COMMERCIAL SAFETY & SECURITY
Concealed Overhead Door Closers
Concealed overhead closers are a discreet , easy to install option for overhead door closing .
• Fire rated options .
• Single and double action options .
• Electromagnetic hold open function available .
Transom Door Closers
The final common type of concealed door closer is a transom mounted unit that can be used on single and double swing doors .
• Different power size options to suit various door leaf weights .
• Optional hold open function .
• Sold as complete units or separate mechanisms for ease of stock holding and maintenance .
Types of Fire Door Closers
Compliant fire door hardware that is correctly installed and maintained saves lives . Fire doors are only effective as long as they are closed . Door closers automatically close a door after it has been opened , or once it has been released if it is usually held open .
Do you know what types of door closers can be fitted to a fire door ? The answer ? Any of the above . Door closers are a crucial part of a building ’ s passive fire protection measures and there are key criteria that they need to meet for use on fire rated doors :
• CE Marked .
• Successfully tested to the relevant BS / EN test standards .
• Installed at power size EN 3 or above .
• Fitted with intumescent protection where required .
If in doubt , check the manufacturer ’ s test certification and Declaration of Performance ( DOP ) for the exact details .
A mechanical hold open device should not be used on a fire door . Use an electromagnetic door holder with a standard door closer , or an EMF hold open door closer successfully type-tested for conformity to BS EN 1155 .
Door Closer Functions
Technical jargon is all well and good if you ’ re in the know but if you ’ re new to an industry or role , it can hinder rather than help .
Read on for a breakdown of the key door closer functions .
Power Size Required power sizes are dictated by the width of your door , and its fire rating as we ’ ve mentioned . Many types of door closers have variable power sizes so you can change them to suit your door , but some closers are fixed and only suitable for doors up to certain widths . Check the power size , or range of sizes of the unit to check its suitability .
Delayed Action
This function allows the door to remain open for a set time . Delayed action slows the speed of closing in the upper end of the closing cycle . It is common to have delayed action between 180 ° and 70 °.
With delayed action , the door closes at an adjustable speed which allows safe passage for wheelchair users or the movement of bulky items .
Backcheck
This feature prevents the door from being suddenly thrown open either by people or the wind which can prevent damage to the door , the frame , door hardware and property . When excessive force is used to open a door , backcheck function dampens the opening action with equal resistance . Backcheck can be fixed or adjustable depending on the model of door closer .
Speed and Latching Adjustment
Adjustable closing speed determines how quickly the door closes after being opened . This feature allows a longer closing time to enable slower-moving foot traffic to pass through safely .
Adjustable latching speed allows adjustment of the closing speed over the final few degrees of closing . This is separate from the main closing speed adjustment . They can be set to either speed up or slow down for these final few degrees . Adjusting the latching action can help to overcome slamming issues caused by air pressure .
Hold Open or Swing Free
Hold open function allows for a door to be held in place at a set degree of opening , on some models it can kick in as early as 75 °. Electromagnetic hold open closers will automatically release and then close the door on activation of the fire alarm .
Swing free door closers also automatically close the door when the alarm is triggered yet their normal functionality allows for the door to be open and closed as if no closer were installed . This makes them perfect for care home bedroom doors where ease of access and use is a priority .
Simplifying Your Door Closer Selection
Selecting the right door closer is vital for ensuring safety , compliance , and operational efficiency in any building . The decision involves balancing aesthetics with functionality . Whether it ’ s an overhead , concealed , or floor spring closer , each type serves a unique purpose and integrates differently into the building ’ s design .
Compliance is paramount , especially for fire-rated doors , where the correct closer can be life-saving . Considerations like the door ’ s location , weight , and usage frequency guide the choice towards a closer that not only meets safety standards but also suits the specific demands of your built environment .
Functionality , including aspects like power size , delayed action , and speed adjustments , plays a significant role in enhancing user experience , catering to diverse needs , including accessibility .
The best door closer is one that aligns seamlessly with your building ’ s specific requirements , ensuring a balance of safety , aesthetics , and user-friendliness . By understanding these key factors , the selection process becomes more straightforward , leading to a choice that contributes positively to the building ’ s overall functionality and safety .
www . doorcontrolsdirect . co . uk
DECEMBER 2023
33 locksmithjournal . co . uk