When to use a pneumatic door operator.

A pneumatic door operator may be the answer to selving many of the dilemmas that can arise in some applications where automatic operators are needed but other conditions also prevail. Pneumatic operators consist of a power operator that uses a compressed air source to provide quiet and reliable door control. Here are some reasons to consider using pneumatic door operators:

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Quiet Operation: One of the most obvious benefits of pneumatic operation is its quietness. Generally powered by either building compressed air or a small remote compressor, pneumatic operators keep operating noise at a minimum, which is important in applications such as libraries or churches. When compressed air is provided at the opening, they can be paired with pneumatic exit devices to reduce noise levels even more.

Size: Because they do not require as complex a mechanism at the door frame, pneumatic operators are the smallest operators in the commercial market. This makes them ideal for applications where size and/or aesthetics play a role. Also, they can be used with either non-ADA doors or those requiring operators to meet ADA accessibility guidelines.

Safety: Without the need for high-voltage wiring to supply a power source at the door frame, Pneumatic Operators can be used safely in hazardous locations. The control box can be located up to 100 feet away from the door operator, so it can be placed outside the hazardous area. They also are ideal for clean room applications, since they do not use hydraulic fluid that could contaminate a closed space.

Cost: Pneumatic door operators generally are less expensive then other operators, since they have fewer components and less complicated controls. Especially for double doors, they decrease the cost per leaf, as individual power sources and redundant controls are not required. One control box may power up to two pairs of doors simultaneously. This results in a significant savings on installation and material costs.

Versatility: Pneumatic door operators are available in many mounting configurations, including concealed and surface mount push side or pull side. Another variation is a door-mounted parallel arm, mounted on the push side of the door. For low ceilings, some models can be mounted on the hinge side to gain extra clearance.

Durability: Pneumatic operators are available that are based on rugged, proven cast iron door closer designs that ensure long, trouble-free operation. Features such as Spring Cush arms are available for applications where heavy doors or other conditions require added protection from back-check damage.

Smoke Evacuation: For Blow

Open applications where it is necessary to provide smoke evacuation in case of a fire, pneumatic operators can be controlled by a building's smoke evacuation system to allow fresh air into the building.

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These are some of the main benefits of using pneumatic door operators. These advantages can help solve difficult or unusual installation problems and improve door operation under a wide variety of circumstances. Contact the door operator manufacturer for additional application assistance.

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About the Author: Joseph A. Vaida is the Product Manager for LCN Electronic Door Controls at Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies. He has been with Ingersoll Rand since 2005, and has held his current position since 2006. Joseph is primarily responsible for the Automatic Operator product offering, also including electrically held open closers, scanners, and hold-open magnets.