Platform on window, door, frame technology, hardware, roof and facade technology, security
With the ‘Ersatzhelden,’ WILKA Schließtechnik GmbH of Velbert is expanding its line of locks with a practical solution for replacement and repair work. This specially developed line of locks with long slots is designed to be used in a wide variety of installation scenarios. Installers can therefore use these locks to quickly and easily replace WILKA locks and products from other manufacturers in existing installations.
When WILKA was founded by Wilhelm Karrenberg in 1865, the railroads in Germany had been in existence for only 30 years. The automobile had not yet been invented. Trams were pulled by horses, and the first flight would not take place for nearly 40 more years. Since then, his brainchild has grown into a medium-sized company that, however, still retains a family atmosphere. The specialist in the development and production of cylinders, locks, and electronic access solutions is now led by Robert Schlieper, representing the sixth generation of the family.
Last year, the editorial staff of Profiel spoke with the CEO on the occasion of the company’s 160th anniversary. In that interview, he described the employees as the company’s greatest asset and also emphasized how important it is for management to continue expanding the company and developing new, innovative solutions. The launch of the ‘Ersatzhelden’ proves once again that the locking technology specialist places a high priority on continuous development and optimization.
This new line is not a replacement for the tried-and-true WILKA renovation lock, but rather a useful addition. In applications where a longer latch is needed or the slot holes do not fit, the locks from the renovation line remain the ideal solution. “The idea for the ‘Ersatzhelden’ arose from a clear need in the market, supported by feedback from our customers and requirements from the sales department,” explains WILKA product manager Tobias Eckhoff.
WILKA’s product management and R&D teams wanted to develop a product line that not only makes replacing existing locks very easy, but also fits into as many installation scenarios as possible. The slot holes on the ‘Ersatzhelden’ are designed so that existing mounting holes can often be reused. There is also a wide selection of strike plates and backing plates, as well as a 10-mm handle hole with included adapters for
9 or 8 mm.
The most common models of these locks are available from stock. The flexible design ensures that the locks can be installed more quickly and that post-installation work is kept to a minimum.
“With the Ersatzhelden, we’re offering professionals a truly all-around tool,” concludes Tobias Eckhoff. “Our goal was to develop a product line that makes repairs and replacements as easy as possible. We want to not only simplify the processes but also ensure that our customers reach their goals even faster.”
