I’m usually pretty good at hardware identification, even though the kids think it’s weird when I point out Von Duprin panics during movies and TV shows (especially in front of their friends).  A couple of weeks ago I was in our office in Carmel, and I noticed something about the conference room doors.  Do you see what caught my eye?

Typically a pair like this would have flush bolts on one leaf and a lever handle on the other.  When flush bolts are used, the inactive leaf is not allowed to have a dummy lever, push rail, or other hardware that would indicate that the inactive leaf can be opened.  So when I saw the levers on both leaves, I thought, “Don’t my coworkers read iDigHardware?!”

When I went to take a closer look (and instant-messaged the product manager), I realized that both of these doors are equipped with Schlage LM9200 two-point latches.  Although this is a more expensive solution than using flush bolts on the inactive leaf, each leaf operates independently, so having levers on both leaves is code-compliant.  The problems that are common with automatic flush bolts and coordinators are avoided when using levers on both leaves, and there are some applications where it’s desirable to have both leaves operable without opening one door first.

The Schlage LM9200 can be installed on wood or hollow metal doors, and incorporates the concealed vertical cables that are used in Von Duprin CVC devices.  There are 13 functions available (mechanical and electrified), and 30 lever designs to suite with other Schlage and Von Duprin products.  The product is listed for use on fire doors, and may be supplied “LBL” (less bottom latch).  Refer to the data sheet for more information, including specific information on fire door listings.

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