Aviation hangar door curtains are essential for the functionality of any aviation facility, from bustling commercial airports to private airstrips. These doors protect aircraft, manage space, and ensure smooth operations. This blog will explore various aspects of aviation hangar doors, focusing on PVC doors. We’ll cover tips on selecting the right PVC door, best practices for installation, maintenance tips, and the benefits of custom solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Choosing the Right Hangar Door
Selecting the appropriate hangar door significantly impacts the efficiency, security, and overall functionality of an aviation facility.
Here’s what you should consider:
Door Type
Sliding Doors: Common and user-friendly, sliding doors are ideal for large openings and require minimal maintenance. They work well with PVC materials, offering durability and ease of use for big hangars.
Bi-Folding Doors: These doors open vertically, saving space and allowing for quick access. PVC bi-folding doors combine strength with lightweight properties, making them suitable for areas with limited horizontal space.
Hydraulic Doors: Utilising hydraulic systems, these doors offer smooth and rapid opening and closing. PVC hydraulic doors provide added durability and weather resistance, ideal for large hangars needing quick access.
Fabric Doors: Lightweight and cost-effective, fabric doors are often used in smaller or temporary hangars. PVC fabric doors provide good insulation and can be installed quickly, offering a versatile option for various needs.
Material and Durability
PVC: PVC hangar doors are known for their excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. They are lightweight and withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for various climates, including coastal areas with high humidity. PVC doors also provide good insulation and require minimal maintenance, making them a practical choice for hangar applications.
Size and Configuration
Size: Consider the size of your aircraft and how frequently they move. Larger hangars may need custom-sized doors to accommodate multiple or larger aircraft.
Configuration: The door configuration (single-panel, multi-panel, or segmented) affects access ease and space utilization.
Insulation and Weather Resistance
For areas with extreme temperatures or weather conditions, proper insulation is crucial. Insulated PVC doors help maintain a stable temperature inside the hangar, protecting aircraft and equipment. Weather-resistant seals and gaskets also prevent water, wind, and debris from entering.
Installation Best Practices
Proper installation is essential to ensure the longevity, functionality, and safety of aviation hangar doors.
Follow these best practices:
Pre-Installation Planning
Site Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of the site, considering door size, weight, and operational requirements. Ensure the foundation and supporting structures can handle the load and stress.
Compliance with Regulations: Ensure compliance with local building codes and aviation regulations, including fire safety standards, wind load requirements, and accessibility guidelines.
Professional Installation
Hiring Experts: Professional installers with experience in hangar doors ensure correct and efficient installation.
Quality Hardware: Use high-quality hardware, such as hinges, rollers, and tracks, to ensure smooth operation and longevity. Substandard hardware can lead to frequent breakdowns and increased maintenance costs.
Safety Considerations
Emergency Access: Equip doors with an emergency access mechanism for quick opening in case of power failure or emergencies.
Safety Sensors: Install safety sensors and automatic stops to prevent accidents, especially in busy hangars with frequent aircraft movement.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal door function and extended lifespan. Here’s how to maintain PVC hangar doors or curtains:
Regular Inspections
Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or damage. Check door alignment and smooth operation.
Operational Inspections: Test the door’s operation and listen for unusual noises or vibrations. Ensure locking mechanisms work correctly.
Lubrication and Cleaning
Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts like hinges, rollers, and tracks with high-quality lubricant to reduce friction and wear.
Cleaning: Clean surfaces and tracks to remove dirt and debris. For PVC doors, use a mild detergent and water to avoid damage.
Addressing Minor Repairs
Tightening Hardware: Check and tighten screws, bolts, and other fasteners to maintain door stability.
Seal and Gasket Replacement: Inspect and replace seals and gaskets as needed to maintain weather resistance and insulation.
Professional Maintenance
Annual Servicing: Schedule annual maintenance with a professional provider for in-depth inspections and issue resolution.
Upgrades and Retrofits: Consider upgrades or retrofits, such as automated controls or enhanced security systems, as technology advances.
Custom Solutions for Unique Requirements
Custom hangar doors can be designed to meet specific operational needs and spatial constraints:
Tailored Sizing and Configuration
Custom PVC doors fit exact dimensions, ensuring seamless integration, especially important for large or multiple aircraft.
Advanced Automation and Controls
Incorporate features like remote operation, programmable sequences, and facility management integration to streamline operations.
Aesthetic and Branding Considerations
Design doors to align with facility aesthetics and branding, including colour, finish, and material choices.
Specialised Features
Equip doors with features such as enhanced insulation, reinforced security, or advanced weather resistance based on facility needs.
Aviation hangar doors and curtains are a significant investment requiring careful consideration, proper installation, regular maintenance, and often customization.
By following the tips and insights provided, you can maximise the efficiency and longevity of your hangar doors, ensuring continued support for your aviation operations.
Whether upgrading or installing new doors, choosing the right PVC solution can greatly enhance your facility’s performance.
