Exploring different types of hinges: A comprehensive guide
Hinges may seem like simple, everyday components, but they play a critical role in the design and function of countless products and structures. From doors and cabinets to heavy machinery and electronic devices, different types of hinges allow for the controlled movement of parts, enabling them to open, close, or pivot smoothly. While they often go unnoticed, choosing the right hinge for a particular application is essential for ensuring optimal performance and durability. In this guide, we’ll cover:
What are hinges?
Basic hinge anatomy
Common materials used in hinges
Types of hinges
Matching hinges to specific applications
Choosing the right hinge
Conclusion
Glossary of hinge terms
What are hinges?
Hinges are mechanical bearings that connect two objects, allowing them to pivot relative to one another, usually along a single axis. They enable the movement of doors, lids, and other objects by permitting them to swing open and closed.
Importance of hinges in various applications
Hinges play a vital role in applications across industries and households. In architecture, they’re essential for the functionality of doors, windows, and gates. In cabinetry, furniture, and appliances, hinges ensure ease of access and usability. They’re also crucial in industrial settings, from large-scale machinery to small precision instruments.
The right hinge ensures smooth operation, durability, and safety, making it an indispensable component in both structural and functional designs. Without proper hinges, these systems would either fail or become less efficient, impacting convenience and reliability.
Basic hinge anatomy
The basic anatomy of a hinge consists of three main components: the leaf, the knuckle, and the pin. Here's a breakdown of each part:
How hinges work
Hinges work by providing a pivot point between two connected objects, allowing one or both of them to rotate around a fixed axis.
1. When the two leaves of the hinge are attached to separate surfaces (such as a door and its frame), the knuckles from each leaf mesh together, forming a series of joints.
2. The pin, which runs through the centre of these knuckles, acts as the axis, enabling the door to swing open or closed in a controlled manner.
The design of a hinge ensures that while rotational movement is allowed, the two connected objects remain aligned and securely fastened. The leaves bear the weight and stress, while the knuckles and pin manage the movement.
This simple yet effective mechanism enables hinges to handle varying degrees of load, movement, and wear, depending on their material and design.
Whether it’s a heavy door or a small cabinet, hinges facilitate smooth, reliable operation by distributing force and providing the necessary pivoting action.
Common materials used in hinges
Metal hinges offer durability, strength, and longevity. Different metals bring specific advantages based on their properties, such as resistance to wear, corrosion, and environmental conditions.
1. Steel
Steel is one of the most widely used materials for hinges due to its strength and affordability. Steel hinges are robust and capable of handling heavy loads, making them ideal for doors, gates, and other high-use items. However, unless coated or treated, steel can be susceptible to rust and corrosion, which is why they are often plated or painted for protection.
Example: Steel weld-on flag hinge
2. Brass
Brass is valued for its corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal. These hinges have a golden, polished appearance that makes them popular in decorative applications, such as furniture and cabinetry. Brass hinges are resistant to tarnishing and do not rust, making them suitable for use in humid environments or areas prone to moisture.
Example: Brass side hinge
3. Stainless-steel
The high chromium content in stainless steel provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion. These alloys are known for their impressive strength and longevity, and they require very little upkeep. As a result, stainless steel hinges are commonly used in settings where exposure to moisture is prevalent.
Example: Stainless steel concealed hinge
4. Zamak
Zamak is a family of zinc alloys with aluminium, magnesium, and copper, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional metals. Zamak hinges provide decent strength and corrosion resistance, especially when plated. They’re lightweight, easy to cast, and often used in decorative applications, such as furniture and light-duty hinges. While not as strong as steel or stainless steel, Zamak is a good choice for less demanding applications.
Example: Zamak lift-off hinge
5. Aluminium
Aluminium is lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and has a good strength-to-weight ratio. Aluminium is also resistant to weather and environmental factors, making it a good choice for outdoor use. Lacking the strength of steel, aluminium hinges offer enough strength for light to medium-duty applications.
Example: aluminium torque hinge
Different hinges: metal
| Material | Strength | Corrosion resistance | Weight | Common applications |
| Steel | High | Moderate (may rust) |
Heavy | Industrial doors, gates, heavy machinery |
| Brass | Moderate | High | Medium | Decorative furniture, cabinetry |
| Stainless steel | High | Very high | Medium | Marine environments, outdoor fixtures, kitchen appliances |
| Zamack | Moderate | Moderate (plated) |
Light | Light-duty applications, decorative items |
| Aluminium | Moderate | High | Very light | Lightweight doors, outdoor furniture, windows |
Plastic hinges
Plastic hinges may not match the strength of their metal counterparts, but they provide advantages when flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and affordability are key. Below is an overview of the benefits of commonly used plastics in hinge production.
1. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)
ABS is recognized for its strength, impact resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Hinges crafted from ABS are lightweight yet robust, making them well-suited for applications involving lightweight doors, cabinets, and various consumer products. Their ability to absorb impacts means they can endure frequent use without cracking or breaking.
Example: ABS concealed hinge
2. Nylon
Nylon is a highly adaptable and durable plastic that offers exceptional flexibility and resistance to wear. Nylon hinges can accommodate moderate loads and are valued for their low-friction properties, enabling smooth operation without the need for lubrication. They also resist corrosion, most chemicals, and UV rays, making them ideal for use in both indoor and outdoor settings. Consequently, nylon hinges are frequently used in electronics, appliances, and industrial applications where a robust, non-metallic solution is necessary.
Example: nylon HVAC hinge
3. Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is a lightweight, flexible plastic that exhibits good resistance to chemical corrosion, making it ideal for hinges in environments where exposure to harsh chemicals or moisture is likely. PP hinges also boast excellent fatigue resistance, enabling them to endure repeated bending or flexing without damage. This quality makes them suitable for various applications, including packaging, plastic containers, and lightweight doors.
Example: PP continuous hinge
4. Acrylic
Acrylic hinges offer transparency and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for applications where visual appearance is important, such as display cases, shelving, and clear enclosures. Acrylic is rigid and resistant to UV light, which prevents discoloration and degradation when exposed to sunlight. However, acrylic is more brittle compared to other plastics, so these hinges are better suited for low-stress applications.
Example: Acrylic leaf hinge
5. Polyoxymethylene (acetal or POM)
Acetal, also known as polyoxymethylene (POM), is a high-strength, low-friction plastic known for its excellent dimensional stability. Acetal hinges are tough, resistant to wear, and maintain their performance over time, even in harsh conditions. They’re often used in precision applications, such as machinery, automotive components, and medical devices. Acetal’s strength, rigidity, and resistance to moisture and chemicals make it ideal for high-performance hinges that require long-term durability.
Example: Acetal torque hinge
Different hinges: plastic
| Material | Strength | Corrosion resistance | Weight | Common applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | Moderate | Moderate | Light | Lightweight doors, cabinets, consumer products |
| Nylon | Moderate | High | Light | Electronics, appliances, industrial settings |
| PP | Moderate | High | Very Light | Packaging, plastic containers, lightweight doors |
| Acrylic | Low to moderate | Moderate | Light | Display cases, shelving, decorative uses |
| Acetal | High | High | Medium | Precision machinery, automotive parts, medical devices |
Types of hinges
There are many different types of door hinges available, along with hinges for machinery covers and more. Each is designed for specific purposes and applications. Whether you need smooth movement for a door, a sturdy pivot for a gate, or a concealed option for furniture, the right hinge can make a significant difference in functionality and durability.
Concealed hinges – screw on
Designed for heavy-duty applications, these hinges are secured with screws and feature a removable pin for convenient door removal. Resists tampering. Available in various materials and rotation angles. Available in steel, stainless steel, ABS.
Continuous hinges – metal
Also known as piano hinges, they fit along the full length of a door, lid or other hinged application, and evenly distribute a load. They provide a seamless and hard-wearing opening. Used in any number of light, medium and heavy-duty industries, including, patio doors, shed, commercial and engineering applications, cabinets and other enclosures, sheet metal and other metal fabrications.
To understand more, see the guide written by our experts: What is a piano hinge?
Corner hinges – removable pin
Flush-mounted hinges with 180-degree rotational angle. Designed to fit steel panels on large applications and specially shaped doors. Made of die-cast zinc alloy with different finishes. Other examples of our corner hinges include a fixed pin, a 90-degree offset hinge, and hinges for outside applications.
HVAC leaf hinges
Robust, free-swinging hinges designed for large, flush-mounted doors. Ideal for air conditioning units, electrical panels, and machinery panels, these hinges offer various designs and materials to meet aesthetic, environmental, and application needs. Available in die-cast zinc alloy and nylon.
Leaf hinges
These are the most common type of hinge, formed by connecting the two leaves to each other. Types include butt hinges, leaf and flag (standoff) hinges, and more. Also includes heavy-duty hinges with high outdoor resistance. Available in zamack, stainless steel, and plastics.
Our experts help you learn more in our Guide to butt hinges.
Lift-off hinges
Removable hinges enable quick and easy removal of doors. When the panel where the hinge is attached to is opened, the upper party of the hinge lifts from the lower part. These industrial and heavy-duty hinges come in different rotational angles and mounting forms. Also available in a range of materials, including zamack, stainless steel, brass, and steel.
Side hinges
Side-mounted hinges are the ideal solution for applications with limited space. Designed for medium- to heavy-door panels with a full rotational angle of 180 degrees. Also includes different hinges to meet specific security and budget needs. Materials include zamack, stainless steel, brass, and steel.
Spring hinges
Spring hinges feature a central pin with a spring, ensuring automatic return to their original position. Ideal for doors and panels needing a safety mechanism, these hinges offer various materials, finishes, spring actions, and opening/closing forces. Available in different mounting methods, and in steel and stainless steel.
Torque and index hinges
Torque hinges, commonly used in gates and heavy-duty applications, are availablmetal, plastic, and stainless steel, with adjustable and fixed positions. Torque hinges provide controlled resistance, ensuring smooth and stable positioning of doors, lids, panels, and displays. They eliminate the need for gas struts or stay bars, simplifying design and reducing parts. And by preventing sudden movements, these hinges reduce the risk of injuries caused by accidental closures or openings. Different types and mounting options available.
Weld-on hinges
Weld-on hinges, often called bullet hinges, feature a sleek, hole-free design. While maintaining the classic hinge structure, these hinges have a central pin that secures the interlocking halves. Our range includes brass, steel, aluminium, and stainless steel options in various sizes.
Learn more in our insightful Guide to weld-on bullet hinges.
Matching hinges to specific applications
Now let’s look at types of hinges and their uses. To help guide you in choosing the right hinge, consider the hinges below.
Indoor cabinets
When choosing the right hinge for indoor industrial cabinets, prioritise hinges that provide smooth, reliable operation with a durable design suited for frequent use.
Check out this helpful guide written by our experts: How to choose enclosure hinges.
Outdoor cabinets
Select hinges designed to withstand environmental exposure while providing strong, stable support.
HVACs
Use durable hinges that offer smooth, consistent operation while allowing easy access for maintenance.
Commercial vehicle
Choose hinges that provide strong support and can withstand constant movement and vibration.
Transport vehicles
Consider high-performance hinges that can handle frequent use and the stresses of continuous movement.
Industrial machinery
Go for hinges that can support the weight of large access panels and stand up to frequent use.
Choosing the right hinge
Selecting the right hinge involves several key factors to ensure optimal performance and durability. From the opening angle to material choice, each consideration plays a role in ensuring the hinge meets the functional and environmental demands of your application. The following guide will help you evaluate the most important aspects when choosing a hinge so that it fits your specific needs.
1. What opening angle do you need?
Determine how far the door or object will open. Different hinges allow for varying ranges of motion, from restricted angles to 180 degrees or more, depending on your needs.
2. Can the door be removed?
Do you need the ability to easily remove the door from its frame without unscrewing the entire hinge? Some hinges, like lift-offs, allow doors to be removed quickly for maintenance or access.
3. Which material is best suited for your application?
Consider the environment and usage. For heavy-duty applications or outdoor use, metal hinges such as stainless steel might be preferred for their strength and corrosion resistance. For lighter or decorative purposes, plastic or brass hinges may be better suited.
4. What is the door thickness?
Thicker doors will require stronger, more robust hinges. The hinge size and type should match the weight and thickness of the door to provide adequate support and smooth movement.
5. How important is the appearance?
Does the hinge need to be visible or concealed? Decorative hinges add to the visual appeal, while concealed hinges provide a cleaner, streamlined look with enhanced security.
6. Do you need a position-control feature?
Decide if you need the door to stay open, close automatically, or stop at a certain point. Some hinges come with built-in position control, such as torque hinges, to regulate the movement of the door.
7. What level of corrosion protection is necessary?
If the hinge will be exposed to moisture, chemicals, or harsh environments, consider materials with high corrosion resistance, such as stainless steel or coated finishes.
8. What is the environmental exposure, and do you need sealing?
Will the hinge be exposed to dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures? Consider
whether the hinge needs to be weatherproof, dustproof, or have a certain level of
sealing to protect it from environmental damage. For example, if you need an HvAC hinge, it’s common to add weather stripping or gasket tape.
VView our range of weather stripping and gasket tape
9. Is a seismic test required?
Regions prone to earthquakes or require safety features for critical installations might need hinges that can withstand seismic activity and pass specific safety tests.
Weight and frequency
Let’s talk about door hinges, as that’s the most common application. It’s impossible to list the best hinges for internal doors, or external doors for that matter.As the questions above show, so much depends on various factors.
And with so many types of door hinges available, you first need to understand doors. We mean more than just asking yourself are they heavy doors. Often issues with doors can be blamed on the wrong hinge being used and assuming the hinge is simply a 'door hinge'. All standard and industrial types of hinges for doors have to contend with several factors:
● Vertical load, which is determined by gross door weight
● Horizontal load, which combines door height-to-width ratio, door weight and where the hinges are placed
Another often-overlooked area is the frequency of use. This requires you to estimate how often the door will open and close through the course of a day. Considering the type of door is crucial - ask yourself what type of door is it you are fitting the hinge to. Is it entry doors or cabinet doors or heavy entryway doors? You can break this down into three categories:
● Low frequency: doors used ten times or less each day
● Medium frequency: doors used 10 to 24 times each day
● High-frequency: doors used more than 25 times daily
You then need to know what weight capacity suits your applications. Combine the frequency with your door's weight. This will help you determine whether you need standard or heavy-duty hinges.
When do you need heavy-duty types of door hinges?
Use this as a general guide for choosing a standard or heavy-duty hinge.
| Door weight | Frequency | Hinge |
| 90kg | Medium | Standard |
| Up to 90kg | High | Heavy Duty |
| 181kg | Medium | Heavy Duty |
| 272kg | Low | Heavy Duty |
| 453+ kg | Low | Heavy Duty |
The aesthetics of different types of hinges
The aesthetics of door hinges play an important role in both the function and visual appeal of doors, furniture, cabinets, machinery, and enclosures. In industrial settings, aesthetics still matter, though functionality, durability, and performance take precedence over decorative appeal. However, the right choice of hinges can still enhance the overall design
Finish and material contribute to the overall aesthetics. For example:
● Stainless steel: A common choice for industrial hinges due to its durability and corrosion resistance. Its sleek, metallic finish also aligns with the clean, polished look typical in modern industrial designs.
● Matte black or powder-coated finishes: These finishes are popular in industrial design, offering a rugged, understated look that blends well with dark metal frameworks and machinery. Black or dark-coloured hinges often complement steel doors or equipment panels.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal hinge involves careful consideration of factors like opening angle, door removability, material selection, and door thickness. Each application has unique requirements, whether it's ensuring the right range of motion, handling heavy-duty or light-weight loads, or providing corrosion resistance in harsh environments. The functionality of your hinge must also align with your door's frequency of use and the need for position control, especially in industrial settings.
For doors that face demanding conditions, the proper hinge design is critical to ensure long-term performance. In environments where dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures are factors, sealing and weatherproofing become necessary, along with specialised features like corrosion protection.
Understanding your door's weight and usage frequency will help guide your choice between standard or heavy-duty hinges, ensuring they can handle the stress of high-frequency operation or heavy vertical and horizontal loads. Whether for cabinet doors, large entry doors, or equipment access panels, choosing the right hinge is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity across diverse applications.
Glossary of hinge terms
We’ve put together this glossary of essential terms related to hinge design, function, and application. Use it to navigate the variety of options available for your specific needs.
1. Leaf
The flat, typically rectangular plates on a hinge that attach to the door and the frame. Hinges have two leaves that pivot around a central pin.
2. Knuckle
The cylindrical parts on the hinge leaf that interlock and form the pivot point. The knuckles house the hinge pin, allowing the leaves to rotate.
3. Pin
A rod that passes through the knuckles of a hinge to hold the leaves together and allow for pivoting movement. In some hinges, the pin is removable, allowing for easy door removal.
4. Butt hinge
A common type of hinge with two rectangular leaves attached to the door and frame. Often used for doors, cabinets, and similar applications.
5. Continuous hinge (piano hinge)
A hinge that runs the entire length of the door or panel, providing even support along the edge. Ideal for long or heavy doors, panels, or lids.
6. Lift-off hinge
A type of hinge where the door can be easily lifted off the frame without removing the pin or screws. Commonly used when easy removal for maintenance is needed.
7. Concealed hinge
A hinge designed to be hidden when the door is closed, offering a clean, streamlined appearance. Commonly used in cabinetry.
8. Torque hinge
A hinge that provides resistance when opening and closing, allowing the door or panel to stay in place at any angle. These are often used in applications that require precise control of movement.
9. Friction hinge
A hinge that offers resistance to movement, ensuring that the door or panel stays in place without slamming shut. It is commonly used in laptops and equipment covers.
10. Spring hinge
A hinge with a built-in spring mechanism that automatically closes the door after it has been opened. Often used for self-closing doors.
11. Barrel Hinge
A type of concealed hinge that is inserted into a drilled hole in the door and frame, creating a compact and hidden connection.
12. Overlay
Refers to the amount of door that "overlays" the cabinet or frame when closed. In hinges, overlay determines how the door fits onto the frame, common in cabinetry.
13. Backplate
The mounting surface of the hinge leaf that attaches to the door or frame. The backplate may be adjustable for precise door alignment.
14. Offset hinge
A hinge that allows the door to be moved slightly away from the frame when opened, increasing the clearance. It is often used for doors that require wider access.
15. Self-closing hinge
A hinge equipped with a mechanism to automatically close the door after it has been opened. Typically used in kitchen cabinets and fire doors.
16. Cam hinge
A hinge that uses a cam mechanism to control the door’s movement, often allowing soft-close or soft-open functionality. Common in furniture and cabinetry.
17. Sealed hinge
A hinge designed to protect the internal mechanisms from dust, moisture, or environmental elements. Often used in outdoor applications or harsh environments.
18. Vertical load
The weight or downward force that a hinge must support when the door or object is hanging from it.
19. Horizontal load
The sideways force exerted on the hinge due to door movement, weight distribution, or the position of the hinge in relation to the door's width.
20. Ball-bearing hinge
A hinge that incorporates ball bearings between the knuckles to reduce friction and allow smoother, quieter operation. Ideal for heavy-duty doors that require frequent use.
21. Mortise hinge
A hinge installed in a recessed cutout (mortise) in the door and frame, allowing the leaves to sit flush with the surface for a more seamless appearance.
22. Non-mortise hinge
A hinge that does not require a recessed cutout and sits on the surface of the door and frame. Easier to install but slightly more visible.
Download free CADs
Free CADs are available for most solutions, which you can download. If you’re not quite sure which door-hinge type will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you. Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast dispatch.
Questions?
Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uK or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 728 0474.