Hangar storage is necessary for aircraft owners to safeguard their priceless possessions from environmental deterioration. Hangar doors are an integral feature of any aircraft hangar and should be constructed and engineered to withstand severe use regularly. The following are important things to think about when constructing an airplane hangar door.
Size and clearance
The size of the door needs to accommodate your aircraft with enough clearance for it to easily roll in and out during opening and closing. Consult aircraft hangar door suppliers for size guidelines specific to your aircraft type and model. Properly assess wingspan, tail height, tire widths, etc. for accurate sizing.
Material
Given the massive doors and regular operation of airplane hangars, heavy-duty steel or aluminum are sturdy materials that make sense. Because of their resilience to corrosion and longevity in coastal environments, fiberglass, and other composite materials are likewise becoming more and more popular. Discuss material properties and pros/cons with hangar door suppliers.
Insulation
Insulated hangar doors help regulate interior temperature and reduce energy costs for heating/cooling. Insulation also provides soundproofing advantages. Fiberglass, polyurethane, and polystyrene are some insulation choices impacting the door's overall R-value or thermal resistance.
Opening style
Hinge-style, bi-fold, or sliding vertical lift doors are common aircraft hangar door options with pros and cons like space efficiency, wind resistance, and maintenance needs. Consider how it suits your aircraft, hangar size, and local wind/weather factors.
Operator type
Manual, electric, or hydraulic operators are suitable depending on door size and expected cycle frequency. Automatic openers with remotes provide safety and convenience. Choose operator type and power with considerations for safety backups in case of power or component failure.
Safety features
Look for doors equipped with safety edges, photo eyes, and reversing sensors to prevent entrapment. Emergency release mechanisms allow manual opening if power fails. Interlock switches prevent accidental operation. Lifts should slow and stop when meeting resistance to avoid aircraft damage. Evaluate options from reputable hangar door suppliers.
Weather-sealing
Robust seals around the perimeter of hangar doors as well as any insulated sections are necessary to minimize air and moisture infiltration important for aircraft storage. Seals require regular inspection and replacement as part of preventative maintenance.
Wind resistance.
Roof and panel construction should be engineered to withstand high wind loads specific to your area from certified suppliers. Automatic wind locks or anchors can secure doors shut tight during storms.
By considering factors such as aircraft fit, energy efficiency, safety, upkeep, and local weather conditions, you can rely on a high-functioning aircraft hangar door from experienced aircraft hangar door suppliers to protect your aircraft investment for many years.
