Still Struggling to Choose Fire Door Hardware? Here’s the Right Approach!

Still Struggling to Choose Fire Door Hardware? Here’s the Right Approach!

Fire door hardware is the heart and joints that enable fire doors to function as a "critical barrier." So, how should you choose from the wide array of fire door hardware available on the market? Today, 3H will share some tips for selecting the right products.

Fire door hardware is a complete set of specially designed and rigorously tested components. Its core mission is to ensure that fire doors automatically, reliably, and tightly close during a fire, effectively blocking flames and toxic smoke, and buying precious time for evacuation and fire rescue operations.

A complete set of fire door hardware typically includes:

Door Closer: The core component of a fire door. It ensures that the door closes automatically, smoothly, and firmly after being opened, and often features a delayed closing function.

Fire Lock (Including Lock Body, Cylinder, and Handle): Provides the daily opening and closing function. The key point is that components such as the latch and lock housing must not deform or fail under high temperatures, ensuring the door remains tightly closed.

Fire Hinge: Bears the weight of the door and ensures smooth rotation. Dedicated fire hinges must be used, as standard hinges can easily deform or detach under high temperatures, causing the door to collapse and fail.

Sequencer: Used for double-sash fire doors to ensure the two leaves close in the correct order, maintaining an effective seal between them.

Push Pad Lock: Allows quick exit by simply pushing the bar in an emergency, complying with fire safety evacuation requirements.

Door Frame Fixings and Sealing Strips: Ensure the door frame is securely installed and fill the gaps between the door and frame, effectively blocking smoke penetration.

When selecting fire door hardware, it is crucial not to take it lightly. Keep the following key points in mind:

1.1 Certification is the Baseline:

Ensure the product has a clear and valid CCC certification mark (S mark).

Request a type test report from a national fire testing authority to confirm that the hardware has passed fire resistance tests alongside the specific type of fire door you are using.

1.2Material and Craftsmanship are Essential:

Main Materials: The door closer housing, critical lock components, and hinges should be made of stainless steel or high-strength cast steel. Avoid zinc alloy materials that are prone to melting.

Internal Structure: The hydraulic oil and seals inside the door closer must be heat-resistant. Latches and transmission mechanisms should maintain their integrity and resist deformation under high temperatures.

1.3Performance Matching is Key:

Closing Force: Choose a door closer with an appropriate power rating based on the size and weight of the door. Too weak a force may fail to close the door tightly, while too strong a force may make the door difficult to operate or even damage the frame.

Door Type Compatibility: Ensure the hardware is suitable for specific door types, such as single-sash, double-sash, or double-sash with a sidelight doors.

Usage Scenario: Consider whether delayed closing function is needed or if the hardware must integrate with electromagnetic releases connected to fire alarm systems.

1.4Brand and Reputation:

Opt for well-known brands with a strong industry reputation, technical expertise, and the ability to provide comprehensive technical support and warranty services. Reputable brands invest more in product development, material selection, and quality control, ensuring greater reliability.

Fire door hardware, though often overlooked, serves as a "silent guardian" protecting lives during a fire. Avoid making blind purchases. Remember these five golden rules—certification, materials, compatibility, brand, and professional maintenance—to ensure every fire door can truly become a reliable "lifesaving barrier" in critical moments.