A pivot in door hardware is a hinge that allows a door to swing from a central axis instead of the edge of the door like a traditional butt hinge. This allows the door to swing in both directions, unlike a traditional door that only opens in one direction.

Offset pivots: Offset pivots have a pivot point that is offset from the face of the door. They are used on single acting doors and are available in 3/4" and 1-1/2" offset dimensions. Offset pivots allow the door to swing past projecting trim on the face of the frame and can allow for a full 180-degree swing. Offset pivots are ideal for heavier doors and can carry weights up to 1500 lbs. They offer an aesthetically appealing appearance as they are located at the top and bottom of the door only. 

Intermediate pivots: Intermediate pivots are available for additional weight support or for power transfer for electric hardware on the door.

Center hung pivots: Center hung pivots are used on single or double acting doors. The pivot point is in the center of the door thickness. When used on double acting doors, the edges of the door will have a radius edge to allow the doors to swing in either direction.

Pocket pivots: Pocket pivots are another option that allows the door to swing out of the clear width opening and into a pocket built into the wall. These pivots require additional preparation as they are mortised into the frame and the door.

Electrified pivots: Electrified pivots are non-load bearing and provides electric power transfer from the frame to the door in order to supply power to an electrified mortise or cylindrical locks, exit devices with electric latch retraction, and/or electric strikes (pairs of doors). The Ives Power Transfer Intermediate (PT INT) pivots and Electrified Pocket Pivot (E) are available in 4 wire (TW4) or 8 wire (TW8). Supplied standard with Allegion Connect 4 or 8-pin Connector (CON) which makes it easy to connect to other electrified hardware items. 

Offset Mounting: Mounted on the top and bottom of the door with a distance between the pivot point and the hinge line.

Center-Hung Mounting: Installed at the exact center of the door thickness. Center hung pivots are mortised into the top and bottom of the door, providing a low profile and often going unnoticed.

Pivots work by allowing the door to swing open and closed on a fixed point, which is the pivot hinge. The pivot distributes the weight of the door and allows it to swing smoothly.

Pivots should be used when hanging heavy doors or when an aesthetic option is desired. The benefits of using pivots include reducing stress on the frame, leveraging the strength of the structure, and providing smooth operation.

Offset Pivots:

Balance and stability

Minimalist look

Precise door alignment

High weight-bearing capacity

Center-Hung Pivots:

Smooth operation

Concealed hardware

Versatility in accommodating various door sizes and weights

Enhanced security

Popular in high-traffic doorways such as restaurants and hotels, where people can easily push through doors while carrying items. Center hung pivots are commonly used in rescue hardware applications in hospitals or health care settings. 

NFPA 80 includes prescriptive requirements for components used to hang fire doors and references several ANSI/BHMA standards that include additional information, including: 

• Quantity of hinges and pivots relative to door height
• Fasteners used for hanging devices
• Labeling requirements, and criteria for hinges that do not bear an individual label
• Shimming and adjustment of hinges to correct clearance problems

Consider the door's weight, size, and application requirements.

Determine whether an offset or center-hung pivot is more suitable based on the desired balance, stability, and aesthetic.

Regular inspection and lubrication to ensure smooth operation and longevity.

Pivots made from high-strength brass and stainless steel forgings and castings for maximum corrosion resistance.

View the installation index for templates and instructions.

View the Ives Pricebook for detailed how to order information and the latest pricing.

Refer to the Allegion BAA catalog (Buy American Act) to view the latest compliant continuous hinges.

View our resources page for comprehensive list of training, educational resources, and support. 

Ives offers a range of pivot models, including 3/4" offset, 1-1/2" offset, center hung, intermediate, pocket, and power transfer pivots. These models are available with all exposed parts made of brass or stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance.