Fire safety is one of the most critical aspects of modern architecture and construction. In the event of a fire, every second matters — and every component of a fire door system plays a role in saving lives and property. Among these components, fire-rated door hinges may seem small, but they are the key to ensuring that fire doors perform effectively under extreme conditions.
In this article, we’ll explore what fire-rated door hinges are, their standards, the types available, and how to select the right hinge for your fire door system.
What Are Fire Doors and Fire-Rated Door Hinges?
A fire door is a specially designed door that helps contain fire and smoke within a particular compartment for a specified period — usually 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes. Fire doors are crucial for allowing safe evacuation and minimizing fire spread.
To perform effectively, a fire door must remain securely mounted even during intense heat and pressure. This is where fire-rated door hinges come in.
A fire-rated hinge is a type of hinge that has been tested and certified to maintain structural integrity during fire exposure. Unlike regular hinges, fire-rated hinges are made of high-strength metals and are designed to resist deformation, melting, or detachment when exposed to high temperatures.
European Fire Door Hinge Standards
In Europe, the performance of fire door hinges is tested and certified according to standards such as:
- EN 1935:2002 – Single-axis hinges.
- EN 1634-1 – Fire resistance and smoke control tests for doors, shutters, and openable windows.
Hinges meeting these standards are suitable for use on EN fire-rated doors and contribute to overall compliance with CE marking and building safety codes.
Types of Fire-Rated Hinges
(1) SDH’S Stainless Steel Butt Hinges
Stainless steel butt hinges are the most common type used on wooden and metal fire doors.
- Material: SUS304 / SUS201 Stainless Steel
- Standard: BS EN 1935 grade 13
- Load capacity: 120kg
- Durability: 200,000 cycles
- Fire Resistance: 260 minutes, tested and certified by Intertek
- Optional Pin type: non-removable pin, removable pin, security stud
- Features:
- Rust-resistant and corrosion-proof
- High load-bearing capacity
- Smooth, silent operation
- Suitable for both single and double-leaf fire doors
- Types:
These hinges have passed EN 1634-1 testing and are ideal for heavy-duty commercial fire doors in hospitals, schools, and high-rise buildings.
(2) 3D Adjustable Concealed Fire-Rated Hinges
For architects and designers seeking a minimalist look, concealed hinges combine aesthetics with fire safety.
- Material: Zinc Alloy
- Fire Rating: 68 minutes, Intertek fire-tested
- Advantages:
- Invisible installation for seamless door appearance
- Adjustable in three directions (height, depth, and compression)
- Smooth closing, silent operation
- Compatible with wooden or laminate fire-rated doors
Concealed fire-rated hinges are increasingly popular in modern interiors and high-end residential projects where design and safety must coexist.
(3) Hinges for Stone Fire Doors and Shaft Doors
We also provide specialized hinges for stone fire doors and fire-protection shaft doors (such as pipe shaft or fire riser doors).
- Material: Solid SUS304 Stainless Steel
- Features:
- Extra load capacity for heavy stone or composite panels
- Anti-rust and anti-deformation under heat
- Suitable for technical rooms, utility shafts, and fire inspection doors
These hinges ensure both safety and functionality in industrial and architectural applications.
(4) Continuous Hinges (Piano Hinges)
Continuous hinges, also known as piano hinges, offer extended door support from top to bottom.
- Material: Stainless Steel / Aluminum
- Length: Customizable
- Benefits:
- Distributes the door weight evenly
- Prevents sagging and warping
- Ideal for large, heavy, or high-traffic fire doors
Continuous hinges are widely used in public buildings, airports, and commercial facilities for long-term durability and superior fire performance.
Applications of Fire Door Hinges
Fire-rated hinges are essential in a wide range of applications:
- Commercial buildings: Offices, hotels, malls, hospitals, and educational institutions
- Residential complexes: Apartments, villas, and luxury homes with fire compartmentalization
- Public infrastructure: Airports, train stations, and government buildings
- Industrial facilities: Warehouses, power plants, and factories
- Firefighting systems: Fire shafts, riser rooms, and escape corridors
Properly installed fire-rated hinges ensure that fire doors remain closed and operational during a fire, containing flames, protecting escape routes, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
RFQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Door Hinges
1) How many hinges should be installed on a fire door?
Generally, 2 hinges are usually sufficient. However, the specific number depends on the door’s weight and height. Some doors are very tall(over 2.1m) and require three or four hinges. Consult SDH for professional instructions.
2) How to install fire door hinges?
Consult a professional for guidance or have them install it.
Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and ensure testing certification is available.
3) Can fire door hinges be used on non-fire-rated doors?
Yes, but it’s unnecessary.
4) How to choose the right fire door hinge for your project?
- For commercial fire doors, choose stainless steel butt hinges with EN/UL certification.
- For residential or interior fire doors, opt for concealed hinges that combine aesthetics with safety.
- For heavy or special materials like stone or composite doors, use solid stainless or continuous hinges.
If unsure, consult SDH to confirm compatibility.
5. Conclusion
Fire-rated door hinges are not just accessories — they are lifesaving components that ensure your fire doors function correctly in emergencies. Whether you are an architect, contractor, or project manager, choosing certified fire-rated hinges is essential for compliance, performance, and peace of mind.
At SDH Hardware, we provide a complete range of EN and Intertek-tested fire door hinges. Our commitment is to safety, durability, and global quality standards.
If you’re looking for reliable fire-rated door hardware for your next project, contact us today — we’re here to help you build safer spaces.
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