A resource for choosing engineered access hardware solutions for your enclosure
Enclosure Design GuideThe advantage of 60 years of engineered access hardware and fastener experience lies in our cumulative applications knowledge and engineering expertise that make our broad range of existing solutions possible. In addition, our global manufacturing resources benefit OEMs and CEMs worldwide – no matter where they design, assemble, or sell:
n Engineering assistance on your schedule. Southco engineering resources in three key regions – North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific – provide easy access to more than 150 design and sales engineers globally.
n Extensive capabilities for your benefit. In-house resources – stamping, die-casting, cold-heading, roll-forming, turning, injection-molding, and assembly – at Southco Centers
of Excellence around the world transform raw stock into polished solutions.
n Quick turnaround, on your timetable. 16 strategically located Southco manufacturing, assembly, and stocking facilities – in 9 countries across 4 continents – shorten lead times, lower shipping costs, and improve scheduling.
n Personal assistance, as you need it. The 24/7 availability of experienced Southco personnel – regardless of geographic location – delivers the timely attention you require.
Whatever your enclosure access hardware needs, no one offers more. Contact a Southco representative today, to discover all the possibilities.
Global Corporate Headquarters & Customer and Technical Support Center Concordville, PA – USA Tel.: (1) 610 459 4000 Fax: (1) 610 459 4012
Manufacturing & Stocking Locations Chihuahua, Mexico Concordville, Pennsylvania Honeoye Falls, New York Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Europe Customer and Technical Support Center Worcester – UK Tel.: (44) 0 1905 346722 Fax: (44) 0 1905 346723
Manufacturing & Stocking Locations Farnham, UK Worcester, UK
Asia Customer and Technical Support Center Hong Kong – China Tel.: (852) 3127 1503 n Fax: (852) 3127 1541
Australia Customer Service and Distribution Center Tel.: (61) 03 9330 5000 n Fax: (61) 03 9330 5099
India Customer Service and Technical Support Center Tel.: (91) (21) 3867 0538 n Fax: (91) (21) 3867 0588
Manufacturing & Stocking Locations Fu Yong, Shenzhen, China Shanghai, China Hong Kong, China Melbourne, Australia Pune, India Seoul, South Korea Shi Yan, Shenzhen, China Tokyo, Japan
Open a world of possibilities n www.southco.com n [email protected]
Benefit from the experience and innovation of the global leader in enclosure access hardware.
©Southco NA EnGC 509
Southco has a solution for all your enclosure design needs.Put simply, Southco knows enclosure applications. From latches, hinges and rack attach solutions to gaskets and electronic
access components, Southco’s products are designed with varied customer needs in mind. The wide range of available
solutions means there is a product that fits your specifications, your style and your budget.
Latches—Hundreds of latching options including cam, compression, multi-point latches and swinghandles
that address security, quick access, and aesthetic challenges.
Hinges—Wide range of free-swinging and position control solutions for external, embedded or concealed
applications with options suitable for the most unforgiving environment or the most style-minded designer.
Rack Attach— Varied options that address critical load rating, vibration resistance, and clamping range
specifications across plastic and metal applications.
Gaskets—Several profiles for various panel thicknesses to ensure optimal sealing for NEMA and
IP enclosure applications.
Electronic Access— Innovative electronic locking and latching components that allow for convenient,
secure, and ergonomic access control and monitoring.
Create the perfect fit for all your engineered access hardware needs. Contact your Southco Representative today.
Open a world of possibilities n www.southco.com n [email protected]
Latch Selection Guide for EnclosuresAs an experienced leader in engineered access hardware solutions for enclosures in a variety of applications, Southco offers hundreds of latch solutions. To make it easier for you to narrow down the best options for your installation, our applications engineers have outlined some key design considerations that impact enclosure performance and economy. They can also provide the direct benefit of their expertise in specific enclosure environments and applications.
Physical Latch Style ConsiderationsMost latch styles offer some degree of choice in terms of the door/frame interface, locking/security options, and mounting flexibility. But certain enclosure designs might demand specific latch formats to satisfy unique requirements of fit, operation, suitability for extreme demands, etc. Use these guidelines to help you narrow your choice of latch styles early in your decision-making process.
Cam Latches Are you looking for quick, simple, economical latching alternatives?
... do you need a degree of flexibility to compensate for variations in material dimensions or changing grip dimensions?
If so, then cam latches can be a cost-effective answer.
Compression Latches Does your application require gaskets or environmental sealing to satisfy specific industry standards (e.g., NEMA 4, IP-66, etc.) or to provide general protection against dust, rain, or electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI)?
... is your application subject to vibration or rattle caused by running motors, pumps or off-highway travel?
... do you need a tighter grip to reduce noise caused by loose fitting doors?
Each of these examples represents a good reason for selecting compression latches. Choose the specific style of compression latch you might need—fixed or adjustable compression, tool- or hand-actuated, locking or non-locking—based on your enclosure design and installation environment.
Draw Latches Does your enclosure have co-planar panels?
... do you need to compensate for some misalignment in the mating of the two panels?
... are you latching clam-shell style enclosures?
Unlike some latches that simply pin the door to the frame, draw latches can actually draw two panels or a panel and a frame together in the same plane. Various lever-action and rotary-action draw latch styles provide varying amounts of draw and can provide relatively high working loads.
Electronic Access Solutions (EAS)Do you need to monitor access to your enclosure?
... does your system require management of multiple key codes?
... does the enclosure need to open automatically when environmental conditions become severe?
... do you need to operate the lock or latch from a remote location?
If any of these scenarios apply, then an electronic latch should meet your needs. Various electronic latching styles are available including push-to-close, swinghandle or rotary action. Each latch offers flexibility in access control such as key pad, card swipe, key fob, biometric reader, cell phone, etc.
Push-To-Close Latches Are you interested in providing the most user-friendly operation for frequent access and closure?
... do you like the convenience of “slam-shut” operation, in both locking and non-locking applications?
... are there advantages to providing quick and easy enclosure access through a simple push, pull, or slide of the latch?
In these cases, your application could be a candidate for a convenient push-to-close latch style, provided that your grip tolerances and frame edge location are compatible with the selected latch design.
Multi-point Latches Do your enclosure doors cover a large span?
... is your door panel thin enough that its corners flex out even when the door is latched?
... do you have concerns about vandalism or unauthorized access on doors that can be pried open at the corners?
... are the contents of your enclosure extremely sensitive, valuable or critical to system performance?
In these instances, multi-point latches can provide a single point of actuation to engage multiple points of latching contact for more consistent and more secure latching. Various multi-point latching solutions include compression, locking, or hidden actuator features for added performance and security. Some are self-contained systems, while others can be ordered as add-on options used to supplement individual cam, compression or even push-to-close latches.
2009 UPDATE
Latch selection for enclosuresAfter identifying a product class from the chart below for your application requirements, specific part numbers, downloadable CAD files and more information can be found by visiting www.southco.com/enclosureguide.
For more detailed information on the product class you have identified, go to www.southco.com/enclosureguide and enter product class in search bar.
NEW NEW NEW NEWNEW
Design Considerations ( See descriptions and rating values on back cover)
Multi-Point Actuators and Latches Electronic Access Solutions
Door Edge System
Compression System Swinghandles Concealed Push
to Close SystemPush to Close
ElectronicSwinghandle
Electronic Rotary Electronic
Product Class F2 M3 CR H3 E2 EM H3-EM R4-EM
Size of Latch Large Large Large Medium, Large Large Medium Medium Large Large
Mounted Inside / Outside Gasketed Area
Outside Inside Inside Either Inside Either Inside Inside Inside
Concealed No Both No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes
Single-Point or Multi-Point Multi-Point Multi-Point Single-Point,
Multi-PointSingle-Point, Multi-Point Multi-Point Single-Point,
Multi-PointSingle-Point, Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point
Operation Lift Handle Lift Handle Swing Handle Swing Handle For Use With H3 System Push Button Motor Driven
Swinghandle, Motor Driven
LockMotor Driven
Access Control Key
Key, Tool,
Padlock, DIN
Key, Tool,
Padlock, DIN
Key, Tool, Padlock,
DINN/A Remote Key Pad, Proxy
Card, I-Button
Key Pad, Proxy Card, I-Button,
Key, DIN
Key Pad, Proxy Card, I-Button
Grip (in mm) 15 - 25 3.5 - 20 Up To
112
Up To 50
StandardN/A Varies Varies Varies Varies
Fixed or Adjustable Grip Fixed Adjustable Adjustable Fixed N/A Fixed Fixed Adjustable Adjustable
Compression (in mm) Mechanism 12 Mechanism
5Mechanism
5 Varies On Rods Varies On Rods None No Varies On Rods No
Latch Material Plastic & Steel Zinc & Plated Steel
Zinc & Stainless Steel
Zinc & Plated Steel
Zinc & Plated Steel
Plastic & Steel & Stainless Steel Plastic
Glass-Filled Nylon &
SteelSteel
Door Thickness (in mm) 0.8 - 3.2 1.5 - 25.5 1.5 - 4.5 0.9 - 3.2 N/A All All 1 - 2.5 All
Environmental Sealing (typical enclosure type)
NEMA 12, IP52 NEMA 4, IP66 NEMA 4, IP66 NEMA 4, IP66 N/A No Mounts Inside
Enclosure No Mounts Inside Enclosure
Corrosion (salt spray test) 96 Hrs 500 Hrs 500 Hrs 720 Hrs
Available720 Hrs
Available 96 Hrs 96 Hrs N/A 96 Hrs
Internal Protrusion/Flush Mount Hardware (in mm)
15 36 80 12.9 - 26.2 N/A 21 25 25.75 69
External Protrusion/ Flush Mount Hardware (in mm)
14 6.5 11.5 22 N/A None 0 24.5 0
Suitable for EMI Shielding No Yes Yes Yes N/A Yes Yes Yes Yes
Vandal Resistance VR 1 VR 2 VR 3 VR 2 N/A VR 1 VR 2 VR 2 VR 4
Suitable for seismic applications Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Suitable for Common Key Code Yes Yes Yes Yes N/A Yes N/A Yes N/A
Product Class F2 M3 CR H3 E2 EM H3-EM R4-EM
Latch selection for enclosures (CONTINUED)After identifying a product class from the chart below for your application requirements, specific part numbers, downloadable CAD files and more information can be found by visiting www.southco.com/enclosureguide.
For more detailed information on the product class you have identified, go to www.southco.com/enclosureguide and enter product class in search bar.
Design Considerations ( See descriptions and rating values on back cover)
Cam Latches Compression Latches 2 or 3-Point Rod Systems
T&L Handles Cup Style Quarter Turn Cam Lock Vise Action Lever Latches Lift & Turn Fixed Rod Systems
Rod Roller Systems
Product Class E5, 92, 68 E5 CM E3 C2, C5, A7 62, M1 A5 A8, CR
Size of Latch Medium Medium Small Small Small Medium Medium Large Large
Mounted Inside / Outside Gasketed Area
Inside Inside Inside Inside Inside Inside Inside N/A N/A
Concealed No No No No No No No Yes Yes
Single-Point or Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point
Single-Point, Multi-Point Single-Point Single-Point,
Multi-Point Multi-Point Multi-Point
Operation Hand, 90˚ Turn
Hand, 90˚ Turn
90˚ Turn, Hand, Key, Tool
90˚ Turn, Hand, Key, Tool
Turn, Hand, Key, Tool
Push Button Release
Hand, Lift & Turn N/A N/A
Access Control Key KeyKey, Tool,
Padlock
Key, Tool,
Padlock
Key, Tool,
Padlock
Key, Tool
Key, Tool N/A N/A
Grip (in mm) 0 - 57 22.7 - 36.7 1 - 44 12 - 45 3 - 81 1 - 72 5 - 111 N/A N/A
Fixed or Adjustable Grip Both Fixed Fixed Fixed Adjustable Adjustable Adjustable Fixed Adjustable
Compression (in mm) None None Ramp Up To 3 Ramp Up To 3 Mechanism
Up To 6.4Lever Action
Up To 8Mechanism Up
To 6.4 N/A Ramp/Roller Up To 6
Latch Material Zinc & Steel
Zinc & Plated Steel
Plastic, Zinc or Stainless Steel
Plastic, Zinc or Stainless Steel
Zinc or Stainless Steel Zinc
Plastic, Zinc or Stainless
Steel
Plastic & Aluminum
& Steel
Plastic & Aluminum
& Steel
Door Thickness (in mm) 8 - 3.2 3.2 Max 1 - 14 11 - 26 1 - 18 1 - 41 1 - 22.5 N/A N/A
Environmental Sealing (typical enclosure type)
NEMA 4, IP65 NEMA 12, IP52 NEMA 4, IP66 NEMA 4, IP66 NEMA 4, IP66
C5 - NEMA 4, IP66
NEMA 4, IP66 N/A N/A
Corrosion (salt spray test)
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 1000 Hrs
Up To 1000 Hrs
Up To 1000 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Internal Protrusion/Flush Mount Hardware (in mm)
18 - 65 46 - 55 24- 32 28 - 41 40 - 69 29 - 72 27 - 108 Varies Varies
External Protrusion/ Flush Mount Hardware (in mm)
32 - 60 2.4 5 - 19.5 5 - 17 6 - 22 0-32 4 - 38 0 0
Suitable for EMI Shielding No Yes Yes Yes Yes C5 - Yes Metal Only N/A N/A
Vandal Resistance VR 2 VR 1 VR 3 VR 2 VR 2 VR 1 VR 1 N/A N/A
Suitable for seismic applications No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Suitable for Common Key Code Yes Yes No Yes No Yes Yes N/A N/A
Product Class E5, 92, 68 E5 CM E3 C2, C5, A7 62, M1 A5 A8, CR
Latch selection for enclosures (CONTINUED)After identifying a product class from the chart below for your application requirements, specific part numbers, downloadable CAD files and more information can be found by visiting www.southco.com/enclosureguide.
For more detailed information on the product class you have identified, go to www.southco.com/enclosureguide and enter product class in search bar.
NEW
Design Considerations ( See descriptions and rating values on back cover)
Push to Close Latches Draw Latches
Slide Latches Slam Action Medium Concealed Latches Flush Paddle Rotary Draw Over-center Over-center
Product Class A3 M1, 93 C3, E2, R4 64 K2, K3, K4, K5 97 V7
Size of Latch Small, Medium Small Medium Small, Large Medium Small, Medium, Large Small, Medium
Mounted Inside / Outside Gasketed Area
Inside Inside Either Inside Outside Outside Outside
Concealed No No Yes No No No No
Single-Point or Multi-Point Single-Point Single-Point Single-Point, Multi-
Point Single-Point Single-Point Single-Point Single-Point
Operation Hand, Slide Push Button or Key Push Button Hand,
LiftHand, Rotary
Hand, Lever
Hand, Lever
Access Control Key Key Any Key Key, Padlock Padlock Key
Grip (in mm) 2.5 - 6 6.4 - 25 N/A 1.2 - 19.4 N/A N/A N/A
Fixed or Adjustable Grip Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed
Compression (in mm) No No No No Mechanism Up
To 12.5Mechanism Up
To 70Mechanism Up
To 10
Latch Material Plastic Plastic, Zinc or Stainless Steel Plastic or Steel Steel or Stainless
SteelSteel or Stainless
SteelSteel or Stainless
Steel Zinc or Stainless Steel
Door Thickness (in mm) 0.8 - 2.2 1.2 - 13 All 1.6 - 22 All All All
Environmental Sealing (typical enclosure type)
NEMA 12, IP52 NEMA 12, IP52 Any NEMA 12, IP52 NEMA 4, IP66
NEMA 4, IP66
NEMA 4, IP66
Corrosion (salt spray test)
Non- Corrosive
Non- Corrosive
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Up To 500 Hrs
Internal Protrusion/Flush Mount Hardware (in mm)
5.6 - 24.6 24 - 37 > 21 24 - 40 0 0 0
External Protrusion/ Flush Mount Hardware (in mm)
2 - 13 4.8 - 27 Concealed 1 - 4.5 11 - 24 8 - 24 18 - 21
Suitable for EMI Shielding No Metal Only Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Vandal Resistance VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1
Suitable for seismic applications No No Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Suitable for Common Key Code Yes Yes Yes Yes - Large Only No No No
Product Class A3 M1, 93 C3, E2, R4 64 K2, K3, K4, K5 97 V7
Design considerations.Use the following characteristics, definitions and descriptions to help you understand and evaluate your options outlined in the latch selection chart inside this booklet.
Access Control: Different latch operation styles—key-lockable, tool-restricted access or hand accessible without keys or special tools—contribute toward the degree of control over who can access an enclosure. (Also see “vandal resistance.”)
Adjustability: Does the latch design permit adjustment of its grip? This is typically done by setting the positions of adjusting nuts and screws. Self-adjusting latches provide adjustment for both grip and compression by means of a specially designed cam.
Common Key Code: This description indicates whether a particular latch class is able to share the same key code as other lockable latches from Southco, when desired.
Compression: Does your cabinet design require mechanical advantage from the latch to pull the door into the frame? Southco defines com pression as the distance of the pull-up required. Compression facilitates sealing, elimination of noise and rattle and compensation for tolerances and misalignment. Compression can be achieved in one of two ways—by rotating a ramped cam against the frame or with a clamping mechanism built into the latch.
Concealed: The decision to use concealed mounting hardware is usually driven by industrial design/appearance concerns or vandal-resistance requirements.
Corrosion Resistance (Salt-Spray Test): What level of corrosion protection is required of the access hardware? This is usually expressed in terms of hours of salt-spray exposure per ASTM B-117. In some cases, users will simply mandate the use of 300-Series stainless steel.
EMI Shielding: The level of electromagnetic interference shielding is typically defined as the degree of attenuation at a specified frequency. EMI performance can vary by enclosure application. Southco latches indicated for potential use in EMI shielding applications should be evaluated in the specific enclosure design.
Environmental Sealing: This reflects the level of sealing suitable for enclosures to prevent entrance of dust, water and other contaminants into the enclosure. (e.g., NEMA 4, IP-66)
External Protrusion/Flush Mount Hardware: How much room is available outside the enclosure for the latch hardware? Must it be totally flush for space or safety considerations? Can the mounting hardware extend beyond the interior surface of the enclosure? Protrusion is typically measured in millimeters.
Grip: What is the dimension from the surface on which the latch is mounted to the latch’s point of contact on the frame when the door is closed? Grip is typically expressed in millimeters.
Inside/Outside the Gasket: Where will latches be installed—inside or outside the gasket-sealed area? Latches suitable to be installed inside the sealed (gasketed) area must be sealed to the same level as the enclosure. Latches that are installed outside of the sealed area often do not need to be sealed.
Internal Protrusion/Surface Mount Hardware: How much room is available for the mounting hardware to protrude into the enclosed space? Protrusion is typically expressed in millimeters.
Door Thickness: The thickness of the door in which the latch will be installed, expressed in millimeters.
Seismic: Is seismic (earthquake) testing required? Does your enclosure need to be seismic rated? Seismic testing is conducted on the whole enclosure systems, not just the hardware. Southco latches suggested for seismic-rated enclosure use should be evaluated in the specific enclosure design.
Single-point or Multi-point: Does the enclosure specification require single-point or multi-point latching? This requirement is often driven by the need for gasket compression or vandal resistance, or by doors with long spans—where flexing of the door panel can cause a poor seal or rattling.
Size of Latch: Use the following scale as a guide for matching latch size to enclosure size.
Small = ≤ 40 mm2
Medium = 40 mm2 to 100 mm2
Large = ≥ 100 mm2
Vandal Resistance: The level of resistance to access by unauthorized persons. Usually expressed in time, with a specified set of tools. Southco has developed the following rating system:
VR 0 = Provides no resistance to forced entry
VR 1 = Limited resistance to forced entry by available tools (withstands 2-minute vandal test with pocket knife and screwdriver)
VR 2 = Provides resistance to deliberate forced entry with common tools (withstands 5-minute vandal test with hammer, screwdriver and pliers)
VR 3 = Prevents access with heavy duty tool set (withstands 5-minute vandal test with large hammer, chisel and pry bar)
VR 4 = Prevents access with heavy duty tool set (withstands 5-minute vandal test up to and including 10 V cordless drill or saw)
Vibration/Shock Resistance: The level of vibration to which the enclosure will be subjected. This is usually expressed in G-forces in a given direction for a given duration.
Remember, when specifying some cam latches you need to specify left-hand or right-hand operation. (See additional info on Web site or product literature.) You always want the cam to be open at the 12 o’clock position and engaged at the 3, 6 or 9 o’clock position. If the latch is installed so it is open at the 6 o’clock position, vibration and/or gravity could cause the cam to fall down into the open position and disengage from the frame.
Southco makes it possible.Need other related engineered access hardware solutions? Modified or custom solutions?
North American Customer and Technical Support Center Tel: (1) 610 459 4000
European Customer and Technical Support Center Tel: (44) 0 1905 346722
Asian Customer and Technical Support Center Tel: (852) 3127 1503
©Southco NA EnGL 509Open a world of possibilities n www.southco.com n [email protected]
Hinge Selection Guide for EnclosuresAs an experienced leader in engineered access hardware solutions for a variety of enclosure applications, Southco offers hundreds of hinge solutions. To help you narrow down those options for your enclosure installation, we have organized them by functionality, and outlined some key design considerations that can impact enclosure performance and economy. And we are constantly adding new solutions, so if you don’t see one here that suits your specific needs, contact one of our applications engineers for assistance.
Physical Hinge Style ConsiderationsSouthco offers hinges in a wide range of sizes, styles, and materials. All provide basic access to enclosures of varying designs. First, choose your hinge installation style: external, embedded, or concealed. Next, consider what additional functions you may want the hinge to provide, such as detent positioning or door removability. Then refer to the chart on the inside of this document to determine which product class provides the complete range of options you require.
HingesExternal HingesDo you need to maximize available space inside the enclosure?
... are you looking for a drop-in replacement that meets most standard panel preps?
Then an external hinge is for you. Southco has a wide range of mounting options to suit most door and frame configurations, and provide easy installation.
Do you need to attach or remove a door without tools?
... does the door need to hold open or closed?
... is the hinge being used on a heavy duty enclosure?
With materials ranging from light-weight plastics to heavy-duty cast stainless steel, and a wide range of sizes and installation styles, Southco has a hinge to meet your application needs. We have hinges to fit the most common door and frame configurations, as well as customized solutions to suit specific needs of individual applications.
Concealed HingesDoes the design of your cabinet require the hinge need to be invisible when the door is closed?
... does your hinge need to be inside the enclosure?
If so, a concealed hinge could be the solution for you. By concealing the hinge, the industrial design of the enclosure can shine through. Southco's concealed hinges combine hidden mounting with simple installation.
Positioning MechanismsEmbedded HingesDoes your design need to seamlessly integrate position control features into any application?
... does the shape and size need to fit in a small envelope of the application?
... does the hinge need to be molded-in or concealed with snap on covers?
Embedded hinges can be designed-in to become an integral part of any application. These hinges allow for a variety of positioning control options while fitting into an existing envelope for both small and large applications.
Need a tilt and swivel mechanism to control rotation in multiple axes?
... need to make a heavy object easier to move?
... need an object to deploy automatically when a latch is released?
When the requirement for motion management goes beyond a simple rotational motion, Southco's custom engineered positioning mechanisms can provide new levels of refinement and functionality to meet any motion management challenge. Whether your application requires torque, detent, bi-stable or counterbalance features, Southco has a solution to meet your specific needs.
2009 UPDATE
For more detailed information on the product class you have identified, go to www.southco.com/enclosureguide and enter product class in search bar.
Hinge selection for enclosuresAfter identifying a product class from the chart below for your application requirements, specific part numbers, downloadable CAD files and more information can be found by visiting www.southco.com/enclosureguide.
NEW NEW
Design Considerations ( See descriptions and rating values on back cover)
External
Product Class E6 C6, G6 ST EH KH F6
Size of Hinge Small Small, Medium Large Medium Small,
Medium MediumSmall,
Medium, Large
Medium Small, Medium
Small, Medium
Angle of Opening (in degrees) 180 180 180 180 360 180 180 180 180 180
Hinge Material Plastic
Zinc Alloy or Aluminum
Alloy & Hardened
Steel
Zinc Alloy & Hardened
SteelPlastic
Zinc Alloy & Hardened
SteelZinc Alloy Zinc Alloy Brass Zinc Alloy
Plastic, Steel, or Stainless
Steel
Door Removal No No No No No No No No Removable Pin
Captive Spring-
Loaded Pin
Door Thickness (in mm)
All, < 8 For Stud
VersionAll All All All All
All, < 6 For Stud
Version< 7 < 2.4 All
Position Control Adjustable Torque
Constant Torque
Constant Torque Detent Constant
Torque No No No No No
Installation Thru Bolt or Thread Stud Thru Bolt
Mounting Screw
(Tapped)
Thru Bolt With Covers
Thru Bolt or Thread Stud Thru Bolt Thru Bolt or
Thread Stud Thread Stud
Thru Bolt On Frame, None On
Door
Thru Bolt
Corrosion (salt spray test)
Non-Corrosive 500 Hrs 500 Hrs 500 Hrs 200 Hrs 96 Hrs 96 Hrs 240 Hrs 96 Hrs
96 Hrs - Steel
500 Hrs - Stainless
Vandal Resistance VR 0 VR 1 VR 2 VR 0 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 2 VR 1 VR 0
Seismic No Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Applications Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No No No Yes
Product Class E6 C6, G6 ST EH KH F6
For more detailed information on the product class you have identified, go to www.southco.com/enclosureguide and enter product class in search bar.
Hinge selection for enclosures (continued)
NOTE: For hinges to meet EMI shielding and environmental sealing requirements additional gasketing might be required.
After identifying a product class from the chart below for your application requirements, specific part numbers, downloadable CAD files and more information can be found by visiting www.southco.com/enclosureguide.
NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW
Design Considerations ( See descriptions and rating values on back cover)
External Embedded Concealed
Product Class 96 N6 ST G7 R6 F6
Size of Hinge Medium Small, Medium
Small, Medium
Small, Medium
Small, Medium,
LargeMedium Small,
Medium Medium Small Medium Small, Medium Medium
Angle of Opening (in degrees)
180 180 180 180 360 360 360 360 360 95 or 180 Approximately 120
Approximately 120
Hinge Material
Steel or Stainless
Steel
Zinc Alloy or Plastic
Zinc Alloy or Stainless
Steel
Stainless Steel
Zinc Alloy &
Hardened Steel
Zinc Alloy & Hardened
Steel
Aluminum Alloy &
Hardened Steel
Zinc Alloy &
Hardened Steel
PlasticSteel or
Stainless Steel
Steel or Stainless
Steel
Steel or Stainless
Steel
Door Removal Lift-Off Lift-Off Lift-Off No No No No No No No
Captive Spring-Loaded
Pin
Captive Spring-
Loaded Pin
Door Thickness (in mm)
All All All All All All All All All < 4 All < 4
Position Control No No No No Constant
TorqueConstant Torque
Constant Torque
Constant Torque With
Counter-balance
Bi-Stable Hold Open No No
Installation Thru BoltMounting
Screw (Tapped)
Mounting Screw
(Tapped)
Thru Bolt With Cover
Thru Bolt Thru Bolt Over- molded Thru Bolt Snap-In Thru Bolt Thru Bolt Thru Bolt or
Thread Stud
Corrosion (salt spray test)
96 Hrs - Steel
500 Hrs - Stainless
500 Hrs 500 Hrs 500 Hrs N/A N/A N/A N/A Non-Corrosive
96 Hrs - Steel
500 Hrs - Stainless
96 Hrs - Steel
500 Hrs - Stainless
96 Hrs - Steel
500 Hrs - Stainless
Vandal Resistance VR 2 VR 1
VR 2 - Stainless
Steel VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 1 VR 0 VR 2 VR 2 VR 2
Seismic Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Applications
Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Product Class 96 N6 ST G7 R6 F6
Design considerations.Use the following characteristics, definitions, and descriptions to help you understand and evaluate your options outlined by the hinge selection chart inside this document.
Angle of Opening: At what predetermined angle(s) might the hinge position the open door? Or is the angle of positioning user controlled, as with a friction hinge? What is the total range of motion or maximum angle to which the hinge will open?
Concealed: Does the hinge or mounting hardware need to be concealed? This can be accomplished with internally mounted hinges, or by using a welded, thread-stud, or tapped-hole installation style. Such a decision is usually driven by industrial design/appearance concerns or vandal resistance requirements.
Corrosion Resistance (Salt Spray Test): What level of corrosion protection is required of the access hardware? This is usually expressed in terms of hours of salt-spray exposure per ASTM B-117. In some cases, users will simply mandate the use of 300 Series stainless steel.
Door Removal: Does the hinge need to separate into two pieces in order to allow the door to be removed from the frame for installation access or aisle clearance? Does it simply lift off, or is there a catch/release feature?
Embedded: Designed to be shrouded within the enclosure housing. Embedded hinges provide added functions like position control.
Environmental Sealing: This reflects the level of sealing suitable for enclosures to prevent entrance of dust, water and other contaminants into the enclosure. Most styles of hinges can achieve environmental sealing if properly gasketed. (e.g., NEMA 4, IP-66)
External: Mounts on the outside surface of the enclosure. Provides easy installation and maximizes interior enclosure space.
Hinge Material: The material used in the construction of the hinge (e.g., steel, stainless steel, zinc alloy, etc.) can affect maximum working load, corrosion resistance, and finish options.
Installation: How the hinge will be attached to the door and frame—welded, or with threaded bolt, through bolt, rivet, or screw mounting hardware? Defines the mechanical means used to attach the hinge to the door/frame.
Door Thickness: The thickness of the door in which the hinge will be installed, expressed in millimeters.
Position Control: What type of feature will be used to control the position of the hinge and door—detents, constant torque, adjustable torque, self-closing, dampened action, etc.
Seismic: Is seismic (earthquake) testing required? Does your enclosure need to be seismic rated? Seismic testing is conducted on the whole enclo sure system, not just the hardware. Southco hinges suggested for seismic-rated enclosure use should be evaluated in the specific enclosure design.
Size of Hinge: Use the following scale as a guide for matching hinge size to enclosure size.Small = ≤ 40 mm2
Medium = 40 mm2 to 80 mm2
Large = ≥ 80 mm2
Vandal Resistance: The level of resistance to access by unauthorized persons, usually expressed in time, with a specified set of tools. Southco has developed the following rating system:VR 0 = Provides no resistance to forced entry
VR 1 = Limited resistance to forced entry by available tools (withstands 2-minute vandal test with pocket knife and screwdriver)
VR 2 = Provides resistance to deliberate forced entry with common tools (withstands 5-minute vandal test with hammer, screwdriver and pliers)
VR 3 = Prevents access with heavy duty tool set (withstands 5-minute vandal test with large hammer, chisel and pry bar)
VR 4 = Prevents access with heavy duty tool set (withstands 5-minute vandal test up to and including 10 V cordless drill or saw)
Southco makes it possible.Need other related engineered access hardware solutions? Modified or custom solutions?
North American Customer and Technical Support-Center
Tel: (1) 610 459 4000
European Customer and Technical Support Center
Tel: (44) 0 1905 346722
Asian Customer and Technical Support Center
Tel: (852) 3127 1503
©Southco NA EnGH 509Open a world of possibilities n www.southco.com n [email protected]
A resource for choosing engineered access hardware solutions for your enclosure
Enclosure Design GuideThe advantage of 60 years of engineered access hardware and fastener experience lies in our cumulative applications knowledge and engineering expertise that make our broad range of existing solutions possible. In addition, our global manufacturing resources benefit OEMs and CEMs worldwide – no matter where they design, assemble, or sell:
n Engineering assistance on your schedule. Southco engineering resources in three key regions – North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific – provide easy access to more than 150 design and sales engineers globally.
n Extensive capabilities for your benefit. In-house resources – stamping, die-casting, cold-heading, roll-forming, turning, injection-molding, and assembly – at Southco Centers
of Excellence around the world transform raw stock into polished solutions.
n Quick turnaround, on your timetable. 16 strategically located Southco manufacturing, assembly, and stocking facilities – in 9 countries across 4 continents – shorten lead times, lower shipping costs, and improve scheduling.
n Personal assistance, as you need it. The 24/7 availability of experienced Southco personnel – regardless of geographic location – delivers the timely attention you require.
Whatever your enclosure access hardware needs, no one offers more. Contact a Southco representative today, to discover all the possibilities.
Global Corporate Headquarters & Customer and Technical Support Center Concordville, PA – USA Tel.: (1) 610 459 4000 Fax: (1) 610 459 4012
Manufacturing & Stocking Locations Chihuahua, Mexico Concordville, Pennsylvania Honeoye Falls, New York Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Europe Customer and Technical Support Center Worcester – UK Tel.: (44) 0 1905 346722 Fax: (44) 0 1905 346723
Manufacturing & Stocking Locations Farnham, UK Worcester, UK
Asia Customer and Technical Support Center Hong Kong – China Tel.: (852) 3127 1503 n Fax: (852) 3127 1541
Australia Customer Service and Distribution Center Tel.: (61) 03 9330 5000 n Fax: (61) 03 9330 5099
India Customer Service and Technical Support Center Tel.: (91) (21) 3867 0538 n Fax: (91) (21) 3867 0588
Manufacturing & Stocking Locations Fu Yong, Shenzhen, China Shanghai, China Hong Kong, China Melbourne, Australia Pune, India Seoul, South Korea Shi Yan, Shenzhen, China Tokyo, Japan
Open a world of possibilities n www.southco.com n [email protected]
Benefit from the experience and innovation of the global leader in enclosure access hardware.
©Southco NA EnGC 509
Southco has a solution for all your enclosure design needs.Put simply, Southco knows enclosure applications. From latches, hinges and rack attach solutions to gaskets and electronic
access components, Southco’s products are designed with varied customer needs in mind. The wide range of available
solutions means there is a product that fits your specifications, your style and your budget.
Latches—Hundreds of latching options including cam, compression, multi-point latches and swinghandles
that address security, quick access, and aesthetic challenges.
Hinges—Wide range of free-swinging and position control solutions for external, embedded or concealed
applications with options suitable for the most unforgiving environment or the most style-minded designer.
Rack Attach— Varied options that address critical load rating, vibration resistance, and clamping range
specifications across plastic and metal applications.
Gaskets—Several profiles for various panel thicknesses to ensure optimal sealing for NEMA and
IP enclosure applications.
Electronic Access— Innovative electronic locking and latching components that allow for convenient,
secure, and ergonomic access control and monitoring.
Create the perfect fit for all your engineered access hardware needs. Contact your Southco Representative today.
Open a world of possibilities n www.southco.com n [email protected]