The quirky world of industrial doors

Industrial doors are often seen as utilitarian giants, guarding warehouses and factories, devoid of personality. But step closer, and you might be surprised. From hidden messages to soundproof secrets, these behemoths hold a world of quirks, just waiting to be discovered.

The world's largest industrial door measures a whopping 143 metres wide and 82 metres high, guarding the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Centre. Imagine the engineering marvel behind opening and closing such a giant.

The doors are so large they are said to create their own wind systems as they open and close. This requires careful monitoring and precise timing to avoid damage to anything nearby

Believe it or not, industrial doors even exist underwater. In Rotterdam, Netherlands, a massive, 2,500-ton door seals the entrance to the Maeslantkering storm surge barrier, protecting the city from flooding. This door is taller than a 10-story building and can be closed in just 30 minutes.

Looking for security and transparency in one? Bulletproof industrial doors with polycarbonate panels exist, offering both protection and a glimpse into the secured space. Imagine a bank with a bulletproof door that allows you to see inside without compromising security.

Researchers are also developing industrial doors made with self-healing materials that automatically repair minor cracks and damage, reducing maintenance costs. Additionally, there are sensor-equipped doors which can monitor their environment, adjust their opening speed based on traffic and even display information on their surface.

During World War II, it was reputed that some hangar doors in Britain were built with coded messages hidden in the patterns of their rivets. These messages could only be deciphered by knowing the specific pattern and order of the rivets.

And if we are talking industrial doors, we have to mention the Great Molasses Flood of 1919 in Boston. It involved not just molasses, but also a faulty industrial door. A massive molasses tank burst, unleashing a wave of sticky sweetness due to a malfunctioning door latch.

During the Prohibition era in the US, some speakeasies disguised their entrances as regular industrial doors, complete with realistic dirt and rust markings. These inconspicuous facades helped them blend in and avoid unwanted attention.

Some high-security industrial doors use advanced noise cancellation technology to prevent any sound from escaping when they open or close, ensuring discretion and confidentiality

Sustainable options are also emerging for industrial doors, including those made from recycled materials or even living walls incorporated into the door panels, adding greenery and air purification to industrial spaces.

And to finish off, did you know that the Romans used elephants to transport huge stone doors for their temples and public buildings? Talk about a truly unique door delivery! So next time you encounter an industrial door, remember, it might just hold a story waiting to be told.