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| Pedestrian Using AutoEqualizer |
The LCN Auto Equalizer is arguably one of LCN's most popular pedestrian automatic door operator models. The LCN Auto Equalizer was first introduced in 1981, the same year the 1460 Series Door Closers was introduced. In many respects 1981 for LCN represented the end of production of traditional series products and an introduction to new state of the art door control products. Back then the Auto Equalizer was only available in the pneumatic version. Today it is available in 2 model types: Electromechanical or Pneumatic. In this article we explore the benefits and differences between both types and cover any details that you need to know before making your purchase.
LCN 4800/2600 Series Pneumatic Auto Equalizer
The LCN Auto Equalizer 4800 or 2600 model refers to the pneumatic model. This unique design utilizes a small compact air compressor controlled by the electronic microprocessor control box. Pneumatic tubing is routed from the compressor to the control box and then to the Auto Equalizer Door Operator. Please refer to Figure 1 below. Here is how it works. When pedestrian presses the actuation button it triggers the AutoEqualizer Control Box which supplies pressurized air to the AutoEqualizer Door Operator. The door then swings open to 90 degrees and holds open for the programmed time set on the control box. If a pedestrian does not use the actuator to open the door, the AutoEqualizer Door Operator works as a normal hydraulic door closer mechanism.
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| Figure 1: Typical Pneumatic AutoEqualizer Schematic |
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| Figure 2: AutoEqualizer Door Operator Mechanism |
LCN Auto Equalizer 4630/4640 Electromechanical Models
The LCN 4630 or 4640 model refer to the electromechanical version of the Auto Equalizer door operators. This version does not utilize pressurized air to power the AutoEqualizer door operator, instead it just uses electricity and a dc motor gear drive. Here's how it works. When a pedestrian press the actuation button, it signals to the microprocess control board to open the door. The dc motor engages and the door opens. Through the microprocessor control box, the installer can program the desired hold open time before the door closes once the door has opened. Refer to Figure 3 for a typical LCN Electromechanical AutoEqaulizer installation.
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| Figure 3: Typical Electromechanical AutoEqualizer Schematic |
Pneumatic AutoEqualizer Vs. Electric AutoEqualizer...Which is better?
So now that we understand the 2 available versions of the AutoEqualizer, the next question is which is better? Well it really depends. Other than the main difference of electromechanical vs. pneumatic what are some other differences. Well let's explore that. In Figure 4 below, you can see the difference in specifications between the electromechanical 4600 Series AutoEqualizer and the pneumatic 4800/2600 Series AutoEqualizer. Here are some things to consider:
1. Size
The electromechanical AutoEqualizer features a header length of 33-1/2 Inches. While the pneumatic AutoEqualizer features a header length of 20 inches. If the smaller size is more appealing to your door way, then the pneumatic AutoEqualizer would be your best choice.
2. Cost
How many doors do you need automated. Although the pneumatic AutoEqualizer may be more expensive for a single door since you have to purchase the AutoEqualizer Door Operator, Control Box, Pneumatic Tubing, and Air Compressor, it is less cost if you are automating multiple doors. Why you might ask? Well because for multiple doors you can use the same control box and air compressor. All you would need is an additional AutoEqualizer Door Operator and more tubing. This makes the pneumatic route great for multi-door applications. However, if you just plan to automate one door in your building the electromechanical AutoEqualizer would be a better choice economically.
3. Performance
The topic of performance is a tricky one, and much of it comes down to opinion. As an automatic door professional and an ambassador for our company Automatic Door and Hardware, I have experienced many automatic pedestrian door openers. Both versions of AutoEqualizers are extremely durable and reliable, there is no questioning that. But as far as performance I would give the edge to the pneumatic AutoEqualizer and here is why. Because the pneumatic AutoEqualizer is driven by pressurized air, when the door swings open it is EXTREMELY smooth. There are no "jerky" movements or hesitations. The pneumatic AutoEqualizer is the smoothest operating door I have ever come across. Another reason I give it the edge is because of sound. Since the door operator is powered by air, it is virtually silent when it operates. For these reasons I give the pneumatic AutoEqualizer the edge in performance.
4. Value
Any AutoEqualizer model you purchase is a good investment with tons of value. LCN backs their AutoEqualizer products with a 2 year warranty, which is extremely good and unheard of in the automatic door operator industry.
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| Figure 4: Electric AutoEqualizer Vs. Pneumatic AutoEqualizer |
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