The purpose-built Blavatnik School of Government at Oxford University recently opened to teachers, students and academics, with TORMAX-powered automated twin-leaf swing doors welcoming them into a functional entrance lobby area.

The Blavatnik School of Government is a global school pursuing a vision of better government, stronger societies, and richer human opportunities across the world. The facility incorporates lecture theatres, exhibition spaces, seminar and meeting rooms as well as a café and informal seating areas. The new building brings all members together for the first time in three years, and has been designed to maximise energy efficiency and sustainability by combining modern control systems with modern technology.

The two wooden and glass entrance doors were built by Birmingham Veneers Ltd, and are automated using two TORMAX iMotion 1401 operators concealed in sealed casings underneath the floor.

The iMotion motors are designed with no abrading parts to cause friction wear, which minimises maintenance, allowing them to be neatly located out of sight. This also ensures longevity and reliability, even in a busy location such as this.

The TORMAX automatic swing doors contributing to low environmental impact by effectively minimising heat-loss from the building. Their powerful, high-torque synchronous motors, combined with user-friendly keypad controls, allow staff to adjust hold-open times and open / closing speeds in response to changes in the weather as well as pedestrian foot traffic volume.

iMotion door drives are also manufactured from 96% recyclable products and require only low-energy operation, making them a sustainable option.

“The iMotion 1401 operator has been consistently in demand for either buildings of historic value where a concealed motor is desired,” comments Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX, “or for any location where the aesthetics of the building are of primary importance.”

The underfloor operators at the Blavatnik Building allow the doors to swing silently open without any external linkage, maintaining a sleek and contemporary entrance system that reflects the high quality of the overall design.