Two Steps Forward: An Overview of New HES Strikes

HES first introduced the 9000 series in 1986. It was the first electric strike to fit into a standard frame without cutting and frame modification. However, for this type of strike to function properly, the centerline of the dead latch/latchbolt must vertically align perfectly. In the ‘real world,' many doors don't align perfectly and the application of this strike was limited. Still, the concept was strong.

Building on the lessons of the 9000, recent HES innovations include a vertically adjustable internal ramp, allowing the introduction of the 5900/9001 Series. Without this feature, this type of strike would not be reliable.

The patented design permits ramping of the latchbolt back into the door as the door is opened, in a motion similar to when the door is closed. The 5900 also incorporates a vertical adjustment feature that allows the unit to operate smoothly when adjusted to accommodate a sagging or misaligned door.

During installation, the strike is set into the frame and a pencil mark is made to denote the vertical centerline of the deadlatch. On the side of the strike, loosen the two 6-32 truss head screws securing the ramp. Slide the ramp up or down to align the center point between the two ramps with the pencil mark. (Note: My sample was a pre-production model. The centerline between the two ramps will be inscribed on the production models).

The unit is field selectable for 12 or 24volt operation and fail-safe or fail-secure application. Electrical specifications are stated as .24 Amp @ 12VDC and .12 Amp @24VDC, DC – Continuous Duty / AC Intermittent Duty.

Standard Features include:

· No cutting of the frame

· Vertically adjustable internal ramp

· Tamper resistant

· Static strength 1,500 lbs.

· Dynamic strength 500,000 cycles

· Field Selectable fail-safe/fail-secure

· Field Selectable 12 or 24volt AC or DC

· Non-Handed

· Internally mounted solenoid

· Latchbolt accommodation up to five-eighths with one-eighth door gap

· Strike body depth one and one-sixteenth

· Plug-in connector

· Five year warranty

An optional latchbolt monitor is available and accessories include a plug-in bridge rectifier, an ElectroLynx adapter, a Smart-Pac II, a plug-in buzzer and a plug-in LED indicator.

The design of the 5900 Series is so shallow that it fits into the frame without removing the ANSI dust box. With no cutting on the frame, the Grade 1 strike is designed to simplify installation and reduce installation time.

Both electric strikes offer a choice of faceplates in multiple finishes to cover any application.

· 501 Faceplate (1-1/4” x 4-7/8”): Square corner ANSI installations in a metal jamb. ANSI A115.2 (1” dust box)

· 501A Faceplate (1-1/4” x 4-7/8”): Radius corner ANSI installations in aluminum jambs.

· 502 Faceplate (1-7/16” x 7-15/16”): Radius corner installations in wood or aluminum jambs.

· 503 Faceplate (1-1/4” x 6-7/8”): Radius corner installations in aluminum jambs.

· 504 Faceplate (1-3/8” x 10”): Radius corner installations in wood or aluminum jambs

Faceplates for cylindrical latchbolts also include:

· 594 Faceplate (1-1/4” x 9”): Radius corner installations in wood frames.

Faceplate architectural finishes include 605-Bright brass, 606-Satin brass, 612-Satin bronze, 613-Bronze-toned, 629 Bright stainless steel, 630-Satin stainless steel, and BLK-Black.