Introduction to the CDVI VIRA5024 and its key features
The CDVI VIRA5024 (also marketed as VIR‑A5024 / VIR‑A5) is a compact, wall‑mounted magnetic door holder engineered for fire‑door environments in commercial and public buildings. Designed to hold doors open during normal operation and to release automatically in the event of power loss or alarm activation, this fail‑safe device is tailored to the needs of installers, facilities managers and specifiers who require reliable hold‑open performance combined with fire‑safety compliance.
Key features at a glance:
- Fail‑safe magnetic hold‑open— releases on loss of power or alarm activation.
- 50 kg holding force— strong enough for heavy internal doors commonly found in hotels, hospitals and offices.
- 24 V DC operation— low current draw (≈ 80 mA) and straightforward integration with fire alarm and access control systems.
- Integrated manual/test release— convenient on‑site functional checks without cutting power.
- Fire‑tested design— tested to 60 minutes in accordance with EN1634‑2 when installed as directed.
- Robust finish and universal armature— powder‑coated Zamak®/steel in white with a supplied universal armature plate for flexible mounting.
The VIRA5024 combines practical hardware design with standards compliance. Below are the technical highlights and the benefits they bring to everyday installations.
- Product reference:VIRA5024 / VIR‑A5 (VIR‑A5024). Useful when ordering or cross‑referencing documentation.
- Holding force — 50 kg:A solid holding capability that suits a wide range of single and heavier leaf doors used in public circulation areas. This capacity minimizes unintended closures while still allowing safe release in an emergency.
- Voltage — 24 V DC & current consumption ≈ 80 mA:The 24 V DC rating is compatible with many building fire alarm and access control circuits. The modest current draw reduces load on control panels and battery backup systems.
- Operation — Fail‑safe release:The magnet is energised to hold the door; loss of power or activation of an alarm de‑energises the magnet and allows the door closer to shut the door. This is the required behaviour for many fire door installations.
- Manual/test release button:A visible, accessible push‑button enables routine testing without tripping the whole system. This simplifies maintenance checks and helps satisfy periodic inspection regimes.
- Fire rating — 60 minutes (EN1634‑2):Fire‑testing provides assurance that the device can be used on fire doors when installed according to the manufacturers instructions and local regulations. It supports regulatory compliance and risk assessment documentation.
- Material and finish:Powder‑coated Zamak® and steel in white for corrosion resistance and an unobtrusive aesthetic in most interiors.
- IP rating & dimensions:IP42 (verify regional variants on the datasheet) and compact dimensions (approx. 93 × 80 × 42.5 mm) for neater installations where wall space is limited.
- Certifications:CE marked and suitable for systems complying with EN1155; tested to EN1634‑2. These certifications are important for public building projects and for integration into life‑safety systems.
Benefits in practice include reduced wear on door closers (by holding doors in a controlled open position), improved accessibility for users during normal operations, and automatic compliance behaviour during alarms, which contributes to occupant safety.
The VIRA5024 is engineered for scenarios where hold‑open control must coexist with fire safety requirements. Typical use cases include:
- Hospitals and care facilities:Heavy doors, frequent traffic, and accessibility needs make magnetic door holders ideal. The manual/test release assists maintenance teams in performing routine checks without disrupting clinical operations.
- Hotels and hospitality venues:Service doors, corridor doors and back‑of‑house areas benefit from controlled hold‑open for deliveries and guest movement while ensuring doors close automatically in an alarm.
- Office buildings and commercial properties:Reduces friction on automated or manual closers and helps maintain unobstructed circulation during business hours while meeting fire safety obligations after an alarm.
- Schools and public buildings:Where controlled access and evacuation procedures are important, a fail‑safe hold‑open device gives staff and emergency responders predictable door behaviour during incidents.
- Integration projects:The 24 V DC rating and modest current draw make the unit suitable for connection to fire alarm panels and access control logic; it is useful in retrofit and new‑build schemes where centralized control is required.
Its compact size and universal armature plate make the VIRA5024 suitable for installations where space is constrained or aesthetic considerations matter.
Magnetic door holders come in a range of holding forces, voltages and feature sets. When comparing the VIRA5024 to alternatives, consider these differentiating points:
- Holding force:The 50 kg rating positions the VIRA5024 for heavier internal doors. Lower‑force units (e.g., 20–30 kg) are fine for lightweight doors but may not be suitable for busy public areas or heavy leaves.
- Fail‑safe vs fail‑secure:The VIRA5024 is fail‑safe, which is the correct choice for fire‑door hold‑open devices. Some electromagnetic devices are fail‑secure for access control applications; those are unsuitable where doors must close on alarm or power loss.
- Fire testing:Not all magnetic holders are fire‑tested. The VIRA5024s EN1634‑2 testing for 60 minutes gives it an advantage for projects that require documented fire performance.
- Voltage and integration:Many holders operate at 12 V or 24 V. The 24 V option used here is often preferable for compatibility with fire and building systems; always verify control panel compatibility and wiring protections.
- Serviceability:The integrated manual/test release is a practical feature that streamlines inspection routines compared with units that require power interruption for testing.
- Form factor and finish:The compact, powder‑coated Zamak®/steel body and universal armature make the VIRA5024 easy to install and visually unobtrusive compared with larger, more industrial units.
When specifying a magnetic door holder, match holding force to door mass and traffic patterns, confirm fire‑rating requirements for door sets, and ensure electrical compatibility with the control system. The VIRA5024 balances these factors for many commercial applications.
While individual testimonials vary by site, installers and facilities teams commonly report the following practical advantages after fitting the VIRA5024:
- Reliable hold and release:Consistent release on alarm and robust holding during daily operations, reducing complaints about doors slamming or failing to hold open.
- Easy testing and maintenance:The manual/test release button simplifies routine checks and is appreciated by maintenance staff who manage multiple door points.
- Good value for money:Customers cite the balance of performance and price — the product offers the fire‑tested credentials and holding force required without premium pricing.
- Neat appearance and installation:The compact profile and white powder finish blend into many interiors, and the universal armature plate reduces on‑site adjustments.
For procurement teams, the products certification and compatibility with standard wiring practices often make specification decisions straightforward.
Successful deployment depends on correct installation and commissioning. Installers should follow CDVIs installation manual, observe local fire codes and use compatible wiring and isolation/protection components. Always confirm the fire door manufacturers guidance when fitting hold‑open devices to certified door sets.
The CDVI VIRA5024 is a well‑rounded magnetic door holder that meets the practical needs of commercial and public buildings where fire‑door behaviour must be predictable and compliant. Its 50 kg holding force, 24 V DC operation, integrated manual/test release and 60‑minute fire test status make it a dependable choice for busy environments such as hospitals, hotels, offices and schools.
For installers and specifiers seeking a compact, cost‑effective hold‑open device with recognised test credentials and straightforward integration into alarm and access systems, the VIRA5024 offers a compelling option. As with all safety‑critical hardware, ensure installation follows the manufacturers instructions and local regulations to preserve both system performance and compliance.
Suggested retail pricing and datasheets are typically available from suppliers; for exact product documentation and installation instructions, consult CDVIs datasheet and installation manual provided with the product or from your authorised distributor.
