How to choose the best swing gate automation
Correctly chosen automation for swing gates is the key to successful use of the system and saving time and effort. At the same time, if this system was not chosen in accordance with real operational needs, there is a chance of its quick failure.
It is worth noting that the repair and reinstallation of automation can be expensive, and with the right choice, proper installation and careful operation, the installation works for a long time. To determine the choice of automation, you should know what types it is and what load each of them can withstand. Depending on the initial data and financial capabilities, the automation should be selected.
Selection parameters depending on the gate
In order for the automatic swing gates to serve for a long time, it is necessary to select the automation depending on the external parameters of the gate itself. For this, it is necessary to take measurements (or, in some cases, calculations).
The necessary parameters for the choice of automation are:
- Gate leaf width. If standard gates are installed, the width of the leaves is usually the same, however, if the doors were installed independently or manually, it is quite possible that these leaves are of different widths. For sashes of different widths, the drive should be selected for each separately, since the load on them will also be different.
- Flap height. Conventional standard doors usually have a height of 1.8 to 2.5 m.
However, there are exceptions. If the gate height exceeds 3.5 m, then you will have to install two sets of operator for swing gates - one at the top of the sash and one at the bottom.
If the gate is lower than the standard one (up to 1.8 m), one operator can be installed. - Gate weight. It should also be noted that the capabilities of the installation (meaning its power) must exceed the actually consumed by at least 30-40%. This will allow the system to work much longer and be less dependent on weather conditions. Gate weight is, perhaps, one of the main parameters when choosing automation for swing gates. Moreover, when choosing the drive power, one should take into account not only the weight of the door, but also the wind and weather resistance in winter.
If it is possible to carry out real weighing of the gate (or each leaf separately taken), it should be used. If this is not possible, you need to calculate the approximate weight of the gate. It should be noted that most of the companies that install automation offer the services of specialists who calculate not only the weight of the gate, but also the required drive power, taking into account the weather conditions in each specific region.
There is a need to make calculations on your own only if home-made automation will be installed, but even in this case, in order to extend its service life, you should, if possible, invite a swing gate installer who will calculate the real load on the drive.
Swing gates will quickly fail if you do not clear the snow in front of them in the winter.
Automation for swing gates is not designed to automatically remove snow in the area where a car enters the territory, therefore, even with light snowfalls in front of the gate, it is necessary to regularly remove snow.Moreover, in winter, due to frost, wind and frequent temperature changes, the load on the drive increases, and with uncleaned snow there is a high probability of breakdown of the mechanism when opening or closing the gate.
Selection depending on the type of drive
The drives can be different depending on the operating voltage of the motors. They can be:
- 12 (or 24) V DC;
- 220V AC.
However, first of all, the difference in the drives is determined by the principle of their operation. Swing gate drives can be:
- lever;
- linear;
- underground.
The underground drive is a novelty in the swing gate industry. It appeared on the market relatively recently, but has already gained popularity, since it has practically no drawbacks and has a number of advantages that linear and lever-type drives do not have. Thus, the entire mechanism of the underground drive is completely hidden underground, which means that it is invisible to prying eyes, which cannot be said about other drives. This detail is often the main decisive factor when choosing a drive for large estates or cottages, where, first of all, attention is paid to the beauty and appearance of the gate.
In addition, the entire control structure is hidden in a protective box, and it is in the ground at the level with the roadway. This arrangement of the automation protects it from the effects of many external factors, such as frost, rain, snow, and does not in any way affect its operation. In addition, the standard functionality of the underground drive allows the sash to open 110 °, and in some underground mechanisms even 360 °.
Such a drive works very quietly and smoothly, and this makes it completely invisible.
Linear automation for swing gates is currently the most popular. This equipment allows the mechanism to be installed both at the top of the sash, and at the bottom and in the middle.
One of the main advantages of this system is its low cost, as well as the fact that it can be installed on narrow posts, which cannot be said about lever-type drives. The linear drive is also characterized by the fact that at the beginning and at the end of opening, the stroke of the rack slows down, and this allows the mechanism to be kept in working condition as long as possible.
The main disadvantages of this equipment include the fact that the gates open only 90 °. If they open outward, this significantly narrows the vehicle exit area to the roadway.
Swing gates with a lever electric drive have a longer service life than those with a linear drive. In addition, such gates open 120 ° inward or outward. In addition, this drive can also be powered by a battery, not just electricity.
The linkage drive can only be mounted on wide columns. This is the main disadvantage of this type of automation.
However, its design is very simple, you can install it yourself, without the need for a specialist.
As you can see from the information described in this article, buy automation for swing gates it is not difficult, since many models and manufacturers are presented on the modern market, which differ in functionality and price. When choosing this type of automation, one should be guided not only by personal preferences, but also by the physical parameters of the gate being opened. The dimensions (width and height) and weight of the leaves are the main parameters when choosing an automation for swing gates.
In addition, it should be noted that some types of automation can only be mounted on wide columns, with narrow posts for fastening the sashes, you will have to choose a different type of installation. In addition, the price will play a significant role in choosing a unit. The underground drive is the most functional and durable, but it is also very expensive, so not everyone can afford it.
Therefore, when choosing an automation, you should first measure the gate, and then choose a device depending on its capabilities and power, as well as be guided by your own preferences and price category.
The author of the article demonstrates a superficial knowledge of automation. For a long time, underground automation in all respects surpasses lever and linear actuators when using telescopic guides. The price of linear and drainage is not needed like the Italians. So so.