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American National Standard for Strap and Tee Hinges, and Hasps
ANSI/BHMA A156.20-2021 establishes requirements for Strap Hinges, Tee Hinges, and Hasps, and includes performance tests covering operational and strength criteria. Tests described in this Standard are performed under laboratory conditions. In actual usage, results vary because of installation, maintenance and environmental conditions. For further information, consult the full standard, ANSI/BHMA A156.20 for Strap and Tee Hinges.
BHMA has created this series of Hardware Highlights to provide useful, accessible information about builders hardware for anyone with an interest in devices that hang, control, secure, and trim the doors. BHMA is the trade association which represents almost all of the North American manufacturers of builders hardware. One of its main activities since 1983 has been the development and maintenance of ANSI-approved standards for 35 separate product categories.
Product Performance: Purchasers of strap and tee hinges certified to A156.20 (http://buildershardware.com/cpd) can be assured products will perform to their expectations.
Below are an explanation and some examples of the evaluations conducted for certification:
Strap and tee hinges and hasps are subjected to various strength tests to evaluate resistance to the lateral shift away from the door, or distortion from over-torque forces likely to be encountered in operation.
Building products are expected to last a long time, and builders hardware is no exception. Grade 1 strap and tee hinges are subjected to 100,000 test cycles and shall meet wear requirements as measured by displacement between leaves and knuckles.
An additional duty of builders hardware is to be aesthetically attractive and stay that way. Resistance to corrosion is evaluated through a salt spray test to ASTM B117 providing confidence in the ongoing appearance of the architectural metals and coatings.
Certified overhead stops & holders contribute to building sustainability through their verified durability, as well as material characteristics such as recycled content and recyclability. The reliable closing and sealing of openings can also contribute to energy conservation. BHMA has developed Product Category Rules, which will further define sustainability requirements and guide life cycle assessments and environmental performance declarations.
Examples of Identifying Numbers offered in the Standard
Tee Hinges Not Treated - Steel Pin
A82111A82112
Hasp Plated
A83231A83232A83233