The difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 door closers primarily lies in their durability, performance, and usage specifications, as defined by standards such as those from the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Here's a detailed comparison:
Grade 1 Door Closers:
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Durability and Performance:
- Cycle Testing: Grade 1 door closers are tested to withstand 2,000,000 cycles. This high durability makes them suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Strength: They are generally stronger and more robust, designed to handle heavier doors and frequent use.
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Applications:
- Commonly used in commercial settings such as schools, hospitals, and office buildings where doors are frequently operated and need to endure significant wear and tear.
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Standards Compliance:
- Complies with ANSI/BHMA A156.4 Grade 1 standards.
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Features:
- Often include advanced features such as adjustable spring power, delayed action, backcheck, and multi-point control for closing speed.
Grade 2 Door Closers:
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Durability and Performance:
- Cycle Testing: Grade 2 door closers are tested to withstand 1,000,000 cycles. While still durable, they are intended for less demanding environments compared to Grade 1.
- Strength: Suitable for lighter to moderate use, typically for doors that are not as heavy or do not experience constant traffic.
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Applications:
- Typically found in light commercial applications, small businesses, or residential settings where the door usage is less intense.
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Standards Compliance:
- Complies with ANSI/BHMA A156.4 Grade 2 standards.
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Features:
- May have fewer or less advanced features compared to Grade 1 closers. Basic adjustments for closing and latching speed are common, but they might not include all the advanced functionalities of Grade 1 closers.
Summary:
- Grade 1 door closers are built for high-traffic, demanding environments, offering superior durability, higher cycle ratings, and often more advanced features.
- Grade 2 door closers are designed for medium to low traffic areas, providing adequate performance for lighter use with a lower cycle rating and typically fewer features.
Choosing between Grade 1 and Grade 2 depends on the specific needs of the installation environment and the expected frequency of door usage. For high-traffic and heavy-duty applications, Grade 1 is preferable, while Grade 2 is sufficient for moderate use.