Door hardware specialist HOPPE UK is urging ironmongers, contractors and architects to fully consider the real-life door conditions before specifying door closers.
HOPPE UK’s Jason Tonks explains: "There are many closers on the market which have been successfully tested to BS 8300 with full third party accreditation but which, when fitted in a real life application, simply do not work effectively. These tests are carried out in controlled “laboratory” conditions with no seals, steady air pressure, appropriate hinges etc. So that when it is fitted on a real door, its performance may not truly reflect the test evidence.
"As well as these factors, there are other factors on site which can affect the operation of a door not least of which is fitting, not to mention the weight and, critically, the width of the door. A narrow flat entrance door might prove to be almost impossible to open with the wrong closer, especially for older and disabled users.
"Using ball bearing hinges will add 2-4N/m t the opening force, seals another 4-12N/m. Any friction within the closer caused by poor installation will add yet more. Air pressure at the end of corridors or the top of stairs can have a considerable impact on the efficiency and efficacy of a closer. One of the most common mistakes is that, when air pressure is preventing the door from latching, users tend to turn the power up with the idea that this will give the closer more oomph to achieve a consistent latch. This is, in fact, the opposite of what should be done. The power of the closer should actually be turned down to allow air to escape through the doorway before the latching action kicks in.
"When we receive a call from a customer who believes that a closer is not achieving its advertised opening force we inspect the closer on site. First we check first whether the closer has been fitted correctly and then we examine hinges, seals and the rest of the door’s hardware. Invariably we find that the closer has not been tested with this whole package.
"The answer, of course, is to test the closer in situ. At HOPPE UK we are pleased to offer onsite samples to ensure that the closer plus a full technical back up service to advise on the best product to use for an individual application. For example it be more appropriate to fit an asymmetric rack and pinion closer like the ARRONE 8300 which is perfect for use on high frequency doors such as in hospitals, nursing homes, surgeries schools along with other commercial applications where style finish and performance are required."
All ARRONE door closers are built to last and engineered to perform. Manufactured to conform with all quality and performance standards in ISO 9001 factories, there is an ARRONE door control to suit any door – either new build or retrofit. As well as traditional overhead closers, the ARRONE range also features concealed overhead closers, floor springs and Dorgard fire safety devices.
Founded in 1988 HOPPE (UK) Ltd is a market leader in the field of door and window hardware. Based in Wolverhampton, where it operates from a purpose built state-of-the-art distribution centre, HOPPE UK is committed to serving customers with pride.
HOPPE’s products have been tested to meet the latest European and British standards, offering quality and innovation to all sectors of the market. The company is part of the family-owned HOPPE UK group with manufacturing plants across Europe and North America and more than 3000 employees.