A Side-by-Side Comparison of Two Universal Flush Economy Panels with Flange (Acudor and Cendrex)

Easy access to electrical, plumbing, and mechanical (EMP) systems is crucial for maintenance and repairs. Universal flush economy panels with flange offer a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution for concealing these access points within walls, ceilings, or floors.

Choosing the right panel type depends on several factors, including durability, ease of installation, and desired look.

We will take a side-by-side look at universal flush economy panels with flange from Acudor and Cendrex, allowing construction professionals to make informed decisions. 

Understanding Access Panels 

Universal flush economy panels with flange are pre-fabricated access panels that blend seamlessly into finished surfaces. They typically have a metal frame and door with a flange sitting flush against the surrounding wall. These panels serve several purposes, such as:

• Concealing access points for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems 

• Providing a secure yet easy-to-open enclosure for maintenance and repairs 

• Maintaining a clean and finished aesthetic in walls, ceilings, and floors

When selecting a universal flush with flange economy panel, consider the following factors:

• Durability: Material thickness, door construction, and ability to withstand impact in high-traffic areas. 

• Installation: Ease and speed of installation affect project timelines. 

• Finish: Pre-painted finishes to complement the surrounding design scheme. 

• Access: User-friendly door-opening mechanisms for frequent access. 

• Weight: Lighter panels for ceilings and specific applications. 

Acudor vs. Cendrex: A Detailed Comparison 

Acudor and Cendrex are two leading manufacturers of universal flush economy panels with flanges. Let's compare their features to understand their strengths and potential drawbacks.

For this article, we will use the ED-2002 Universal Flush Economy Panel with Flange by Acudor and compare it to Cendrex's AHD General Purpose Panel with Flange. 

Material and Construction 

Acudor panels utilize a slightly thinner 18-gauge steel compared to Cendrex's 16-gauge steel. This means better dent resistance for the latter, making them a better choice for high-traffic areas. 

Installation 

Both panels likely offer similar flange widths. While Acudor explicitly mentions time-saving features like knock-over tabs for specific sizes and bend tabs for smaller panels, Cendrex's description suggests a generally easy and quick installation process. 

We highly recommend consulting the manufacturer's instructions for the specific model. 

Finish and Aesthetics 

Both panels come with a pre-painted white finish. Acudor's finish is a primer, while Cendrex's is a powder coat primer. Both can be painted to match specific decor and aesthetics. Acudor features a concealed hinge for a cleaner aesthetic, while Cendrex doesn't mention hinge design in the provided model description. 

Access and Maintenance 

Both panels' base models utilize a screwdriver-operated cam latch for opening, requiring a tool for access. Their locks and latches can be customized further, depending on your needs.

Acudor's ED-2002 can be modified with a cylinder lock and key. At the same time, Cendrex's AHD has several security options, including a key-operated cylinder cam latch, pinned hex head cam latch, and slide latch, among others. 

Access Doors and Panels, one of North America's leading access solutions providers, offers a wide selection of general-purpose access panels and other access solutions to meet various construction needs and safety standards. 

Check out what customers have to say about our products here.

Additional Considerations 

When choosing which general-purpose panel to use, it is also best to think about the following:

• LEED Compliance: Cendrex AHD is LEED V4 compliant, making it an environmentally friendly option. 

• Weight: Acudor panels might be marginally lighter than Cendrex panels due to the slightly thinner steel, making them more ideal for ceiling installations. 

Best Use Cases 

• Acudor ED-2002: Best for ceiling installations due to its slightly lighter steel construction. Despite its thinner build, it does exceptionally well in high-traffic areas.

• Cendrex AHD: A cost-effective option for non-rated walls and ceilings where heavy traffic might be a concern. Its LEED compliance can be a factor for environmentally conscious projects. 

Wrapping It Up 

Choosing between Acudor's ED-2002 and Cendrex's AHD depends on your priorities. The ED-2002—despite its slightly thinner steel construction—might be preferable for its potential weight advantage and suitability for high-traffic areas due to its reinforced edges. If LEED compliance is a requirement, Cendrex is the environmentally friendly choice between the two. For a cleaner look with concealed hinges, Acudor takes the lead.

Consider budget, security needs, how often you'll need to access the panel, weight (if important), and how it should look. Check both manufacturer websites for all the details and installation info.

Access Doors and Panels has a wide range of high-quality access doors and panels that fit every commercial building project. Feel free to contact our team of experts if you have questions about any of our products or want to request a quote. Give us a call at (800) 609-2917. We'll be happy to help you with your project.