Security Specialists

Electric gates are an easy way to ensure the security of private premises and can be used for all sized properties. Electric gates, though not very commonplace at the moment, have found their niche in the market today. For those who find the security of their premises (be it residential or commercial) important, electric gates are the way to go. There is a decrease in the cost of electric gate kits and their installation. Aside from the basic kits, there are now many features that can be added to ensure security as well as make them more convenient.

Articulated

Articulated gate openers can be used for gates with wide posts allowing opening in small spaces. An easy system for DIY installers as they are simple to install but not as aesthetically pleasing as other motor designs. Also known as Crank arm operators, they are the main type of automation system sold in France, where low aluminium gates are often used.

Underground

Under-gate Jack operators usually control the gate by directly moving the pivot point of each gate leaf. This makes the unit ideal cosmetically and also allows for up to 180 degrees of leaf swing as required. However controlling the pivot point of the gate, is like opening a door by twisting the hinge, and as so is very difficult due to the loads needed at that point. This is highlighted with snap, as the gate has to change direct, as soon as it can. For this reason they are recommend as only suitable for ‘Domestic’ systems in a low risk of abuse environment. Another major consideration with the use of under-gate units is that of water immersion/ingress and warranty voidance. If the water table is high or the drainage of the unit’s foundation box inadequate throughout the systems life, then water ingress and unit failure is increased.

Ram or link arm units are usually simpler to install and maintain, they are visible to otherwise ignorant abuse and as they fix down along each gate leaf, they also have an obvious and sometimes major, mechanical advantage over Jacks. Therefore Rams are far more suitable on Multi-user & commercial systems. Also the manual release is always above ground, making it often more user friendly in operation.

Sliding

If space is an issue or the driveway behind the gates is on a steep incline, a better option would be a sliding gate. Sliding gates are also very popular in a commercial environment. Sliding gates are also used for cantillever gate systems.

Electric Gate Safety

The safety of an automated gate is an important consideration, in the European Union, automated gate safety is specified by a series of European Normalisations. An automated gate that has not been fitted with safety in mind can potentially become a major hazard particularly to untrained users. Various safety devices are available to make sure that your gates meet the highest of European or American safety standards.

Gate and Security

Electric gates alone, however solid and imposing they may be, cannot guarantee a completely secure enviroment electric locks, are often needed to boost the locking effectiveness of the gate motors. Electric gates are recommended to be used in combination with other security features to install a full security security system. A few of these features are closed circuits with security cameras, additional gates in conjunction with the main gate, electronic keycards and keypads, security guards.

Aside from the additional security features that should go with parking barrier gates, electric security gates often offer safety features like sensors that determine when there is an obstruction to prevent the electronic gate from swinging into a vehicle or closing on somebody's hands. To prevent the electronic gates from being damaged by irresponsible drivers driving fast speed bumps are also commonly placed before gate entrances to slow down vehicles.