Product category:
Springs, dampers, latches, locks and small components
News Release from: Southco | Subject: Folding T-handle Compression Latch
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 09 December 2004
Latch stops Bobcat engine covers flying
open
When Bobcat wanted to source a more robust engine cover latch that would minimise noise caused by vibration, the company turned first to Southco's website.
On any rugged piece of materials handling equipment, vibration is an occupational norm so, if engine covers or doors are insecure, there is a risk of them opening or worse being torn off Although not a frequent occurrence, manufacturer Bobcat experienced enough instances of covers becoming detached from its telescopic forklift trucks to encourage a dialogue with fastener specialist Southco to source a solution to the problem
Patrice Caulier, Business Unit Manager at Bobcat explains: "If an engine cover is not properly closed it can swing open while the forklift is in operation and become damaged or even, in certain conditions, be torn off by the wind".
"This both poses a safety hazard and incurs repair costs".
"Between 1998 and 2002, out of 10,000 telescopic trucks delivered, we heard of this happening in some 50 instances".
"The problem can be caused by an inadequate latch or even by the driver simply forgetting to check before starting the truck".
"We needed to find a reliable system that would be robust enough for any operational conditions and would also help eliminate driver error".
"We also wanted a more robust latch that would minimise the noise caused by vibration".
Looking for this combination of design and functionality, Bobcat turned first to Southco's website.
This is designed to provide a valuable first port of call for any manufacturer seeking an effective latching solution.
Interactive product selection guides users to the best product for the application within seconds.
The site also provides product specifications, CAD drawings and 3D models of parts.
The product identified as providing the most effective solution was the Southco Folding T-handle Compression Latch.
Aesthetically a very well designed product, this has the additional benefit of providing reinforced retention of the engine cover on its support.
To close the latch, the operator has to turn the handle through 180 degrees, which operates a cam to secure the cover into the chassis.
For safety and a valuable visual check on closure the handle folds down flush and can then be locked in position with a key.
With a compression force of 300N, the latch ensures an effective seal that eliminates vibration.
From this start point, the Bobcat designers consulted Southco's engineers to arrive at the customised solution they were looking for.
The key was the key.
For the sake of simplicity, Bobcat wanted to supply their customers with a single key which, like the key to a car, would operate the ignition, doors and engine covers.
This required Southco to incorporate different barrels in their latches and fit an additional plate on each cover.
Patrice Caulier says: "The latch covers all of our requirements from safety and security, to durability, compression to combat vibration and quick and easy operation".
"The T-handle means that forklift operators can do a quick visual check to make sure that the engine cover is secured and so we can eliminate the problem of accidental opening during operation".
"With the additional engineering required to enable us to use a single key, we expected this to be a more expensive solution, but in fact it has proved extremely cost effective".
Bobcat has now been fitting the Southco Folding T-handle Compression Latch to its telescopic forklift trucks for a year and in that time there has not been a single instance of engine covers flying open during operation.
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