Cast Iron Door Closers
for Extra Heavy Duty Openings

Cast Iron vs. Aluminum Door Closers

Both materials can meet ANSI/BHMA Grade 1. The difference shows up in abuse resistance and long-term durability on the toughest doors, not in the grade on the label.

When Cast Iron Is Worth It

• High abuse: school corridors, gyms, stadium gates and transit stations, where doors are kicked or thrown open.
• Heavy doors: the body and arm absorb more momentum; see door closers for heavy doors.
• Exterior and wind-exposed doors: a rigid body and firm backcheck keep geometry stable; see exterior door closers.
• Vibration: plants and mechanical areas, where mass helps.

When Aluminum Is Enough

For interior doors with normal traffic, an aluminum Grade 1 closer like the DN-8220 is lighter, easier to install and fully adequate. Many facilities standardize on cast iron for corridors, stairs and entrances, and aluminum for offices and suites.

Under the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (section 404), interior hinged doors must open with no more than 5 lbf, and a closer must be adjusted so the door takes at least 5 seconds to swing from 90° to 12° from the latch. Fire doors are the exception on opening force: the authority having jurisdiction sets the minimum. Always check local code and your AHJ.

Compare both models in our commercial door closer buying guide, or see where cast iron closers are used: schools, factories and transit stations.

DRIWON DN-9500 Specifications

Need the lighter-duty option for interior doors? See the DRIWON DN-8220 Grade 1 door closer. Full details on the DN-9500 product page.