A sliding gate motor can be an effective and inexpensive solution for automating your slide gate. These are great for driveways and entrances where space is limited, the gates need to be wide, or where a slope or uneven ground may make it difficult to install tracks.
How Sliding Gates Open
The simplest way to describe how a sliding gate opens is to imagine that a cog on the motor output shaft meshes with a toothed rack mounted along the length of the gate, and then attaches to the gate to open or close it in response to signals from controlling devices such as remote controls or vehicle detectors. As with other types of rolling gate openers, sliding gate motors require a good anchor to the ground in order to ensure that they remain secure over time and will not lose grip or move out of position.
What Are Different Types of Sliding Gate Motors?
There are several types of sliding gate motors, all with different weight ratings and voltage requirements. Some of these are more expensive than others, so it’s important to consider your needs carefully before purchasing one.
Typically, electric sliding gate motors use an output gear on the motor to connect with a rack that’s attached to the gate. It then opens or closes the gate in response to signals from controlling devices such as a remote control, vehicle detector, intercom, telephone entry system, or mobile phone.
Most sliding gate motors are designed for residential or light commercial applications with low daily gate traffic. They run up to 100,000 cycles before they need service, and most heavy-duty models rated for commercial and industrial settings will operate up to 250,000 times.
If you’re looking for a more powerful motor to help your slide gate operate smoothly on a slope across your driveway, a more expensive model might be worth considering. This will push the gate’s weight uphill more efficiently, helping it to glide up the incline without slipping or losing control.
Which Motors Are Best?
For residential or light commercial applications, a 240V electric motor is likely to be the best choice. They are generally cheaper than 12V or 24V motors and can be plugged into a power point away from your gate, or powered by solar panels if you have access to sunlight.
Some slide gate motors also have a low voltage transformer which means that they can be powered by a 12V or 24V low-voltage supply, such as solar, rather than relying on mains power at your home. However, it’s important to remember that if your gate is on a slope, you might need a heavier-duty model with higher weight ratings to avoid the risk of your sliding gate being damaged by a less-powerful motor.
For residential or light commercial applications, the LiftMaster 12VDC is a powerful option that can support sliding gates up to 800 pounds in weight and no longer than 25 feet long. The motor is durable and built to last, and it has multiple protection features to keep your property safe from unauthorized entry. Its worm gear reducer is made of gold zinc-plated steel and has a 15:1 ratio, making it easy to operate. This heavy-duty model is rated for 120 cycles per day, and it’s solar-ready so you can buy solar panels to provide power backup in case of a power outage.