Hinge throw refers to the swinging radius or the arc a door or gate travels when opened using a hinge. It essentially describes the extent to which a hinged object can be opened.
Understanding Traditional vs. Wide-Throw Hinges
Traditional hinges typically allow for a 90-degree opening radius. This means a door can open roughly one-quarter of the way from its closed position.
- Imagine a door initially closed against a wall (0 degrees). When opened using a traditional hinge, the door can swing 90 degrees out from the wall.
Wide-throw hinges, on the other hand, allow for a wider opening radius than traditional hinges. They permit doors or gates to swing open further.
- Wide-throw hinges are ideal for situations where a door needs to open more than 90 degrees.
Types of Hinge Throw
While traditional hinges are typically 90 degrees, wide-throw hinges can vary in the extent of their throw:
- 90-Degree Throw: This is the standard opening for traditional hinges.
- Greater than 90-Degree Throw: Hinges that allow the door to swing past 90 degrees are considered wide-throw hinges. The specific degree can vary.
- For example, some hinges can open to 135 degrees or even 180 degrees.
Practical Applications and Examples
- Doors needing wider clearance: In tight spaces, a wider-throw hinge is useful, such as a door next to a corner or in a narrow hallway. This ensures that the door can fully open and not obstruct passage.
- Gates: Wide-throw hinges can allow gates to swing fully open and lie flat against a fence or wall.
- Cabinet doors: Certain cabinet designs might benefit from a wider throw hinge, allowing better access to the contents.
Summary Table
| Feature | Traditional Hinge | Wide-Throw Hinge |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Throw | 90 degrees | Greater than 90 degrees |
| Opening Radius | Limited | Wider |
| Common Use Cases | Standard doors | Wide doors, gates |
By understanding hinge throw, you can choose the correct hinge for your specific needs, ensuring the door or gate functions effectively.
