Although automatic gate openers might strike as a normal gate to the eye, as the name suggests, the movement of the gate is automated using remote-controlled motors, power-driven from the main electricity supply/inverters, to give it a futuristic functionality. Here we will discuss about types of automatic gate openers. Also, it decreases the hassle of manual labor in the opening/closing of the gate. Earlier, these were sighted at high-end buildings, but now, they’ve become a status symbol for many of the homeowners.
Types Of Automatic Gate Openers
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There are various types of gate openers available in the market. One can choose from the variety as per their needs. Some of the gate openers are more suitable for commercial uses while some are better suited for domestic purposes. Articulated Arm Gate Opener: it uses a two-part arm with an elbow joint to connect the motor to the gate.
Installation of an automatic gate opener is easy, due to the geometry of the arm system. The motors are installed on the inside of gates so that they are not visible from the outside of closed gates. They also come with obstacle detection, withdrawing its operation, when in contact with an object.
Relatively easy to install, but the motor acquires a large amount of space, hence it suits only the gates with wide pillars.
1. Ram and Linear Automatic Gate Openers:
it operates either by a worm screw, or a piston method to extend the arm and the pivot from a hinge, mounted to the post or column. Installation of linear screw motor does not require a lot of space, and also requires minimal welding. You can get a good 3-phase welding machine for yourself. Also, for additional security, obstacle detection is provided by the control box of the motor. Easy installation of linear automatic gate motors makes it the most economical option
2. Underground Gate Openers:
it is one of the most complex and expensive types of automatic gate openers, due to its discrete nature. Since the gate motors are hidden under the hinge of the swing gates, it makes it nearly invisible. Being an underground system, its installation should be carried out by a professional, and proper drainage of water must be provided, to protect the motor from any water damage.
3. Sliding Gate Openers:
it follows the same principle as found in the working Ram/Linear. Automatic Gate Opener, but includes only one gate, sliding to only one side, using a wheel running along a track. The track is either set on the ground or bolted on, over which the gate slides when stimulated by the motor.
Automatic Gate Opener Kit
There are a few types of gate opens that you can install by yourself. The automatic gate opener kits available commercially come equipped with all the necessary elements you will be needed for installing the gate opener.
Kit components include:
- One or two gate opener arms with separate cables
- System control box with the controller.
- Mounting brackets with fasteners.
- Two standard 3-button remote transmitters.
- Battery harness.
- Two warning place-cards.
- Battery harness.
- Gearbox.
- Installation manual.
They can save you the money of labour if you get it done from a handyman. The kits are way cheaper than professional services. But there are some gates which are better if installed by a professional. Make sure you do proper research before you proceed with installing a gate opener.
Automatic Gate Openers For Driveways
Having a traditional gate with huge locks is aesthetically pleasing but doesn’t provide much security. If an intruder sees hi-tech security right at the gate, it can deter them. There are a wide variety of automated gates from which you can choose the one best suited for you.
A. Sliding gate opener basic kit: They are driven by chain and can be mounted on any type of surface. They are usually made with metal and are sometimes installed with a motor which makes the function much easier.
B. Swing gate opener for dual swing gates: This is very suitable for heavy gates(900 lbs). The motor provides a smooth start and has enough power to handle dual gates. It is also installed with battery backup in case power runs out.
C. Sliding gate opener basic kit: This can be installed for gates weighing up to 1800 pounds and have a built-in receiver for radiofrequency. The two remotes provided are easily programmable.
D. Mighty Mule Automatic Gate opener: It is suitable for lighter gates and the dual sense technology enhances the security. The instruction manual is helpful enough so you can install the gate by yourself. The 12v battery is not included in the kit.
E. Automatic Gate Opener Kit: The aluminium swing arms are highly durable and can be extended. It can work well for a long time with minimum maintenance. It is very easy to install and you can do it yourself as well.
Here are some points you should take care of when trying to choose a gate opener:
- Material quality: make sure the materials are durable and of good quality.
- Easily installable: it should not have a complex build and must come with a good instruction manual.
- Temperature-resistant: since the temperature is never constant and can vary to extremes, make sure the material chosen does not change its property with temperature change.
- Power consumption: always choose an energy-efficient gate opener as they have to work constantly and high power-consuming openers can bring huge bills.
- Battery backup: it is safer to get an opener with battery backup so it can operate even in absence of electricity.
Final Talk
Ensuring the security of the house can be a challenging task but automated gates can solve half of that problem. Protecting the entrance of your house is of utmost importance and it can be done by using security cameras, motion sensors and automated gates. In this article, you have learnt the types, benefits and how to choose a gate opener. So, next time choose the right type of gate opener according to your preferences.
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