A door closer is a generic term used to describe a mechanical device that will in most cases close a door automatically after the door has been used. There are various types of door closers, some are surface mounted and some are concealed within the door and frame itself. Door closers are used in a variety of situations and for a variety of reasons.
Primarily as stated above to close the door after use. However they can also be used to ensure safety. For example when used on a door to stop the spread of fire and smoke
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A door closer is a generic term used to describe a mechanical device that will in most cases close a door automatically after the door has been used. There are various types of door closers, some are surface mounted and some are concealed within the door and frame itself. Door closers are used in a variety of situations and for a variety of reasons.
Primarily as stated above to close the door after use. However they can also be used to ensure safety. For example when used on a door to stop the spread of fire and smoke throughout the building.
Door closers come in a variety of models some are designed to be used manually, whilst others are designed to be automatic in operation. With the advent of the Disability and Discrimination Act, along with the relevant fire standards all door closers need to be certified to approved European Standards by an independent testing authority.
Some door closers embody functions such as “hold open” features, along with “back check” features, which allow doors to remain open if required throughout the day. Other door closers have adjustable spring strengths to allow one closer to be used in different situations, depending on the height, width and weight of the door in question.
Hold Open Transom Door Closers
The 'Hold Open' door closers are designed to allow the door to be opened through a 90 degree arc and the hold open facility inbuilt in the transom closer, allows the door to stay open, until the door is released from it’s 90 degree position and then allowed to close through a controlled cycle.
The benefit of using a model with this facility is where a door is in constant use and so the opportunity for the door to remain open throughout the day is easier that numerous operatives opening and closing the door constantly.
Surface Door Closers
Surface door closers, as the name would suggest are mounted both to the door frame and door itself. These models are also supplied with a variety of different arm configurations and drop plates to suit actual site conditions. Also a number of different finishes are available to ensure the aesthetically pleasing appearance of the door closer.
Concealed Door Closers
Concealed door closers on the other hand as the name suggests are hidden from view, by being mounted within the transom of the frame and the door header itself. As these models are not seen then there are no surface finishes available. However as with surface closers, there are various spring strengths available, along with various options of spindle length to suit the various door profiles available.
Both types of door closers can be used on timber, steel, aluminium, and composite doors, but as a general rule of thumb, concealed transom closers tend to used on commercial aluminium doors, with surface closers used on the remaining substrates, in both commercial and domestic installations.
For additional advice with models, functions and general specifications, please contact the Alpro sales office on 01202 676262