Whilst we have a full range of regular hinges, in diverse materials, sizes and wing extensions, for this blog we will focus on our specialized hinges. These industry specific hinges are not just about basic functionality and durability; they incorporate several innovative features which we explain and highlight here.
The fitting of hinges is not always straightforward, depending upon the application. Adjustable hinges such as GN238 allow perfect positioning and alignment of doors in their frames. they have adjusting disks made of tempered steel underneath the plastic cap, fitted with a cutting ring in the underside which cuts into the radial ribs of the die-cast zinc wings. When the countersunk screw is tightened a rigid and stable form-lock is created.
This functional principle is patented and is capable of compensating dimensional variances in the fixing hole of as much as 1.5 mm. This is, of course, a substantial advantage during installation. A cover conceals the screws, protecting from dust and dirt ingress.
The vast majority of hinges are attached using screw fixings, however there are occasions where this is not suitable, and this is where weldable hinges come into play. These hinges do not have holes and they can additionally be used in situations where you wish to add your own screw pattern.
Weldable hinges also have an advantage in that they are not easy to remove, and so this provides a level of security. An example is GN1366, and the variant shown also has a lubricating nipple, which allows quick and easy relubrication without dismantling the hinges.
Hinges which incorporate this clever design feature contain two slim friction cones which are braced together. This allows the mobility of the hinge to be easily adjusted as required, from free swinging to completely locked, and back to free swinging, or any stage in between. Inadvertent motion and slamming is prevented.
Another effect of this type of hinge is that there is no play in axial or radial direction of the hinge. The large friction surface and the low-wear synthetic material of the friction cone guarantee a long service life with virtually constant friction force. Zinc die cast, stainless steel and plastic options are available and the example shown is GN437
Lockable hinges such as GN437.2 use a hand lever to secure them at any angle. In its rest position it swings freely, and it locks when the lever is pressed down, engaging serrations to clamp it in place. The hinges are used to fix a door in a specific position, until the action is reversed.
No matter how well a door is locked, if hinges are accessible this can prove to be a vulnerable point, and so anti-tamper hinges are a must! Examples such as GN129.5 are used for door which sit flush with the frame, and once assembled, they cannot be unhinged. As they are fixed on the inside of the door they are especially suitable for doors or trap doors which must not be opened from the outside.
Other types of hinges use a concealed screw to result in a tamper proof product, for example GN139.2, which are often used to mount against glass or polycarbonate doors. Variants of this hinges such as GN139.1 can also include electrical connection and safety switches, indicating if a door is open and making a truly versatile hinge.
These are a modular design hinge ideal for using with aluminium profiles and panel elements. They are mounted so that the screws are inaccessible when the door is closed, and are therefore protected from tampering and vandalism. Examples include GN2295
These hinges are heavy duty hinges with a clever and complex design, and an example is GN7247. They are installed on the inside of doors, flaps and hinges, saving space and preventing vandalism and tampering. They fold back 180 degrees, for optimal accessibility and to prevent the blocking of escape routes. A typical application for these hinges is on the cargo hatches of coaches and buses, or on trap doors where the flap must sit flat and there must be no protrusions to provide trip hazards. Another advantage is that the hinges do not show from the exterior, which can be important to assist with fast, easy cleaning, and look visually appealing.
In conclusion, these specialized hinges have a complex range of features which enhance their security, functionality and flexibility and allow them to meet industry specific needs. At Berger Tools, we continue to cater to these needs, bringing you the solution to every hinge requirement!
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