Folding Door Connector Hinges Explained
Is this the hinge that connects the two folding doors together?
Yes, this is typically the Bi-Fold (or Pie-Cut) Corner Hinge. It is designed specifically to connect the two doors of an L-shaped corner cabinet (often a Lazy Susan cabinet) so they fold in on themselves when opened. If you are looking for the hinge that attaches the door to the cabinet wall, you likely need a "165-degree Wide Angle Hinge" instead.
Choosing The Correct Mounting Plate
Do I need a specific mounting plate?
Yes. Corner bi-fold hinges often require a specific, slightly taller or angled mounting plate compared to standard cupboard hinges. If you are replacing a broken hinge, try to reuse your existing mounting plate if it is in good condition. If you need a new one, ensure you select a "0mm" or "adjustable" mounting plate compatible with the Intermat series.
Why Corner Hinges Fail
Why did my old corner hinge break?
Corner bi-fold hinges are under immense stress. They carry the weight of two doors plus the leverage force every time the user pulls firmly on the handle. Often, people lean on the open doors, snapping the internal spring or casting. Replacing it with a genuine Hettich Intermat ensures you are getting high-quality steel and a tested spring mechanism, not cheap pot-metal.
Matching Hinge Cups To Cabinet Holes
What if the hinge cup doesn't fit the hole?
The industry standard cup diameter is 35mm. It is extremely rare to find a kitchen hinge that isn't 35mm. The only variation is usually the depth (standard is 11-13mm deep). This hinge fits all standard 35mm borings. If the small screw holes don't line up, simply rotate the hinge slightly to a fresh patch of wood and drive the screws in there-the large 35mm hole does all the structural work.
Keeping Cabinet Screws Tight
How do I stop the screws from coming loose over time?
Because of the vibration in corner cabinets, screws can work loose. When installing, put a drop of wood glue or a matchstick into the screw hole for extra bite. Once adjusted perfectly, checking the screws once a year will keep your corner cabinet operating smoothly for decades.
