ACCESS DOOR WITH SAFETY LATCH FOR PRESSURIZED AIR CHAMBERS

摘要

An access door assembly for a pressurized windbox, comprising a door frame having an opening with a post extending from the door frame. A door is pivotally mounted to the frame at a hinge. A latch is pivotally mounted to the door and includes a hook which engages the post for locking the door to the frame. The latch also includes a catch member extending beyond the hook for catching the post when the latch is moved to unlock the door. This stops the door in an intermediate partly open position allowing gusts of air to blow through the opening thereby giving the operator a warning and indication that the windbox is in fact under pressure. In this manner, an operator has sufficient time to step out of the way before moving the latch further, thereby fully disengaging the latch from the post and allowing the door to open fully.