Also Known As: Crash Bars, Exit Hardware, Panic Hardware
DESCRIPTION
Although similar in function and appearance, there is a major difference between panic hardware and a fire exit device, whether or not they are specified and installed on a fire rated door.
Panic hardware is typically used for life safety, egress, and occupancy requirements. While fire exit devices are typically used for the same reasons, in addition the door opening is fire rated. These devices were tested in accordance with fire rating requirements and will bear the fire rated symbol to verify it they are compliant.
Another difference between the devices is that panic hardware can be “dogged” in the open position and a fire exit device cannot be. As mentioned earlier, a fire rated door must secure itself into the door frame on its own when a fire occurs, and a fire rated dogged device would require the assistance of someone to make that happen.
With that said, there is an option available from some manufacturers to electrically dog a device, where the bolts are retracted and held electronically, typically by a solenoid, which is magnetic. This device is wired, or tied, into the fire alarm system, and when the fire alarm is engaged, the power is cut, the solenoid releases, the bolts retract, and the door is engaged and secured into the frame as required at the time of the fire.
PROPERTIES
Panic and fire exit hardware can be manufactured with various configurations, aesthetics, functions, and options.
Actuating Bar
There are three main types of panic and fire exit hardware actuating bars, which are depressed to retract the latches of the device, allowing egress. As you can see from Figure 2.48, the actuating bars have very different aesthetics and angles of projection from the face of the door.
There are some newer, simple, more aesthetically designed devices available that might meet egress standards and codes for panic, but not necessarily fire exit requirements.
CROSSBAR
The crossbar actuator is the original panic and fire exit hardware design, which looks like a tubular bar installed horizontally across the face of the door. The crossbar can be depressed fully to retract the latchbolts, allowing the door to be pushed open.
Although aesthetically pleasing, crossbars can present issues as some building occupants (or even staff) will chain them together for security purposes. This is obviously not allowed by code, especially as the means of egress.
TOUCHPAD
The touchpad actuator is the newer of the designs available and looks like a rectangular pad installed horizontally across the face of the door. At least half of the touchpad depresses (required by code) when pushed to retract the latchbolts, allowing the door to be pushed open.
FIGURE 2.48 Crossbar Exit Device
(Source: The Graphic Standards Guide to Architectural Finishes, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.)
FIGURE 2.49 Crossbar Exit Device
(Source: Courtesy of SARGENT® Manufacturing Company)
FIGURE 2.50 Crossbar Exit Device
(Source: The Graphic Standards Guide to Architectural Finishes, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.)
FIGURE 2.51 Touchpad Exit Device
(Source: Courtesy of SARGENT® Manufacturing Company)
INTEGRATED
Integrated actuators are similar to the touchpad design, rectangular in shape, except they are installed as part of the door, recessed in a preparation rather than being surface-mounted on the face. These devices are typically installed at the factory by the door manufacturer, hence the name “integrated.”
Chassis
The chassis is where the latchbolt is housed, and it is operated by the actuator. Depending on how the device is manufactured, the chassis can be engaged by the actuator from the side or face of the chassis.
FIGURE 2.52 Integrated Exit Device
(Source: Courtesy of copyright © 2002–2013, Adams Rite, an ASSA ABLOY Group Company)
FIGURE 2.53 Integrated Exit Device
(Source: Courtesy of copyright © 2002–2013, Adams Rite, an ASSA ABLOY Group Company)
FIGURE 2.54 Exit Device Chassis
(Source: Courtesy of SARGENT® Manufacturing Company)
The chassis is typically protected by a cover, which is usually in the same architectural finish as the rest of the device and door hardware specified.
End Cap
End caps are typically installed at the hinge side end of the exit device. They can be flush with the end of the device or wrap around, depending on the manufacturer and the options offered.
Finishes
Visible parts of an exit device are available in most architectural finishes, depending on the manufacturer and their availability.
Grade
Exit devices are available in different grades, cited as grade 1, 2, and 3, with grade 1 being the highest- quality grade. Testing is different for interior and exterior openings. The following are a few of the interior tests and standards per ANSI/BHMA A156.3 American National Standard for Exit Devices, 2008.
CYCLE TEST
Cycle tests ensure the longevity of a device for a certain amount of cycles, during which the device is activated and the latchbolt is retracted.
GRADE 1
Grade 1 exit devices require 500,000 cycles of operation.
GRADE 2
Grade 2 exit devices require 250,000 cycles of operation.
GRADE 3
Grade 3 exit devices require 100,000 cycles of operation.
FIGURE 2.55 Wrapped End Cap on Exit Device (Source: Courtesy of SARGENT® Manufacturing Company)
FIGURE 2.56 Flush End Cap on Exit Device (Source: Courtesy of SARGENT® Manufacturing Company)
EXIT TEST Standard
All grades require a 15-pound maximum depression force of the actuating bar.
Forced
All grades require a 50-pound maximum depression force of the actuation bar when 250 pounds of horizontal force is applied to the door, binding the latchbolt.
Materials
Exit device parts, including internal working parts, actuating bars, chassis, trim, rods, and strikes, can be manufactured from brass, bronze, stainless steel, or steel depending on the manufacturer and device.
Sizes
Exit devices are available in various sizes for door width and door height. The minimum width available for an exit device is 2 feet. The maximum width available for an exit device is 4 feet, and the actuating portion of the bar across the door must be at least half of the width of the door, while the maximum height for a vertical rod exit device is 10 feet.
There are very specific size and application requirements and compliances, so be certain to check with the local codes and standards, as well as the availability with the manufacturer.
Strikes
Strikes are the keeper for latches of panic and fire exit hardware. Depending on the device and latch type, there are strikes available to suit each. They are typically furnished with the device along with fasteners and other required parts.