Pull Handles: What Is the ‘On Center’ Measurement?


Pull handles by Monroe Engineering

When shopping for pull handles, you may come across several different measurements. Pull handles are available in different sizes. Whether you’re planning to install a pull handle on a machine or piece of furniture, you’ll need to choose the right size. Pull handles, though, often feature several measurements, one of which is an “on center” measurement. What is the “on center” measurement exactly?

Overview of the ‘On Center’ Measurement

The “on center” measurement is the distance between a pull handle’s threaded holes. Pull handles are installed with fasteners. You’ll need to drive a fastener through each end of the pull handle to attach it to the surface with which you intend to use the pull handle. The “on center” measurement simply refers to the distance between these two threaded holes.

The threaded holes of a pull handle are typically concealed. Most pull handles have two threaded holes, which are found on opposite ends. Regardless, if you come across the “on center” measurement when shopping for a pull handle, it reflects the distance between these threaded holes. You can use the “on center” measurement to determine where the fasteners will be installed on the surface with which the pull handle is used.

Why the ‘On Center’ Measurement Is Important

To ensure that a pull handle is the right size for your application, you must consider the “on center” measurement. It will determine the spacing of the fasteners. You’ll have to install the pull handle using fasteners. If the “on center” measurement is too big, the pull handle may not fit. The “on center” measurement must be small enough to accommodate the surface with which the pull handle is used.

It’s a good idea to measure the surface with which you intend to use the pull handle to determine an appropriate “on center” measurement. You can install pull handles on cabinets, doors, machines and other surfaces. With a tape measurer, measure the distance of the surface while taking note of where you want to install the pull handle. You can then choose a pull handle with an appropriate “on center” measurement.

In Conclusion

Pull handles have different measurements. The “on center” measurement is the distance between a pull handle’s threaded holes. Not all pull handles are the same. They are available in different sizes, shapes and materials. Most of them, however, have an “on center” measurement, which refers to the distance between their threaded holes.

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