Latch speed on a door closer refers to the rate at which the door closes and latches shut after it has been fully opened. It is adjustable to control the speed of the door’s closing action.
Detailed response to a query
Latch speed on a door closer refers to the rate at which the door closes and latches shut after it has been fully opened. It is an adjustable feature that allows users to control the speed at which the door closes. This adjustable mechanism ensures that the door closes smoothly and securely without slamming shut or causing any damage.
One of the key benefits of being able to adjust the latch speed on a door closer is that it provides convenience and ease of use. By setting the appropriate speed, users can ensure that the door closes at a comfortable pace, making it easier for people to pass through without any sudden jolts or resistance.
To quote Bob Villa, a well-known American home improvement television host and writer, “A good door closer should quietly and effortlessly close a door, preventing it from slamming or bouncing.”
Here are some interesting facts about latch speed on door closers:
-
Door closers come in various types, including hydraulic, pneumatic, and electric powered mechanisms. Latch speed adjustment is a common feature across different types of door closers.
-
The adjustable latch speed mechanism usually consists of a valve or a screw that controls the hydraulic fluid flow within the door closer. By adjusting this flow, the closing speed can be regulated.
-
Other factors such as temperature, air pressure, and door weight can also affect the effectiveness and performance of the latch speed on a door closer. Regular maintenance and adjustment may be required to ensure optimal functionality.
-
Latch speed adjustment is a crucial safety feature. If the door closes too quickly, it can pose a risk of injury to users, especially children or elderly individuals. Conversely, if the door closes too slowly, it might compromise security and allow unauthorized access.
Table on Different Types of Door Closers:
| Types of Door Closers | Mechanism |
|---|---|
| Hydraulic Door Closer | Uses hydraulic fluid to control the door’s closing action |
| Pneumatic Door Closer | Utilizes the force of compressed air to close the door |
| Electric Door Closer | Operated by an electric motor, providing automated and easy door closing |
Remember, adjusting the latch speed on a door closer is essential for both safety and convenience, providing a smooth and controlled closing action. By understanding and utilizing this feature effectively, individuals can enhance the functionality and usability of their doors while maintaining a secure environment.
Some additional responses to your inquiry
The latching speed of a door is the speed taken for the door to close and latch shut over the last 15 to 0 degrees of its closing phase. As one of the most crucial stages of the closing process, if this phase is too slow the door may not latch, whilst allowing it to close too fast could create a finger-trapping hazard.
Door closers should take at least 5 seconds to close from the 90 degree door position to 12 degrees. This is referring to the main sweep speed or closing speed. The latch speed should be adjusted gradually by rotating the bolt a half turn at a time in a counterclockwise direction until the door closes moderately fast. The correct latch speed depends on the situation. If it is an outside door, you may want to increase the latch speed (counterclockwise) so it snaps closed a little faster. If it is an office door, you may want to slow it down (clockwise) so it does not slam.
According to the ADA standards section 404.2.8, door closers should take atleast 5 seconds to close from the 90 degree door position to 12 degrees. This is referring to the main sweep speed or closing speed. The illustration below shows the closing cycle from 90 degrees to 12 degrees.
Also, state or local government codes may have specific accessibility requirements for exterior doors. The closing, or swing speed must not be faster than five seconds. The closing or swing distance is from the open position at 90 degrees to 12 degrees from the latch.
Adjust the latch speed valve by gradually rotating the bolt a half turn at a time in a counterclockwise direction until the door closes moderately fast. Note :Typically, this should be around 1-2 seconds but you can adjust accordingly. Take care to not make the latch speed too slow because this can be a security issue.
Make 1.5-2 turns counterclockwise to achieve your desired latching speed. The correct latch speed depends on the situation. If it is an outside door, you may want to increase the latch speed (counterclockwise) so it snaps closed a little faster. If it is an office door, you may want to slow it down (clockwise) so it does not slam.
Associated video
Kevin Starr from Lakhdar Security provides a comprehensive explanation on how to adjust a door closer. He breaks it down into four main adjustments: spring power, back check, closing speed, and latching speed. Starr advises using a screwdriver and an Allen wrench to make the necessary adjustments. It is crucial to work on the door while it is closed and the closing ring is non-operable. He suggests starting with 1/8 turns and periodically checking progress to evaluate if further adjustments are required. Additionally, Starr mentions that some adjustment screws may be labeled, while others may require referencing the diagram inside the closer.
More intriguing questions on the topic
Also, How do you adjust a latch speed door closer?
The L is the latch speed. So that’s that last few inches just that last ten percent that part right there. If you tighten that one it’ll slow down the latch speed.
Keeping this in view, How fast should a door closer close?
Although no specific closer timings are stipulated by Building Regulations, the timings in the tests specified within the BS EN1154 standard imply that door closer times from 90 degrees to closed should range from no less than three seconds, to no more than 25 seconds, for doors without delay actions.
Regarding this, What is the latch action on a door closer? Answer: Latch action (sometimes called snap action) is when the door closer allows the door to move faster during the last few degrees of closing to overcome the mechanical resistance of a door latch or lock. This is a good function to help make sure the door is properly closed after every closing cycle.
Herein, What is swing speed on a door closer?
Answer to this: Swing speed adjustment controls how fast the door closes from fully open to within about five degrees of closed. Latching speed adjustment controls how fast the door closes for those last few inches.
Secondly, What is the latching speed of a door?
The reply will be: The latching speed of a door is the speed taken for the door to close and latch shut over the last 15 to 0 degrees of its closing phase. As one of the most crucial stages of the closing process, if this phase is too slow the door may not latch, whilst allowing it to close too fast could create a finger-trapping hazard.
Herein, Why should you adjust the latch speed on a storefront door closer?
The response is: Adjusting the latch speed on a storefront door closer is also important for proper operation and compliance with ADA and ANSI requirements. The latch speed controls how fast the door closes during the final few inches of its swing, ensuring that the door latches securely and prevents air drafts from entering the building.
How do I adjust the latch speed?
To adjust this you will need to locate the latch speed valve and turn it to increase or decrease the latching speed until the door latches safely. When adjusted, the door should allow traffic to safely pass through the door, whilst also latching effectively.
Besides, How long does it take a door closer to close? As an answer to this: According to the ADA standards section 404.2.8, door closers should take atleast 5 seconds to close from the 90 degree door position to 12 degrees. This is referring to the main sweep speed or closing speed. The illustration below shows the closing cycle from 90 degrees to 12 degrees. The main closing speed valve is commonly labeled "S" for sweep.
Keeping this in consideration, What is a door latch speed?
Latching speed controls the last few inches of the door closing. You can increase or reduce the force to ensure the door latches properly but does not slam. Customers often refer to this as the door closer pressure since it is the adjustment that makes sure the door holds shut. A door’s latching speed is controlled by turning the screw labeled “L”.
Why should you adjust the latch speed on a storefront door closer?
Adjusting the latch speed on a storefront door closer is also important for proper operation and compliance with ADA and ANSI requirements. The latch speed controls how fast the door closes during the final few inches of its swing, ensuring that the door latches securely and prevents air drafts from entering the building.
Also, How long does it take a door closer to close? Response to this: According to the ADA standards section 404.2.8, door closers should take atleast 5 seconds to close from the 90 degree door position to 12 degrees. This is referring to the main sweep speed or closing speed. The illustration below shows the closing cycle from 90 degrees to 12 degrees. The main closing speed valve is commonly labeled "S" for sweep.
Furthermore, How do you adjust a door closer?
To adjust a door closer you may need a screwdriver, hex key, and/or a small wrench. Make small turns – less than 1/8″- to the swing speed (S), latch speed (L), back check (B), or delayed action screws as needed. Counter clockwise turns increase the speed/force. Clockwise turns decrease it. Turn screw, test, repeat.