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Windows and Pedestrian Doors - Mechanical Durability

Standard: EN 12400:2004

Standard Information

  • Standard Number: EN 12400:2004
  • Technical Committee: TC 169
  • Status: Current
  • Type: European Standard (EN)

EN 12400:2004 is the European standard that specifies the requirements and classifications for the mechanical durability of windows and pedestrian doors. It defines how many opening and closing cycles a door or window should withstand while maintaining its performance.

Classification System

The standard defines different classes based on the number of cycles:

For Doors

  • Class 4: 50,000 cycles (Light use)
  • Class 5: 100,000 cycles (Moderate use)
  • Class 6: 200,000 cycles (Heavy use)
  • Class 7: 500,000 cycles (Severe use)
  • Class 8: 1,000,000 cycles (Extreme use)

For Windows

  • Class 1: 5,000 cycles
  • Class 2: 10,000 cycles
  • Class 3: 20,000 cycles

Application Guidelines

Recommended Usage by Class

Doors:

  • Class 4 (50,000): Private entrances, residential use
  • Class 5 (100,000): Office buildings, light commercial use
  • Class 6 (200,000): Shopping centers, heavy commercial use
  • Class 7 (500,000): Public buildings, main entrances
  • Class 8 (1,000,000): Airports, train stations, extreme usage

Windows:

  • Class 1: Occasional use windows
  • Class 2: Regular use windows
  • Class 3: Frequent use windows

Testing Requirements

Testing procedures include:

  • Complete opening and closing cycles
  • Operation force measurements
  • Function checks at intervals
  • Final performance verification
  • Component wear assessment

Performance Criteria

During and after testing, products must maintain:

  • Smooth operation
  • Operating forces within specified limits
  • Structural integrity
  • Weather sealing performance
  • Security features functionality

Maintenance Considerations

  • Regular inspection of moving parts
  • Lubrication as per manufacturer specifications
  • Adjustment of hardware when needed
  • Replacement of worn components
  • Documentation of maintenance activities

Factors Affecting Durability

  • Environmental conditions
  • Usage patterns
  • Installation quality
  • Maintenance regularity
  • Door/window weight
  • Hardware quality

Important Considerations:

  • Select appropriate class for intended use
  • Consider environmental factors
  • Follow maintenance schedules
  • Document all testing and maintenance
  • Verify certification requirements