Guide to Choosing a Swing Gate Operator

Rotech Automation’ offers a range of high-quality, reliable heavy-duty automatic Swing Gate Operators for domestic, commercial and industrial use. Deciding which opener is best suited to your application requires a consideration of factors such as gate type, location and operating requirements.

Types of Swing Gate Operators

Linear Swing Gate Openers: are the most commonly used swing gate operators. Their popularity stems from their affordable price, simple installation and reliability providing a safe and secure solution for all commercial, industrial, and residential sites. 

Crank Arm Swing Gate Operators: articulated arm or crank arm motors are ideal for smaller gates or gates with larger pillars that would struggle to fit the linear-style opener.  Their versatility makes them suitable for most types of swing gates, our intensive-use, heavy-duty swing gate openers offer high-duty cycle and low power consumption. 

In-ground Swing Gate Operators: are particularly suited to large, heavy-duty gates. Ideal in situations where a discreet or unobtrusive appearance is required. Installation requires some excavation of the roadway.

Solar Swing Gate Openers: many of our automatic swing gate openers can accommodate solar power for use in remote locations or where mains power isn’t available.

Swing Gate Operator Features Comparison Table

Each type of operator has unique advantages and is best suited for specific applications. The comparison table below summarises the various attributes of our range to make choosing a swing gate opener for your site easier:

Considerations for Selecting a Swing Gate Opener

Simplify selecting which swing gate opener is best for the job – evaluate the gate functionality, positioning, environment and performance requirements of the site, then select which opener from the table above best meets these criteria.  

Check List for evaluating site requirements: 

Intended Use: Is the gate opener for domestic, commercial or industrial location? What is the anticipated number of operations per 24 hours?
Type of Gate Construction: What is the weight and length of the gate? Does the gate have an open framework, cladding, single or double leaf, single or double?
Gate Support Construction: How much space is there available behind the gate? Where the motor will be positioned will determine which operator is required.
Direction of Swing: Does the gate swing inwards or outwards? Check for clearance around the gate’s movement.
Safety Features: Safety issues to be accommodated i.e. obstacle detection, auto-reverse and manual release options.
Operating the Gate: The preferred method of operating the gate with a remote, keypad, push button, mobile phone or access control system.
Access to Power: If there is no access to mains power is battery backup or solar power necessary?

What to look for when selecting an automated swing gate operators: 

Motor power and efficiency: Choose swing gate operator that can handle the weight and size of your gate.  It should be powerful enough while still being energy efficient.

Safety features: Look for an operator with safety features like obstacle detection, auto-reverse function, and emergency stop button. These features will help prevent accidents and damage to people or property.

Compatibility with your gate: Different operators are better suited to different types of gates i.e. wooden, metal, etc.

Ease of installation and use: The operator should be easy to install and simple to use, with features like a remote control or keypad for easy access.

Durability and reliability: Look for an operator that has a good reputation for quality and reliability and is built to last to operate according to use.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the best automated sliding gate operator that fits your needs and budget.

If you can’t decide or see an option matching your requirements, contact our team today.  We are happy to assist you select the right safety beam solution to suit your needs.