Selecting the right closer

In most cases selecting the most appropriate door control will be dependent on a number of factors and the priority of each. These will include: 

• Frequency of use 

• Type of application (e.g school, library, factory) 

• User profile - The Equality Act consideration 

• Door situation/size/weight/fire resistance 

• Budget

• Aesthetics 

• Operating characteristics and other features

Use and abuse

For some applications; schools, colleges and leisure facilities for example, the opportunity for and likelihood of abusive use of the door is relatively high in comparison with an office suite. In reality, any application where there is little incentive to exercise care is prone to the door closer being subjected to some extreme behaviour. In these cases we would recommend the following features:

Concealed closers - When the door is closed a concealed closer has no projecting arms and the closer body cannot be accessed from either side of the door. This makes it particularly resistant to vandalism and tampering.

Slide arm - Unlike a projecting arm closer, the slide arm and track reduces the possibility of damage.

Backcheck facility - The action of throwing a door open violently can damage the closer, the door and the surrounding frame and walls. The backcheck facility provides a hydraulic dampening to avoid such damage. This is not intended to replace a door stop.

Hold open - For doors which are subjected to high frequency or constant use, the option to keep the door in the open position is both convenient and prevents excessive wear. This feature is not permitted on fire doors. For fire door applications, the hold-open (or swingfree) feature may be achieved through use of an electromagnetic hold-open or swing-free function which is linked to the building fire alarm or detection system. 

Closer power explained:

EN Closer power settings Within EN 1154 seven closer power ratings are identified according to the maximum door leaf weight and width. These are theoretical figures and the final closing power of any door closing device will be subject to any number of variables such as:

■ Accuracy of closer installation

■ Accuracy of door installation

■ Friction in hinges

■ Negative or positive air pressure

Because of such variables, the specification of an adjustable door closer is recommended to allow for site variables.

• Overhead Door Closers
• Concealed Door Closers
• Cam Action Door Closers
• Electromagnetic Door Closers