Door Closer

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.

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