Lead Lined Doors & Frames
Lead lined doors and frames are specialized assemblies designed to shield radiation in settings such as imaging centers, medical clinics, veterinary offices, aerospace facilities, and research laboratories. These doors incorporate internal lead sheets, which are often integrated within the core or laminated between structural layers, to effectively block ionizing radiation. Constructed with galvannealed, galvanized, or stainless steel and reinforced with steel stiffeners, they deliver durable, effective protection while supporting architectural standards and enhacing any decor.
Designing Lead Lined Doors
Lead lined doors are engineered with an internal sheet of lead, commonly referred to as lead equivalency. designed to match the radiation shielding requirements of the surrounding walls. The thickness of the lead can vary, with standard medical applications often using 1/16″ lead, while higher-risk environments may require 1/8″, 3/16″, or greater. These hollow metal door configurations are manufactured with the lead typically bonded within the core or centered between structural layers. They are reinforced with vertical steel stiffeners to maintain strength despite the added weight of the lead.
The outer surfaces of lead lined doors are typically fabricated from cold-rolled (galvanized) steel or stainless steel, and can be factory-primed and painted for a finished appearance. Matching lead lined frames, available in welded or knock-down hollow metal styles, are constructed to align with the door’s shielding level and ensure seamless radiation protection. Frames are also engineered to handle the additional door weight and accommodate hardware such as hinges, closers, and locks that are compatible with the increased thickness and mass.
Shield Against Radiation
When it comes to protecting people and sensitive equipment from harmful radiation, lead lined doors are an essential component of a safe building design. These specialized doors are constructed with internal layers of lead, which effectively block or reduce the transmission of radiation. By incorporating these doors into a facility, you can create secure spaces that meet strict safety and regulatory standards for radiation shielding.
Manufactured to meet stringent quality and performance standards, lead lined doors are available in various thicknesses and can be paired with lead lined frames and hardware for complete protection. These doors are available:
With vision lights, borrowed lights, or sidelight frames
Fire-rated up to 90 minutes
STC-rated
Bullet resistant levels 1-4
With stainless steel skins
Mitigating Radiation Risks
Lead lined doors are an essential component in environments where radiation protection, durability, and design flexibility must work hand in hand. By meeting shielding requirements outlined by regulatory bodies such as the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) and the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), these doors help ensure both safety and legal compliance. Whether used in hospitals, research facilities, or industrial applications, they provide long-term protection without compromising functionality or aesthetics. Choosing the right construction, thickness, and hardware compatibility ensures reliable performance and peace of mind for years to come.
Resources
SDI has developed these resources for architects, specifiers and distributors regarding lead lined doors below.
Manufacturers
The SDI Certified manufacturers below can construct lead lined doors and frames to your specifications.
Click any of their logos for product specification information or to contact them.
