Connecting fittings & functional hardware
335 products from 36 manufacturers in the catalogue.Browse all connecting fittings →
Connecting fittings are the mechanical devices that control how furniture doors and panels operate—beyond simple hinged swings. They enable soft closing, automatic opening, self-closing mechanisms, integrated damping, and specialized operations like tilt-and-turn windows or push-open cabinets. Fittings are essential in modern cabinetry where user experience, noise reduction, and durability are paramount. They transform basic cabinet hardware into systems that feel premium, operate smoothly, and last thousands of cycles.
The 'fittings' category encompasses hydraulic and pneumatic dampers (BLUMOTION, TIP-ON), swing fittings for corner cabinets, glass door fittings, partition system connectors, and specialty mechanisms like lift systems or air-suspension hardware. Unlike hinges (which are the primary door support), fittings are secondary mechanisms that enhance or modify how the primary hinge operates. Many fittings integrate directly with hinges or work independently on handles and door frames to provide integrated soft-close damping, mechanical release, or specialized movement patterns.
Choosing the right fitting depends on your furniture's use case: a kitchen cabinet with frequently opened doors benefits from soft-close damping and push-open mechanisms, while a commercial partition system needs robust self-closing fittings and fire-rating compliance. Material (steel, aluminum, stainless steel), load rating, mechanism type (hydraulic, mechanical, pneumatic), and integration with existing hardware are critical selection factors. Modern fittings are often universal or available in multiple specifications to adapt to different panel weights and installation styles.
Browse by feature
What to check before choosing
- Identify the door type: Interior cabinet door, exterior swing door, glass panel, or specialty (corner, flip-up). This determines which fitting category is suitable.
- Determine the weight: Damping and soft-close systems must match the door panel weight (typically 5–30 kg for cabinets). Oversized systems for light doors waste money; undersized systems will not operate smoothly or may fail.
- Choose the operation mode: Standard passive (no special mechanism), push-to-open (TIP-ON or lever), soft-close (damped), self-closing (spring or pneumatic), or powered (motorized). Consider frequency of use and user preference.
- Specify damping/soft-close: Hydraulic damping (smooth, reliable) is standard. Pneumatic systems (air-based) are lighter but require occasional re-pressurization. Select based on cabinet application and budget.
- Material and finish: Chrome or matte nickel for visible hardware (premium look). Stainless steel for kitchens and wet environments. Standard steel or plastic for industrial or hidden installations.
- Integration with existing hardware: Verify compatibility with your hinge brand and model (many fittings integrate with specific hinge lines). Check mounting points and hole sizes before ordering.
- Load rating and cycle life: Confirm the fitting can handle the door weight when fully extended or opened. Check the rated cycle life (typically 50,000–200,000+ cycles). Heavy-use cabinets need higher-rated fittings.
Key parameters
- Type / Mechanism
- Category of fitting: soft-close damper (BLUMOTION-style, hydraulic), push-to-open (TIP-ON, mechanical), self-closing (spring or pneumatic), lift system (powered opening aid), swing fitting (for corner cabinets), or partition connector (for sliding glass walls). Each type modifies how the door or panel moves and closes.
- Operation / Application
- How the fitting is triggered: push-to-open (gentle push releases catch), soft-close (automatic deceleration before fully closed), self-closing (returns to closed position automatically), or motorized (powered open/close). Application indicates the intended furniture type (cabinet, door, partition, specialty).
- Material
- Construction material: steel (standard, durable), aluminum (lightweight, corrosion-resistant), stainless steel (premium, for wet/corrosive environments), or composite/plastic (specialty, lightweight). Material affects durability, appearance, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, or UV exposure.
- Locking type / Function
- Special behavior: standard (no locking), hold-open (door stays partially open), soft-catch (gentle closure), damped (hydraulic or pneumatic deceleration), or integrated lock (prevents unintended opening). Function type depends on the use case and safety requirements.
- Door type / Mounting
- Designed for specific mounting styles: interior cabinet doors, exterior swing doors, glass panels (frameless or framed), partition walls, or overhead/flip-up cabinet doors (AVENTOS-style). Mounting method determines whether the fitting bolts to the frame, hinges, or panel edge.
- Tube diameter / Rod diameter
- Physical dimensions of pneumatic or hydraulic tubes/rods in millimeters, if applicable. Standard damper tubes: 14–20 mm. These dimensions determine compatibility with hinge holes and mounting plates. Verify measurements before ordering to ensure fit.
- Drive type / Power source
- Energy source for operation: manual (hand-pushed), gravity-assisted, spring-loaded (stored mechanical energy), hydraulic (oil-based damper), pneumatic (air-based), or electric (powered actuator). Manual and spring-loaded are most common in residential; hydraulic/pneumatic in commercial; electric in accessibility or luxury applications.
- Finish
- Surface treatment: chrome (shiny, reflective), matte nickel (subtle, modern), matte stainless (brushed, premium), white/colored plastic (neutral, lightweight), or standard steel (industrial, no special finish). Finish affects both appearance and durability in different environments.
Common types
- Soft-close damper (BLUMOTION-style)
- Hydraulic damping that automatically slows the door in the final 10–20 cm of closing, preventing slamming. Integrates into hinge mechanisms or works independently. Most popular in modern kitchens and offices. Adds cost but eliminates noise and hardware wear.
- Push-to-open / TIP-ON
- Lever or catch mechanism that releases when gently pushed. Eliminates the need for a handle or knob on the door front. Door closes automatically by gravity or damper. Very modern aesthetic, common in minimalist kitchens and furniture design.
- Self-closing / Spring or pneumatic
- Door automatically closes after being opened, using a spring or pneumatic actuator. Common in commercial buildings, hospitals, and fire-rated applications. Can be adjusted for opening/closing speed. Ensures doors never remain open accidentally.
- Swing fitting (Corner cabinet)
- Specialized fitting for corner cabinet doors that enable wide opening angles (often 110–180°) and smooth operation. Accommodates the unusual geometry of corner spaces and tall cabinetry. Requires precise installation.
- Glass door / Frameless panel fitting
- Connector designed for frameless glass doors and panels. Includes edge guards, adjustable stops, and soft-close damping. Critical for shower enclosures, glass display cases, and modern interior partitions. Specialized metallurgy for glass compatibility.
- Lift system / Flip-up door (AVENTOS, power-assist)
- Pneumatic or hydraulic system that assists opening overhead or flip-up cabinet doors. Reduces effort needed and provides smooth opening/closing. Popular in tall or upper cabinets. Powered lift systems are motorized alternatives.
Typical uses
Manufacturers in connecting fittings
- Italiana Ferramenta 26
- Vauth-Sagel 26
- FUHR 24
- GEZE 23
- SUSPA 21
- fischer 19
- Kesseböhmer 19
- peka 19
Example products
FAQ
What is the difference between BLUMOTION soft-close damping and a TIP-ON push-to-open mechanism?
BLUMOTION (or similar hydraulic damping) automatically slows the door as it closes, creating a soft, quiet closing action. It requires no user input beyond the initial push or pull. TIP-ON (push-to-open) is a catch-release mechanism that opens the door with a gentle push and relies on gravity or a separate soft-close damper to close it. BLUMOTION is for smooth closing; TIP-ON is for hands-free opening. Many modern cabinets combine both: TIP-ON for opening + BLUMOTION for closing.
Do I need a soft-close fitting if my hinges already have damping?
Many modern hinges (like CLIP top BLUMOTION) include integrated soft-close damping, so a separate soft-close fitting is redundant. However, if your hinges are basic (no damping), you can add a standalone soft-close fitting or damper. Check your hinge model's specifications before purchasing additional fittings. Some systems use separate fittings for modular flexibility.
What is a lift-assist or power-assist fitting and when should I use one?
A lift-assist fitting (like AVENTOS) uses pneumatic or hydraulic pressure to help open overhead or flip-up cabinet doors, reducing the physical effort needed. Power-assist (motorized) versions open automatically. Use lift-assist for tall upper cabinets, heavy doors, or accessibility requirements. Standard fittings suit lower, lighter doors. Lift-assist costs more but dramatically improves ergonomics and user experience.
Can I add soft-close damping to an existing cabinet door that doesn't have it?
Yes, you can retrofit soft-close damping in several ways: (1) Replace the hinges with damped hinges (most common), (2) add a separate soft-close fitting to the existing hinge, or (3) install a buffer/damper mechanism on the frame. Retrofitting is less ideal than factory-installed systems (alignment may be imperfect), but it's a practical upgrade for frequently used cabinets. Consult a furniture technician if unsure about compatibility.
How long do soft-close dampers last, and can they be repaired or replaced?
Quality soft-close dampers last 50,000–200,000 cycles or 10–15 years of typical residential use. They may weaken or leak over time, causing slower damping action. Replacement is straightforward: remove the old damper (usually bolted on) and install a new one. Unlike hinges, dampers cannot be repaired—only replaced. Budget for replacement as a maintenance item if the cabinet is heavily used or commercial.