Modern doors are equipped with a special device that saves households from having to slam the door behind them. However, in this case, the door will not slam shut, but will smoothly close behind you without too much noise. We are, of course, talking about the door closer. This small device requires special attention to itself, so it is so important to know how to properly adjust the door closer and carry out timely repairs.
Features of door closers
The problem of open doors can be easily solved by installing a door closer that controls the process of automatically opening and closing the door, closing it without additional force from a person. The need for closers is dictated by quite practical and functional arguments. Let's say you put a massive metal entrance door. The door leaf has a large mass, and if you do not specifically hold the door when closing, the leaf will hit the loot with great effort.
Door closers provide smooth closing of the door without unnecessary noise, set the speed of closing and opening the door in different areas, and also determine the effort that a person must make to open the door. The door closer is able to save heat or coolness in the room, as well as ensure the correct operation of the locking device. In addition, closers with the hold open function support the possibility of fixing the open door, which is very useful, since no objects will have to be placed under the open door.
Closers with a delay action mechanism allow the door to be left open for a certain time, after which the door will close normally. This type of device is considered convenient for doors in utility rooms (warehouses, utility rooms, pantries). This model is suitable for opening the door when carrying goods, then taking the load, bringing it into the building, and after this time the door begins to close itself without requiring mechanical effort.
Closers can be installed on ordinary interior and exterior heavy doors, taking into account the weight of the door and the width of the door leaf, as well as the need to adjust the door closer. The heavier your door, the more reliable and powerful the door closer should be for it. The simplest version of the mechanism is considered a spring. But such a “closer” works too sharply and is very noisy.
The ideal option is an adjustable design, which is also based on a spring, but it is enclosed in a sealed housing in an oil composition. The principle of operation of a door closer is quite simple. To open the door, a person applies a certain force, which is mechanically transmitted to the door closer and accumulated by compressing the spring, which is built into the body of the door closer. Then this spring returns to its original position, allowing you to adjust the process of closing the door.
Types of door closers
By design, door closers are divided into lever options, which are equipped with a crank drive, and leverless models with a cam drive.
Inside the lever door closers there is a spring and a hydraulic system that is filled with oil. The hydraulic system acts as a shock absorber. When the door is opened, the spring is compressed, and the liquid is pushed out by the piston from one container to another. After that, the spring straightens, and the oil returns to the first container. Although the hydraulic spring is located in a sealed box, sometimes it starts to leak, which is the first signal to repair the door closer.
Valves are located in the system that regulate the rate of fluid flow and the force at which it will move. They are responsible for the speed and smoothness of closing the door. The door closer device can be complicated by additional valves that provide different door closer functions. For example, keeping the door open for a long time, or creating a latching function to activate the lock or better press the door to the loot.
According to the installation method, closers are divided into:
- closers for surface installation, which are installed on top of the wall, door frame or door leaf, according to the door closer diagram;
- for hidden installation, which are mounted inside the door; for floor installation, when the door closer is hidden in the floor.
If the overhead closer does not fit into the design of the room, you can always install an “invisible” device that will hide in the specified place and be practically invisible. But for overhead models, there are different decorating panels, or they can be painted in the chosen color.
Ways to install a door closer
Installing a door closer does not require special training, so you can easily cope with this task. As a rule, all the necessary parts and tools are included in the delivery. There are four ways to install the door closer, we will consider them in more detail.
- The easiest way to install a door closer is described in the instructions for it. It looks something like this: the lever arm is fixed on the body of the device, then, using the template that is attached to the instructions, the places for fastening the screws are marked, then the screws are screwed according to this markup. The main thing to remember is that you will also need to adjust the geze door closer.
- The second method of mounting a door closer implies the following. It is necessary to attach the door closer to the door in such a way that its adjusting screws are facing the door hinges. Next, you need to fix the shoe of the device with screws that are included with the closer. Remember that the “arm” of the lever of the device must be of such a length that a right angle is obtained relative to the door. The shoulder is attached to the shoe with screws, after which again you will have to think about how to adjust the door closer.
- If you follow the third method of installing a parallel arm door closer, then you need to insert the device lever under the door bar, and then fold it outside the room. The door closer in this case is attached using a bracket, which is also included in the delivery. When installing the closer, make sure that the adjusting screws rotate from the hinges in the opposite direction. It is important not to confuse anything during the installation process, otherwise an incorrect installation will lead to the fact that it will not be possible to carry out the optimal adjustment of the door closer.
- There are closers that use an adjustable spring. Installing such devices is the easiest: you need to replace the hinge rod with a closer - and you're done. The main thing is that the product corresponds exactly to the weight of the door. If the door leaf is too heavy, and you could not find a suitable closer on sale, you need to install not one, but several closers.
Do-it-yourself door closer repair
Proper operation of the closer is the key to its conscientious and long-term operation that does not require repair. In order for the door closer to work for a long time, you can not pull or hold the door, thereby helping it close faster or slower. It is not recommended to fix the door by placing various objects under it that prevent it from closing, as well as rolling and hanging or on the door (this applies to children).
To repair the door closer, you need to have at hand all the necessary tools (hex and wrenches, pliers and a set of screwdrivers). Before proceeding with the repair of the device, an external inspection of the door should be carried out, since its distortions or damage will interfere with the normal operation of the door closer.
Serious damage to the closer, unfortunately, cannot be eliminated, since the tightness of the structure means that it cannot be disassembled into separate parts and subsequently assembled in accordance with the technology. However, in some situations it is possible to repair the door closer and adjust its operation on your own. Let's look at how to repair a door closer:
- Leakage of oil. Regardless of the fact that the hydraulic spring, which transmits the generated voltage to the levers, is in a one-piece sealed box filled with working fluid, its leaks still occur, most often in winter. If a leak appears, then this indicates a depressurization of the housing and the appearance of damage, from which oil flows out. As a result of this, the mechanism ceases to smoothly close the door, slams loudly and turns into an ordinary spring. If you were able to find the damaged areas in a timely manner, you need to seal them, which helps to extend the service life of the device. However, if the damaged area is too large, then it will not be possible to repair the door closer with your own hands and you will have to buy a new door closer.
- Breakage of the lever assembly. The most common is a violation of the integrity of the rods. However, this part of the mechanism is always visible, so its condition can be assessed visually. Large force impacts can disable it, causing breaks, bends, distortions or damage to the fasteners. You can fix not very serious flaws in the rod with ordinary welding. If the fastening connection breaks down, it is possible to carry out repairs by purchasing new original parts that are suitable in size, fastening method and shape of the landing part.
Do-it-yourself door closer adjustment
Significant loads during intensive use of the door closer often provokes discord of the entire system. Therefore, it is recommended to carefully monitor and service it several times a year, especially when the weather changes. But if the system still started to malfunction, then you should find out how the door closer is adjusted.
The closer adjustment procedure includes several points, the main of which is a change in the speed of movement. In case of too slow opening of the door leaf, it is necessary to adjust the level of spring compression using the appropriate fixing nut. The door travel speed is set by rotating the first valve (counterclockwise and clockwise).
You can turn the first valve no more than 2 turns, which is stipulated by the manufacturers of door closers. The second valve is responsible for the closing - the gap when the door is in a state of 10 - 15 degrees until it is completely closed. More expensive models also have a third valve in their design, which is necessary to adjust the door closing speed at an angle of 80-90 degrees.
If specialized oil is used in the closer body, then with the onset of winter you may notice that the closer speed drops in the cold season, and in summer the mechanism, on the contrary, accelerates. This is explained by the fact that the viscosity of a liquid depends on temperature. Therefore, with the onset of winter cold, it is necessary to additionally adjust the door closer by adjusting the first valve.
Often there is a need to delay the open door in this position for a while. An increase in the delay of the door leaf before closing can be achieved by tightening the special latch more tightly. This manipulation is usually performed when the door is open at about 95 - 100 degrees. The open position of the door is also controlled by a specific door closer option.
If the door needs to be kept open for a long time - to move furniture or ventilate the room, then you should use the hold-open closer function. Such a device is equipped with a lever for fixing the door in the open position. You should open the door 90-95 degrees and tighten the latch. After such manipulations, the door will close normally if you open it at a smaller angle than 90 °. If you open the door wider, it will lock and stay open until you pull it towards you, thereby releasing the lock.
In some cases, it may be necessary to change the opening angle of the door. If necessary, you can change the opening angle of the door using a special valve, which should be turned clockwise or counterclockwise. The main thing when adjusting the closer is not to disrupt the functioning of the system: the screw must not be turned more than 2 full turns, it is undesirable to tighten the screw to the stop, it is forbidden to completely unscrew the nuts and adjusting screws.
If you tried all the above tips on how to set up a door closer, but nothing helped, then perhaps the whole problem lies in the wrong installation. Check the vertical installation of the door and the correct installation of the door closer. Check the placement of the nut that adjusts the tension of the spring, remember that it must be located opposite the door hinge. The lever must be of such length that it is located at a right angle to the door frame. If there is the slightest suspicion that you installed the door closer incorrectly, it is recommended to remove it and install it in accordance with all the rules.
Thus, without much expense, having a screwdriver and 5 minutes of free time at your disposal, and knowing the technique of how to adjust the door closer, you can set up this mechanism yourself. The main thing at the same time to remember some features of the work that allow you not to disrupt the correct functioning of the system.
A very useful and almost invisible element is an automatic door closer. In a private house at the entrance with your own hands, it is installed very rarely, but for industrial and public institutions where a huge number of people pass, a door closer for the passage door is relevant.
It is very simple to understand the reason for the demand, because such a simple device ensures that the door to the room will always be closed, which means that precipitation, dust and noise will not penetrate inside.
Principle of operation
The essence of the mechanism is very simple, when the door leaf opens, there is pressure on the spring, and it is compressed. At this point, the oil flows into the chamber, which is free, and when the door closes, the spring pushes the piston and the oil returns to the first reservoir.
But, this is the simplest mechanism, there are devices that have additional valves, for example, for closing and closing, or, conversely, for delaying closing, and so on. They also differ in the place of installation - they are on top of the door leaf, in the middle or on the floor.
Despite the seeming simplicity of work, front door closers are one of the most complex mechanisms from the lock and hardware segment - it is almost impossible to make it yourself.
Why do you need a conductor
The mechanism that regulates the closing of the front door is necessary not only to keep warm, but also so that in the summer the outside air does not mix with the cooled air conditioner.
The closer for the fire door is relevant, which is installed on evacuation routes. It is recommended to mount the mechanism on the passages where the access control system is installed.
Types and varieties of devices
Depending on where the mechanism is installed, the following types of closers are distinguished:
- floor-mounted, that is, which is attached to the floor (you cannot install it with your own hands, without special equipment);
- an automatic hidden door closer can be placed directly in the front door leaf;
- mounted on the door leaf;
- upper mechanisms, with a crank or gear drive (the most common are to install them yourself according to the scheme).
There are also specialized sliding door closers. As a rule, such mechanisms are used in the manufacture of furniture. They can crash into the door leaf itself or into the furniture body.
According to the type of mechanism device, there is also a classification:
- knee, that is, the lever is made in the form of a knee - it is floor-standing or standard, but the principle of operation is the same;
- slide or sliding, are made without a knee, and the adjustment element is located directly on the door frame and slides in a parallel direction when moving. But, such mechanisms have a slight minus compared to lever technology, it will take more effort to open the door.
Depending on the size and weight of the door, oil door closers are also chosen, the more massive and heavier the leaf, the more force the mechanism must work. Hence there are device classes. For example, class 1 is designed for a door leaf width of 750 mm, and its weight should not exceed 20 kg. For entrance doors with a weight of 100 kg and a width of 1250, class 5 is suitable.
DIY installation
The installation work of the mechanism that will regulate the closing of the door is quite complicated. And on how accurately the preliminary calculations are carried out, the life of the device will also depend.
To begin with, the type and class of the closer is selected, depending on its location, weight and width of the door leaf.
For very heavy metal doors, it is sometimes more rational to install two mechanisms so that the load is evenly distributed.
Also, the choice of device depends on the side in which the door opens. The type of opening of the mechanism is laid initially, before manufacturing, so you need to pay attention to this moment in advance. If the opening occurs "on itself", it is recommended to install a mechanism mounted on top of the door leaf. At the same time, the box itself is mounted on the box, and the lever itself on the canvas. It is recommended to trust only specialists to mount the floor and hidden door closer.
There is no difference in what type of traction the door closer has for installation work, the technology is the same.
The wiring diagram, which, as a rule, is attached, on a scale of 1: 1, is simultaneously applied to the ceiling or the mechanism itself, and marking is made through the paper with a core.
Now holes are drilled along the markup. Do-it-yourself installation of a door closer on a metal door is done using a bong - a special fastener for steel products. Under such devices, the metal will not be deformed.
At the next stage, self-tapping screws are attached to the drilled holes. Using the screws that come with the kit, the body and lever are attached. A decorative box is superimposed on top of the body, on which a screw regulating oil door closers is displayed. After completing the installation work, it is necessary to adjust the closing force of the door. To do this, you just need to open the door, and track the speed at which it closes. If you need to increase or decrease it, then you can adjust it with a screw.
The main thing is not to make much effort when adjusting, so that the housing does not depressurize.
Visually, do-it-yourself installation is shown in the video:
Is a thermostat required?
A damper to protect against changes in atmospheric temperature exists in rare models. But the protection allows you not to adjust the mechanism with each decrease or increase in temperature. This is especially true if a floor closer is used. At the same time, its service life increases, and the viscosity of the oil does not increase, or vice versa, it does not expand.
It is very difficult to advise in this case. For example, a street closer with a thermal shutter, especially a floor-mounted one, is more expensive than a conventional mechanism, but will last much longer. Consider the conditions under which the device will operate. If the mechanism is installed on external doors, then it is necessary to take into account temperature differences, which will be outside and which will be inside the room.
In conclusion, I would like to note that due to the complexity of the mechanism of the device, it is quite difficult to externally determine its quality. Therefore, the choice should not be based on price, but on the seriousness of the manufacturer's trademark. The quality of stamping is not the main reason for buying, it is very important how accurately the parts are machined, what seals and oil were used.
The task of the mechanisms is to ensure smooth opening / closing of door panels with adjustable force and speed, to pause in the open position to facilitate the passage of people with special needs. Such parameters of the functioning of the doors exclude knocks and breakdowns of mechanisms due to excessive mechanical forces. To complete the tasks, energy is required, it is accumulated during the opening of the door leaf. How the mechanism works, we will consider in detail a little lower, but now we need to familiarize ourselves with their types.
Table. Types of door closers
| closer type | Brief description and technical parameters |
|---|---|
| The traditional and simplest model. When the door is opened, the metal lever compresses the spring, then it returns to its original state and closes the canvas. Spring closers are very reliable and cheap, but they have one unpleasant drawback - the doors slam a lot. This not only annoys users, but also causes door locks to break. |
| A more modern mechanism has a sliding (slide) metal rod along a special guide. It is used most often for interior doors with low weight. Heavy blades have a significant moment of inertia, which complicates the operation of the mechanism. |
| More reliable and the most common option, a very reliable device. Universal purpose, has no restrictions on the weight and size of doors. |
When buying any mechanisms, one should always keep in mind a simple dependence: the simpler the device, the more reliable it is. This is an axiom for all engineering structures, keep it in mind when making a final decision.
Prices for door closers
Door closers
Types of door closers by installation method
Mechanisms can be fixed in various places, consumers decide for themselves which type suits them best.
Closer mechanism device
Without understanding the device and the principle of operation of the mechanisms, it is very difficult to make adjustments correctly. In order to foresee the consequences of unskilled intervention in factory settings, you need to familiarize yourself with the purpose of each element of the closer.
- Toothed gear. The main element of the mechanism is made of durable alloy steels, the surface is hardened by high-frequency currents. Engages with the piston of the closer. The height is regulated by a special screw, in the upper part a metal rail is attached to the gear for transmitting forces.
Gear - the main element of the mechanism
- Piston. Performs reciprocating movements inside the housing, simultaneously or alternately closes/opens technological oil flow holes. One part of the piston rests on the spring. The piston has perfectly ground surfaces sliding along the cylinder. During movement, the piston teeth rotate the gear that controls the position and mode of movement of the doors, and the oil flows from one cavity to another.
- Speed controller. Special screw with oil seal, installed in the housing on the thread. When twisting, the technological opening of the oil flow decreases, the change in volume is slower. The door opens with difficulty, the angular velocity decreases markedly.
- Smoothness regulator. Before reaching the end of the cylinder, the piston closes the hole responsible for the speed of closing the doors and opens the next one, which is responsible for the smoothness of movement when touching the door frame. The principle of regulation does not differ from that described above, only another bolt must be screwed / unscrewed. The change in closing speed occurs just before the closing of the door leaf.
- Protection system. On both sides, the piston has ball valves, their springs are calculated according to the maximum effort. If the doors are affected by critical loads that are not provided for by the operating recommendations, then the safety valves are activated and the oil flows from one part of the mechanism to another. Due to this, the probability of mechanical breakdowns of gears and levers is minimized, the closer does not come off the door leaf.
Step by step instructions for adjustment
For example, we will consider only one model of mechanisms. Having studied the algorithm of work, you will be able to regulate other types, they do not have a fundamental difference in the device, the differences are only external.
Step 1. Remove the decorative housing cover. It is fixed with latches, to release it is enough to pull it towards you.
Step 2. Adjust the long rod, it should be strictly parallel to the channel. Adjustment is done in several stages.
Practical advice. For better boosting, the rod should be set at an angle of approximately 8° to the channel. Due to this position, the spring is additionally compressed, a constant force acts on the door leaf.
Step 3. Attach the tie rod to the sliding channel. It must be pressed, rotated by 8 °, and the cutout should be hooked onto the technological ledge. Tighten the fixing screw with a hex wrench. Check the functionality of the doors - if they hit the box with great force, then you need to do additional adjustment.
Step 4. Adjust the closing speed of the curtain. This is done with screw "C", when it is tightened / unscrewed, the throughput of the hole changes. At the bottom of the screw there is a valve that regulates the degree of overlap of the hole. Achieve the speed you need, you will have to make adjustments several times to achieve the desired effect.
Step 5. Adjust the closing speed with the "L" valve before touching the box. This parameter eliminates loud pops of the canvas, reduces the load on the lock, and increases the life of the elements. The final closing speed should be about half the main one.
Step 6. The force for opening is regulated by the lower valve "B". This so-called brake does not allow drafts, animals, small children to open the doors. Another task of the brake is to limit the maximum opening, to prevent sharp shock loads on the mechanism.
Screw "B" adjusts the force of opening the door
Step 7. Modern devices have a very important function - closing delay. The doors remain open for some time, during which time people in wheelchairs enter the room, parents with small children and prams, and the elderly calmly enter. The function is controlled by valve "D". Achieve the required closing delay by changing the size of the through hole. The smaller its area, the less oil it passes, the longer the delay.
Door closing interval adjustable by screw "D"
Step 8. Adjust closing force. The fact is that quite often when closing the canvas with a door closer, the door lock does not latch.
Important. Before adjusting, check the operation of the door. Quite often, problems with closing can occur due to its breakdowns.
The closing force is regulated by a large spring, which is compressed by a special screw.
Check all adjustments again. If you are completely satisfied with the operation of the closer, then replace the decorative protective cover of the mechanism. If the operating rules are observed, the closer works for a long time in the set modes.
Never fully loosen the screws during adjustment. As you already know, the capacity of the mechanism is filled with oil, when the screws are unscrewed, it will flow out from there. Filling oil yourself without air is very difficult. And if there is air, then the work of the closer will become unpredictable. Doors sometimes slow down for no reason, then accelerate, each time the algorithm of movements changes. Simple adjustments do not fix the situation.
How to increase the service life
There are a few simple tips, the implementation of which eliminates the likelihood of mechanical breakdowns and extends the life of the devices.
- Always take into account the terms of use of the door closer. If it is installed on the doors of public buildings, then the frequency of opening / closing increases dramatically. In addition, not all visitors carefully handle the doors; strong mechanical loads can occur. For such needs, it is necessary to choose the most reliable closers. The number of adjustments is given second priority, the main factor being mechanical stability.
- Make sure that the door is used for its intended purpose, and does not serve as a barrier for animals, a toy for children, etc. Do not increase the mass of the door leaf. We have already mentioned that the greater the weight of the doors, the higher the inertia indicators, and they have an extremely negative effect on the mechanism.
- Never take on the installation or adjustment of the device without reading the instructions, without understanding the principle of operation of the closer elements, without foreseeing the possible consequences of your interventions.
- Do not buy mechanisms from unknown companies. The fact is that they have many connections that require high precision surface treatment of parts. At the slightest deviation in technology, oil leaks appear. It is impossible to fix the problem by simply adding oil; complex repairs must be made. This takes a lot of time and money, and the result is still unknown. It is much more profitable to immediately buy expensive, but high-quality goods from well-known European companies.
With the development of technology, human life has become much easier. With such a simple device as a door closer, you will forget about the need to double-check if the doors are closed. Today, devices are produced in several forms and are represented by goods from different manufacturers, differ in belonging to different price categories. We will figure out how to mount the door closer and adjust the door closer, how long this process will take and how difficult it is.
The main types of mechanisms and their internal structure
To choose a closer option for a door, you first need to understand the types of mechanisms and their intended purpose. The choice should be based on the parameters of the door, namely? width and weight of the structure. In addition, consider the temperature regime of the room where the installation and operation of the element is planned.
The main options for auto-closers include:
A feature of the street closer for the door is that it is equipped with a special mechanism lubricated with a liquid that increases resistance to high temperatures. That is, if you install such a closer designed for interior doors or used in installation on entrance doors from the inside, from the outside, then its operation will deteriorate significantly, and its service life will decrease.
The principle of operation of the door closer
This device is similar in its work to the spring mechanism, which was previously installed on gates and doors. The disadvantage of such a device was far from smooth closing, and sometimes pops of the closing structure. As soon as modern automated systems appeared that ensure the smooth running of the door, the problem with the formation of noise was solved by itself.
The main working part of the closer is a spring and an oil shock absorber, which is responsible for a smooth ride. The oily liquid circulating inside special valves flows from one chamber to another.
Features of mechanisms
Among the distinguishing characteristics of closers are:
- Oil circulation occurs through a hydraulic system, adjustable valves.
- Smoothness and noiselessness at opening/closing of a door is provided thanks to a viscous consistence of oil.
- Depending on the type of device, the strength and speed of the mechanism may vary.
It is easy to adjust the parameters of the closer with the help of special adjusting screws. The tighter they are clamped, the slower the fluid flows inside the cylinder. Having carefully read the principle of operation of the mechanism, it becomes clear that it is not so difficult to remove and adjust the door closer.
How to mount and configure the door closer yourself
The main purpose of closers is to smoothly close the front door. When installing, make sure that the body of the product is on the inside of the room, which makes it impossible to dismantle the product from the outside. This contributes to additional protection of the mechanism from the penetration of moisture, dust, dirt.
Mounting tools
During the installation you will need:
- Drill.
- Ruler.
- A simple pencil with a soft lead.
- Screwdriver.
There is no need to buy fasteners separately, they are included in the delivery of the door closer.
What does the installation process look like?
Some of the manufacturers add installation templates to the product kit with life-size images of all parts of the mechanism and the intended locations of holes and fasteners.
Having studied the template and the details of the installation of the mechanism, they proceed directly to the process of installing the device. First, the body is fixed, which, at the second stage, is connected to the traction lever of the structure. Following the instructions, you will see that the installation technology is not difficult and takes very little time.
Please note that the closers are structurally different, the location of the adjusting screws also varies.
Features of adjusting the door closer
The adjustment is carried out according to the same scheme, regardless of the design of the closer. By turning the screws clockwise, the speed of the mechanism and its strength is increased or, by turning the screw in the opposite direction, the door closes more slowly.
When working with this design, try to turn the screws slowly and carefully - this is one of the recommendations of experts.
To tighten the screw, it is enough to make a quarter turn. By knocking off the balance and strongly tightening or unscrewing the screw, you run the risk of completely upsetting the operation of the mechanism, which as a result will be problematic to restore.
Incorrect adjustment of the door closer leads to its breakdown. This is worth paying attention to.
How to properly adjust the door closer after installation
This procedure is carried out in order to obtain the optimal rate of closing the front or street door. Adjustment of the opening speed, as mentioned above, is carried out using screws located on the front side of the case and hidden under a special protective cover, which is especially good when installing the mechanism on an interior door. So the design looks more aesthetically pleasing.
By setting the system for slow closing, the owner will be able to avoid damaging the walls, and the presence of additional functions for adjusting the door closer of the plastic opening door will allow you to configure the optimal mode of operation of the device.
Features of self-closing devices
Where to install this kind of clamps:
- on the entrance door;
- where the intercom is located;
- on structures that restrict the access of outsiders to the entrance;
- on other door structures of the entrance and interior type, if necessary.
Thanks to this mechanism, the door closes completely, and opens only when using a special key. A closer with a delay function is an indispensable device for door structures in public places, which facilitates access to the interior of the room for people with disabilities. This feature allows you to set a delay of 30-40 seconds.
Adjustment of the door closer for the entrance doors is carried out at the last stage, when the doors are closed. Thanks to this function, it is easier to snap the lock into place and contributes to less heat loss when entering and leaving the room.
Features of the regulation of the door closer during operation
Sometimes it is necessary to make adjustments during the operation of the door, while it is worth paying attention to a number of rules and recommendations that greatly facilitate the task. Please note that each device is accompanied by detailed instructions that help simplify the process and control its correctness. After all, the master can always double-check the correctness of his actions by re-reading the points of the insert again.
A concise instruction for adjusting the closer is as follows:
- During operation of the door, the first screw is turned half a turn counterclockwise, thereby adjusting the reach.
- The second is a quarter turn clockwise, which helps to accelerate the opening.
- The third, located on the side of the body, is used to regulate the force of movement.
Remember the simple instructions for adjusting the door closer with your own hands. To weaken or increase the pace, it is not recommended to unscrew the screws more than two turns. This can cause oil to leak out of the system, and repairing the structure at home is unrealistic. For this reason, the procedure is performed with extreme care, strictly following the instructions attached to the product by the manufacturer.
The need to adjust the door closer of iron and other types arises quite often. If the system works tight, and when opening the door, you have to make specific efforts in order to get in or out of the room, then the screws must be loosened to ensure smooth door movement.
Sometimes it becomes necessary to leave the door in the "open" position for a long time. To achieve this, the screw must be loosened completely. So he will keep the structure open until you close the doors.
Popular door closer models and their brief description
Today, manufacturers who position their products as high-quality and reliable and at the same time easy to adjust and operate have achieved the greatest popularity in the market for mechanical and automatic devices for doors. Among them:
- Dorma - closers used for installation on metal doors for external and internal use.
- Apecs - products equipped with an additional function of permanent fixation.
- Geze - adjusting the door closer is simple, and a special system ensures a rare need for adjustment.
- "Bulat" - are characterized by increased technical properties. Namely: frost resistance, durability.
- "Diplomat" - closers made of high-strength steel, which allows you to extend the operational period of products and give them special resistance to temperature extremes.
The listed models are distinguished by a lot of advantages described by customers in their reviews, which makes them even more popular every day.
Having familiarized yourself with some of the features of door closers and instructions for their installation, as well as adjusting the door closer with your own hands, you will save yourself from possible problems with the installation and operation of such systems.
Types and principle of operation of devices: top closer
No one likes a slamming door, but it should close tightly to avoid heat escaping from the room. For the noiselessness of the process, a door closer is installed.
Such designs replace the installation of door springs, which, when closing the structure, create a lot of noise. The types of devices, their features and installation methods will be prompted by the article.
Automatic element: device, characteristics and principle of operation
The main working element of any closer is a high-strength spring that enters the cylinder. When the doors are opened, it accumulates energy by contracting, and when released, it returns the product to its initial closed state.
For smooth closing of the opening, the design has an oil shock absorber. The built-in valve system facilitates the flow of oil when opening from one chamber to another, and when closing back.
With their help, the speed of movement of the oil, and hence the closing, is regulated. The necessary smoothness of the process is given by the viscosity of the shock-absorbing liquid, this contributes to the silent closing of the door.
The design may have one or more shock absorbers, which does not change the essence of the device. The working spring in different products is driven by its own mechanism, which determines the type of door closer.
Depending on the device, several tasks can be performed during installation:
- Adjust the closing speed in two ranges - with acceleration when slamming.
- Protect the canvas from hitting the barrier.
- Fix the structure after its opening.
Device types
Types of closers are classified by location, which can be:
- Upper. Installed at the top of the canvas. Drive type:
- crank, the design uses a spiral spring and a hydraulic piston, which are located in separate compartments. These are fairly simple devices that do not have the ability to control the movement of the door, or other changes. In demand for heavy products;
- jagged. This is the most common design, consisting of a toothed gear meshed with a piston and moving it along the axis when the door is torn off. When it is opened, the closer lever moves in an arc. The part of the lever screwed to the body of the device is located perpendicular to the toothed gear, the axis of which moves vertically through the closer. The teeth of the gear mesh with the teeth of the piston. Moving along the axis, the gear moves the piston in a horizontal position, clamping the spring. In the same way, energy is stored. Closing relaxes the spring, which pushes back on the piston. Rotating, the gear pushes the structure to move with the lever, closing it;
- with sliding bar. This is not the most successful design option, in which there is no shoulder for transmitting a large force, which leads to not very reliable operation of the mechanism;
- cam shaft. The cam, which looks like a symmetrical or asymmetrical heart, also serves as an axis. When opened, the element evenly compresses the spring with a piston. When closing, the spring is released, the opening piston moves in the opposite direction, returning the cam to its original position, the door is slowed down by the brake element.
- Floor closer. Located on the floor. This type of installation must be taken into account during the construction phase. In this case, the weight of the door is held by the lower axis, which moves towards the other axis of rotation.
The design is used for products weighing up to 300 kilograms.
- Ramny. This design is built into the frame or, and its principle of operation is the same as that of the floor ones. In this case, the mass of the door is carried by a support that is built into the floor. Rotation is transmitted to the canvas from the axis of the closer through a lever built into the top. When opening with a lever, the heart-shaped axis rotates. Depending on the direction when opening, it begins to put pressure on one of the rollers, which compresses two springs. When closing, the whole process goes in the opposite direction.
By design, products are divided into:
- Linear. In such an element there is no knee or part for customizing the product.
- knee. The design has a “knee” that bulges out when moving the canvas. These are the most reliable and simple devices among lever mechanisms. There are two mounting methods:
- the body of the leading mechanism is mounted on the canvas, and the lever device is installed on the box;
- a reverse mounting option is also possible.
Classification of mechanisms
To get acquainted with what Russian-made closers exist, you need to study GOST 5091-78. The main criteria are technical characteristics, or the efforts applied by a person when closing the structure.
According to GOST 5091-78, all door closers are divided into 7 classes:
- EN1. Used for sashes with a width of 750 millimeters and a weight of up to 20 kg.
- EN2. The ideal device for canvases 850 millimeters wide and weighing up to 40 kg.
- EN3. Devices for leaf widths of 950 millimeters, weighing up to 60 kg.
- EN4. Designed for canvases, the width of which is 1.1 meters, weighing up to 80 kg.
- EN5. Are established on shutters 1,25 meters wide, weighing up to 100 kg.
- EN6. Devices of this class are designed for doors with a width of 1.4 meters, weighing up to 120 kg.
- EN7. Such mechanisms are ideal for canvases 1.6 meters wide and weighing up to 160 kg.
According to GOST 5091-78, the force that must be applied when closing is indicated, measured in Nm (Newtonometers). The Door Closer company, in its certificate for manufactured products, indicates the force in Nm. At the same time, models of mechanisms can be of the same class, and adjustable, with the ability to adjust the application of efforts when opening.
In addition, GOST 5091-78 gives recommendations on closers for their operation, taking into account the temperature range. This is due to the fact that the oil used to lubricate the structure changes its viscosity under the influence of temperature. For outdoor use, it is recommended to install frost-resistant devices, using low-temperature oil, and special seals, which is contained in the product certificate.
GOST 5091-78 indicates another feature that should be taken into account when choosing a door closer - the transmission of torque.
Device selection
Tip: Before choosing a closer, you should get acquainted with the standards that determine the efforts developed by him when using them. They comply with European standards.
The greater power of the door closer corresponds to its higher class.
For example:
- The product of the highest class is selected for.
- The low-class door closer is installed on a lightweight product.
- Designs of 3-5 classes are used for simple entrance doors installed in interior spaces.
When choosing a door closer, parameters are taken into account, external factors are taken into account, for example:
- When operating the front door, which is often exposed to lateral wind loads, the canvas should be equipped with high-class products, which will increase the life of the door closer.
Tip: If two different classes of products can be used in terms of size and weight of the product, preference should be given to high-level elements, which will provide a greater margin of safety, and hence longer operation of the device.
- It is not necessary to consider only power when choosing a product. This does not always indicate a large installation load. If such a closer is installed on a PVC door, an additional load will be created on the hinges, due to which they will quickly wear out.
- The plastic door with powerful elements is difficult to open, this will create additional discomfort when using.
- When choosing a closer, its frost resistance should be taken into account. There are models that operate at extreme temperatures ranging from (-45°C) to (+ 70°C).
- Attention is drawn to the speed of movement of the door system. For example, for fire protection structures, devices must have a high closing speed, and when used in a house, a slow one is preferred, especially when the elderly and children live. In public places, it is better to install devices with an opening braking function, which will prevent the sash from hitting the wall.
To familiarize the buyer with the additional features of the product, a certificate for the door closer is offered. Its presence is a guarantee that the purchased product is of high quality.
Tip: When choosing a device, you should ask about the certificate. This will give greater confidence that the selected device will work properly for many years.
Overview of popular models
Below is an overview of door closers of the most famous foreign manufacturers that produce high quality products:
- Dorma. This is the mechanism of a German company, the peculiarity of which is the presence of a sliding rod. This design allows you to hide the knee of the traction mechanism, and not spoil the appearance of the door.
- DC-100. This is a mechanical-hydraulic device for opening doors weighing up to 100 kilograms. It can operate in the temperature range from (-35°С) to (+60°С), has two travel speeds.
- Abloy. It is produced by a Finnish company. Maximum door weight up to 80 kg. The model has a convenient mechanism adjustment system. The design has an independent valve that allows for smooth movement.
- GEZE floor closer is not noticeable and reliably closes pendulum structures and with an emphasis. Systems are available for heavy sashes and structures with low weight. Closers can be installed on fire and smoke protection doors.
- Closer ddo 30 kg. Spring mechanical closer DS19 is used for smooth closing of structures weighing up to 30 kg. They are distinguished by one speed of movement of the door, adjustment by one screw. Used for doors up to 75 cm wide. The price of the product is the lowest.
- "NORA-M". The minimum number of opening and closing cycles is 500,000 times, all models are guaranteed for 5 years. The assortment of the brand includes closers "NORA-M", the characteristic of which allows you to fix the product in the open position. To close the door, you need to bring the canvas to an angle of 90 °. Then it starts to close itself. In such models, there is an adjustment of the speed of closing the structure and its closing.
- Closer "BULAT", designed for smooth, automatic closing. It is used for plastic, wooden and metal constructions of canvases. Functions of devices: adjustment of closing speed and final finishing. The temperature range during use is from (-35°С) to (+50°С). The maximum door width is 1.2 meters.
- K-dom. Collected by a company from South Korea. The design has a standard lever. Serves for smooth closing of hinged doors. Installation instructions in Russian, glands are made in Germany, the shaft has an increased diameter, special oil makes the structure frost-resistant, it can operate in the range from (-45°С) to (+50°С).
- Sliding door closers. Such devices are often used in public places: shops, hospitals, offices. The advantages and disadvantages of the device of such structures are given in the table:
| Advantages | Flaws |
|
The main disadvantage of using such models is the presence of protruding spring-loaded pins, which are easy to catch and break the device. To prevent this, it is necessary to place the product at the highest possible points, but this may reduce the strength of the structure. |
Mounting the mechanism
When purchasing a product that will be installed on the door with your own hands, you must keep in mind that the kit should include:
- Closer.
- Lever pull.
- Hardware for fasteners.
- Scheme or drawings of a closer for mounting the structure.
Fittings can be installed on the input block: on the box and on the canvas, which depends on the purpose of the structure.
Installation happens:
- Internal, as in the photo. This is the most common way to install structures for external doors, while the product is attached to the opening.
- outdoor.
The life-size installation diagram included in the kit allows you to install the accessory with high quality and avoid errors in the process.
For this:
- The installation diagram is glued to the door with adhesive tape.
- Further actions are performed according to the instructions offered by the instruction:
- Markup is being done.
- Holes are drilled.
- The body is attached.
- The linkage is mounted.
These are two halves connected by a thread.
- The lever is adjustable in length, which determines the opening angle of the door, approximately 90°.
- With the correct installation of all structural elements, the device will work efficiently, without failures.
In more detail, the installation of closers shows the video in this article.
Closer setting
Correct adjustment of the installed elements can be performed if you deal with the screws that are part of the structure.
Many models have special screws located on the decorative cover of their case. On some, the screws are located on the front side of the case and are marked with numbers 1 and 2. Screw 1 regulates the change in the opening angle of the door, it can reach 180 °. Screw 2 changes the closing speed of the sash.
When adjusting the closer:
- The opening angle of the door leaf varies from 90° to 180°.
- Closing acceleration is corrected by adjusting screw 2.
- The door opens to the working angle and is released.
- By turning the screw 2, the smooth running of the door leaf is adjusted to the last 15° in order to guarantee its reliable closing.
- You don't have to put a lot of effort into making adjustments.
- After 1/4 turn of the screw, the doors will close slowly.
The closer can be used for a long time if the adjustment is done regularly. It must be borne in mind that forcibly holding the door for ventilation and propping it up with various objects can lead to an increase in the load on the glands and the closer piston.
This will cause the oil to be squeezed out of the housing and the closer to fail. Only a specialist will help answer the question of how to fill the door closer correctly. Each design has its own characteristics.
Closer Care
To maximize the life of the door closer, you need to maintain the serviceability of this mechanism, regularly check the condition of its main parts:
- To avoid problems with the appearance of corrosion, regular processing of metal fragments and lubrication of them for smooth running should be carried out.
- It is necessary to periodically adjust the settings in accordance with the parameters of the door.
- Nothing should be placed under an open door.
- You can not pull the door "toward yourself" to speed up this process.
- It is contraindicated to "help" the door close by holding it.
Whether it will be a built-in closer or any other type of it, with proper installation and operation, such a device will allow you to control the process of opening and closing the structure. This will prevent glass from breaking, and sometimes the walls in the house falling out when metal doors are installed.
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