A deep dive into door automation

The convenience of use and simple yet stylish appearance of door automation solutions make them a popular choice amongst architects, designers, and builders in a variety of sectors. However, the advantages of automatic doors extend far beyond this, including regulating climate control and functionality for people of all ages and abilities.

Our comprehensive range of automatic swing and sliding doors have various accessories to enhance accessibility and safety and can, in many cases, seamlessly integrate with our access control systems. 

This blog post will be delving into the popular swing and sliding types of automatic doors we offer and where they can be implemented to elevate your architecture.

Automatic Swing Doors

An efficient entryway for both internal and external uses, automatic swing doors provide outstanding accessibility, even in an area with limited space, meeting the legislative requirements for disabled access under the Equality Act (2010).

With a small, unobtrusive design and silent operation, these can be fitted to single and double units on new doors or even retrofitted to existing doors. Automatic swing doors are versatile and can meet a broad range of needs: they can be used for wind load control at windswept sites, as fire doors on emergency escapes and even for reducing carbon footprints with their energy saving mode. For additional security they can be paired with an access control system rather than radar or push pad activation.

For the consideration of those with impaired mobility, these also come in a low energy mode which uses slow moving speeds and controlled forces.

Interspec range

The Interspec range is the ideal choice for any application with its slim design, high performance and wide range of functions that meet the most varied installation requirements. Equipped with advanced software solutions for maximum reliability, the digital programmer can perform a complete diagnostic of the system with the ability to access information such as the history of detected errors. 

The system gives users the option to adjust opening and closing speeds as well as manage safety sensors to control the moving forces or inversion of movement in the presence of obstacles. With minimal power consumption and an emergency battery, in the event of a power failure the operator can be activated by battery back-up and continue to operate. 

Our Interspec range offers some of the most powerful, safe, and flexible door operators on the market with intelligent standard functions and manual usage. Most importantly, our Interspec operators have EL30 Fire approval and comply with European safety standards including EN16005.

Automatic sliding door

Automatic sliding doors are safe, secure, and reliable for high traffic environments where convenience of pedestrian access is important. Typically, using a sensor device which commands the opening and closing of the door, these are often seen in hospitals, office buildings, hotel entrances, shopping centres and airports due to their accessibility. 

These can also be integrated with curtain walling systems as well as our access control systems and ironmongery products for the ultimate combination of safety and style. 

Interspec range 90 & 150

Designed to facilitate silence, fluidity of movement, and reliability, the Interspec range has products for both lightweight and heavy duty applications, with a double wheel carriage for greater stability and soundproof sliding guide. 

Using a smartphone app for easy setup, they come with over 2,000,000 continuous operation cycles with the optional use of a battery for emergency opening and emergency locking. This works as a fail-safe by providing 60 minutes of continuous operation with monitoring to ensure battery reliability.

Where can door automation be utilised? 

Education

Staff and students should feel safe and secure in school without their ability to move around being impeded, which is why door automation is so popular for education environments. It also allows younger students or students with disabilities to use the building the same as their peers.

We were commissioned by Edge Hill University to provide energy efficient solutions aiding accessibility compliance. With over 1,000 staff and students using this traffic-heavy environment, efficient access, egress and ease of movement around the building is of paramount importance. To meet the architects brief of durability, comfort and aesthetics we supplied sliding and swing door units for pedestrian areas together with fully automatic electro-hydraulic operators. Find out more about this project. 

You can also read more about door automation in school environments in another of our blog posts, here. 

Commercial

A noteworthy example of door automation in a commercial setting is the Theatre Royal, Drury lane. This renovation of a historic, busy building with areas of high footfall was supplied with automatic swing doors to allow an unrestricted flow through the building whilst maintaining fire protection and safety standards. 

Coordinating a balance between the historic features with the functionality of a modern building was possible due to the discreet finish of the swing door operators. These blended into the original features of the building, creating a world-class, accessible and functional building for entertainment and cultural value. Find out more about this project. 

Accommodation

Automatic doors can be seamlessly integrated with access control and hardware products, providing simpler, easy-to-use systems making them the ideal choice for retirement accommodation where residents’ independence and lifestyles are important. 

Low energy, slow moving doors allow greater mobility for both staff and residents whilst removing dangers such as crush injuries. Fire safety is also accounted for as the doors meet legislative requirements and can be used to aid an emergency escape route.

Health

Door automation can be used to stop congestion or queues, which is vital in medical environments where patients and staff need to move swiftly and efficiently. Automatic door operators in main entrances, wards, lift lobbies and other high traffic areas allow unimpeded movement with potential to hold doors open or closed for additional safety and accessibility. To balance the fire protection, privacy, access and security needs of a bespoke healthcare space, doors can also be linked with access control systems.

You can also read more about door automation in health environments in another of our blog posts, here. 

Installation services

Involving customers from the beginning of the project is an important aspect of the Lloyd Worrall process, which is why we provide full technical support and advice throughout design, planning and installation. All our engineers keep up to date with industry regulations and undergo stringent training to be members of ADSA (Automatic Door Suppliers Association). all our installations are carried out to comply with the recommendations of BS EN16005 (safety in use of automatic doors for pedestrian use).

Maintenance contract and call-out service

A number of our access and egress systems come with a pre-planned maintenance service which includes a visit by an ADSA approved engineer twice a year, a telephone support service and discounted call-out rates. 

Regular maintenance is vital to guarantee that you achieve the maximum life span from the equipment, unnecessary breakdowns are avoided and ensures the products safety and compliance with the latest standards. 

Working with Lloyd Worrall to find your perfect automation solution

Whatever sector you’re in, door automation is an excellent way to upgrade your space and adhere to the higher standards for todays buildings. Luckily, Lloyd Worrall makes it easy. Get in touch with our expert team at enquiries@lloydworrall.co.uk