Are you looking to buy piano hinges? Also known as continuous hinges, they are characterized by a full-length design. Piano hinges are long mechanical bearings that run the full length of the objects with which they are used. To choose the right piano hinges, however, there are several things you need to consider.
#1) Degree of Rotation
You should consider the degree of rotation when choosing piano hinges. All piano hinges, as well as other types of hinges, can rotate. But the degree to which they can rotate may vary. Piano hinges with a full 270 degrees of rotation can open completely, making them a popular choice for most doors, gates and other applications.
#2) Installation
The way in which piano hinges are installed may vary. Some of them are installed with fasteners, whereas others are installed by welding. Piano hinges that require the use of fasteners to install typically feature a series of holes. Weld-on piano hinges, conversely, consist of solid metal leafs that don’t feature any holes.
#3) Material
Not all piano hinges are made of the same material. You can find piano hinges in a variety of different materials, each of which has its own advantages. Some of them are made of stainless steel. Stainless steel piano hinges are strong and resistant to corrosion. Other piano hinges are made of aluminum. Aluminum piano hinges are lightweight and also resistant to corrosion. There are carbon steel piano hinges as well. Carbon steel is characterized by a high carbon content. It still contains iron — just like stainless steel — but it has a higher concentration of carbon, resulting in a superior level of strength.
#4) Finish
Don’t forget to consider the finish when choosing piano hinges. Piano hinges often feature some type of finish to protect them from damage. Electrogalvanization is a common type of finish for piano hinges. Piano hinges may be galvanized to protect them from corrosion-related damage. Other piano hinges have a mill finish. Mill finishes are typically used with aluminum piano hinges. It’s a natural finish that occurs when aluminum is extruded.
#5) Pin Diameter
Finally, you should consider the pin diameter when choosing piano hinges. All piano hinges have a pin. It’s a rod-like piece of solid material that’s used to secure the two leafs together. The two leafs of a piano hinge are placed together to form a knuckle. The pin is then inserted through the hollow center of the knuckle to hold the leafs together.