DIN 18251 2020-04 PDF

Full title and description

DIN 18251:2020-04 — Schlösser - Einsteckschlösser und Mehrfachverriegelungen - Begriffe und Maße (Locks — Mortise locks and multipoint locks — Terms, definitions and dimensions). The standard defines terminology and dimensional rules to ensure the dimensional interchangeability and compatibility of mortise locks, multipoint locks and their strike plates and associated door‑hardware components for use in swing doors.

Abstract

This document consolidates earlier part‑series and limits itself to the definition of terms, standardised dimensions and measurement rules for mortise and multipoint locks intended for hinged doors. It provides the basis for dimensional interchangeability of lock cases, strike plates and related fittings and references relevant European standards for specific lock types and exit devices. It does not re‑state dimensions already governed by the cited EN standards for emergency‑exit/panic devices.

General information

• Status: Current / Active.
• Publication date: 2020-04-01 (April 1, 2020).
• Publisher: DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung e. V.).
• ICS / categories: 91.190 (Building hardware; door and window fittings).
• Edition / version: Consolidated edition 2020-04 (replaces previous part series and DIN 18250).
• Number of pages: 20 (typical published PDF length).

Scope

Specifies terms, definitions and dimensional requirements for concealed (mortise) locks and multipoint locking systems intended for use in hinged (swing) doors. It addresses dimensional interchangeability of lock bodies and strike plates and compatibility with related components (for example cylinders, handles and escutcheons). It explicitly excludes dimensions that are already regulated by European standards for panic and emergency exit devices and other specialised door hardware. The standard references EN 12209, EN 14846 and E DIN EN 15685 as relevant European documents.

Key topics and requirements

• Standardised terminology and definitions for mortise locks and multipoint locks.
• Dimensional rules and measurement methods for lock cases, follower/through‑spindle positions, backset, centres, faceplate and strike plate geometries.
• Requirements to ensure dimensional interchangeability between lock bodies and corresponding strikes and to aid compatibility with cylinders, door furniture and protective escutcheons.
• Reference alignment with applicable EN standards (e.g., EN 12209, EN 14846, E DIN EN 15685) and explicit exclusion of dimensions already covered by EN 179, EN 1125 and EN 13637.
• Provision of drawing conventions, dimension tables and labelling rules to support manufacturing and specification.

Typical use and users

Used by lock and hardware manufacturers, product designers, door and fenestration system engineers, architectural specifiers, test laboratories, certification bodies and installers to design, produce, check and specify mortise and multipoint locking products that are dimensionally compatible and interchangeable within the market.

Related standards

Replaces or consolidates earlier related documents including DIN 18250 and the former DIN 18251 parts 1–3. Normative and commonly referenced standards include EN 12209 (performance of mechanical locks), EN 14846 (multipoint locks), E DIN EN 15685 and product standards for cylinders and door furniture such as DIN 18252 (cylinders), DIN 18255 (door handles/rosettes), DIN 18273 (door furniture for fire and smoke doors) and DIN 18257 (protective escutcheons).

Keywords

mortise lock, multipoint lock, lock dimensions, interchangeability, strike plate, backset, centres, door hardware, DIN 18251, lock terminology

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: DIN 18251:2020-04 is a German standard that defines terms, definitions and dimensional rules for mortise (inset) locks and multipoint locking systems to ensure dimensional interchangeability and compatibility of lock bodies and related door‑hardware components.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers terminology, dimensional specifications (for example backset, centres, faceplate and strike geometries), measurement and drawing conventions, and references to relevant EN standards. It is focused on dimensions and does not replace performance or safety requirements already set out in other EN standards for panic or emergency exit devices.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Lock and hardware manufacturers, designers, architects, specifiers, test labs, certifiers and installers who need standardised dimensions and definitions for production, procurement and compatibility checks.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: As published on 1 April 2020 the 2020-04 consolidated edition replaced previous part‑series and DIN 18250. It is listed as current/active in DIN listings; users should verify the status before procurement to confirm no later amendment or withdrawal has occurred since publication.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: The 2020 edition consolidates and replaces earlier part‑based publications (DIN 18251‑1, ‑2, ‑3 and DIN 18250). It relates to other standards for lock components (for example DIN 18252, DIN 18255) and referenced EN documents but is presented as a single consolidated document.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Mortise lock, multipoint lock, dimensions, interchangeability, strike plate, backset, centres, door furniture, DIN 18251.