Modular approach delivers increased levels of versatility
The Engineering Network Ltd
Posted to News on 1st Mar 2011, 00:00

Modular approach delivers increased levels of versatility

Albert Jagger has introduced the System Vision range, providing a versatile, modular rod locking system to meet the needs of a variety of enclosures manufactured from either thin sheet steel or double skinned, insulated panels.

Modular approach delivers increased levels of versatility

The System Vision range can be supplied with a wide range of swing handle variants. Manufactured from polyamide, zinc die-cast or 304 stainless steel to suit environmentally aggressive conditions, swing handles can be supplied in three sizes including standard, compact and mini with locking variants including standard cylinders, profile cylinders, Bestlock cylinders, padlock loops and a choice of 27 insert profiles for tool locking options.

Rated to IP65 and NEMA 4, a key feature of all swing handles within the System Vision range is permanently fixed integral PUR-gaskets which helps to ensure that the IP rating of the enclosure itself is never compromised. They can be used independently as a standalone locking handle utilising a wide range of standard single and multi-point cams to cater for a variety of door thicknesses or in conjunction with the System Vision range of rod locks and three point locking systems.

Speed and flexibility are two essential factors in the production of a typical enclosure. Variations in specification especially present a real challenge to streamlined manufacturing processes and make a versatile and adaptable locking system indispensable. System Vision solves this common problem as ambidextrous handing of all components allows all insertions via a single cut-out detail. This allows the use of standard symmetrical pre-formed door blanks by enclosure builders, optimising cut-out configuration for strength and reducing stocked inventory levels.

Once the handle specification is agreed upon it can then be combined with one of several latching methods available from the System Vision range. The simplest and most economical of these is System Vision - 'Classic', with typical applications being low cost outdoor cabinets usually found housing battery back-ups. As well as the more popular swing handle, this system can be operated via traditional styled actuators ranging from any number of quarter-turn lock options or even a standard lever handle. Utilising a traditional three-point cam with rods going straight up and down, this system results in the standard top, bottom and centre locking points. For larger applications or for heavier doors the top and bottom latching points can be equipped with rollers for a smoother action and to improve seal compression.

The second option, System Vision - 'Inside Classic', is still based on the traditional straight up and down movement of the rods but a central geared drive mechanism gives a more controlled and compact facility to operate the rods in a perfectly perpendicular action with no rotation at all of the rods. Latching occurs at two points, top and bottom but three-point latching can be achieved with an additional cam fitted to the rear of the central mechanism. Again, flat or round rods can be fitted with rollers, particularly for heavier applications.

System Vision - 'Inside' sees all hardware fixed inside the sealed area and mounted directly to the enclosure door itself. Utilising a floating rod system driven by a central geared drive mechanism, this system offers numerous locking points placed along the sealed length of the door aperture. This ensures even closure of the door against the seal and eliminates twisting or warping of larger lightweight doors. Geared roller cams result in smooth operation of the door and also ensures efficient compression of the sealing profile for a tight fitting door, preventing leaks. 

System Vision - 'Outside' sees all hardware mounted on the outside of the sealed area which optimises the internal space of the enclosure and results in a 'clean' door with no obtrusive cut-outs in critical areas. The system also shares components with the 'Inside' system such as a floating rod system and a central geared drive mechanism for reduced stocking levels should production facilities require both systems.

Conforming to GR-487, the telecommunications industry's highest rating requirements for electronic equipment cabinets. This system is essentially rendered earth-quake proof, subject to the integrity of the enclosure itself. System Vision 'Outside' has undergone extensive vibration, torque and corrosion testing to meet the stringent acceptance criteria used for Zone 4 outside plant telecommunications equipment cabinets, electrical enclosures and server cabinets.

This has been achieved through the use of an 'L' shaped latching plate which completely engages at all latching points. A two-stage operation involving a multi-dimensional alignment for perfect door location then a vault-type locking mechanism for closure to achieve efficient gasket seal compression. This then eliminates all rod oscillations with direct load transfer from frame to door during violent vibrations.

System Vision - 'Heavy-Duty' is an explosion proof rod locking system designed specifically for situations where there is a potential risk of a high-voltage arc-explosion. There are examples of enclosure doors travelling in excess of 10m following an electrical arc induced explosion so it's imperative that containment of such doors is achieved to reduce the risk of significant further damage or even loss of operator life.

Albert Jagger Ltd

Green Lane
WS2 8HG
UNITED KINGDOM

+44 (0)1922 471000

ABSSAC Ltd Leuze electronic Ltd STOBER Drives Ltd Reliance Precision Ltd Trio Motion Technology Mechan Controls Ltd AutomateUK M Buttkereit Ltd Intertronics AutomateUK mk Profile Systems Ltd George Emmott (Pawsons) Ltd Rittal Ltd igus (UK) Ltd
The Engineering Network Ltd