Whether you already have a security gate operating on your facility or you’re looking to install one, gate automation is well worth considering to upgrade your security.
Sliding, swing, and pedestrian gates can all be enhanced with an automatic gate system. These systems provide an intuitive and reliable way to monitor and control access to your site
What is gate automation?
In its simplest form, gate automation is the process of using electricity or hydraulics to open and close your security gates. Automation negates the need for manual operation, adding convenience, efficiency, and increased security to your site.
Automatic gate systems can also be connected to access control solutions, like key fobs and sensors, for a more robust and convenient security solution.
Automated gate regulations in the UK
To ensure that a site’s security gates operate safely and to minimise the risk of accidents, the manufacture and installation of automated gates must follow strict health and safety regulations:
- Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations, 2008
- Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations, 1992
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, 1974
- Building Regulations, 2010
- BS EN 12453:2017 — Safety in Use of Power Operated Doors and Gates
- BS EN 12604:2017 — Mechanical Aspects of Gates
How much is it to automate existing gates?
The cost of automating an existing gate very much depends on the size and other specifications of the facilities at your site.
When Security Solutions are preparing bespoke quotes before completing work, complementary site surveys are conducted to ensure the price quoted is a fair reflection of the work to be completed.
How to automate a gate
To automate a gate, our installers can either upgrade an existing manual gate structure or build an automated gate system from scratch. To give you a better idea of our process, here’s a step-by-step guide to how we install and automate a gate from scratch.
- Choose your security gate type
At Security Solutions, we can automate a variety of security gates. When choosing your facility’s ideal security gate type, it’s important to think about what will suit your site best. Think about the space you have available and how a particular gate design can meet your unique security needs.
The most common types of automated security gates include:
- Swing gates: Open inwards and outwards, similar to a door.
- Sliding gates: Move sideways along a track. Ideal for facilities with limited space.
- Rising arm barriers: While not strictly a gate, this security solution is still an excellent choice for sites requiring vehicle access. It features an automated arm that lowers and raises to control vehicle entry.
- Pedestrian gates: Come in a variety of forms, including swing gates, sliding gates, and turnstiles.
If you can’t see the type of automated gate you’d like above, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team, and we can advise you further.
- Choose your gate automation system
Your gate automation system controls the motor of your security gate, allowing it to open or close when access is authorised or denied. There are two main types of gate automation systems, each with its own features and benefits:
Electromechanical system
Electromechanical gate automation systems use an electric motor, which is installed within the gate’s structural materials or mounted adjacent to it. The motor powers the security gate to open or close and can run on an AC or a DC current. However, most commercial and industrial facilities opt for AC to keep up with daily, consistent use.
Electromechanical systems are the best choice for a light commercial facility with a smaller security gate. They are an affordable option requiring minimal maintenance.
Hydraulic system
Instead of relying on electricity, these motors use pressurised hydraulic fluid to generate your security gate’s open-and-close movement.
The pressure of the fluid moves the pistons within the system, driving the gate’s mechanisms. There are many parts to the hydraulic system, including pumps, pistons, control units, and valves.
Hydraulic systems are best for large, heavy-duty security gates due to the strength of the motor. They are extremely durable but come at a higher price point. They also require regular fluid checks and servicing.
- Installation
Once these components have been chosen, it’s time to install the automated security gate.
This begins by preparing the existing gate and its components and then ensuring it is structurally sound and level once installed.
After that, your chosen motor will be installed — these steps can vary depending on the type of security gate. For instance, electric sliding gates require a rack-and-pinion motor system.
We’ll also test your automated gate’s safety mechanisms to ensure any sensors, safety edges, alarms, and manual release mechanisms work as they should.
Next, we’ll integrate the access control system. This is where we add the ‘brains’ of your whole security solution, authorising access via signals to the motor when requested via a fob, keycard, or intercom, to name a few options.
Finally, we’ll implement your chosen automation settings — whether this be a specific gate speed or auto-close timer.
- Testing
At this point in the installation, all the safety features will be tested again for extra security. Initial maintenance checks will also be carried out, including lubricating the hinges of your security gate and cleaning the sensors.
Most importantly, we’ll assess the installation to ensure it complies with all of the relevant automatic gate regulations in the UK.
- Registration and certification
Once everything is safe, secure, and operational, your automated security gate will be CE or UKCA marked to show that it is compliant with all safety laws.
All that’s left to do is risk-assess before use and ensure it is regularly maintained by a certified DHF or Gate Safe-approved installer — like our team here at Security Solutions. We even offer an automated gate maintenance package for extra peace of mind.
Wondering how often you should get your automated security gate serviced? Take a look at our recommendation below:
- Every 3-6 months for moderate-use commercial gates, used 10 to 50 times a day.
- Every 1-3 months for heavy-use industrial gates, used 50+ times per day.
Bespoke automated gate systems from Security Solutions
Looking for professional and reliable automated security gate installation? With plenty of years of experience, expertise, and industry knowledge, our team at Security Solutions will be more than happy to design and install your automated security system for you.
For a bespoke security gate solution, please get in touch with our team.