How to choose a door closer

The door closer is a compact device designed for soft and smooth closing of entrance doors. It is installed in public places with a large flow of visitors and is designed to reduce noise from slamming doors, as well as reduce mechanical stress on them.

The best manufacturers of automatic door closers

Preference should be given to those brands that are engaged in the production of door fittings at a professional level:

1. Dorma

2. Geze

3. KDC

4. Cobra

5. Boda

Information about the above brands, as well as the technical description and characteristics of the closers produced by them, together with user reviews, can be found on the Internet, on specialized sites, as well as on social networks.

The principle of operation and types of door closers

A door closer is a special hydraulic device that is activated by a powerful spring enclosed in the body of the device. Under the influence of the open door, the piston opens to the maximum angle, after which the spring enters into action: under the influence of its own stiffness, it pulls the piston back, and thanks to the presence of a special oil inside the device, the closing process is soft and smooth.

All door closers are divided into three types:

1. Overhead door closers. Installed at the top of the door. The disadvantages include the inconvenience of maintaining the device;

2. Lower closers. They are mounted at the bottom of the door. Of the minuses, we can note the theoretical possibility of damage to the device due to unintentional contact with the human leg;

3. Concealed closers. They are integrated into the door frame, after which they become invisible, and only a 'peeping' piston can speak of their presence. Disadvantages – complexity of installation and higher cost compared to open-air models.

The above classes can be combined and complement each other if necessary for maximum functionality in specific conditions. For greater reliability, the top closer can be supplemented with a similar device installed below, or with a hidden installation closer.

The main criteria for choosing a door closer

Compliance with quality standards and all kinds of operational GOSTs

Low-cost Chinese-made models that hit the market under 'gray' schemes are notable for their low price, but their quality and performance during long-term operation raises serious doubts.

High-quality products from well-known manufacturers undergo a mandatory certification and quality control procedure, and therefore the buyer, making a choice in their favor, can be sure of the performance and durability of the structure.

Resistant to temperature extremes

An important parameter responsible for the performance of the closer in the mode of year-round use. This parameter is especially important for door closers installed at the entrance to a building and subject to temperature differences from -30 in winter to + 30-35 in summer heat.

Device power

A criterion consisting of the power of the installed spring and the quality of the piston structure. The more severe the operating conditions – drafts, regular strong winds – the more powerful the device mechanism should be.

Shut-off valve

This is a special device that provides a counterflow to the spring element at the moment close to the door closing. It is designed for soft and smooth adhesion of the door to the frame and eliminating vibration and noise. This device is activated from an angle of 65-70 degrees and holds the door until it is completely closed.

Materials from which the key mechanical elements of the device are made

1. Stainless steel is a durable and reliable material used in devices in the middle price category. Provides excellent performance in any situation;

2. Lightweight metals and their alloys (magnesium, aluminum, titanium) are used in devices of the upper price segment. Maximum strength and durability with minimum weight – these are their main advantages;

3. Powdered metals (silumin) are used in budget-level devices, low price is their only advantage. Such materials are prone to cracking and breakage even in the absence of mechanical stress;

Features of choosing an entrance door closer

Taking into account the fact that the entrance door is subject to constant temperature changes over a wide range, as well as to moisture and direct sunlight, an entrance door closer must:

1. Meet modern quality standards GOST and ISO;

2. Made of stainless steel, treated with a special polymer compound that protects against adverse effects;

3. Have a form factor that assumes top or hidden installation when it comes to metal doors;

4. Equipped with a locking valve for silent door closing;

In the following articles, our experts will tell you how to choose the right interior doors and the secrets of choosing an entrance door.

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.