While the core "latch" mechanism on a commercial door involves the bolt and strike plate, the provided information specifically details how to adjust the closing speed of a commercial door's closer. This speed significantly affects how the door closes and how the latch engages with the strike plate. Properly adjusting the door closer's sweep speed is often necessary to ensure the door closes reliably and the latch catches correctly without slamming.
Understanding Commercial Door Adjustment
Commercial doors often feature heavy-duty hardware, including robust latch mechanisms and hydraulic door closers. The latch itself is typically factory-set, relying on the alignment of the door, frame, and strike plate. However, the speed at which the door closes, controlled by the door closer, is adjustable and directly impacts the final moment when the latch bolt meets the strike plate.
If a door closes too slowly, the latch might not have enough momentum to fully engage. If it closes too quickly, it can slam shut, causing wear and potential damage, although a slightly faster speed near the end (latch speed) might be needed to ensure the latch bolt fully extends into the strike plate. The provided reference focuses on adjusting the primary sweep speed (the main closing speed).
Steps for Adjusting Door Closer Speed
Adjusting the sweep speed of a commercial door closer, based on the provided instructions, typically involves locating a set screw on the closer body and using an Allen wrench or screwdriver. This adjustment controls the hydraulic fluid flow, thus controlling the speed.
Here's how to adjust the sweep speed as described:
- Locate the Set Screw(s): Find the adjustment screws on the door closer. These are usually small recessed screws located on the end of the closer body that faces away from the hinge side when the door is closed. Closers may have one, two, or even three adjustment screws for different phases of the door's closing cycle (e.g., sweep speed, latch speed, backcheck). The reference pertains to the screw controlling the main "speed" or "sweep speed."
- Select the Right Tool: The reference specifies the tool needed. Insert a 1/8-inch Allen wrench or screwdriver in the appropriate set screw. Ensure the tool fits snugly to avoid stripping the screw head.
- Make the Adjustment:
- To reduce the speed (make the door close slower), Turn it clockwise.
- To increase the speed (make the door close faster), turn it counterclockwise.
| Adjustment Goal | Direction to Turn Set Screw | Resulting Speed Change |
|---|---|---|
| Reduce Speed | Clockwise | Slower Closing |
| Increase Speed | Counterclockwise | Faster Closing |
Impact of Speed Adjustment on Latching
Adjusting the sweep speed affects how the door approaches the closed position.
- A slower sweep speed provides a more controlled close, which can be beneficial for safety and preventing slamming. However, the door might stop just short of closing or the latch might not fully extend if there's any resistance.
- A faster sweep speed ensures the door reaches the frame with more momentum. While this can help the latch engage reliably, especially against air pressure or minor misalignment, setting the speed too high can cause the door to slam loudly and violently.
It's important to make small adjustments and test the door's closing cycle each time until the desired speed is achieved – one that allows the latch to engage smoothly without excessive force.
If adjusting the closer speed doesn't resolve issues with the latch, the problem might lie with the latch bolt, strike plate alignment, door sagging, or hinge issues, which would require a different set of adjustments or repairs not covered by the provided reference on speed adjustment.
