The 40H series mortise lock from BEST Access Systems is a high-performance, durable, and architecturally versatile locking solution designed for commercial and high-traffic applications. This article provides a detailed exploration of the 40H series, including its core specifications, installation instructions, and key features, based on official resources and technical documentation. The focus is on empowering installers, locksmiths, and facility managers with the knowledge needed to deploy and maintain these systems effectively.
Key Specifications and Design Features
The 40H series mortise lock is part of BEST’s premium line of door hardware, engineered to deliver both security and longevity. It is commonly used in office buildings, commercial facilities, and other environments where durability and aesthetic flexibility are critical.
The 40H lock is paired with the 45H series mortise lock, forming a cohesive system that includes a wide range of lever styles, finishes, and configurations. The 40H strike (designated 40HST1) is a standard ANSI curved lip strike, providing compatibility with standard door frames. The lock includes a 3-lever configuration with an H-shaped rose (also known as an escutcheon), a satin chrome finish, and is field-reversible to accommodate left- or right-handed doors.
The lock mechanism is housed in a cold-rolled steel case with a corrosion-resistant coating, ensuring long-term performance in varied environments. The latch is a solid one-piece stainless steel design with a precision-engineered curve that reduces wear on the strike and enhances cycle life.
Additional specifications include: - Door thickness compatibility: 1-3/4 inches - Lever design: 3 lever, straight return lever - Rose/Escutcheon design: H-shaped, 2-3/4 inches - Latch projection: 3/4 inch - Strike height: 4-7/8 inches - Strike width: 1-1/4 inches - Cylinder type: SFIC housing-less core - Number of pins: 7 - Handing: Field reversible
These specifications ensure the 40H and 45H series are suitable for a wide range of commercial door applications, including but not limited to office partitions, conference rooms, and secured administrative areas.
Installation Process and Guidelines
Installation of the 40H and 45H series mortise locks requires careful attention to door preparation, alignment, and component assembly. BEST provides a suite of installation resources, including visual guides, step-by-step instructions, and service manuals, to assist in the deployment of these systems.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to ensure the door is properly prepared. The door thickness must be 1-3/4 inches, and the door frame must accommodate the standard strike dimensions (4-7/8 inches in height and 1-1/4 inches in width). The strike must be aligned with the latch to ensure proper operation and security.
BEST recommends using the provided drilling and installation instructions tailored to the specific configuration of the lock. These instructions are available in formats for both French and Spanish drilling, accommodating international and domestic installation practices.
Drilling and Assembly
The 45H mortise lock is designed for quick and accurate installation through the use of self-aligning trim and a reversible latch that allows for easy handing changes without the need to open the lock case. This feature reduces labor time and minimizes potential misalignment during installation.
The lock is equipped with a 3-lever handle system that includes a straight return lever and an H-shaped rose. The lever assembly is designed to be interchangeable with other 45H series components, allowing for a variety of aesthetic options while maintaining the same mechanical functionality.
BEST provides several installation documents for the 45H and 47H mortise lock series, including: - 45H and 47H Mortise Locks – French Drilling/Installation Instructions - 45H and 47H Mortise Locks – Spanish Drilling/Installation Instructions - 45H and 47H Mortise Locks Drilling/Installation Instructions - 45H and 47H Mortise Locks Spanish Installation Instructions - 45H Series Mortise Hook Spindles Installation Instructions
Each document includes detailed diagrams, measurements, and assembly steps to guide the installer through the process. These resources are particularly valuable for ensuring correct installation, especially in high-traffic or security-sensitive environments where precision is critical.
Post-Installation Testing
Once the lock is installed, it is important to test the operation of the latch and lever mechanism. The lock should move smoothly without resistance, and the latch should engage fully with the strike. Any misalignment or resistance may indicate a need for minor adjustment or re-drilling.
BEST also recommends periodic inspection and maintenance to ensure continued performance. The service manual for the 40H series includes guidance on lubrication, wear inspection, and troubleshooting common issues.
Technical Advantages and Design Philosophy
The 40H and 45H mortise lock series are designed with a focus on three core attributes: strength, durability, and versatility. These attributes are achieved through the use of high-quality materials, precision engineering, and modular design.
Enhanced Structural Integrity
The lock case is constructed from 0.095-inch cold-rolled steel, offering superior resistance to deformation and tampering. The stainless steel latch is engineered to provide 50% more surface contact with the strike than standard latches, increasing the lock’s resistance to forced entry.
The roller bearing hub mechanism ensures smooth and wear-resistant operation, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. The latch is also designed with a precision curve that minimizes wear on the strike face, extending the lifespan of both components.
Field-Reversible and Self-Aligning Trim
One of the standout features of the 45H series is its field-reversible design. The latch can be rotated 180 degrees to accommodate left- or right-handed doors without requiring the removal or disassembly of the lock case. This significantly reduces the time and labor required for installation in multi-door environments.
The self-aligning trim further simplifies installation by ensuring accurate alignment of the lever and rose without the need for repeated adjustments. This is particularly beneficial for installers working in tight spaces or on doors with irregular surfaces.
Aesthetic Flexibility and Customization
The 40H and 45H series offer a wide range of lever styles and finishes, allowing for seamless integration with various architectural styles. The satin chrome finish is a popular choice for modern office environments, but the system supports other finishes such as brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and more.
This level of customization enables facility managers to maintain a cohesive aesthetic across different building areas while still using a high-performance locking system.
Compatibility and Integration
The 40H series is designed to work in conjunction with the 45H mortise lock, forming a complete door security solution. The 40HST1 strike is an ANSI-compliant curved lip strike that is compatible with standard door frames and frame systems.
BEST also offers a range of accessories and components to complement the 40H and 45H series, including: - Mortise hook spindles - Thumb turn assemblies - Visual indicator thumb turn options - Keyed or keyless configurations
These components allow for further customization and functionality, such as keyless entry or visual indicators for locked/unlocked status, which can be particularly useful in high-traffic or multi-user environments.
BEST provides installation instructions for these accessories, including the 40H Visual Indicator Thumb Turn Installation Instructions, ensuring that installers can integrate these components seamlessly.
Support and Technical Resources
BEST Access Systems offers a robust support ecosystem for installers and system integrators. The manufacturer provides access to a wealth of technical documentation, including: - Product literature: Sell sheets, catalogs, and FAQs - Installation instructions: Step-by-step guides and visual aids - Service manuals: Detailed troubleshooting and maintenance guides - Knowledge base: Online repository of installation templates, product specifications, and training materials
In addition, BEST offers online and in-person training sessions for locksmiths, sales representatives, and integrators. These training programs are designed to enhance technical proficiency and ensure that installers are equipped with the latest product knowledge and best practices.
BEST also maintains a distributor portal where partners can access order history, order status, and marketing resources. These resources include brochures, sell sheets, images, and videos to support sales and marketing efforts.
For those seeking immediate assistance, the BEST support portal allows users to search for product-specific information, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. This ensures that installers can quickly resolve common issues without requiring extensive external support.
Conclusion
The 40H mortise lock, in conjunction with the 45H series, represents a high-performance, durable, and aesthetically versatile solution for commercial door security. With its field-reversible design, precision-engineered components, and modular customization options, this system is well-suited for high-traffic environments where both security and appearance are critical.
BEST Access Systems provides comprehensive installation and service resources, including detailed instructions, service manuals, and training programs, to support installers and integrators in deploying these systems effectively. The use of cold-rolled steel, stainless steel latches, and corrosion-resistant coatings ensures long-term reliability and performance.
For those seeking to install or maintain a 40H or 45H mortise lock, access to the manufacturer’s technical documentation and support resources is essential. By following the provided installation guidelines and leveraging BEST’s technical assistance, installers can ensure a smooth and accurate deployment of these high-quality door security systems.