A security gate is a critical component of a business, particularly one that deals with restricted-access or industrial facilities. The function of an automated security gate is to control access to specific grounds, ensuring that only authorized personnel can obtain access. In most of the applicable environments, commercial gates are normally installed at entrances, whereby only authorized vehicles can gain access. Based on the range or size of a specific facility, secondary gates might be installed within the premises to control access within specific areas. A good anecdote would be a parking garage in which all drivers must get in through the main gate, but where the workers proceed to an inner gate to access reserved parking, separate from those assigned to the general public. So, what are the various types of business security gates?
Slide gates
These can either be the V Groove gates or the Cantilever slide gates. The V-Groove, also known as the rolling gate is a typical design at business facilities. Upon its opening, this gate moves sideways towards the left or right and aligns itself parallel to the wall or fence as the vehicle enters. Movement is enabled by roller wheels located under the gate. They slide over the V groove ground track that holds the gate in the correct position as it opens and closes. Nevertheless, the rolling tracks can be blocked by debris and dirt; sometimes even ice and snow during the winter season. Likewise, their location on the ground renders them susceptible to premature damage and wear. Commercial gate repair services can be handy in addressing this situation.
The Cantilever slide gate also opens by sliding towards the sides to make space for outgoing or incoming vehicles. Unlike other commercial gate designs, this gate does not utilize rollers aligned on a ground track. It is instead moved towards the side and back through roller wheels or roller trucks mounted on the gate posts.
Swing Gates
The commercial swing gate resembles a door since it opens only at one end and commonly extends 90 degrees when completely open. it can swing either to the inside or outwards. It can also have a leaf or two. However, this type of gage can be dangerous especially at unmarked or unmanned entrances due to its ability to swing outwards. This is unlike the slide gates that are pulled towards the side and align themselves against a fence. For this reason, if swing gates get automated, it is necessary to have sufficient space as well as stopping lines in front of the gate to make sure it never hits a waiting vehicle or a person.
Pedestrian Portals
Pedestrian portals usually combine turnstiles with swing gates. A turnstile has been properly designed to avail secure access for large volumes of pedestrian traffic, whereas the swing gate enables special access.
Vertical Lift Gates
A vertical lift gate moves upwards to open, instead of outwards or sideways. It has twin lifting columns on either side. This gate is normally raised over the height of the authorized vehicles that are supposed to be passing through. Since it does not require space either at the front & rear, or to either side of the vehicular opening, a vertical lift gate is among the most compact and space-efficient designs. However, they need to always be in good condition since if a malfunction causes it to drop down unexpectedly, it can damage a vehicle or injure its passengers. It is therefore prudent to seek commercial gate repair services to periodically inspect it.
Bi-Folding Gates
In designs the likes of the SecurFold Bi-Folding Speed Gate, there are two gates that meet in the middle when in a closed position. Each of these gates are subdivided into two panels joined by hinges that enable folding and contracting to the respective side of the vehicle opening while open.
These are just a few of the available commercial gates in the market. The size of your premises as well as your business demands are the greatest factor in determining the most suitable type of gate.