Sliding vs Swing Door Operators Explained

Key takeaways

• A sliding operator moves one or more leaves sideways along a track.
• A swing operator opens a hinged door with an arm or a built-in drive.
• Both types use sensors to stop or reverse when someone is in the way.

Quick checklist before you decide

What to check on site

• Opening width and header space
• Glass, PVC or wooden leaf type and weight
• Foot traffic and one-way or two-way flow
• Emergency opening and fire-exit requirements
• Power supply and access control integration

How installation usually goes

Survey and preparation

A survey checks the opening, frame, floor level, header space and power. The operator is fitted to the header or frame, sensors are aligned, speeds and hold-open time are set, and staff are shown the mode switch and manual release.

How the system works day to day

A door operator drives the leaf along a track or on a hinge. A sensor detects approach, the controller sets opening width, speed and hold-open time, and safety sensors prevent the leaf from closing on a person or object.

Frequently asked questions