Guide to the Barrier Gate: Selecting and Supplying

Barrier gates might look simple, but there’s a lot of variation between different styles, brands, and models. Selecting the right barrier gate requires a solid understanding of each device's features and design elements. Explore the essential elements to consider when selecting barrier gates to supply to your customers.

What is a barrier gate?

A barrier gate is an access control system designed to regulate vehicle traffic, track usage, and improve the safety of a commercial property. Unlike a traditional swing gate or sliding gate, this style prioritizes speed and efficiency. Here are the basics:

Types of gate barriers

There are many different types of barrier gates for a wide range of applications, including: 

• Standard single-arm boom gates
• Folding or articulated arm barriers
• High-speed gates
• Heavy-duty industrial gates
• Crash-rated gates
• Security gates with anti-tailgating integration

What’s the lifespan of a barrier gate?

In most cases, a high-quality barrier gate will last 10 to 15 years. However, the actual lifespan will depend on the daily cycle count, weather exposure, and preventive maintenance. 

Where can barrier gates be installed?

This type of automatic gate opener is typically installed at the entrance of parking lots and garages in locations like:

• Housing Communities
• Apartment Complexes
• Hotels
• Hospitals
• Airports
• Storage facilities
• Universities
• Office campuses
• Private roads
• Event venues
• Construction sites and industrial facilities

Benefits of barrier gates in commercial installation

A barrier gate does more than raise and lower for cars – it also serves as the first line of operational control for properties requiring enhanced security, organized access, and predictable traffic flow. 

Prevents unauthorized access

Businesses with a private parking garage, employee-only lot, or tenant-restricted area can install a barrier gate to ensure only authorized vehicles enter the premises. By incorporating keypads, ticket dispensers, cameras, and other devices, this controlled access point can drastically reduce trespassing and misuse of private spaces. 

Enhances security and safety

Barrier gates create monitored checkpoints that track and document vehicle movement in and out of a site. These systems slow vehicle movement near entrances and exits, and often incorporate built-in features like loop detectors and photocells to prevent accidental contact with cars and people. When combined with cameras, intercoms, and surveillance systems, they can even help security staff identify visitors in real time. 

Streamlines parking management

Linking a barrier gate to ticketing systems, permit programs, payment kiosks, validation systems, and license plate databases can significantly improve parking management in paid lots and private parking spaces. These integrations help operators track occupancy, prevent revenue loss, and automate entry and exit without staffing every lane around the clock. 

Controls traffic flow more efficiently

Barrier gates also play an important role in traffic flow by preventing wrong-way entry, reducing congestion, and separating incoming and outgoing vehicles. Some locations rely on high-speed systems, while others utilize timed or scheduled access during peak hours to prevent gridlocks. 

Selecting and supplying barrier gate equipment

The right electric gate depends on unique site specifications, traffic volume, environmental exposure, and privacy and security requirements. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

Key components

Most barrier gates include the same essential elements, but not all models offer outstanding quality. Key components include:

• Motorized pedestal, cabinet, or housing unit: Metal tower that protects the drive mechanism. Select for weatherproofing and corrosion protection. 
• Motor, gearbox, or automatic gate operator: Heavy-duty motors are necessary for high-traffic areas. Be sure to consider optimal opening speed, daily cycle count, arm length, and frequency of use. 
• Boom or barrier arm: Barricade that raises and lowers to allow vehicles and pedestrians to enter and exit. 
• Control panel: Connects to devices like keypads, RFID readers, ticket dispensers, intercoms, and license plate recognition cameras. 
• Counterweights and springs: Internal balancing systems reduce strain on the motor by offsetting arm weight and supporting smooth, seamless operation. 
• LED strips: Dark garages, hospitals, and 24-hour lots may benefit from barrier arms with greater visibility. 

Operational parts

Additional parts and features may be included to ensure seamless operation, such as:

• Manual release key: Used to disengage the motor during power outages, mechanical failures, and emergencies, allowing the arm to be lifted or lowered by hand.  
• Loop detector: Wire loops embedded in the road or pavement that detect vehicle presence. Enable automatic opening and closing while preventing premature closure. 
• Loop detector module: Electronic unit attached to the loop that interprets signals and triggers gate operation. Must be calibrated to ensure proper sensitivity. 
• Pendulum support post: Provide support for long or robust barrier arms to prevent sagging and improve stability. 

Safety devices

Of course, no installation is complete without the proper safety features. Consider a modern gate equipped with photocells and a reversing system.

If the infrared light beam is interrupted while the arm is closing, the reversing system will immediately stop operation, open the arm, and hold it in place until the lane is cleared. Additionally, existing features such as underground loop detectors, manual release keys, and LED strips are crucial for the safety of users and nearby pedestrians. 

Access Distribution Centre supplies top barrier gate manufacturers

At Access Distribution Centre, we work exclusively with authorized dealers to provide high-quality gate systems and accessories at wholesale prices. With best-selling brands like All-O-Matic, Hy-Security, LiftMaster, and Viking available for same-day shipping, we can help you exceed your customers’ expectations. Contact our sales team today to set up a dealer account!