Bi-parting automatic doors split into two leaves that open from the centre, making them the choice for the busiest entrances.
Choosing between single sliding and bi-parting automatic doors comes down to opening width and traffic. Compare the options in our automatic door systems overview and operator guide.
When a commercial entrance is being automated, the first layout decision is usually single sliding versus bi-parting. Both are supported by the same operator platforms, but they behave differently in the shopfront — and the right answer follows from the opening, not from preference.
Related: compare the two-leaf layout in depth in our double automatic sliding doors guide, or configure your entrance for a fast, itemised quote.
Single sliding: one leaf, one stacking side
A single sliding automatic door uses one active leaf that travels to one side, typically parking behind or alongside a fixed panel. It needs stacking space on one side only, which makes it the practical option for narrower shopfronts and asymmetric openings. The trade-off: for a given overall opening, a single slider usually achieves a smaller clear opening than a bi-parting pair, because the whole opening width has to house one full-width leaf plus its parking zone.
Bi-parting: two leaves, balanced entrance
Bi-parting automatic sliding doors use two active leaves that open away from the centre — the classic commercial entrance. Because each leaf is roughly half the width, the assembly stacks in two shorter zones, usually over fixed sidelights, and typically delivers a wider clear opening with a balanced look. It does, however, need stacking space on both sides, so the overall opening must be wide enough for both leaves and their parked positions.
How the decision is actually made
Start from the clear opening you need when the doors are fully open, then work backwards to the leaf and sidelight dimensions that deliver it. That is exactly how custom automatic sliding doors are designed at Coetz™ in Johannesburg — the shopfront, leaves and sidelights are sized together, and the MC-125 automatic sliding-door operator suits both single sliding and bi-parting configurations. If you are unsure which layout your opening supports, submit the overall dimensions and the required clear opening and the quotation will confirm the workable option.
Choosing bi-parting automatic doors
Bi-parting automatic doors move twice the glass in the same time as a single slider, so they clear high foot traffic in malls, hospitals and airports without a bottleneck. Because each leaf travels half the distance, the opening feels fast and the operators share the load. The trade-off is a slightly higher price and a little more commissioning, since both leaves and their sensors must be balanced – the same automatic door technology principles apply to each side.
For a quieter shopfront or a narrow opening, a single sliding door is usually enough. Match the door to the real traffic rather than over-specifying, and our team will size bi-parting automatic doors to the building and the footfall.
When are bi-parting automatic doors worth it?
When foot traffic is high or the opening is wide – two leaves clear crowds faster than a single slider.
Are bi-parting automatic doors more expensive?
Usually a little, because there are two leaves, more sensors and extra commissioning, but they handle far more traffic.
Getting it right with Coetz
When it comes to bi-parting automatic doors, the details decide the outcome – the operator rating, the sensor package, the glass and a clean installation. Coetz specifies each entrance to its real traffic and building rather than a one-size-fits-all kit, so the door opens smoothly and closes safely from the first day.
Coetz has years of experience with automatic entrances across South Africa, from single shopfronts to multi-door developments. We install to standard, commission every safety function, and back the entrance with service and genuine spare parts, so it keeps working long after the invoice is paid.
Planning early is the simplest way to keep a project on budget and on time. Getting the power supply, the opening and the safety package right up front avoids rework and return visits later.
Ready to move ahead? Tell us your opening size and traffic level, and we will recommend the best option and a clear, itemised price.
Leave a Reply