Handle design: T, L and pull handles
What makes each of these handles unique? We’ve put together this guide to help you understand these handle designs so that you can make the best choice for your application. We’ll explain the differences between them, what they’re used for, and the different types you’ll find. Here, we’ll cover:
Introduction to T, L and pull handles
T-Handles and L-Handles are named after their shapes. Both are examples of door-handle design, and more specifically, ergonomic handle design. Both provide ample room for hand gripping to enable easy actuation.
Both are also used in the same applications across the same industries:
- Automotive
- Construction Equipment
- Telecoms
- Farm Equipment
- Electric cable enclosures
- Food Equipment
- Industrial Machinery
- Data cabinet
Finally, both are also lockable. Pull handles are not. T, L and pull handles each rely on different motions to open doors. We’ll talk about T- and L-Handles first because of their similarities and come back to pull handles.
You might also want to read our guide, What is an industrial ergonomic handle?
What is a T-Handle?
A T-Handle is a great choice for applications that are accessed often, which means opening and closing the panel door should be quick and hassle free. To open the door the T-Handle is attached to, you grip the top of the handle and turn it. There are different types of T-handles, but they all feature this same design.
T-Handles should not be confused with T bar handles. They look nothing alike and sometimes are aptly called T Bar pull handles, which is actually a popular kitchen handle design. Make no mistake, T-Handles have industrial uses.
What are T-Handles used for?
T-handles are used to lift and operate. For manual pulling, lifting or clamping, they’re an ideal handle, used when a high force is needed. The handle’s ‘T’ shape makes this possible, providing an ergonomic design for an excellent grip. If your application is
T-Handles provide an ergonomic handle for manual pulling, lifting or clamping. They are typically used where a high force is required as the ‘T’ shape design provides an excellent grip. While they’re used in all of the applications we’ve already mentioned, T-Handles are especially popular for making adjustments to machines. They can also be used as a panel door handle and some, as electrical cabinet latches.
Common types of T-Handles
Here are popular types of T-Handles to get to know:
Adjustable T-Handle with compression
Rated IP65, This is used on indoor cabinets that house equipment. Any electrical equipment tends to vibrate, but this type of T-Handle compresses gaskets against door and panel openings to provide a tight seal, also damping noise. This protects the handle from the jarring effects of vibrations, and you can adjust the compression as needed over time.
They’re also used for metal doors and machine covers. You can get these in locking or non-locking versions.
NEMA-rated adjustable T-Handle with compression
Made in stainless steel, this compression cam latch also damps vibration and noise, making them an ideal electrical panel door handle. A quick quarter turn provides easy access, which accounts for their popularity as panel handles. Rated NEMA 4, which is approximate to IP65.
Made of tough, durable glass-fibre reinforced nylon, this T-Handle knob provides a strong, ergonomic grip as either male or female threaded knobs. It’s sometimes called a wingnut knob and is ideal for applications that require very precise movements by the operator.
To learn about other knobs, read our Guide to knobs: types, materials and applications.
Flush cup recessed T-Handle latch
While the T-Handles discussed so far are surface mounted, you can get one as a flush-mount industrial handle with a stainless steel cam lock, or without a locking option. These are rugged and often used in automotive and railway applications. You’ll also find them used as industrial generator parts.
A flush-mount T handle latch is also known as a folding handle, as it folds down when not in use. This type is often used with an L-Handle, which is positioned on the inside of the door, performing as an emergency release.
What is an L-Handle?
An L-Handle is also easy to use. You simply turn the handle, activating the mechanism. A cam rotates on the inside of the handle, opening the access panel or door. This simple action alleviates stress to joints. These work particularly well as industrial cabinet handles. If space is limited and won’t comfortably fit a T Handle, an L Handle can do the job and still give you an ergonomic grip.
L-Handle turn cam latches
These can take on heavy duties as HVAC components. They’re not alone, though. So can T-Handles. Again, it comes down to the space you have to work with and which style works best for you. L- and T- Handle cam latches and locks are ideal in many applications, but for others, pull handles could be your best bet.
You might find it helpful to check out our guide, How to size the cam lock and latch you need.
What is a pull handle?
A pull-handle design need to be strong and durable. As the name suggests, a pull handle is constantly being pulled in order to open the door it’s affixed to. You can get pull handles for front doors, industrial drawer pull handles and cupboard pull handles, industrial cabinet handles – if it needs opening, there’s a pull handle for it. They’re incredibly varied and come in different shapes.
What are pull handles used for?
Industrial pulls aren’t just for access panels and doors, however. They’re often used on equipment, machines, crates and vending machines. Another popular application: rack enclosure cabinets. If you’re working with a rack that needs lifting, pull handles can act as ergonomic handlebar grips. The equipment inside is valuable, so make sure you use industrial handles.
Common types of pull handles
Pull handles are available in a variety of different styles and mounting methods. Our range includes everything from cabinet pull handles to door pull handles.
This strong machine pull handle is suitable for machine applications. Made of nylon with an aluminium or steel bar, these are available as individual component parts.
These snap-in, recessed handles are ideal for machinery covers with an easy push-in fit. The result is a flush design for enhanced safety, leaving no parts to snag skin or clothing. At the same time, it ensures an effective hand grip for smooth operation.
Pull handles – U shaped handles
Ideal as heavy-duty handles on speciality vehicles, such as those used in construction, e.g. dump trucks. Inclined cabinet ”U” handles are produced from profiled aluminium extrusions and have a black powder coated finish. These can be mounted from the back or from the operator’s side.
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Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.