Electric sliding gates are a popular choice for homes and businesses. They are safe, convenient and offer an element of status. They are also great for keeping out unwanted visitors. But choosing the right type of gate system is important.
The first thing to consider is whether you need a swing or sliding gate. Once you’ve decided, the next step is to choose the best electric gate opener for your needs.
Fortunately, there are many options available for both swing and sliding electric gate openers. These include solar powered, battery operated and electric models.
A solar powered gate opener is a fantastic option because it can run off of a 12-volt battery and solar panel, so there’s no wiring involved. It also comes with a sensor that shuts the gate if it encounters an obstacle, as well as an adjustable auto-close feature.
For a more traditional style, there are electric slide gate kits that come with all the parts you need to automate your gates including motors and safety photocells. These kits can be purchased online and are a great way to get started on the project.
These kits are easy to install and work with all major brands of gate motors. A lot of them have a built-in UPS and a photocell to detect any obstructions that may cause the gate to close unexpectedly.
You can find electric slide gate systems in a variety of designs, including V-track gates and double-track cantilever gates. These types of gates are perfect for areas where it can be difficult to put in ground tracks due to a lack of space or where the gate itself is too long to fit on a single track.
There are a number of different safety devices that should be installed with any electric sliding gate. They are designed to prevent entrapment or injury in case the gate is blocked during closing and opening by vehicles, plants and even objects.
The key to installing a safety device is that it’s fitted correctly and pressure tested for effectiveness. This should include the use of photo cells across the entire movement area and a pressure sensor on the leading edge of the gate to stop it closing or opening when the safety beam is obstructed.
Another safety device for these gates is a magnetic loop that is installed near the gate and activated when a vehicle passes over it. When the metal of a vehicle alters the magnetic field of the loop, it signals the gate’s motor controller to switch off the drive motor and reset the gate.
Unlike other safety devices, this device is not always located in a designated place on the gate itself but can be attached to the motor controller at the base of the frame or elsewhere near the gate. It is an excellent safety precaution that should be implemented for all electric sliding gates.
These devices should be inspected on a regular basis and replaced when needed. They are not only a safety measure but also an essential part of maintaining a quality electric gate system and helping to extend the life of the equipment. The best thing to do is ask your local gate contractor for an inspection and maintenance plan before you decide to purchase an electric gate system.