Automatic Swing Doors

Automatic Swing Doors Overview

An automatic swing door is a hinged door moved by an electromechanical operator mounted above the leaf or concealed in the frame. It swings like any hinged door, but opening is triggered by a push button, sensor or access card instead of a push.

Swing doors make sense where there is no wall space beside the opening for a sliding door: internal corridors, room doors, secondary entrances and narrow doorways in existing buildings. They are also a practical way to provide accessible entry for wheelchair users and older people, and to move beds and trolleys through hospital corridors without someone holding the door.

In many cases an operator can be retrofitted to an existing door once the leaf and hinges have been checked, so buildings can be upgraded without replacing doors outright. Our guide on how to choose an automatic door compares the main types.

How It Works

1. Open command

   A push button, motion sensor, card reader or remote sends the open signal.

2. Leaf movement

   The operator drives an arm connected to the leaf, opening it to a set angle and speed.

3. Swing-zone protection

   Safety sensors watch the swing path and stop or reverse the door if someone is in the way.

4. Closing

   After an adjustable hold-open time the operator closes the door gently. Many units also allow normal manual use.

Key Benefits

• Works in tight spaces

  No side wall space is needed, so it suits corridors and narrow doorways.

• Accessible entry

  Effortless opening for wheelchair users, older people, and staff moving beds or trolleys.

• Retrofit option

  Operators can often be added to existing doors after assessment.

• Quiet operation

  Controlled, quiet movement suits hospitals, hotels and offices.

• Access control ready

  Connects to card readers or intercoms to restrict entry.

• Flexible use

  Systems are available that combine automatic and manual operation.

Suitable Applications

Swing doors suit locations that need an automated door but have no room for a sliding system:

• Hospital corridors and wards
• Accessible washrooms
• Offices and meeting rooms
• Hotel corridors and service areas
• Residential building entrances
• Clinics and medical centres
• Secondary commercial entrances
• Operating theatres and laboratories

Available Configurations

Specifications are defined per project, based on leaf weight, opening direction and who will use the door. Options commonly considered include:

• Leaves: single or double leaf.
• Opening direction: inswing or outswing, with a push or pull arm depending on operator position.
• Leaf type: glass, timber, steel or aluminium, new or existing.
• Finishes: operator cover colours to match the frame and wall.
• Activation: push button, touchless switch, motion sensor or card reader.
• Safety accessories: swing-zone sensors on both sides of the leaf.
• Locking and integration: electric locks and links to access control or fire alarm systems.

Factors Affecting Selection

• Available space: the swing zone must be clear and safe for people passing.
• Leaf weight and width: determine operator choice and fixing method.
• Existing door condition: for retrofits, hinges, frame and leaf must be sound.
• User profile: patients and older users need slower opening and longer hold-open times.
• Traffic direction: swing direction affects safety and flow in the corridor.
• Escape and fire requirements: if the door is on an escape route, confirm applicable requirements with the authority or consultant.
• Access level: whether the door is open to all or restricted by card.

Installation Considerations

A swing door relies on a solid operator fixing and a well-aligned leaf. We carry out automatic door installation after inspecting the door and wall. See our guide on preparing the door opening before installation.

• Opening readiness: a securely fixed frame and a leaf that moves freely on its hinges.
• Supporting structure: a wall or head frame able to hold the operator.
• Power supply: a point close to the operator position above the door.
• Clearances: a clear swing zone and enough space above the door for the operator.
• Contractor coordination: cabling for buttons and readers run before painting and finishes.
• Handover and training: setting speed, opening angle and hold-open time, and explaining operating modes.

Maintenance

Regular servicing keeps movement quiet and safety sensors reliable, which is especially important in healthcare buildings. Our automatic door maintenance typically includes:

• Checking the operator, arm and fixings.
• Inspecting hinges and leaf alignment.
• Testing safety sensors on both sides.
• Adjusting opening and closing speed and hold-open time.
• Testing buttons, readers and electric locks.
• Confirming safe manual operation.

To find out whether your doors can be automated, book a site survey or request a quote.