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Gate Automation Need To Know

To ensure you select the correct motor for your gate, it’s essential to understand key details about both the gate and its environment. Gate automation motors are designed to operate specific gate types and configurations, taking into account factors such as pillar/post dimensions, gate weight and size, opening angle, power requirements, and daily usage.

 

To help you choose the most suitable motor for your installation, please review the information below.

Alternatively, you can complete one of our site assessment forms and we’ll get back to you with tailored recommendations:

 

Swing Gate Site Assessment Form

Sliding Gate Site Assessment Form

 

If you have any questions, our Sales Team is here to help. You can contact us by email at [email protected] or call us on 01202 717 191.

Our phone lines are open Monday to Friday, 8:30am–5:30pm (voicemail available outside these hours). We are closed on weekends and UK Bank Holidays.

 

We also offer a call-back service at a time that suits you.

 

Gate Automation FAQs 

Find clear answers to common questions about gate automation systems, safety requirements, installation and operation.

 

General Questions

Can I automate my existing gates?

Yes, most existing gates can be automated provided they are structurally sound, operate freely and are suitable for automation equipment.

What types of gates can be automated?

Most swing gates and sliding gates can be automated, including metal, aluminium and many timber gate designs.

How long do gate automation systems last?

Most quality gate motors last between 10 and 20 years depending on usage, environment and maintenance.

Do electric gates increase security?

Yes, electric gates improve security by controlling access to a property and acting as a physical barrier to entry.

Safety Questions

Are electric gates safe?

Yes, when correctly installed and maintained. Automated gates must include appropriate safety devices to reduce risks such as crushing or entrapment.

What safety devices do electric gates need?

Common safety devices include photocells, safety edges, warning lights and presence detection systems depending on the installation.

Do I need photocells on my gates?

Photocells are strongly recommended as they detect obstacles and prevent the gate from closing on vehicles, people or objects.

What is Gate Safe?

Gate Safe is a UK charity that promotes safer installation and maintenance of automated gates across residential and commercial properties.

Operation & Power

What happens if there is a power cut?

Most gate systems include a manual release system so the gates can be operated by hand. Some systems also support battery back up.

Can electric gates be opened manually?

Yes, most systems include a manual override mechanism that allows the gates to be opened without power.

How are electric gates controlled?

Electric gates can be controlled using remote controls, keypads, intercom systems, GSM modules, vehicle presence sensors or smartphone-based access systems.

Installation Questions

How difficult is it to install electric gates?

Installation complexity depends on gate type, site conditions and chosen automation system. Professional installation is recommended for safety and reliability.

Can wooden gates be automated?

Yes, but heavier motors may be required due to incresed weight and wind loading compared to metal gates.

Can sliding gates be automated?

Yes, sliding gates are commonly automated and are suitable for residential, commercial and industrial applications.

Usage & Performance

Are sliding gates more secure than swing gates?

Yes, sliding gates are generally more resistant to forced entry due to their design and locking mechanism.

How often should gate motors be serviced?

Gate automation systems should be inspected and serviced regularly to ensure safe and reliable operation.

What affects gate motor performance?

Performance is affected by gate weight, wind loading, frequency of use, installation quality and environmental conditions.

Gate Automation

Please select what type of automation you require for your gate/s. Double & Single Swing refer to motors which attach to the gate and pillar of a swing motion gate. Double & Single Underground refer to motors which lay beneath the ground which attach to the hinge end of swing motion gates. Choose Sliding if you require lateral moving gate automation and Wheeled if you require a motor which utilises a wheeled motor to drive your gate/s.

Motor Voltage

There are two types of power outputs to consider - 24v & 230v. If you need a higher number of operations (opened/closed more than 5-6 times in an hour) during peak periods such as the morning and evening, then you may wish to consider a 24v system.

24v systems are more suitable for higher operation levels as they tend to run cooler than 230v gate motors. However, they do cost more in relative terms, so if you only need to open or close the gate 1-5 times an hour then a 230v system might prove more cost-efficient.

24v motors tend to be used on commercial premises, whereas 230v tend to be used on standard domestic properties. The exception to this rule is sliding gate motors where the reverse is true - 24v sliding gate automation systems tend to be for domestic use, 230v for more intense use (commercial/communal).

24v systems can draw power from battery backup systems meaning they can still operate during any mains power cut (a 230v or 3 phase system would need to be opened with a manual release key).

24v systems can also utilise solar power units as a means of charging batteries, allowing you to site gate automation in rural and remote locations where mains power is unavailable.

Specifications can be found for each product from their datasheet. Each datasheet is downloadable from each product page on this website.

Weight of Gate

All electric gate motors operate up to a maximum weight. This is so the gate will operate in a reliable and safe manner. It is essential to know the weight of each gate leaf in order to choose the correct motor for you installation. If you do not know the weight of your gate/s, send us a photo along with the gate/s dimensions and we can advise.

Gate Width

As with weight, gate motors are designed for gates within certain dimensions. The most important dimension is the width of the gate. To ensure you select the right motor to operate your gate you must know the width of each gate that requires automation.

Opening Angle

Each motor has a maximum angle to which it can operate to. Therefore it is important to note how far the gate needs to open in order for a vehicle to enter/exit safely.

Daily Use

The amount of times your gate is used per day is a determining factor when deciding on the right motor for your usage. Motors are designed to operate within a certain capacity (operations per day) so choosing a motor compatible with your desired use is essential for its durability. Select from the options below the number of times (open & closure = 1 x operation) the gate/s will be operated on an average day.