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High-security facilities like military bases, shipping docks, federal prisons, secret research labs, and large industrial compounds may require more than the typical automatic gate options available in the market.
Facilities like this may require a vertical lift gate system, which comprises the vertical lift operator, the gate, and some additional accessories like sensors, an electric shock system, and lots more.
Few vendors offer vertical lift operators for vertical gate systems, which is why it is critical to know some of the factors to consider when choosing the right vertical lift operator for your security gate.
Continue reading to learn more about vertical lift operators and some of the best ones we recommend.
What Is a Vertical Lift Operator? – A Short Overview
Vertical lift operators for security gates are hydraulic systems used to lift or drop gates vertically to open or close them. These systems use a combination of hydraulic and mechanical systems to lift vertical lift gates to the required height within a short duration – typically in under 8 seconds.
Vertical lift operators are used for lifting large security gates like the ones found in large manufacturing compounds, military facilities, shipping docks, and more. They are also used when there is enough vertical space for the gate to travel but inadequate horizontal space for a swing gate opener or sliding gate to be installed.
Vertical lift gates also work well for facilities that typically admit enormous vehicles like tractors, trailer trucks, storage trucks, and other similar vehicles.
Vertical lift-operated gates are highly secure and, due to their mode of operation, can be very hard to compromise.
While swing gates use swing gate operators like the LiftMaster High Traffic Commercial Swing Operator, vertical lift gates use vertical lift operators like the HySecurity HydraLift 20F UPS Vertical Lift Operator.
Vertical lift gates are still considered automatic gates since they can be set to open and close without human intervention using motion sensors and other detection devices.
A vertical lift gate should not be confused with a vertical pivot gate, which works by tilting a gate to the side rather than lifting it vertically.
Also, vertical lift operators are different from vertical lift modules (VLMs), which are usually embedded automated storage and retrieval systems, also known as AS/RS used to increase the productivity of workers.
To learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of lift gate operators, read our previous article on vertical gates.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Vertical Lift Gate/Operator
Few manufacturers offer vertical lift operators for vertical lift gates, and this limits your options when choosing a lift operator for your facility.
Below are factors to consider when choosing one:
Maximum Weight Rating
Most security gates are made of heavy and dense metals that make it virtually impossible to cut through them or drive through them. However, with this density also comes more weight. Ask your vendor or manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for the vertical lift operator you intend to buy.
Most vertical lift gates weigh at least 2000 pounds (907.2 Kg) or more. The typical maximum weight rating for heavy-duty vertical lift operators is 2,000 pounds, with a maximum gate length of 80 ft (24 m).
Estimated Opening/Shutting Period
Suppose your facility needs a vertical lift gate that must open and close in less than 10 seconds. In that case, you should consider choosing a vertical lift operator that can perform a half-cycle in less than 8 seconds (i.e., open or close).
Most HySecurity vertical lift operators can perform this operation in about 8 seconds. The maximum speed is typically 2 ft/s (60 cm/s), and some systems travel at half that speed.
Built-In Safety Features
Vertical lift gates, while very secure, pose a slightly higher danger to anyone going through them since the gate is suspended above by the vertical lift operator. Ensure that any vertical lift module you choose for your gate comes with safety features, including object detection systems that allow it to stop if someone or something is underneath the gate. There should also be an override system that shuts the gate in case of emergencies.
Integration With Existing Security Systems
Make inquiries to ensure that your vertical lift operation can work well with your current security systems, such as surveillance, motion detection, and automatic entry systems.
Backup Power Supply System
Any vertical lift operator you decide on should feature a backup UPS system that allows you to utilize your vertical lift gate for at least 150 cycles of opening and shutting the gate. This means you never have to worry about not being able to access or exit your facility in case of a power failure.
Ease of Configuration and an Intuitive Interface
The access control dashboard for your vertical lift operator should be intuitive and compatible with your existing security system or be easily integrated with your existing security system. You can ask your vendor if the control system of the vertical lift you want to buy works well with your current system.
The Size of Your Current Space
Most vertical lift gates require significant vertical space to operate and are typically used as exterior gates. Before opting for a vertical lift operator, make sure you have enough space to install the operator and the vertical lift gate.
Some vertical lift gates can open up to a height of 3.55 meters (11.64 ft), which means you still need extra height to accommodate the height of the gate itself.
Features of a Vertical Lift Operator/Gate
Below are some of the features you would find in a vertical lift operator:
- Some vertical lift operators feature a backup UPS (uninterrupted power supply) system to ensure continuous operation even when there is a power outage.
- Some vertical lift operators have their lifting posts hot-dipped galvanized to ensure superior anti-corrosion properties and a long operational lifespan.
- Most vertical lift operators can be easily configured to suit the requirements of your facility to accommodate vehicles of certain heights, gate lifting, and descending speeds.
- The HySecurity HydraLift 20F UPS Vertical Lift Operator features a PC interface for easy configuration and quick troubleshooting using the Smart Touch Analyze and Retrieve Tool (START). It also features three configurable user relays with optional Hy8Relay for additional programmable relay outputs.
Get the Best Vertical Lift Operator for Your Facility – All Security Equipment
Vertical lift operators are at the heart of vertical lift gates, and choosing the right one based on the security and operational needs of your facility is important to ensure your gate is functional and secure.
All Security Equipment is your one-stop shop for all things related to security. We supply both the hardware and manpower required to install any security hardware that you purchase from us, including vertical lift operators.
Our team consists of experts in the security business with decades of experience helping customers like you solve their security problems with high-end security hardware.
Contact us today to learn more.
