Choosing the right hinge

FIRE DOORS 

To ensure you comply with the latest UK Construction products directive, all fire doors should be fitted with hinges that are fire rated, which means they need to be CE or UKCA marked. To achieve FD30 or FD60 and comply with fire test evidence – 2 x 0.8mm hinge pads per hinge. One Intumescent hinge pad to be behind frame hinge leaf and one behind door hinge leaf.

(Specifically for 102x76x3mm Grade13 butt hinges, not all hinge types)

Fire doors are a critical barrier for the spread of fires, and it is essential that the correctly specified ironmongery & intumescent is fitted to comply with manufacturers instructions. 

CE MARKING is a mandatory conformity marking for certain products sold within the European economic area. Under CPR, certain fire and life safety products may only be placed on the market if they carry the CE mark as they need to perform a vital function in the performance of fire, smoke and escape doors. The CE mark indicates that the hardware product achieves at least the minimum performance deemed essential in aspects of its operation and use. 

Change is happening… as the UK leaves the EU, CE marked goods will be changing to UKCA marking. Products that previously required CE marking will now require the UKCA (UK conformity assessed) marking. During this transition you may find products still CE marked which you can continue to use, and some products purchased after 1st Jan 2021 may be marked UKCA. Both marks are recognised and accepted, and it is important to note that the change is the product markings, not the actual performance test criteria. 

CERTIFIRE is an independent 3rd party scheme which provide high quality voluntary, product conformity for the passive fire sector assuring the safety of the products.

BS EN1935 HINGE CLASSIFICATION

This clarifies the necessary adjusted door weights per grade of hinge. 

Note this is with using 3 hinges. 

GRADE 7 

Max door mass 40kg

GRADE 11 

Max door mass 80kg

certifire

GRADE 13 

Max door mass 120kg

GRADE 14 

Max door mass 160kg

HINGE MAINTENANCE

Ball bearing butt hinges will need periodic oiling depending on usage. 

Concealed bearing hinges do not need maintenance as they are self lubricating.

(Refer to manufacturers for instructions, as some may vary)