previously published in Doors and Hardware Magazine, Feb. 2016 As in the medical profession, correct diagnosis of door hardware problems is wholly dependent upon the knowledge, skill and powers of observation of the person whose job it is to correct the problem. “The devil is in the details,” they say, and … Continue reading “Door Hardware Triage”
Positive Pressure Issues Sometimes doors are required to perform conflicting functions simultaneously. For example, in order to comply with the American Disabilities Act a particular door may be restricted to a door closer that requires as little as five pounds of opening force. This same door may be required to lock automatically without fail. One … Continue reading “The Pressure’s On”
Nothing lasts forever. Like manufacturers of other mechanical devices, lock companies periodically update their products to be consistent with current technology. They do this to make better, safer, more reliable products, and also to remain competitive in the market place. Sometimes these new, updated products are backwards-compatible with older models of the same brand, sometimes … Continue reading “The Obsolete Mortise Lock”
A wrap-around door reinforcer is a metal sleeve that slides over the door at the lock prep to conceal damage and/or reinforce the door. They are a quick and handy solution when wood doors are damaged by forced entry and are often installed to strengthen new wooden doors against forced entry attempts. In my experience … Continue reading “The Wrap-Around Door Reinforcer”
A common problem with installing electric strikes is cavity depth – that is, how deeply you need to cut into the frame (or wall) so that the electric strike will fit. For most of the twentieth century electric strikes were, and most still are, designed without consideration for this factor. Instead they are designed for … Continue reading “Compact Electric Strikes”
I never cease to be amazed when someone tells me their car won’t start and then they say, “Well, it started yesterday.” What sense does that make? I ask you. Is today yesterday? I think not. Yes, indeed, time wears out almost everything: clothes, human bodies, tree limbs, stones, car batteries … and locks and … Continue reading “Locks and Keys Grow Old Together”