Testing the Force Required to Open a Door
In Australia, regulations exist that stipulate the maximum force required to open a door. This is particularly important for improving accessibility for wheelchair users, older persons and anyone with an injury.
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When the standard was drafted in 2009, it stated the maximum forces required to open as follows:
For doors other than fire doors and smoke doors where a door closer is fitted, the force required to operate the door shall not exceed the following:
- (i) To initially open the door .......................................................................... 20 N.
- (ii) To swing the door...................................................................................... 20 N.
- (iii) To hold the door open between 60° and 90°............................................... 20 N.
The Lutron FG-5020 force gauge is used in Australia to test the force required to open a door.
The FG-5020 has a measuring range of up to 196.10 N, which is ideal for this application, as you wouldn’t want the door to require the maximum force to open.
It also has a 15 N overload capacity, so it will give readings up to 30 N, and it will show if a door requires more force than is permissible to open.
The peak hold function freezes the highest reading on the display until you are ready to move on.
The LCD display also has a ‘reverse’ view function, so it can be read easily regardless of how the device is held or used.
Data logging software and a USB cable are available as optional extras, to give you this additional functionality if required.
Lutron Electronic Enterprise Co., Ltd. was established in 1976 and has been manufacturing test and measurement instruments for more than 40 years, and they are remarkably affordable.
This is because most Lutron test and measurement devices include only the functions you need. Some devices include many features you may never use, but you still pay for.
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Contact ADM if you would like assistance in selecting a suitable force gauge. A member of our expert team will gladly answer any questions that you may have.
