Electrohydraulic versus Electromechanical Operators

These low energy operators enhance accessibility by automating doors.

Do you have doors that could benefit from electric operation? Electrohydraulic and electromechanical operators activate a swinging door on behalf of the user. Both devices are low energy for opening force, non-handed for left or right swing, and ADA compliant. Use cases and functions vary between these two operators.

Learn about the versatile applications and features for electrohydraulic and electromechanical operators.

Key similarities between electrohydraulic and electromechanical operators

All electrohydraulic and electromechanical operators share a common trait – they are low energy. This is a reference to the amount of force needed to open a door rather than power consumption, with the maximum force of 15 pounds stipulated by ANSI A156.19.  Low energy operators are for manual doors with an automatic option or automatic swing doors that are triggered by a knowing act.

High energy operators are a separate category used on quick-moving automatic doors. These are activated by a sensor that a user doesn’t need to consciously engage. These doors are also part of a complete assembly, like those found at supermarkets and hospitals.

For two great discussions on low vs. high energy operators, please read 6 Facts about Low Energy Door Operators or The Fundamental Difference Between Low and High Energy Door Operators.

An important quality of electrohydraulic and electromechanical operators is that they improve accessibility. Their powered operation makes entry easier for individuals of all mobility levels. Some models are even completely touchless.

All Electrohydraulic and Electromechanical Operators feature:

The use cases for these low energy operators have slight differences.

Electrohydraulic Operators

Electrohydraulic operators are for Grade 1, heavy-duty doors. They are best for doors where manual operation is the default but users can select automatic open. This allows individuals with mobility limitations or delivery personnel to have door assistance.

Electrohydraulic also has a robust design that’s compatible with heavy and moderate traffic doors. They are engineered to withstand weather exposure, vandalism attempts, and years of high cycles. Electrohydraulic operators can be installed on fire-rated as well as exterior doors – a critical code distinction.

All electrohydraulic operators are:

• Used on exterior doors
• Installed on fire-rated doors
• Integrated with access control systems

Electromechanical Operators

Electromechanical operators achieve a reliable automatic opening with a motor and gearbox. Different models can be used on heavy, moderate, or light traffic doors. They are typically used in applications where activation by a wall switch or motion sensor is the primary function.

Most but not all electromechanical operators are:

• Used on exterior doors
• Installed on fire-rated doors
• Integrated with access control systems

Features for Electromechanical and Electrohydraulic Operators

Norton Rixson has a robust family of electrohydraulic and electromechanical operators. Our seven models have a variety of functions and profiles. Select models include:

• Obstruction detection on the close swing.
• Power close or latch assist to enable secure closing.
• A blow open function, which is an emergency feature that enables smoke ventilation.
• Infinite hold open, which secures the door at the full open position until this setting is turned off.
• Retrofit compatibility.

To learn more about model specifics, please visit our portfolio of low energy operators. You can also fill out the form below to get in touch with our team of experts.