ASTM International Committee F12 on Security Systems and Equipment has formed two new task groups on non-padlock type locks that will be under the jurisdiction of Subcommittee F12.50 on Locking Devices. The new task groups will be working on standards for performance testing for bicycle locks and for after-market automotive accessory locks.

According to Christopher Rohde, senior product design engineer, Master Lock Company, some of the locks to be covered by the bicycle task group include the following:

• Cables--Includes locks that are integral to the cable as well as non-integral. Integral locks rely on a locking mechanism that is attached to the cable and can be either combination- or key-operated.
• Chains--While chain locks can use a padlock, the task group will focus on chains that have an integral locking mechanism.
• U-Bar--While these are similar to padlocks, U-bar should include twist/torque test.
• Cuff Locks--Laminated and cast versions will be covered.

The after-market automotive accessory lock task group will be focused on the following:

• Automotive locks used for towing that would need to pass the Society of Automotive Engineers J684 standard, Trailer Couplings, Hitches, and Safety Chains - Automotive Type. These include hitch ball locks, trailer couplers and ball mount locks.
• Automotive locks that do not need to pass SAE J684, such as steering wheel locks, lug nut locks and fifth wheel locks.
• Environmental testing, since many automotive locks are being used in undesirable environmental conditions.

In addition, both task groups will be working toward including force entry/removal tests in the developing standards.

Rohde notes that, even though the task groups are working with types of locks other than padlocks, both will be modeling their proposed new standards on elements of ASTM standard F883, Performance Specification for Padlocks. All interested parties are invited to participate in the activities of both new task groups.

For further technical information, contact Christopher Rohde, senior product design engineer, Master Lock Company, Oak Creek, Wis. (phone: 414/766-6236; crohde@mlock.com). Committee F12 meets Oct. 17 - 19, in Dallas, Texas. For membership or meeting details, contact Joe Hugo, ASTM International (phone: 610/832-9740; jhugo@astm.org).

Release #7177