Frequently Asked Questions
Concise information on products, standards, and technical details

Whether it’s technical details, product selection, or questions about standards – the FAQ section provides well-founded answers to the most common topics.
For further information or individual support, the appropriate contact persons are available.

General Information

  • The FSB product overview and all brochures are available on our download page.

    Prefer printed material? No problem - just send us an email at [email protected] to request printed materials.

  • In the FSB Product Finder and on the ausschreiben.de platform, you will find our specification texts.

  • We treat your application documents with strict confidentiality and in accordance with current data protection regulations.

  • Our distribution map lists all of our qualified FSB retail partners.

  • CAD data in DWG or DXF format can be found in our product finder. Each product comes with its own data set. Please note that the product must first be fully configured. Once configured, the CAD files will be available for download.

    If you can't find the files you need, please email us at [email protected].

Standards & Regulations

  • Window handles are not permitted for use on primary escape routes.

    According to safety requirements, hardware on escape routes must allow for downward operation and must open the lock within 1 second using a maximum force of 70 N. This is not feasible with a standard window handle.
    See also the requirements for door handles in DIN EN 179.

    Whether a window can qualify as a secondary means of escape must be clarified with the building authority, fire department, or a certified expert. We are not aware of any specific requirements that apply to the window handle itself.

  • No, that is not permitted. Fire doors are designed to prevent the passage of fire and smoke. For this reason, keyholes must always be sealed. The underlying hardware construction must also meet the 1000°C melting point requirement.

    In sets with a profile cylinder (PZ), the cylinder itself seals the keyhole and fulfills the fire protection function.

    Fire-resistant versions of warded locks are available on the market - they use a pivoting cover to close the keyhole. However, FSB does not manufacture the rosettes required for this solution.

  • No – any structural modification will invalidate the certified burglary protection.

    Requests such as a different lever handle or knob must be coordinated in advance with FSB’s internal sales team and custom-manufactured accordingly.

  • FSB ASL® levers can only be used on fire doors in international markets according to DIN EN 1634.
    We hold an internal certificate from a door manufacturer documenting the testing on the hinge side.

  • You can choose between a square or oval rosette. However, this involves additional work and we charge a surcharge or discount accordingly. The price differences can be found in our price list.

    The price list can be requested by email and will be sent to you.

  • Yes – the lockable FSB plug-in handle for windows meets the requirements of DIN EN 1627.

    The version with push-button and key achieves the required torsion and pull-off resistance of 100 Nm, making it suitable for applications that demand enhanced burglary protection.

    Important: Only models with a straight handle design are certified under this standard.

  • No – FSB does not charge an additional fee for window handles with a non-standard spindle length.

  • By default, FSB does not manufacture hardware to ANSI standards. If you require products to this specification, please contact our North American office. You'll find contact information in our Service and Contact section.

  • Fire rated hardware is subject to specific technical requirements defined in Germany by DIN 18273. This standard is listed in Part A of the building code register maintained by DIBt (Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik) and is therefore legally binding.

    Anyone placing fire protection fittings on the market that do not meet these requirements is acting illegally.

    Fire-rated hardware may only be supplied as a complete unit, including the approved mounting hardware specified for the hardware. Each fitting must also be clearly marked - in the case of FSB products, this marking appears on the spindle as "FSB FS DIN 18273".

  • No, that is not permitted. To comply with legal fire safety requirements, fire-rated hardware sets must always be supplied as a complete unit: as a lever set, a fixed/moving set, or—in the case of double-leaf doors—as a half set for the inactive leaf.

  • CAD data in DWG or DXF format can be found in our product finder. Each product comes with its own data set. Please note that the product must first be fully configured. Once configured, the CAD files will be available for download.

    If you can't find the files you need, please email us at [email protected].

  • A detailed installation guide for our products can be found in the download section under “Installation Instructions” or in the Product Finder—simply configure the desired product to access the relevant documentation.

    If you still have questions, feel free to contact our sales team. The responsible representative for your region will be listed here based on your postal code.

Door Hardware

  • CAD data in DWG or DXF format can be found in our product finder. Each product comes with its own data set. Please note that the product must first be fully configured. Once configured, the CAD files will be available for download.

    If you can't find the files you need, please email us at [email protected].

  • No, that is not permitted. To comply with legal fire safety requirements, fire-rated hardware sets must always be supplied as a complete unit: as a lever set, a fixed/moving set, or—in the case of double-leaf doors—as a half set for the inactive leaf.

  • Fire rated hardware is subject to specific technical requirements defined in Germany by DIN 18273. This standard is listed in Part A of the building code register maintained by DIBt (Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik) and is therefore legally binding.

    Anyone placing fire protection fittings on the market that do not meet these requirements is acting illegally.

    Fire-rated hardware may only be supplied as a complete unit, including the approved mounting hardware specified for the hardware. Each fitting must also be clearly marked - in the case of FSB products, this marking appears on the spindle as "FSB FS DIN 18273".

  • By default, FSB does not manufacture hardware to ANSI standards. If you require products to this specification, please contact our North American office. You'll find contact information in our Service and Contact section.

  • No – FSB does not charge an additional fee for window handles with a non-standard spindle length.

  • Yes – the lockable FSB plug-in handle for windows meets the requirements of DIN EN 1627.

    The version with push-button and key achieves the required torsion and pull-off resistance of 100 Nm, making it suitable for applications that demand enhanced burglary protection.

    Important: Only models with a straight handle design are certified under this standard.

  • You can choose between a square or oval rosette. However, this involves additional work and we charge a surcharge or discount accordingly. The price differences can be found in our price list.

    The price list can be requested by email and will be sent to you.

  • No – any structural modification will invalidate the certified burglary protection.

    Requests such as a different lever handle or knob must be coordinated in advance with FSB’s internal sales team and custom-manufactured accordingly.

  • No, that is not permitted. Fire doors are designed to prevent the passage of fire and smoke. For this reason, keyholes must always be sealed. The underlying hardware construction must also meet the 1000°C melting point requirement.

    In sets with a profile cylinder (PZ), the cylinder itself seals the keyhole and fulfills the fire protection function.

    Fire-resistant versions of warded locks are available on the market - they use a pivoting cover to close the keyhole. However, FSB does not manufacture the rosettes required for this solution.

  • Window handles are not permitted for use on primary escape routes.

    According to safety requirements, hardware on escape routes must allow for downward operation and must open the lock within 1 second using a maximum force of 70 N. This is not feasible with a standard window handle.
    See also the requirements for door handles in DIN EN 179.

    Whether a window can qualify as a secondary means of escape must be clarified with the building authority, fire department, or a certified expert. We are not aware of any specific requirements that apply to the window handle itself.

  • No. Due to the standardized use of component parts across the ASL® and AGL® systems, the set screw must always be positioned front-facing.

  • "ASL" stands for "Adapter Standard Lagerung". The FSB ASL® standard fitting is designed for light to medium commercial doors.

    While FSB's standard delivery range covers door thicknesses from 39 to 58 mm, FSB ASL® is also available on request for doors between 29 and 98 mm thick. The advantages of this commercial-grade bearing include M5 stainless steel through-bolting, a 45° operating angle and a non-handed return spring.

    FSB ASL® is always supplied as a complete set and can be installed in both right and left DIN door configurations.

    Read more about the unique features and benefits of FSB ASL® here.

  • A detailed installation guide for our products can be found in the download section under “Installation Instructions” or in the Product Finder—simply configure the desired product to access the relevant documentation.

    If you still have questions, feel free to contact our sales team. The responsible representative for your region will be listed here based on your postal code.

  • FSB ASL® levers can only be used on fire doors in international markets according to DIN EN 1634.
    We hold an internal certificate from a door manufacturer documenting the testing on the hinge side.

  • FSB AGL® stands for "Ausgleichslager". This technology is ideal for high-traffic doors where the construction of the rose or backplate must be particularly robust and durable.

    For more than three decades, FSB AGL® has represented a category of unparalleled hardware solutions for commercial projects - offering product and installation benefits that set new standards for doors. Its long-term reliability has been proven millions of times over.

    Unique to the market, FSB AGL® features include a pin-to-socket connection, a Teflon-coated brass bushing, and tolerance compensation. FSB AGL® sets have a 0° stop, which means the handle will always return to a perfectly horizontal position - even when the spindle socket is under tension. With FSB AGL®, you can rest assured that your lever will never sag down or point up.

    Learn more about the unique features and benefits of FSB AGL® here.

  • Detailed installation instructions for the 1736, 1734 and FSB AGL® flush sets are available in the download area under "Installation instructions" or directly in the FSB Product Finder. Simply select the desired product, complete the configuration and the relevant documentation will be available for download.

    If you have any questions, please contact our sales team. You can find the contact person for your postal code here:

  • FSB AFL® stands for Adaptive Flush-Mount Bearing. It offers maximum design flexibility with a single system that supports both flush-fitted and surface-mounted roses. The rose height is just 3.5 mm. With one unified system—free from technical variation—the rose can be installed either flush with the door surface or as a discreet overlay.

    Even the standard version of the FSB AFL® sets is mounted using through-fixing with M5 screws and sleeves. A non-handed return spring ensures the lever handle remains in a stable, horizontal position over time and prevents it from sagging. Like FSB ASL® hardware, this version is suitable for light to medium-duty commercial doors.

    An optional lockable version is also available. This variant eliminates the need for a separate escutcheon: locking is done via a rotating bolt integrated into the lever rose. A red dot indicates the locked position. When engaged, the outer lever is mechanically disengaged. This unique locking mechanism preserves the clean design of the door handle, allowing all FSB models to be used without visual compromise. An emergency release is also integrated.

    Learn more about FSB AFL® here:

  • When using FSB AFL® hardware, it is essential to enlarge the handle bore in the door to a diameter of 29 mm to ensure proper and secure installation. FSB AFL® sets also come standard with a high-performance Type A return spring in accordance with DIN EN 1906. The standard version is rated for user category 4, and the lockable version for category 3.

  • FSB AFL® hardware is installed using M5 screws and M5 sleeve nuts, mounted through the door. All necessary fastening materials are included with the set.

  • Yes. FSB AFL® sets are designed to work with conventional mortise locks.

  • In this case, the female handle on the outside of the door must be unscrewed and the cover rose removed. This exposes the emergency release as well as the sleeve nuts or screws. The entire set can then be dismantled.

     

  • All three bearing systems reflect our commitment to durability and precision, but they differ in design, application, and function:

    FSB ASL® is designed for light to medium-duty interior doors, especially in residential settings. It features a maintenance-free plain bearing made of Grivory and a Type A return spring that operates in both directions, allowing for a rotation angle of up to 45°.

    FSB AGL® is engineered for high-traffic, heavy doors in commercial buildings, including emergency exit devices. It utilizes a Teflon-coated compensating bearing that absorbs tolerances around the door bore and lock area. A Type B return spring offers precise horizontal positioning with a rotation angle up to 35°.

    FSB AFL® is the most recent addition—developed for flush-fitted or surface-mounted installation. It combines architectural refinement with technical precision, making it ideal for minimalist interior concepts. A lockable version is also available.

Fire-Rated Hardware

  • No, that is not permitted. Fire doors are designed to prevent the passage of fire and smoke. For this reason, keyholes must always be sealed. The underlying hardware construction must also meet the 1000°C melting point requirement.

    In sets with a profile cylinder (PZ), the cylinder itself seals the keyhole and fulfills the fire protection function.

    Fire-resistant versions of warded locks are available on the market - they use a pivoting cover to close the keyhole. However, FSB does not manufacture the rosettes required for this solution.

  • FSB ASL® levers can only be used on fire doors in international markets according to DIN EN 1634.
    We hold an internal certificate from a door manufacturer documenting the testing on the hinge side.

  • No, that is not permitted. To comply with legal fire safety requirements, fire-rated hardware sets must always be supplied as a complete unit: as a lever set, a fixed/moving set, or—in the case of double-leaf doors—as a half set for the inactive leaf.

  • Fire rated hardware is subject to specific technical requirements defined in Germany by DIN 18273. This standard is listed in Part A of the building code register maintained by DIBt (Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik) and is therefore legally binding.

    Anyone placing fire protection fittings on the market that do not meet these requirements is acting illegally.

    Fire-rated hardware may only be supplied as a complete unit, including the approved mounting hardware specified for the hardware. Each fitting must also be clearly marked - in the case of FSB products, this marking appears on the spindle as "FSB FS DIN 18273".

Window Handles

  • The torsion and pull-off resistance is 200 Nm, meeting the requirements of the RAL Quality Mark and DIN EN 1627 for burglar-resistant window handles.

  • A standard window gear operates with the DK (Turn/Tilt) function:
    – Handle down = closed
    – 90° = fully opened
    – 180° = tilted

    With KvD/TBT (Tilt Before Turn), the function is reversed:
    – 90° = tilted
    – 180° = fully opened

    KvD/TBT systems are only meaningful when combined with lockable window handles—for example, in schools or public buildings where windows should only be tilted by unauthorized users.

  • Window handles are not permitted for use on primary escape routes.

    According to safety requirements, hardware on escape routes must allow for downward operation and must open the lock within 1 second using a maximum force of 70 N. This is not feasible with a standard window handle.
    See also the requirements for door handles in DIN EN 179.

    Whether a window can qualify as a secondary means of escape must be clarified with the building authority, fire department, or a certified expert. We are not aware of any specific requirements that apply to the window handle itself.

  • The RAL Quality Mark is a recognized seal of quality for certified products, issued by the RAL German Institute for Quality Assurance and Labeling. In terms of significance, it is comparable to a DIN standard.

    For lockable window handles, a torsion and pull-off resistance of 200 Nm is required.
    For standard window handles, specific detent forces are defined and tested.

  • FSB window handles are tested in accordance with DIN EN 13126-3.

  • The mechanism of FSB plug-in handles for windows operates independently of the window gear system.

    On aluminum windows, installation is done via a clamping mechanism within the profile.

    On wooden windows, the handle is mounted in a recessed cup that is milled directly into the wood.

    By the way: FSB is the first manufacturer to offer plug-in handles specifically designed for wooden windows.

  • Yes – FSB window handles with a slim rosette are certified to DIN EN 13126-3, Class 2.

    They share the same dimensions and formal design as the matching door levers and feature FSB’s proven 90° detent mechanism. With 25,000 tilt-and-turn cycles, they meet the highest performance level defined by the standard.

  • Yes – the lockable FSB plug-in handle for windows meets the requirements of DIN EN 1627.

    The version with push-button and key achieves the required torsion and pull-off resistance of 100 Nm, making it suitable for applications that demand enhanced burglary protection.

    Important: Only models with a straight handle design are certified under this standard.

  • No – FSB does not charge an additional fee for window handles with a non-standard spindle length.

  • FSB window handles with key-operated locking mechanism in the rose—such as model 0 34 1076 17051—are not suitable for RC-certified applications in combination with childproof locking (KvD).

    This is due to the fact that the handle can still be rotated into the 90° position even when locked. As a result, this configuration does not meet the security requirements defined for resistance class certification.

    An RC-compliant solution for use with childproof locking is available in the form of our lockable window handle with integrated key in the grip section.

    This version allows the handle to be fully locked in addition to providing childproof functionality. The KvD feature can be activated simply by turning the key 90°.

    Important: The window’s DIN handing must be taken into account when selecting the hardware.

Security Hardware

  • A security hardware set protects the profile cylinder and mortise lock from unauthorized mechanical tampering intended to gain access to the secured space behind the door.

    Security hardware is classified according to DIN EN 1627–1630 for burglar-resistant components. There are 6 resistance classes (RC 1–6); for mechanical security fittings, only RC 1–4 are applicable.

    FSB offers security hardware in protection classes S2 and S4:

    S2: Available with an open profile cylinder hole or with a cylinder pull protection (ZA)

    S4: Cylinder pull protection is mandatory

    Note: For S2 sets with an open profile cylinder hole, the cylinder must not extend more than 3 mm beyond the outer plate.
    Using pull protection is recommended to prevent forced extraction or breakage of the cylinder.

  • No – any structural modification will invalidate the certified burglary protection.

    Requests such as a different lever handle or knob must be coordinated in advance with FSB’s internal sales team and custom-manufactured accordingly.

Materials & Finishes

  • FSB products are made of aluminum, stainless steel, and bronze. A wide range of surface finishes is also available—carefully selected to meet design intent, durability, and architectural context.

    Learn more about each material:

  • Anodizing refers to the coloring of the oxide layer on aluminum. This process—known as electrolytic oxidation—gives naturally silver-toned aluminum a range of metallic color finishes.

    Anodizing also protects the relatively soft aluminum surface against scratches and weather exposure (aluminum does not rust). However, in high-traffic environments like schools, visible wear of the oxide layer may occur over time.

    To achieve a refined texture and premium look, the aluminum is bead-blasted with fine steel shot before anodizing. This creates a subtly roughened finish that is unique within the industry.

    More on the finish “Bead-Blasted and Color-Anodized Aluminum”:

  • Aluminum hardware can be finished with a powder coating—an electrostatic painting process in which colored pigments are applied and cured on the surface.

    Available colors follow the RAL color system, with a semi-matte gloss level of around 25 %, giving the finish a refined, understated appearance.

    More on “Aluminum + Color”

  • Stainless steel is classified into different grades, primarily based on corrosion resistance—such as V2A or V4A.

    FSB uses high-quality V2A stainless steel, material number 1.4301 – a durable alloy known for its resistance to corrosion, longevity, and refined surface finish.

    More on this material—particularly suited for high-demand applications:

  • FSB offers stainless steel in two standard surface finishes:

    - Fine brushed matte
    - Polished (not mirror-polished)

    Both finishes are created using mechanical grinding belts and differ in their pre-treatment processes.

    A post-production change from matte to polished—or vice versa—is not possible, as each finish requires a specific surface preparation.

  • FSB manufactures door and window handles from aluminum using the gravity die casting process (also known as permanent mold casting). The products are made from solid material and are anodized after casting.

    Learn more about this sustainable lightweight material:

  • Like our aluminum versions, FSB’s door and window hardware made of bronze is crafted from solid material. It is produced using sand casting or the lost-wax process—techniques traditionally used in casting church bells. Due to its high specific weight, bronze is noticeably heavier than aluminum or stainless steel.

    The bronze alloy used at FSB is a premium-grade copper-tin alloy (CuSn8), consisting of 92% copper and 8% tin. Over time, exposure to weather, humidity, or the natural oils from our hands creates a patina—a natural aging process that gives the material its distinctive character. This same transformation can be observed on copper gutters or old coins.

    FSB’s bronze hardware is pre-darkened (chemically patinated) at the factory and then vacuum-sealed before shipping. With regular use, touchpoints gradually lighten, creating a surface that reflects both time and use.

    Each bronze fitting comes with a care guide detailing material characteristics and maintenance.

    Learn more about the refined aesthetics of bronze:

  • The V2A stainless steel used by FSB (material no. 1.4301) offers a high level of corrosion resistance and is generally suitable for use in swimming pool environments.

    According to the German Stainless Steel Information Center, this material is approved for components that are not installed directly in pool basins and do not have large joints or weld seams—which applies to door and window hardware.

Newsletter

The FSB Newsletter formats keep you informed about product innovations and current topics.