Consisting of a mechanical metal bearing, hinges are frequently used to join two objects. Unlike other joining methods, though, a hinge allows for rotational movement between the respective objects. When two objects are connected with a hinge, they can rotate. Here are six fun and interesting facts about hinges.
#1) They Can Be Adjusted With a Hinge Bender
Most types of hinges can be adjusted with a tool known as a hinge bender. Also known as a hinge tweaker, it’s inserted into the hinge and turned to increase or decrease the rotational movement of the connected objects.
#2) 3 Main Parts
Hinges are comprised of three main parts: the pin, knuckle and leaf. The pin is the long and vertical rod in the middle of a hinge. The knuckle is the hollow tube through which the pin runs. The leaf — there are actually two of them — is the flat and rectangular component on each side of the hinge.
#3) Some Use Springs
Some hinges use springs to assist with the rotational movement of the joined objects. A spring hinge, for example, is a unique type of hinge that contains a spring. When closing or opening a spring hinge, the spring creates force to assist with the rotational movement. It’s a useful feature that makes the hinge easier to open and close.
#4) Available in a Variety of Materials
You can find hinges made of a variety of materials. Most hinges are made of metals or alloys, some of which include steel, aluminum, copper and titanium. With that said, there are also plastic hinges. Plastic hinges aren’t as strong as their metal and alloy counterparts, but they offer greater protection against weather-related damage and degradation.
#5) Not All Hinges Have Holes
When most people think of hinges, they envision the traditional hinge design that’s depicted above, complete with three or more holes on each leaf. While most hinges use this traditional design, others do not. A continuous hinge, for example, is a unique type of hinge that runs the entire length of the objects with which it’s used. Unlike traditional hinges, continuous hinges are often manufactured without holes.
#6) Some Close Automatically
There are some hinges that can close automatically. Normally, you must physically close, as well as open, a hinge by pulling it in the appropriate direction. Self-closing hinges, however, are designed to close automatically. They use a spring that, like with traditional spring hinges, assist with rotational movement.