Installation and Maintenance Tips for Standard Friction Hinges
Friction hinge problems can be frustrating for RV owners and may even pose safety risks. Regular lubrication and proper installation can help avoid these issues. These hinges have a spring mechanism that holds the door, flap, panel, or window in a specific position. They are available in one-way, detent, and adjustable designs.
Steel
Standard friction hinges can be made from steel, brass, or stainless steel. They’re typically plated to protect them from corrosive chemicals and other environmental conditions. Friction hinges can be modified to create specific types of resistance or damping. They’re used in various applications, including lids or access panels on equipment, doors, cabinets, display monitors, lighting, and more. These hinges can be engineered as one-way or two-way. They can also have variable-rated torque strengths and free play. Springback and damping capabilities are also available to meet specific needs.
Detent friction hinges feature a spring mechanism that holds an object in place once opened or closed. They’re commonly used on large or heavy doors and devices to prevent spring back and keep the item in place once it’s been opened. These hinges can also be built as bi-stable to limit the movement of an opening to a fixed minimum angle. These are known as restrictor hinges and may be required for safety reasons or by building regulations.
Aluminum
Aluminum friction hinges are available in a variety of sizes and finishes. They can be painted or anodized to create a custom look. The anodizing process uses electricity to generate a color-coded aluminum oxide film, resulting in a highly durable finish that resists corrosion. Other types of friction hinges include detent hinges and bi-stable friction hinges. While they are similar to all other hinges in that they have two leaves and a connecting knuckle, they differ in that they feature an embedded spring mechanism that holds an opening in place. This function is helpful for applications where a door or opening must only open to a certain degree. This model’s angled, pointed sash arm allows windows to open to their maximum extent while providing optimal gasket compression and smooth engagement. They are rated to meet BS EN 13126-6:2008 and BS 6375-1:2009 for lasting, safe performance. Security performance may be enhanced by fitting a hinge guard protection plate or dog bolts.
Brass
Brass hinges are made from a mix of copper and zinc and provide high corrosion resistance in harsh environments. Brass is also a good choice for heavy hinge applications because it has excellent elasticity and can withstand much friction. Brass and bronze hinges are awesome for doors exposed to the elements, especially in coastal areas. These hinges are designed to last a long time and require less maintenance than other hinges. They can withstand a lot of friction and are a good choice for coastal homes susceptible to salt spray. Friction stay hinges are the standard type of hinge found in uPVC casement windows. They can be restricted to a maximum opening angle, allowing you to clean the glass inside the house and comply with building regulations for egress. These hinges are available with a metal end cap or a plastic-handed version for easy fitting and greater tolerance. They are also supplied with a 13mm stack height and can be enhanced with a plastic hinge packer for increased depth up to 17mm.
Bronze
Hinges come in various sizes, shapes, and amounts of torque. They hold doors, flaps, panels, and windows in the desired position. They differ by their ability to withstand dynamic torque, which is the force that causes them to rotate. The power of a hinge to remain in its open or closed position depends on its strength. A hinge’s friction or torque strength can vary based on its format, internal mechanisms, and design. However, all hinges must function within an expected range to provide the intended movement and stopping capabilities.Installation and Maintenance Tips for Standard Friction Hinges
