Hinges

Hinges are mechanical bearings that connect two solid objects, typically allowing limited rotational movement between them. Most commonly made of metals such as steel, brass, or stainless steel, hinges are used across furniture, doors, and industrial fittings. They not only support the weight of doors or panels but also enhance durability and safety by ensuring secure closure.

There are various types of hinges for a number of different applications. RS stock a multitude of hinges such as flush finished, soft close, and heavy-duty hinges that come in different sizes and styles to suit any application.

Types of Hinges

Gate Hinges

Designed for outdoor use, gate hinges are built from robust materials resistant to rust, corrosion, and extreme weather. They provide reliable support for garden gates, fences, and larger outdoor doors. Engineered for strength and long-term performances, hinges such as tee hinges, hook & band hinges, and offset hinges can be used to set up or upgrade a gate.

Cabinet Hinges

Cabinet hinges are used in many furniture furnishings such as kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets, along with many other applications. Cabinet hinges can be sprung (self-closing) or un-sprung and come in various finishes. Cabinet hinges are perfect for commercial and domestic settings, in which, cabinet door hinges can keep a door closed without the use of a catch or door latch.

Door Hinges

Door Hinges are used to attach a door to a frame and acts as a pivot point that allows the door to open and close efficiently. They come in several types such as folding hinges, ball bearing hinges, and butt hinges, suitable for both interior and exterior doors. Typically made from stainless steel, brass, or bronze, they offer durability and aesthetic appeal.

Soft Close Hinges

Soft close hinges have a great built-in mechanism that prevents cabinet doors from slamming shut, creating a quieter, smoother user experience. They are widely popular, and many people choose to upgrade their current hinges to soft close hinges. Adjustable and versatile, these hinges protect cabinet doors from wear and tear, extend furniture lifespan, and are a popular upgrade option for kitchens, bathrooms, and office furniture.

How to Choose The Correct Hinge?

When selecting hinges, keep these key factors in mind:

Weight Capacity: Each hinge has a specified maximum load. Heavier doors, gates, or panels require heavy-duty hinges that can support the load without bending or failing.
Material: Hinges are available in a variety of materials including steel, solid brass, zinc-plated alloys, vinyl, and plastic. Steel and brass offer strength and durability, while zinc-plated hinges provide corrosion resistance. Plastic or vinyl options may be suitable for lighter applications where cost-effectiveness is important.
Type: The right hinge type depends on the application. Concealed hinges work well for cabinets and furniture where appearance matters, tee hinges are often used for gates and sheds, and butt hinges remain a common choice for doors. Heavy-duty hinges are best for industrial or commercial settings.
Mounting Type: Hinges can be attached in different ways, such as screw-on for quick installation or weld-on for a more permanent and secure fit. The choice depends on the surface material and the level of strength required.
Features: Consider whether additional functions will improve usability. Self-closing hinges are useful for doors that must stay shut automatically, while soft-close hinges add comfort by preventing slamming and reducing wear.

By aligning these aspects with your project needs, you’ll ensure the hinge delivers both reliability and long-term performance.

Features and Benefits of Hinges

There are numerous benefits to using the many types of hinges across different applications. These include:

Easy Installations: Most hinges are designed for straightforward mounting with standard tools, making them convenient for both professionals and DIY users.
Long Lasting: Built from robust materials such as stainless steel, brass, or zinc alloys, hinges are made to withstand years of frequent use without losing performance.
Durability: Many hinges are engineered to resist corrosion, heavy loads, and environmental stress, ensuring reliable operation in demanding conditions.
Economical: Hinges offer excellent value for money, as they are cost-effective components that contribute to the functionality and safety of doors, cabinets, and gates.
Safe to Use: With features like smooth pivots and options such as self-closing or soft-closing mechanisms, hinges enhance user safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Comparing Soft Close Hinges vs. Standard Hinges for Cabinets

When choosing between soft close hinges and standard hinges for cabinets, it’s important to consider how each type performs in day-to-day use:

Functionality: Standard hinges provide basic opening and closing, while soft close hinges feature a built-in damper mechanism that automatically slows down the door movement. This prevents slamming and ensures a smoother operation.
Noise Level: Standard hinges can sometimes cause loud bangs when cabinet doors are closed too forcefully. In contrast, soft close hinges significantly reduce noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable environment in kitchens, bathrooms, or offices.
Durability and Wear: Soft close hinges can extend the lifespan of cabinets by reducing impact damage on the frame and door. Standard hinges remain durable for regular use but may contribute to wear and tear over time due to repeated slamming.

Both options are reliable, but soft close hinges are often preferred in modern homes for their added convenience and comfort.

How to Select the Best Glass Door Hinges for Your Project

Glass door hinges require careful consideration, as the material is heavier and more fragile compared to wood or metal. To ensure a secure and efficient setup:

Match Hinge to Glass Weight and Thickness: Ensure the hinge is rated for the size and load of your glass panel.
Consider Door Type and Movement Requirements: Sliding, swinging, or pivot glass doors require specific hinge mechanisms for smooth operation.
Choose Durable, Corrosion-Resistant Materials and Finish: Stainless steel or zinc-coated hinges offer both strength and resistance against corrosion.
Ensure Compatibility With Installation Environment: Indoor and outdoor environments may require different finishes or protective coatings.

Are Soft Close Cabinet Hinges Worth It?

Investing in soft close cabinet hinges can be a smart decision, especially in modern homes and workplaces:

Quiet and Smooth Operation: Doors close gently without noise, making them ideal for open-plan homes or late-night use.
Reduced Wear and Tear: Since the door never slams shut, there’s less strain on the cabinet frame, panels, and hinge mechanism. Over time, this helps maintain structural integrity and reduces the need for repairs or replacements.
Improved Safety for Children and Pets: The slow, controlled closing motion significantly lowers the risk of fingers or paws getting caught. This makes them a practical choice for family-friendly or high-traffic environments.
Higher Cost and Installation Complexity: They are typically more expensive and may require more precise alignment during installation. However, once installed correctly, they require little maintenance and deliver long-term value.

Overall, soft close hinges are worth the investment if you value comfort, durability, and safety. While standard hinges remain cost-effective, soft close versions deliver a noticeable upgrade in usability and cabinet protection.

Industrial Application of Door Hinges

Door hinges are essential across a wide range of industries, providing reliable pivot points and smooth operation for various doors and access panels:

Medical: In hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, hinges are used on cabinet doors, medical equipment panels, and cleanroom access points. Corrosion-resistant and easy-to-clean materials ensure hygiene and long-term durability.
Research and Development Labs: Laboratory cabinets, fume hoods, and instrument enclosures require precise, durable hinges that withstand frequent use and chemical exposure.
Shipping and Container Industry: Heavy-duty industrial hinges are critical for container doors, storage units, and cargo access points. They ensure secure operation under harsh weather conditions and frequent opening cycles.
Construction: Hinges are used for doors, gates, and access panels on both residential and commercial buildings. Weather-resistant and high-load options provide reliability for internal and external applications.
Automotive: Specialised hinges are used in vehicle compartments, toolboxes, and service panels. High-strength materials ensure durability under vibration, impact, and temperature changes.
Residential Sector: From kitchen cabinets to bedroom wardrobes, hinges provide smooth operation and support. Soft close and concealed hinges enhance comfort and aesthetics in home furniture.
Retail: Hinges are used on display cabinets, storage doors, and access panels in shops. Durable and visually appealing finishes ensure long-lasting functionality while complementing interior design.

Buy Door Hinges at RS Malaysia

RS is your trusted door hinges supplier and distributor in Malaysia, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality hinges from leading brands like Pinet, Elesa, and Southco. Our competitively priced inventory of hinges supports a variety of needs—from cabinet door hinges for furniture makers to stainless steel industrial hinges for heavy machinery.

In addition to our range of door hinge solutions, we also stock all the essential hardware you need for your project, including DIN rail screw terminal block, push switches, and door seals.

Order your hinges and accessories online today and enjoy fast delivery across Malaysia. For details on how to place your order, estimated delivery times, and service fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.