GateMotors.co.uk Blog » swing gates

Automatic Electric Gate Safety/Security for Schools – Ofsted Requirements

Technical Support — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 11:41:36 +0000

Ofsted are trying to issue new guidelines to make schools aware of the issue of security, as there have been many cases of millions of pounds being lost through damage and theft. Many schools have gates that will secure entrances into the school. While these are securely shut and locked at night, there is usually no monitoring of visitors during the day, so anybody could be accessing the school potentially without being seen or noticed.

Here at GateMotors, not only are all our automation kits irreversible when installed, you will be able to purchase various extra safety and security measures that would be fit for a school. Depending on the type of gates you have, whether it be wooden, metal, swing gates, sliding gates, our Gate Wizard will help you choose the exact automation you need.

For safety measures, we recommend all our customers to purchase an additional pair of photocells when purchasing our gate kits. This is because photocells will stop the gate opening or closing if somebody is going through it. But it will only pick it up on the inside or outside of the gate (wherever installed) because there is only one set included in the kit. Purchasing another set will make sure the gate automation is stopped on both sides of the gate. Also available for swing or sliding gates are Gate Safety Edges which will fit on the the edge of the gate and will protect against possible crushing with its soft rubber edge.

For security measures, Intercoms with Keypads are a popular and secure choice which will allow schools to be able to communicate with the guest while they’re outside the property and would be able to dismiss if required. Due to the large scale of a school, looking at an Intercom with a high range may be necessary. The Daitem 5732 Wireless Intercom can range up to 400m and its wireless technology will make it a lot easier to install.

Wind Load on Swing Gates

Technical Support — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 12:57:29 +0000

Wind is always a factor which needs to be taken seriously for anyone purchasing a swing gate kit. It is always advised that you buy a motor more powerful (if only slightly) so you take into consideration things like the weight of tracks, hinges or wind load.

A gate should not apply more than 400 newtons in crush or danger areas for swing and sliding gates. But outside the crush areas you can go up to 1400 newtons. The danger areas can be protected using our Gate Safety Edges. Using gate safety edges will allow you to use a higher force for your gate which is ideal if you are prone to windy conditions.

For more information about this topic do not hesitate to call our support line on: 01202717191.

Gate Automation for Sloping Driveways

Technical Support — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 09:12:33 +0000

If a driveway surface rises into the property, swing gates will need to be installed higher off the ground. This is so they do not go into the ground as they open. Unfortunately this comes with consequences such as an unsightly gap under the gate, and the centre stop would also need to be taller to reach the new position of the gate. The centre stop would then be an obstruction for vehicles.

When it comes to sliding gates, this is a much better alternative. All sliding gates open and close on a level pain. Our Cantilever Gate System is great for those who have a sloping driveway.

Risk Assessment for Swing Gates

Technical Support — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:37:03 +0000

Before you go ahead with Gate Automation there are a few factors you need to consider before making your purchase. Check that the gate structure is suitable for automation by the following:

Referring to the documentation of the gate manufacturer
Structural tests or calculations, if you click on our Risk Assessment For Swing Gates you will find out in more detail
Check feasibility of correct fixture of mechanical transmission parts and anchoring of automation

There are various risks that you need to be aware of once you have your gate automation:

The danger zone areas in and around the gate which are ‘risk zones’ to yourself
Safety conditions in the event of a power failure or any faults

There are many other serious factors needed to be considered and there is a suitable safety guide for all Swing Gate Kits. Click here for the full instructions.

I need the gate to open 180 degrees so I can pull into my garage / space at the side.

Tech Support — Tue, 24 May 2011 13:49:00 +0000

Two solutions here: either purchase a GateMotors Blank Underground Gate Motor Kit with a 180-degree adaptor (this will need your gate mounted on the rear of the pillars so that each gate can hinge all the way back); or get your blacksmith to weld the leading edges of your swing gates (or get him to fabricate a single gate that has the appearance of a pair of swing gates) and purchase a GateMotors a Roller Sliding Gate Kit.

Securing your property with Automated Gates

Sales Support — Wed, 11 May 2011 13:38:00 +0000

The addition of Electric Gates to you property ensures that you can control who has access to your property. They also provide a sense of safety and security. Whether you decide to use Swing Gates or Sliding Gates, remote access control means that entry can be controlled to who you want and when you want. Both our Swing Gate Systems and our Sliding Gate Systems are electro-mechanical and are irreversible, this means when the gates are shut they cannot be forced open. Electro Locks can also be used, for further peace of mind. These work with the gate systems and only unlock when told to, either by remote access or keys.

Choosing the right Electric Gate Motors

Sales Support — Mon, 09 May 2011 13:30:00 +0000

If you’re just starting out on your Gate Automation project you may think that all motors are the same, well they’re not!

It makes sense to avoid expensive mistakes and get your installation right first time. We would recommend that you limit your search to Italian Gate Motors, they’re the market leaders and have years of experience in producing quality motors that will last.

The first thing to do is take accurate measurements of your particular installation, noting the width weight of each individual gate, the maximum degree of opening required and for Swing Gates in particular the measurements of the pillar at the point where the hinges are to be mounted.

You can now make a list of the Gate Motors that are suitable for your installation and fit into your budget. Do also take into account additional items like intercoms and any gate safety that may be required.

The majority of Automated Gates Systems are capable of being installed as a self install DIY project.

If you need any help in selecting the right system for your installation, just call the team at GateMotors.co.uk and we’ll be happy to advise you ( +44(0)1202 717 191 (office hrs) ).

5 things to consider with Electric Gates

Sales Support — Thu, 05 May 2011 10:03:00 +0000

1. Geometry : This could bring back bad memories of school maths but for swing gates the geometry of your particular installation will be very important as this will help decide which type of Gate Motor you will require.

2. Installation : Getting the motors and gates installed should not be beyond the abilities of your average DIY enthusiast but you will require a qualified electrician to connect your installation to the power supply.

3. Safety : Protecting yourself and your visitors from your opening closing gates should always be considered. Should a risk assessment be undertaken.

4. Intercoms : You will be able to open and close your Electric Gates using the remote controllers or manually using the override key but will an intercom system be required for visitors.

5. Maintenance : Your Gate System will be almost maintenance free but keeping the sensors clear and the gates in good working order will ensure a trouble free system.