Detex Corporation of the US has released a new line of panic and fire exit hardware that is said to offer affordable solid protection while providing life safety in the event of an emergency.

"The new Value series features alarmed and non-alarmed rim exit devices, and is one of the first to combine rugged, American-made construction, with an affordable price tag," says Detex's international sales manager Michael Petersen.

Elaborating on their features, he says: "The Value series rim exit devices are designed to provide facility and security managers with an easy and affordable way to prevent theft and loss, yet still provide life safety, in cases of fire or panic situations. Frequent users of alarmed exit devices include retail stores and restaurants, who want to secure their doors leading outside or to secured areas, thus deterring theft by store employees and patrons.

"All models in the Value series are UL listed as grade 1 panic hardware devices, signifying that they have exceeded the test for 500,000 push cycles without fail.

"Three-hour fire-rated models are available. Value series exit devices feature the same quality design and construction found in the premium Advantex series by Detex.

'Alarmed models include the V40 x EB and the V40 x EH. The V40 x EB model functions with a 9-volt battery, while the EH model works with 12-volt AC current. Both models include a 100-decibel alarm that can be armed or disarmed using a key cylinder switch. Authorised users with a key can simply arm or disarm the alarm. Unauthorised users, without a key, can also exit the building by pushing the push-pad, but the alarm will begin to sound, thus alerting others that an unauthorised exit has been made. The V40 x EB has a list price of $399, while the V40 x EH lists for $474. Value series models feature a three-year limited warranty on mechanical parts and one-year limited warranty on electronics.