Choosing a Cam Action Door Closer
A cam action door closer uses a cam-based mechanism rather than the conventional rack-and-pinion mechanism found in many standard overhead closers.
One of the principal advantages of the cam mechanism is the ability to provide effective closing force while reducing the resistance experienced as the user opens the door.
This makes cam action closers particularly attractive where the door must reliably self-close but should also remain comfortable and easy to operate.
Why Choose a Cam Action Door Closer?
A conventional closer needs sufficient spring force to return the door securely to the closed position. Depending on the closer and door arrangement, this can also make the door more difficult to open.
A cam action mechanism is designed to provide a more favourable relationship between opening force and closing power.
For this reason, cam action door closers are commonly considered for accessible entrances, apartment entrance doors, hotels, offices, healthcare buildings and other frequently used doors where ease of opening is an important part of the specification.
Cam Action Closers & Accessibility
The force required to open a self-closing door is an important consideration in accessible building design.
A cam action closer can help reduce opening resistance, making the door easier to operate for a wide range of users while still providing controlled self-closing.
Selected cam action closers within the Roundtower Hardware range are specifically designed for applications where accessibility requirements need to be considered.
The complete door assembly still matters. Door width, hinges, seals, latch resistance, air pressure and the adjustment of the closer can all affect the final opening force measured at the door.
Surface Mounted or Concealed Cam Action Closer?
Cam action technology is available in both surface-mounted and concealed door closers.
A surface-mounted cam action closer is fitted visibly to the face of the door or frame. This provides relatively straightforward access for installation and adjustment.
A concealed cam action closer is recessed into the door or frame, leaving significantly less of the mechanism visible once the door is installed.
Concealed models can be particularly attractive on apartment entrances, hotels and higher-specification interiors where architectural appearance is important.
Understanding EN Power Sizes
Door closers are commonly classified using EN power sizes.
A variable power closer, such as an EN 2–4 model, allows the spring force to be adjusted within a specified range to suit different door sizes and operating conditions.
The correct power setting is important. Too much closing force can make the door unnecessarily difficult to open, while too little force may prevent it from closing and latching reliably.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommended door dimensions and adjustment instructions.
Cam Action Closers for Fire Doors
Cam action closers can also be used as part of a fire-rated door assembly, provided the particular closer is suitably tested or certified for that application.
Where a fire door is required to self-close, the closer must provide sufficient force to return the door reliably to the closed and latched position.
Fire performance varies between products and installation arrangements, so always check the fire test evidence, certification, permitted mounting position and manufacturer's instructions for the individual closer.
The door closer should be considered as one component of the complete tested fire-door assembly.
Adjustable Closing & Latch Speed
Cam action closers can offer adjustable control over different stages of the closing cycle.
Sweep or closing speed controls the main movement of the door towards the frame.
Latch speed controls the final section of travel and helps ensure that the door closes sufficiently to engage with the latch.
Correct adjustment is particularly important where accessibility and reliable fire-door closing both need to be achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cam action door closer?
A cam action door closer uses a cam-based mechanism to control the opening and closing movement of the door.
The mechanism is designed to provide reliable closing while helping reduce the force required to open the door.
Are cam action door closers easier to open?
They can be.
One of the main reasons for specifying a cam action closer is to achieve lower opening resistance while retaining adequate closing force.
The actual opening force will also depend on the door, hinges, seals and final adjustment.
Are cam action closers suitable for accessible doors?
Cam action closers are commonly considered where accessibility is important because of their reduced opening resistance.
However, the complete installed door should be assessed against the applicable accessibility requirements rather than relying solely on the closer type.
Can cam action closers be used on fire doors?
Yes, selected models can.
The individual closer must have suitable fire test evidence or certification for the intended door assembly and must be installed in an approved configuration.
What does EN 2–4 mean?
EN 2–4 indicates that the closer has an adjustable power range rather than one fixed closing force.
This allows the installer to adjust the closer within the manufacturer's specified range to suit different door sizes and conditions.
What is the difference between a cam action and standard door closer?
A standard overhead closer commonly uses a rack-and-pinion mechanism, while a cam action closer uses a cam profile.
The cam mechanism can provide lower opening resistance, which is particularly useful where accessibility and ease of operation are priorities.
What is the difference between concealed and surface-mounted cam action closers?
A surface-mounted closer remains visible on the face of the door or frame.
A concealed closer is recessed into the door or frame, providing a cleaner architectural appearance while retaining controlled self-closing.
Need Help Choosing a Cam Action Door Closer?
The correct closer will depend on your door width, weight, fire rating, accessibility requirements and preferred installation type.
Roundtower Hardware supplies surface-mounted and concealed cam action door closers in Ireland for residential, commercial, apartment and fire-door applications.
Browse our range online or contact our team if you need help selecting the correct cam action closer for your project.
