Aluminium compression latch won't 'burn out'

One engineered access hardware specialist stepping up to the plate is Southco, which has now developed an aluminium compression latch – the first of its type in the industry - which has been tested against the European fire standard and comes out with flying colours. This latch, the newest member of Southco's family of industry-proven E3 Vise Action Compression Latches, is designed to fasten panels and underfloor rolling stock applications where fire safety, vibration, sealing and quality are paramount. In the case of the European Fire Standard, EN 45545-2, specific reference is made to enclosures that house mechanical and/or electrical products. The fire standard specifies that, for 15 minutes and up to a temperature of 600°C, enclosure panels must remain in place. Subsequently, a test was set up to provide an indication of the behaviour of different cabinet latch materials used in rolling stock when exposed to the heating and pressure conditions as specified by the fire standard. The latch, which incorporates an aluminium head and housing, was not only fully compliant but also outperformed the die cast version on testing. Ulrike Sturman, Southco Industry Marketing Manager Transportation, commented: "The test results fully endorse Southco's reputation as an industry-leader. At Southco, we believe that, in addition to meeting European fire standard legislation, our aluminium E3 compression latch offers customers a more cost-effective solution than more traditional materials, such as die cast. Tests have revealed it to be more resistant to corrosion than its die cast counterparts and its lighter weight provides an additional benefit to railways that have to operate in an environment where every kilogram counts." The aluminium E3 belongs to the extensive line of Southco's premium range of Compressions Latches built around the unique Southco 'Vise Action' mechanism that provides both cam engagement and vibration-dampening compression, with a continuous half-turn motion. Offered with different head styles, these latches can be locked in position where they can be released only by the rotation of a handle or use of a key, preventing panels opening accidently through vibration. Ulrike Sturman concluded: "Southco works with all major rail industry players in Europe and the new Aluminium latch, an additional option to our top quality die cast and stainless steel versions, has already been approved and designed-in on a rolling stock application in Germany."