The Yale Keyed Removable Mullion is a vital component in commercial and institutional door systems, offering both security and flexibility in building design. Mullions are vertical bars installed between double doors, and a removable version allows one or both doors to open fully when needed. With the addition of a keyed feature, the Yale removable mullion enhances access control and ease of use, making it a reliable solution for emergency exits, moving large equipment, and optimizing space. This system is especially popular in retail, educational, healthcare, and office settings where a balance between security and accessibility is essential.
Understanding the Function of a Removable Mullion
Before diving into the specifics of the Yale keyed model, it’s important to understand what a removable mullion is and why it’s used. In double-door configurations, a mullion provides a central point where the two doors can latch. This stabilizes the doors and ensures consistent security. A removable mullion, as the name suggests, can be taken out to allow wide, unobstructed openings useful in emergency exits or when moving large objects through a doorway.
Key Benefits of Removable Mullions
- Wider access: Removing the mullion allows both doors to open completely.
- Improved flexibility: Ideal for facilities that occasionally need to accommodate large items.
- Enhanced security: When in place, the mullion acts as a central structural anchor for locking hardware.
- Code compliance: Helps meet fire and egress regulations when paired with appropriate exit devices.
What Makes the Yale Keyed Removable Mullion Unique
The Yale Keyed Removable Mullion adds an extra layer of convenience and safety by integrating a lock cylinder mechanism. Unlike standard removable mullions, which might require special tools or internal access to remove, the keyed version allows quick and easy removal using a key an important feature in time-sensitive situations such as emergencies or logistics operations.
Features of the Yale Keyed System
- Keyed access: Only authorized personnel can remove the mullion using a designated key.
- Steel or aluminum construction: Offers durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion.
- Pre-fabricated compatibility: Designed to work with Yale exit devices and panic bars.
- Fire-rated options: Available in models that comply with fire safety codes.
- Quick-release system: Simplifies the process of removing and reinstalling the mullion.
These features make the Yale keyed mullion a practical choice for buildings requiring secure and adaptable door systems.
Installation Considerations
Proper installation of the Yale Keyed Removable Mullion is critical to ensure functionality and code compliance. It should be aligned correctly with the door frames and securely anchored to provide a stable point for door latching.
Steps for Installation
- Measure and mark mullion placement on the floor and head frame.
- Secure the top and bottom brackets to hold the mullion in place.
- Install the mullion body and align it vertically with the door lock mechanisms.
- Insert and test the key lock mechanism for smooth removal and reinsertion.
- Check compatibility with existing panic hardware and ensure proper latching.
Always consult the manufacturer’s manual or hire a certified technician to avoid errors during installation.
Security and Access Control
One of the primary advantages of the keyed version is its ability to limit who can remove the mullion. This prevents unauthorized access or accidental removal, which could compromise building security. When integrated into a broader access control system, the keyed removable mullion serves as both a mechanical and procedural safeguard.
Common Use Cases
- Retail stores that need periodic wide access for deliveries but want security during off-hours.
- Hospitals and clinics requiring quick access for stretchers or equipment.
- Educational institutions managing student traffic while allowing emergency egress.
- Offices with secure areas that occasionally require open double-door access.
The Yale keyed system makes it easy for security teams and facilities personnel to manage access efficiently.
Compatibility with Exit Devices
The Yale Keyed Removable Mullion is designed to be compatible with a range of Yale exit devices, including surface-mounted vertical rod devices. This integration ensures that both doors in a double-door configuration function smoothly and safely when the mullion is installed or removed.
Compatible Hardware Examples
- Yale 7000 series exit devices
- Other ANSI/BHMA certified hardware with vertical rod latching mechanisms
- Mortise or rim panic bars designed for double-door applications
Always verify with the product specifications or distributor to ensure compatibility before purchasing.
Maintenance and Longevity
Like any hardware component, the Yale removable mullion requires occasional maintenance to ensure long-term performance. The key lock cylinder should be lubricated periodically, and the mullion itself should be checked for structural wear, especially in high-traffic environments.
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect key cylinder and locking mechanism every six months.
- Check for loose bolts or misalignment in the brackets.
- Ensure the mullion surface is free of rust, dents, or physical damage.
- Verify that door latching remains secure and consistent.
Following these simple steps can extend the life of the system and maintain optimal security.
Advantages for Facility Managers and Architects
For building designers and maintenance professionals, the Yale Keyed Removable Mullion provides a reliable solution that meets both functional and aesthetic needs. It minimizes compromise between design and safety by allowing large door openings without sacrificing controlled access or structural stability.
Design Flexibility
- Available in different finishes to match architectural elements
- Options for custom heights and mounting preferences
- Can be specified during the design phase to meet fire and safety codes
This adaptability makes the keyed mullion a preferred choice in modern commercial construction and retrofits.
The Yale Keyed Removable Mullion is a smart, durable, and secure addition to any building that requires flexible door access while maintaining strict control over entry and exit points. Its keyed mechanism allows authorized personnel to easily remove or reattach the mullion, making it ideal for high-security environments and frequently used commercial spaces. From retail and healthcare to schools and office buildings, this mullion system provides a balance of safety, functionality, and professional design. With proper installation and maintenance, the Yale Keyed Removable Mullion serves as a long-lasting solution that enhances both the performance and accessibility of double-door systems.