The utility van: mobile office for the construction industry. For contractors working out of their vans, storage plays a key role in their daily operations. If tools and materials are not securely stored, contractors could face damage to their van and tools, as well as potential injury caused by unsecured objects.
A vehicle utility contractor for a large electricity company recently approached Southco engineers regarding a latching system to secure wall-mounted storage compartments and cabinets inside its fleet of utility service vans. The company had received reports from its employees that the existing hardware was sometimes unpredictable in its operation, resulting in tools popping out of boxes while the vehicle was in motion.
The contractor was seeking a strong, durable latch that would stay closed when disturbed by bumps
and turns while the van was in motion, as well as exposure to changing weather conditions, since the rear door of the van would be frequently opened and closed by the technician when on the job.
and turns while the van was in motion, as well as exposure to changing weather conditions, since the rear door of the van would be frequently opened and closed by the technician when on the job.
Our engineers recommended Southco’s Stainless Steel R4-10 Rotary Latch, which brings corrosion-resistant strength to a proven latching
solution that delivers long lasting durability and security to heavy-duty
applications. For this application, our engineers recommended combining the R4-10 with Southco’s AC-70 Single Point Paddle Actuator for a complete latching solution. When installed, the R4-10 is linked to the Actuator by a cable, which triggers the latch when the Actuator is engaged. Additionally, the AC-70’s low-protrusion, front-mount design allows for easy operation by the end user, who need only actuate the paddle with the pull of a finger.
With a simple push-to-close operation, the R4-10’s concealed latch accommodates misalignment between the latch and striker bolt, making it suitable for a wide variety of applications. In gasketed applications, a double stage latching option provides additional security and functionality, allowing the user to push the door once to keep it closed, and push it a second time to securely latch it, preventing a false latching condition which could result in the door opening accidentally.
Are you facing a challenging application that calls for a more robust latching solution or want to know more about our rotary latches or hinges? Tell us in the comments.
companies are taking increased ridership by the horns, and making design upgrades to their heavily used railcars. 
Data center engineers dedicate sizeable amounts of time to designing enclosures, which includes specifying cabinet storage that will ultimately house the complete system. Factors such as size, materials, rack dimensions, security, heating and cooling options and the costs associated are all considered by engineers throughout the design, but when it comes to accessibility, it sometimes isn’t approached until the very end of the design process. 
the enclosure door. When installed, the Swinghandle, which nests into its housing with minimal protrusion, sits on the outside of the cabinet door, and pops up to swing smoothly for easy latch actuation. The cam mechanism sits on the inside of the enclosure door, and a series of rods that run up the entire length of the door are activated by a linear actuator, releasing the latch when the Swinghandle is rotated.
We spent the last several weeks discussing different factors for specifying 
Okay, so you’re looking to optimize the overall quality and cost effectiveness of your application. When it comes to hinges, it is important to balance performance needs with aesthetic judgment. Looks DO matter and can greatly influence a product’s overall look and perception of quality.
Whether you want polished and sleek or sturdy and strong, there is a hinge that will convey the appearance you seek and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your application.
There are many factors to consider when selecting a 
The method of installation is an often overlooked consideration when selecting a 
Selecting the proper 
Sometimes a user or service technician requires full access to the interior of a cabinet or enclosure. If this is the case, 
using tools). Just lift the door off the hinge pins mounted to the frame, and replace it by lowering it back over the hinge pins. Both your hands will remain free to maneuver the door. It might be a two-person job at most, but you’ll be amazed at the ease and speed of removal these hinges allow.
We have all been there: Trying to keep a door open with our foot, a shoe or something else we find lying around. Today’s applications increasingly require hands–free access (or a really patient friend who will hold the door for you). If this is the case with your application, consider using a hinge with a built-in detent feature to hold the door or panel open at a preset angle. Or use an adjustable-torque feature, which will let you tighten or free up the door swing. Both of these hinge styles eliminate mechanical supports like gas struts or door stays.
We’ve discussed how important a consideration strength is when selecting a hinge. Now it’s time to examine the design considerations that sometimes dictate whether we select a 
Last week we discussed how strength is often one of the first considerations when choosing a 
It is not uncommon to wait until the last minute to incorporate 
How much load will the hinges bear? And many times it’s not just the weight of a door but all external sources of load. Will equipment be mounted on the door? Make sure to account for dynamic loading. 
Our Applications Engineers will be on hand to answer your toughest implementation challenges.
Data Center World, presented by Afcom hosted their 30 year anniversary tradeshow conference this past weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada on October the 5th. Data Center World is widely considered as the premier tradeshow for central data managers and industry leaders. The conference focuses on data center management and alternatives to securing data within servers through physical and cyber means. 
This week 
Wind Energy… Firmly entrenched in Europe wind energy is an exciting opportunity for North America and beyond. And boy, did the 2010 Wind Power Show in Dallas indicate that. Over 20,000 attendees and nearly 1400 exhibitors representing companies from countries all over the world including Germany, Spain, Italy, India, Canada, China, Korea and many others. And the diversity of the offerings was immense… from the largest wind turbines you have ever seen, to the ladders and hoists that allow access and service, to the components inside the turbine that control pitch, power conversion, etc, to the trucking and transport companies responsible for transporting these large turbines and blades across the country.
So let’s talk about the exhibitors. The turbines are unbelievably large. Anyone who has ever seen a wind turbine across a field has little idea of the magnitude of these structures. Or of a single blade. Or of the nacelle. These structures make people look like ants! All of the major manufacturers were there and it was impressive group.
shop regionally, and thus need local suppliers in each region.
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