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Automatic doors have an adjustment mechanism that enables users to set how fast they close. It is possible with the use of hydraulic door closers that can control both the time and closing speed of the door. Commercial door closers are necessary for safety and comfort level while ensuring that the door is never left ajar.
What Is a Hydraulic Door Closer?
A hydraulic door closer works similarly to a hydraulic gate closer. It is a mechanical device installed on top of automatic doors. When you push the door manually and release it, the hydraulic closer initiates the closing without you applying more external force to it.
The door closer consists of a housing or body, hydraulic cylinder, control valves and spring-loaded arm.
Hydraulic Fluid
The fluid, usually an oil, is needed for the smooth motion and controlled closing action. The hydraulic fluid reservoir is found inside the housing.
Control Valves
These are also located inside the door closer housing and regulate the flow of the hydraulic fluid. Every time the door is open, the control valve lets the hydraulic fluid flow into the other side of the cylinder. The mechanism helps control the speed of closing and prevent the door from slamming.
Hydraulic Cylinder
It is the most important part of the system and is made up of a piston and rod. When the door is opened, the hydraulic fluid is pushed into the other side of the cylinder and builds up pressure. The pressure causes the piston and rod to move to control the door movement.
Spring-Loaded Arm
Door closers are also equipped with a spring mechanism. It provides resistance and helps in the initial closing of the door.
Adjustable Settings
Many commercial hydraulic doors have adjustable settings for the speed and force needed to open the door, also called the tension. You can tune it according to your specific door opening and closing needs.
What Are the Settings in Hydraulic Door Closers?
Commercial door closers have different adjustment options that offer different functions. You can locate them in the hydraulic housing, and they can be operated using a flathead screwdriver, a hex key, or an Allen wrench.
- Closing Speed. The adjustable closing speed is marked with an S and controls how long before an open door at a 90ᵒ arc can close.
- Latch Speed. It is denoted by an L and controls the force of the door in the last 5 inches before it shuts.
- Back Check Valve. It is the hole marked with B or BC that controls the door’s resistance when it is pushed beyond 90ᵒ.
- Delay Function. Hydraulic door closers with the delay function will delay the door body from closing from a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
- Hold Open Function. The hold open arm function prevents the door from closing if it is pushed beyond a specific point. It is necessary for commercial doors when it needs to remain open for a certain time.
Why Are Hydraulic Doors Important?
The principle of a hydraulic door closer is mainly focused on the safe closing of an open door. While they are not really used much in residential buildings, hydraulic doors are a must in commercial and business establishments.
Yet, some residential homes also install hydraulic types of door closers for enhanced safety, especially in families living with persons with disabilities.
Safety
With controlled movement, a hydraulic door closer makes the door safer when opening and closing. It prevents the door from slamming and banging into someone or something in the doorway. It makes it easier for elders and children to open the door without resisting its weight.
Additionally, hydraulic door closers prevent potential damage to the door hardware, door hinge and door frame by reducing the closing force.
Convenience
Adjustable hydraulic door closers have adjustment options for the locking speed and the latch. You can customize how fast the door closes in the locking speed adjustment.
The latch speed adjustment ensures that the door latches on the door frame and plate properly to complete the locking action. With its swing closing control, people at the door can get in without rushing.
Suitability for Large Doors
There are many types of automatic door closers, such as surface-mounted, overhead, concealed, and floor-spring closers. Many of them operate manually using spring tension, while some are friction-based or use electricity.
These door closers become more efficient when combined with heavy-duty hydraulics. A hydraulic door closer is the only one that can handle the large and heavy stainless steel gates and metal doors of various thicknesses.
In commercial settings, which often have bulky doors, hydraulic closers are the most practical option.
Fire Safety
Automatic door closers are crucial in fire doors. They ensure that the door is kept closed at all times to prevent fire and fumes from spreading in case of a conflagration. All door closers also allow easy exit for people to escape the premises and latch the door tightly after use.
Security
Hydraulic door closers maintain closed doors and latch them properly to prevent intrusion. It keeps the door tightly latched from the outside but provides easy operation from the inside.
A closed door prevents burglars and unauthorized persons from entering the area for the safety and security of the tenants.
Energy Efficient
Door closers also help buildings conserve energy. A closed door prevents draftiness so the heating or cooling equipment functions properly. Hydraulic doors tend to be more energy efficient than electric door openers that use a battery or electricity.
Installing a Commercial Hydraulic Door Closer
The proper functioning of a hydraulic door closer lies in the proper installation of the unit. Make sure you read the installation instructions and product information in the manual before proceeding. To avoid problems and damage, hiring an expert is an economical idea.
Hydraulic door closers with ANSI grade are the most ideal. ANSI (American National Standards Institute) is the indication of the security standard. Door closers with ANSI Grade 1 are the most secure, and the standard decreases in higher grades.
Door closers that are ADA compliant also ensure that the commercial door hardware and devices are made accessible for people with disabilities.
Commercial door closers are essential for their undeniable benefits in safety, convenience, security, and efficiency. For hydraulic door closers and related products, browse them at All Security Equipment.
Contact us for automatic door closers and other door accessories you need for home and business security.
