Code Machine Adjustment
Manufacturers and locksmiths alike use code machines to originate keys from bitting numbers. These machines are essential for implementing master keying systems. The depth and spacing of the cuts must be very accurate.
In the field it is easy to check cut depths with a caliper. Spacing is hard to check. Many key machine instructions advise using a factory cut key for calibration. The key is positioned against the stop; the cutter wheel is lodged into a given cut and the vise position secured by set screws or other means.
I prefer a technique that allows a visual check of lateral accuracy. Mill away the center of a plug deep enough to intersect the pin chambers. Leave enough brass to retain the pins. The full plug on either end stabilizes the key.
Put original manufacturer’s pins in the center chambers and cut a test key. Adjust the spacing until the pins rest in the center of the cut root. Use a magnifying glass for maximum accuracy.
Jerome V. Andrews, CML
6-7-10
New video: MAGNEO in motion
A new video on DORMA Group North America’s YouTube channel shows the MAGNEO sliding door system in action at an architecture firm’s office in Arizona.
New collaboration between Modernfold and Joel Berman Glass Studios broadens aesthetic options for operable partitions
The use of glass in operable partitions is an accelerating trend that will likely continue given modern demands for daylighting and increased interior openness. The new collaboration will enable architects and designers to integrate a wide array of custom textures, colors and resins into Modernfold partitions for a customized, contemporary finish.New DORMA eLearning site offers continuing education credits for architects, others
REAMSTOWN, Pa. (April 16, 2010) – DORMA Architectural Hardware’s new “DORMA eLearning” site — www.DORMAe-learning.com — offers a convenient, online platform for learning about architectural hardware and obtaining continuing education credits through the American Institute of Architects (AIA). DORMA is a registered provider with the American Institute of Architects Continuing Education Systems, All courses meet health, safety, welfare and sustainable design requirements.
Successful completion of each 45- to 60-minute program will earn architects one LU toward maintaining their certification as a registered architect. Earned credits will be reported automatically to AIA’s CES records. Certificates of completion will be mailed to AIA members as well. Non-AIA members can receive certificates upon request for self reporting.
The classes provide essential information about architectural hardware to help the building team make informed decisions about product selection and performance. The programs are suitable for use by other members of the building team (including end-users) in addition to hardware sales representatives and distributors.
Two programs for AIA credit are available on the site now. DORMA plans to have eight credit programs available by year-end. In addition, a non-credit DORMA-specific class provides an overview of the company, its products and its services to familiarize the participant with the wealth of offerings available.
About DORMA Group North America
DORMA Group North America manufactures and markets a wide range of products for the architectural openings industry, with a particular focus on commercial and institutional openings. Part of The DORMA Group worldwide, DORMA Group North America comprises DORMA Architectural Hardware, DORMA Glas, Modernfold, DORMA Canada, DORMA Mexico, and DORMA Entrance Systems — which markets products and services under the DORMA Automatics, Crane Revolving Door and Carolina Door Controls brands.
DORMA Group North America offerings include safety and security products, locks, door closers, exit devices, glass hardware and patch fittings, sliding and swinging automatic doors, revolving doors and operable partitions.
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New narrow stile exit devices from DORMA offer superior durability, styling, options
REAMSTOWN, Pa. (March 1, 2010) – DORMA Architectural Hardware has introduced a line of Grade 1 narrow stile exit devices that combines market-leading performance and durability with an attractive, compact configuration to meet an opening’s functional and aesthetic demands.New CEO for DORMA Group announced
ENNEPETAL, Germany — At the beginning of 2009, the then sole proprietor of the DORMA Group, Karl-Rudolf Mankel, transferred the majority of his shares in the company to his daughters Christine and Stephanie Mankel, putting in train a generation change in the organisation’s ownership structure.
Now a further change has taken place at the CEO level. Thomas P. Wagner (42), the former CEO and Managing Director of elevator and escalator manufacturer OTIS Germany, joined DORMA as Dr. Michael Schädlich’s successor on February 1, 2010.
Born in Gaildorf, Baden-Württemberg and holder of a master’s degree in engineering with economics, Thomas P. Wagner held various senior managerial posts in sales at the world’s largest elevator systems manufacturer. He joined the Management Board of OTIS Germany in 2001. In 2002 he assumed international responsibility as Area Director, Eastern Europe Group, stationed at OTIS in Moscow. And in 2006, he was appointed CEO and Managing Director of OTIS Germany.
Also effective February 1, 2010, former members of the DORMA Managing Board Michael Flacke (Finance) and Lothar Linde (Engineering & Production) were appointed Managing Directors of the company Having been with DORMA for a little over 15 years, Dr. Michael Schädlich resigned his executive managerial posts as of January 31, 2010 but will remain in a consultancy capacity with the DORMA Group until expiry of his contract of employment on June 30, 2010.
More from Dubai: a towering achievement for DORMA
Rising more than 2,700 feet and 160 floors, the Burj Khalifa, formerly Burj Dubai, is the world’s tallest building and represents one of the largest orders ever fulfilled by DORMA Group North America operations.

More than 16,000 pieces of hardware—including hydraulic door closers, exit devices and electrified ML Series Mortise Locks equip the nearly 12,000 doors in the building. DORMA products were specified in a $6.5 million deal forged in July 2004.
“The inclusion of DORMA hardware on this record-breaking structure is a testament to the quality and style our employees put into every product,” says Scott Duncan, President of DORMA Architectural Hardware, part of DORMA Group North America.
An impressive fireworks, laser and fountain display introduced the building, renamed after Sheik Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during inaugural proceedings Monday, January 4. About 90 percent of the tower’s luxury residences and offices have been sold. Additionally, the first Armani designed hotel and world’s highest observation deck will continue to attract visitors to the building and reassert a standard for progress in the Middle East for years to come.
DORMA products on world’s largest building
The Burj Dubai — the world’s tallest building — opened today in Dubai. An assortment of DORMA products were used throughout the 2,625-foot structure to provide safety and security to its tenants and visitors.
A 2007 article in The Reading Eagle details DORMA’s involvement in the record-breaking project.
New MAGNEO video shows glass door action
This short clip demonstrates the smooth, gliding action of the MAGNEO automatic sliding door system. MAGNEO is the only sliding door entrance system to utilize LMD technology instead of belts, pulleys, gears or motors. The unparalleled MAGNEO system enables a sliding door to open and close on an electromagnetic “cushion,” reducing wear, noise and maintenance.
DORMA employee, company honored by operations management group
Tad Achenbach, CPIM, Manager, Materials/PIC at DORMA Architectural Hardware’s facility in Reamstown, was named by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) as the Schuylkill Valley Chapter’s “Member of the Year.” He was recognized for his service within APICS, continuing his professional education and training through various APICS sponsored events, and for applying his training in his professional career.

Tad Achenbach, CPIM (left) and Jim Brizek (right) receive awards from an APICS representative.
Additionally, DORMA Architectural Hardware was honored as the chapter’s “Company of the Year” for its sponsoring of several APICS events plus hosting a factory tour in October 2009 for the APICS and IEMA associations.
APICS is an organization dedicated to the advancement of operations management.
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