Lock, stock and barrel
John Mitchell, Carl F Groupco’s technical manager, provides an overview of automatic technology, smart systems, and emergency exit hardware.
Locking technology has always been the backbone of the hardware range that we distribute and, as part of our catalogue of over 7,000 product lines, we cater for the door lock requirements of aluminium, composite, PVC and timber profiles.
Included in our door hardware range is multi-point locking for single residential doors plus stable, French, bifold, patio and electronic products. Emergency escape solutions also feature in our offer. More recently, with the introduction of smart technology, access control solutions have come to the fore.
After launching our electronic locking and access control brand SmartSecure in 2016, we are now in the roll-out phase of first installations with strong interest being shown across all sectors from architectural, design-led projects through to extensive social housing schemes.
Trombé, for example – specialists in architectural design, structural glazing and extensions for high-end contemporary residential and commercial projects – has incorporated our SmartSecure electronic locking and advanced access technology into its minimal frame sliding door system. Designed and manufactured by Trombé, the aluminium door system’s slim styling and sophisticated aesthetics are complemented by the new generation control features offered by SmartSecure.
In addition to solutions based on Fuhr’s fully motorised multipoint 881 lock with automatic locking, our SmartSecure range was increased earlier this year to include Yale’s Conexis L1 retro-fit Smart keyless locking handle, which is ideal as an upgrade for existing customers or DIY solution.
We are witnessing a significant shift towards the adoption of motorised and automatic function door locking. There has been a noticeble increase in enquiries for the Fuhr 833 lock, which engages all locking points on closing the door to provide instant security, only requiring the operation of the cylinder to throw the deadbolt. Not only is the security advantage a lure for fabricators and end users, the lock also helps to prevent door warping by holding the door in place rather than relying on the user to lift levers.
And, as important as it is to provide secure locking technology, it is equally necessary to facilitate an easy, reliable exit. We offer Fuhr 870 and 871 Type 8 emergency exit locks for aluminium, PVCU or timber doors plus Fuhr’s CE marked panic locks which provide electronic, automatic or manual locking options.
Other products that we distribute include: facefix Strand Antipanic gearing; the EN 1125 Motorised or Modular Touch Bar; the EN 1125 Modular Push Bar; the EN 179 Modular Push Pad; and a lever or knob operated outside access device.
Again, we believe in going the extra mile offering advice and technical support on how best to achieve panic or emergency exit doors. One of the first considerations is establishing where the door set is to be fitted and who will use it as this will enable us to advise what hardware is most appropriate to meet relevant regulations. For example, non-public buildings where full door operation training has been given to users, requires hardware that meets the EN 179 standard for emergency exits. However, if the door is to be installed in premises such as commercial or public buildings where occupants may not be familiar with the exit routes and hardware devices, then the EN 1125 standard will need to be met for panic exit.