The gate motor is an automatic device that controls the opening and closing of sliding and swinging gates. These devices are used in residential, commercial and industrial settings for convenience and safety. Before deciding to install a gate motor, it is important to carefully evaluate the site and consider the weight of the gates that are to be automated, as well as any slopes across the driveway.
Typically, the motor is encased in a rectangular box and mounted to a concrete pad near the tail end of the sliding gate. The motor turns a drive sprocket that conveys a chain through the mechanism to open and close the gate. The chain can be powered either by an AC or DC electric motor. Some models also have built-in battery backups to prevent power failures.
A control box powers the electrically powered motors, and the electronic circuitry is programmed to open or close a gate based on a signal received from a remote controller, vehicle detector or intercom. Some systems include a push button that will manually move the gate in case of power failure, or when someone forgets to close the gate before leaving.
There are many factors to consider when deciding on a gate motor system, and it is best to consult a professional before making a purchase. It is important to understand how the system works and that it will be compatible with the type of gate that needs to be automated, as well as any other requirements, such as planning permission or a requirement for a manual release key.
Most reputable manufacturers of these systems provide instructions for both installation and programming that should be read before beginning the work. It is very important to follow the directions precisely to avoid any damage to the equipment or improper operation.
In the event of a problem, it is important to have the appropriate tools and parts available to troubleshoot and repair the system as needed. It is also a good idea to keep a set of manual release keys in case the gate must be manually pushed open or closed in the event that the automatic system fails.
There is a variety of different motors and openers for sliding, swing and cantilever gates on the market. The most common are a DC or AC motor that uses an electromagnet to close and open the gate when activated by the radio frequency receivers. The DC motor has a smaller motor and is more compact than an AC motor, but the DC motor requires periodic maintenance.
A typical motor that opens and closes a slide or cantilever gate can operate for 100,000 to 250,000 open and close cycles before needing to be replaced. The life of the motor is affected by the climate, the amount of use and the condition of the mechanical components. In addition, some older motors are subject to a safety feature called a slip clutch that limits the movement of the motor when it receives a force from a manual control.