Door Closer is used to close the
door at a controlled speed. It is a mechanical device that closes a
door, in general after someone opens it, or after it was automatically
opened. The closer operates with a spring and piston. The spring inside
the cylinder is depressed, when the door is pulled open, thereby
exerting pressure to pull the door closed automatically. It is the
piston which controls the speed. Some door closers come with an
adjusting screw which allows the user to change the speed of the closing
of the door. Door closer are usually fitted on the top portion of the
door. There are spring-loaded door closers which can be installed on
existing door hinges.
There are door closers made for the disabled and that has an automatic
hold-open feature that engages when the door is opened about 90º. A
wheelchair patient can tap the door again in the opening direction to
close it automatically. Interior door closers also come with a
canister-like apparatus mounted on the door and a knuckle-joint arm to
push the door closed.
Types of Door Closers
There are two general types of door closers:
- Manual door closer: It will close a door after it has
been opened by hand. To limit the door's speed, manual door closers
have a hydraulic (oil-filled) damper. A spring-type door closer
usually shuts the door very fast, banging the door shut. This type
of closer is used on a swing door.
- Automatic door closer: Automatic door closer, also called
door opener, opens the door itself, under the control of a push
button, motion detector or other device. It then closes it as well,
typically employing a motion or proximity detector to determine when
it is safe to close the door.
Styles of Door Closer
Door closers are available in two styles.
- Concealed door closer: Concealed closers are concealed in
the head frame over the door and are "out of sight and out of
the way" types. These closers are protected from dirt, and easy
to reach for regulation without any moving parts. Concealed closers
are located within the door itself and are also hidden and
protected. These closers work well on interior doors and are
economical.
- Surface mounted closer: For surface mounted closers
location of the closer on the door is an important consideration.
Surface mounted closers on doors along a corridor should be located
on the room side of the door so that they are out of sight. On the
other hand closers should be placed on the inside of exterior doors
for protection and aesthetics.
Designs of Door Closers
When choosing a door closer style, importance should be given to the
type of door being controlled, frame conditions, aesthetics and control
features needed. Door closers are made of various metals like aluminum,
cast iron, steel etc. and available in various finishes like chrome
plated, silver finish, nickel plated, antique finish, lacquered brass
etc. which can complement any room's décor. Different sizes are
available depending on the weight and type of the door.
