Friction Stay/Friction Hinges

SIZES AVAILABLE
8 INCHES TO 24 INCHES
AVAILABLE IN
SS 304 GRADE & SS 201 GRADE

Friction stays, often referred to as friction hinges or torque hinges in broader mechanical applications, are essential pieces of hardware primarily used in casement windows. Unlike traditional butt hinges, which allow a window or door to swing freely, friction stays incorporate a resistance mechanism that allows the window to be opened and held securely at any desired angle without the need for additional props or supports. This functionality is crucial for controlled ventilation, stability against wind, and ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Mechanism of Resistance

The core innovation of a friction stay lies in its ability to generate adjustable resistance (torque) against rotational movement. The mechanism generally consists of a series of interlocking metal arms, pivot points, and a crucial friction pad or slider—often made from durable material like nylon or acetal—that slides within a track on one of the arms.

When the window sash is opened, the movement creates friction between the slider and the track. The resistance generated is proportional to the force exerted by the tension mechanism, which is typically controlled by an adjustment screw accessible on the stay. Tightening this screw increases the pressure on the friction pad, thereby increasing the resistance and making the window stiffer to open or close, allowing it to hold heavier loads or withstand stronger winds. Loosening the screw reduces the friction for easier operation. This adjustable feature is a key differentiator, offering users precise control over the window's movement and positioning.

Types and Applications of Friction Stays

Friction stays are categorized primarily by the way the window is hung:

Side Hung Friction Stays: Used for windows hinged on the side, typically allowing the window to swing outward. They are common in classic casement windows and often provide a wider opening angle (up to 90 degrees or more), maximizing airflow and offering easy access to the exterior for cleaning.
Top Hung Friction Stays: Designed for windows that pivot from the top, opening outward from the bottom edge (often called awning windows). A key advantage is that they can be left open for ventilation even during light rain, as the window sash acts as a slight shield. They are frequently used in modern architectural designs and high-up windows.

Beyond the basic hung type, specialized friction stays are designed for specific functional and safety requirements:

Standard Stays: The most common type, offering simple open/close functionality and controlled positioning.
Egress Hinges (Fire Escape): Designed to comply with building regulations for emergency exits, these allow the window to open to a much wider angle—typically close to 90 degrees—to provide an unobstructed clear opening area of a minimum required size (e.g., 0.33m² with a minimum width/height of 450mm). Egress stays are often side-hung.
Easy Clean Hinges: An extension of the egress stay, these allow the window sash to slide sideways to the center of the frame once opened, making the exterior pane safely accessible for cleaning from the inside.
Restricted Hinges: These incorporate a built-in limiting mechanism, restricting the window's opening to a small, safe gap (often around 100mm). This feature is vital for child safety in residential settings, as well as in schools, hospitals, and high-rise buildings to prevent accidental falls or unauthorized entry.
Heavy-Duty Stays: Constructed from thicker, more robust stainless steel (like Type 304 or 430), these are designed to support larger, heavier window sashes, such as those found in commercial buildings or triple-glazed units.

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