The Go-To Entry-Level Door Control: A Guide to the dormakaba TS68 Overhead Door Closer
Overhead door closers are the unsung heroes of building management. Whether you are running an office, managing a multi-occupancy residential building, or looking after a retail space, a properly functioning door closer is essential. It ensures doors close reliably to maintain privacy, control draughts, manage internal temperatures, and - most importantly - act as a critical barrier in the event of a fire.
However, choosing a door closer can be daunting. With so many options on the market, finding a model that balances reliability, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness is a common challenge.
This is where the dormakaba TS68 Size 2-4 Overhead Door Closer comes in. Designed as an entry-level, highly versatile rack-and-pinion door closer, the TS68 is a popular choice for standard internal doors across the UK.
In this guide, we will break down the key features of the dormakaba TS68, explain how its adjustable power sizes work, and look at the practical scenarios where it excels.
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What Makes the dormakaba TS68 Stand Out?
The dormakaba TS68 is engineered specifically to offer professional-grade performance without the premium price tag. Here are the key technical features that make it a standout choice for standard doors:
1. Template-Adjustable Power Size (EN 2, 3, and 4)
One of the most practical aspects of the TS68 is its adaptability. Rather than buying different closers for different door sizes, a single TS68 unit covers three European standard (EN) power sizes.
The power size is determined during installation by adjusting the position of the closer body on the door and turning the arm's power shoe. This allows you to tailor the closing force to match the specific width of your door:
- EN Size 2: Suitable for doors up to 850mm wide.
- EN Size 3: Suitable for doors up to 950mm wide.
- EN Size 4: Suitable for doors up to 1100mm wide.
This template-adjustable design simplifies ordering, especially for multi-door facilities where door widths vary from room to room.
2. Straightforward, No-Backplate Installation
For installers and maintenance teams, time is money. The dormakaba TS68 is designed to be exceptionally quick and easy to fit. Unlike many other overhead closers, it does not require a separate mounting backplate. It fixes directly to the door and frame, reducing installation steps and saving valuable time on site.
Additionally, the TS68 is non-handed. This means the same unit can be installed on both left-handed and right-handed doors, eliminating the risk of ordering the wrong configuration.
3. Precise Dual-Valve Control
A door closer should never slam a door, nor should it fail to latch properly. The TS68 features two independent regulating valves that allow you to fine-tune the closing cycle to suit your environment:
- Closing Speed Valve (180° to 15°): Controls how quickly the door travels through the majority of its closing arc.
- Latching Action Valve (15° to 0°): Controls the final few degrees of closing, ensuring the door overcomes the resistance of the latch and closes securely into the frame.
This dual-valve system ensures a smooth, controlled close every time, preventing unnecessary wear on the door frame and latching hardware.
Fire Safety and Compliance
When it comes to fire doors, there is no room for compromise. The dormakaba TS68 is fully tested and certified to meet strict UK building standards:
- BS EN 1154: The European standard for controlled door closing devices.
- CE & UKCA Marked: Ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
- Certifire Approved: The TS68 is Certifire approved (CF 268) for use on timber fire doors for up to 120 minutes (FD120) when installed in the standard pull-side configuration.
Note: While a hold-open arm is available as an optional accessory for non-fire doors, mechanical hold-open devices must never be used on fire-rated doors, as they prevent the door from self-closing in an emergency.
Practical Use Cases: Where is the TS68 Best Suited?
Because of its compact design, silver enamelled finish, and versatile power range, the TS68 is ideal for several everyday applications:
- Commercial Offices: Perfect for standard internal office doors, staff rooms, and utility cupboards where quiet, reliable closing is required.
- Residential Landlords & HMOs: An excellent, cost-effective solution for meeting fire safety regulations on bedroom and communal doors in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).
- Light Public Buildings: Suitable for community centres, schools, and local clinics where doors experience regular, light-to-medium traffic.
Exploring Your Options
While the dormakaba TS68 is an outstanding entry-level choice, different projects have different requirements. If you are managing a high-traffic entrance or require a closer with advanced features like backcheck (which prevents the door from being flung open too violently), you might want to consider alternative models.
For instance, the Briton 1110 offers a similar EN 2-4 power range but includes a matching cover for a more premium aesthetic, while the Briton 121CE is a highly reliable, fixed EN 3 closer that is widely used for standard fire doors.
If you are looking to browse our complete selection of overhead door controls to find the perfect match for your project, you can explore our full category below.
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Need Expert Advice?
Choosing the right door closer involves balancing door width, weight, traffic levels, and fire safety regulations. If you are unsure whether the dormakaba TS68 is the right fit for your doors, or if you need help planning a larger installation, our expert team is here to help.
Contact the Lock & Key Centre team today for practical, professional advice on all your architectural hardware needs.