How to choose a sliding door engine (full guide)

Choosing the suitable engine for a sliding door is a key decision to ensure safe, durable and smooth operation. In this guide we explain clearly what factors you must take into account before buying an automatic door engine.

1. Weight and length of the door

The first factor to take into account is the weight of the door. Each engine is designed to withstand a maximum weight, so it is important not to stay fair.

• Light doors (up to 400 kg): Basic or residential engines
• Half doors (400 kg - 800 kg): Most robust motors
• Heavy doors (+800 kg): High power motors

You must also consider the length of the door, since at a greater length, greater effort for the engine.

2. Type of use (work intensity)

It is not the same a particular housing that a community of neighbors or a company.

• Residential use: Few cycles a day (10-20 openings)
• Community use: Medium Use (20-100 daily cycles)
• Intensive or industrial use: Continuous use (+100 daily cycles)

Choosing an appropriate engine to the intensity of use will prevent premature breakdowns.

3. 230V or 24V engine: Which one choosing?

This is one of the most common doubts. Each option has its advantages:

• 230V engine:
  • Cheapest
  • Greater brute force
  • Ideal for residential use
• 24V engine:
  • Greater security
  • More intensive use
  • Allows battery in electric cut
  • Smoother

In general, for communities or frequent use, a 24V engine is recommended.

4. End of race: Mechanics or magnetic

The race finishes determine when the door should stop.

• Mechanical:
  • Cheapest
  • They work by physical contact
  • They can wear out over time
• Magnetic:
  • Greater precision
  • Without physical contact
  • More durable
  • Recommended for intensive use

If you are looking for durability and lower maintenance, magnetics are the best option.

5. Engine with encoder or without encoder

The encoder allows controlling the movement of the engine with greater precision.

• With Encoder:
  • Greater security (obstacle detection)
  • Mocking
  • Recommended in most facilities
• Without encoder:
  • Cheapest
  • More basic system

6. Installation conditions

There are external factors that also influence the choice of the engine:

• Pendant
• Exposure to the wind
• State of the wheels and guide
• Frequency

A poorly installed or friction door can seriously affect the engine performance.

7. Final Recommendation

To hit the election, we recommend:

• Do not choose the power just power
• Betting on engines with encoder if you are looking for security
• Choose magnetic finals for durability
• Opt over 24V in Facilities with Frequently Use

If you have doubts about what engine you need, you can contact us and we will advise you according to your specific case.

See Motors for sliding door

In our online store you can find a wide selection of motors for sliding doors adapted to all kinds of facilities.

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