Door Industry Journal - Summer 2014

Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 92 THE door industry journal summer 2014 powered gates Following on from the article in the spring issue of this magazine, on the “myth of the self locking gate motor”, we have produced, in conjunction with Linkcare Automation, this list of “ten common and easily avoided gate automation problems”. First, a quick note from the Editor..... “Because this magazine has a broad readership, please understand that this article is intended to highlight the issues in a general manner to anyone considering electric gates or specifying them as part of a project. It is not aiming to teach the professionals in the gate automation industry, who read this magazine, how to suck eggs!” Introduction The installation of automatic electric gates is a complex process. It requires a clear understanding of the future owners’ requirements for the use of the new electric gates. The qualified installer should then carry out a hazard assessment to ensure that the gates will be as safe as possible. Finally, there are lots of choices for the homeowners in terms of gate material, style, and colour plus automation type and method of opening. Ram gate motors offer one of the simplest installation options for automating swing gates. Swing gates mounted on bigger brick pillars can require articulated arm operators. To make the process as simple and as painless as possible, here is a list of ten of the most common problems faced during automatic gate installation. 1) Make sure they work without automation Any gate to be automated must work properly as a manual gate. Adding automation equipment will not overcome problems with an incorrectly installed gate. 2) Gates on slopes cause problems Avoid fitting gates in situations that run uphill. This will complicate the situation, require additional equipment and put a strain on the automation. It can be done but it’s best to avoid it if possible. 3) Are the gate openers up to the job? Make sure that the equipment chosen is suitable and meets the specifications as laid down by the manufacturer. Failure to do this will invalidate the guarantee. 4) Underground motors and water When fitting underground motors, ensure that provision for suitable drainage is made as these motors are designed to be fitted underground – not underwater. Definitions IP67 means that a unit should not be detrimentally affected if it is up to 15cm under water for a maximum of 30 minutes Ingress of water in a harmful quantity shall not be possible when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined conditions of pressure and time (up to 1m of submersion) Test duration: 30 minutes Immersion at depth of at least 1m measured at bottom of device, and at least 15 cm measured at top of device. 5) Professional installation is a must Gate automation equipment should be sourced from and fitted by a professional installer. It may cost a little more but you will then have someone who will take full responsibility for the installation as well as carrying out a proper risk assessment as required by law. It can be tempting to buy your equipment yourself from a company selling at close to trade prices direct to end users. The installation of electric gate automation equipment by anyone unqualified to understand the risks and safety requirements may result in serious accidents for which you can be responsible. TEN COMMON AND EASILY AVOIDED GATE AUTOMATION PROBLEMS