Installing Electric Sliding Gates in High-Traffic Commercial Entrances

The commercial entrance should be able to handle traffic flow effectively while still maintaining the property’s security and order. There are various kinds of premises such as warehouses, factories, business parks, malls, and other industrial sites which have a lot of traffic flow from morning to evening. Here, it is important that the entrance gate should handle the traffic flow without causing congestion and delays.

The installation of Electric Sliding Gates would be beneficial for businesses that want to control the access of vehicles, increase the security of the site, and create convenience for the users. These kinds of gates move horizontally on the rails or any other trackless system but not swing like the swing gates that enter the driveway.

But selecting an electric sliding gate for a busy entrance is not only about the choice of gate but requires consideration of many other factors such as traffic, gate size, automated components, security measures, space around the entrance, and other factors.

Why Electric Sliding Gates Suit Busy Commercial Entrances

The commercial entrance should operate effectively even during busy hours. Deliveries, company vehicles, contractors, and other visitors could require access at once. Slow gate opening or manual intervention might influence the efficiency of moving vehicles each day.

In electric sliding gates, a motor operates the gate when moving across the entrance. Depending on the design used, authorized individuals can operate the gate from outside the vehicle using the remote control, keypad, access card, intercom, or any other access control devices.

Some factors that encourage the usage of such a gate include:

• Effective utilization of space: It moves across the entrance by sliding sideways.

• Access control: Access may be restricted to the authorized personnel, contractors, and visitors.

• Ease of operation: Opening the gate is done while in the vehicle.

• Designed to withstand frequent openings and closings: Systems can be selected based on how many opening and closing cycles will be required per day.

• Professional look: Gate can be designed to suit the fence around the premises.

• Easy integration of security systems: Gate can be integrated with suitable security systems and entry devices.
  
  

It is essential to consider how well the gates will suit the needs of the property instead of looking at the aesthetics of the gates when installing the gate system.

1. Assess Vehicle Traffic Before Choosing a Gate

The next thing is to understand the way in which the vehicles will utilize the entrance. The entrance that gets only a couple of deliveries per day has very different needs compared to a distribution center where trucks come in and out all day long.

First, you need to determine the types of vehicles accessing the gate, the most busy operating hours and the average number of gate accesses per day. You need to think about whether employees and visitors use the same entrance or there are different entrance lanes for them.

For instance, the warehouse can get a lot of trucks during the morning hours. The entrance of the commercial office building can be busy in the morning and late afternoon. This information is important when choosing the gate motor, the opening time and access control system. Businesses need to think about the future. If your premises will get more deliveries, employees or the operation hours will become longer, the gate system must meet these requirements.

A professional site evaluation can help to choose the proper gate dimensions, motor and operating mechanism.

2. Select the Right Gate Size and Design

Size of the gate plays a key role in the ease with which vehicles will enter and exit the property. If the gate is too small, it may be a hindrance in turning for trucks; if the gate is too wide, it will put a strain on the automation components.

The first step in the planning of electric sliding gates is measurement of the clear opening needed for the largest vehicle at the site. There should be ample clearance for the vehicle to move forward, make a turn and enter/exit without coming into contact with any fencing, buildings or other vehicles at the location.

Some factors which need to be considered in designing the gates are:

• Width and height of the entrance

• Weight and size of the gate

• Side space available beside the driveway

• Ground conditions like slope and surface

• Clearance for trucks and other vehicles

• Wind and weather exposure

• Proximity of pedestrian entrance and other structures
  
  

The gate must provide proper access while remaining outside any roadways inside or outside the property.

3. Choose a Commercial-Grade Automation System

The gate motor is the most essential component of an automated sliding gate system. The motor needs to be appropriate for the weight and size of the gate, and its anticipated usage frequency.

A system that is designed for low usage will not be appropriate for a commercial entry point that needs to open several hundred times each day. Locations that have high traffic might need to invest in automation equipment that can accommodate frequent use.

In comparing gate automation systems, more factors than the weight capacity of the motor should be considered.

4. Plan Access Control for Staff, Visitors and Deliveries

For one, an automated gate will be more effective when it is incorporated into an access control system. In commercial properties, there will be a number of people that need to be handled separately such as the employees, delivery drivers, contractors and visitors.

The following types of access control can be put into use in order to limit the chances of unauthorized entry while allowing access in an easy manner to authorized personnel:

• Remote controls: They are suitable for authorised personnel. The access devices should be well-controlled when changes happen in the status of the person.

• Key pads: Users are required to type in an access code in order to allow the gates to be opened up. Different access codes can be set for different people depending on how the access control allows.

• Access cards/tags: This is a good method for organizations having a large number of workers or regular visitors.

• Intercom system: The person visiting the organization can contact reception or the site manager before granting access.

• Number plate recognition: The right kind of system would recognize the authorized vehicles and grant access based on the set permissions.
  
  

For a commercial gate that deals with high volumes of people, the right kind of access method would be an efficient one. It would be helpful for the business organization to think about how access will be granted to contractors and delivery persons.

The right kind of access system will ensure that the gate functions efficiently and not becomes an obstruction.

5. Keep Vehicle Movement Safe and Organised

Safety needs to be taken into account during the installation of electric sliding gates at commercial sites. Commercial electric sliding gates consist of movable components and could be installed near traffic or pedestrian routes.

It is important that the installation takes into account the movement of the entire gate, including the space adjacent to the entrance point at which the gate will slide open. Such space planning must allow one to avoid entering into a dangerous zone.

Possible safety installations could include:

• Properly installed photoelectric safety beams.

• Obstacles detection capabilities.

• Lighting where needed.

• Emergency stop facilities.

• Protection of movable parts.

• Instructional signage.

• Pedestrian access where possible.
  
  

Safety installations have to be compatible with the gate automation system and must be positioned in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and requirements.

The business needs to put into place rules for use of the entrance by both pedestrians and motorists. Motorists should not follow other cars through a gate that is being closed unless the process allows for this. The pedestrians should use walkways rather than entering vehicle entrances.

For commercial sites in Australia, the design and installation will have to comply with Australian Standards along with the relevant workplace safety provisions. The requirements to be followed depend upon the particular gate and site.

6. Prepare the Ground and Side Space

The sliding gate requires proper space for its movements. Ground, track arrangement, and the support structure have an effect on the operations of the system. Where the gate is tracked, there should be adequate ground space to allow for smooth movements. Any dirt, loose gravel, water, and uneven ground would interfere with the movement. There will need to be proper drainage such that water does not accumulate around important parts of the system.

Where a ground track is not practical, there is the use of the cantilever sliding gate. This gate is supported by a roller system and needs proper space and support for the gates to move past the opening point.

There is always the best choice depending on various factors, including the nature of the site, size of the gate, and anticipated traffic.

Prior to commencing with the work, one will have to evaluate:

• Ground condition and level.

• Location of underground facilities.

• Side space available when the gate opens.

• Drainage and water movements in the entrance way.

• Stability of the posts and supporting structures.

• Access for installation machinery and future inspection.
  
  

7. Choose Materials That Suit the Commercial Environment

The type of commercial gate will have to meet the needs of the property’s security and environmental conditions. The materials used determine the weight, appearance, longevity and the automation hardware required.

Steel is mostly used for commercial purposes as it provides a sturdy construction. Aluminum could be used if lightness and corrosion resistance is a priority. The type of material to use is dependent on the design and security requirements.

The surface of the gate design is equally critical. A solid surface ensures privacy while the openness allows visibility from the entry point. But the design has to be evaluated in terms of wind resistance especially for a big gate.

The gate should also match the surrounding fence, entry signage and building design. A consistent appearance can give the commercial property a more organised and professional look.

8. Reduce Delays During Peak Traffic Periods

An appropriate gate can cause a queue if the entrance design is inefficient. It is necessary to analyze the whole vehicle entrance procedure rather than just the gate itself.

For instance, the delivery driver might need to stop at the keypad, talk to someone and get an authorization to enter. In case multiple vehicles arrive simultaneously, this procedure will form a queue stretching to the street.

In order to improve traffic efficiency, one should think about installing the access control device in such a place where the driver can conveniently use it without obstructing the passage of other vehicles. At the sites where there is enough space, a special waiting area can facilitate efficient traffic management.

The following measures may also prove useful:

• Provision of separate lanes for entrances/exits whenever possible

• Installation of traffic signs

• Distinct pedestrian access and vehicle traffic paths

• Checking access procedures during peak times

• Choosing an appropriate gate opening speed

• Provision of access lanes separately for employees and deliveries.
  
  

Sometimes it might make sense to provide two access lanes or an alternative entrance for visitors.

9. Consider Power Supply and Backup Access

The electrically powered sliding gates need an adequate electricity supply and properly installed electrical parts. It is advisable to have plans regarding the placement of the electricity source and that of the control gadgets. Commercial organizations need to make sure that the system will have provisions for power interruptions. Depending on the system chosen, battery back-up or manual override mechanism may be available. The choice will largely depend on the gate machinery and the business requirements.

There should be an effective mechanism for handling entrance into the facility in case of failure of the gate. The staff who handle the entrance must know the proper way of doing things to ensure security. Where the organization is expected to run during off-business hours, such as the distribution centre, proper mechanisms must be put in place in case there is an interruption of power supply.

The electrical work and the automation should be done by properly qualified people.

10. Plan Inspections and Ongoing Care

High traffic commercial gates undergo consistent motion, exposure to the elements and constant electrical and mechanical component usage. An inspection schedule can assist in determining any differences in operation prior to any problems affecting access. The inspection frequency is determined based on the manufacturer's instructions, cycles of operation and environmental conditions. An inspection schedule for a gate that is in constant use throughout the day may differ from one that only operates a few times each day.

An appropriate maintenance program may include an assessment of safety devices, testing access control systems, evaluation of moving parts, ensuring the gate moves properly and review of warning light or backup systems operation. Employees must also know how to report abnormal movement, strange sounds or differences in operation. Any issues concerning safe operation must be analyzed by a trained individual.

Documenting inspection results and work performed can assist business owners in planning future maintenance and managing their site responsibilities.

11. Understand the Installation Timeline and Cost Factors

There are a number of considerations to bear in mind when calculating the costs associated with the installation of electric gates. Businesses are advised to compare whole system quotes instead of merely checking the price of the gate panel or motor. The following are some of the important considerations when estimating the cost of installing electric gates:

Time frame: The time required for installation varies according to the nature of the work involved. The installation process, which is quite simple, requires significantly less time than the complex process that entails the installation of an industrial entrance.

Make sure you know everything about the work and the schedule of work before making a decision and signing any documents.

Key Checklist Before Installing Electric Sliding Gates

When designing an automated gate system for a commercial entryway, use this checklist.

Conclusion

Having electric sliding gates installed at the entryway of commercial premises could prove beneficial in improving access controls, regulating traffic flow, and securing the facility. Selecting an appropriate gate system is influenced by several factors including traffic volume, available space, safety features, and maintenance requirements among others. In addition, servicing the gate ensures that it operates effectively and prevents any unforeseen malfunctions. For companies in need of reliable automatic gates, iGate Automation provides several options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can electric sliding gates be installed for commercial gates that have a lot of traffic?

Yes. Electric sliding gates can be used for commercial places such as warehouses, factories and business parks as long as they are suited to the traffic level at the entrance.

How should businesses plan ahead for installing electric sliding gates?

Businesses should take into account the size of their entrance, the weight of their gates, any space on the sides of the gates, the kinds of vehicles coming through, frequency of operations and security requirements among others.

What kind of motor should be used for a busy commercial sliding gate?

The type of motor should be suited to the weight, size and number of times the gate opens. A good option might be an operator for commercial gates.

Can electric sliding gates be used in conjunction with access control systems?

Yes. In accordance with the type of equipment used, electric sliding gates are able to be integrated with keypads, remote control systems, access cards, intercoms and also number plate recognition technology. It will all depend on the security requirement of the facility and how many people need access.

What kind of space does a sliding gate require?

A sliding gate usually requires sufficient space adjacent to the entry point to allow the full extension of the gate. The appropriate space will be determined by the width and structure of the sliding gate. Where a ground track is not feasible, a cantilever mechanism might be considered, but sufficient space will be necessary.

How do businesses minimize queue formation around automated gates?

Companies can also set suitable speeds, place the access control systems appropriately, put up signs, and arrange the points of entry and exit where possible. This way, there should be sufficient room to allow for the creation of a queue without blocking any roads.

Are there any required inspections for commercial electric sliding gates?

Yes, regular inspections can ensure that the gate, motor, safety mechanisms and access control system are still functioning as expected. The frequency of the inspection should be based on the guidelines provided by the manufacturer and on the usage of the gate.

What is done in case of power failure?

Depending on the gate automation system, various solutions may be possible, including battery back-up and approved means of manual operation. Businesses should verify their possibilities and develop a plan to manage access to vehicles during a power failure.

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