Bollard Automatic System

Automatic bollards are advanced security devices used to control vehicular access in various settings such as urban areas, commercial properties, and high-security zones. These systems are designed to be retractable, allowing them to rise and lower as needed, providing a dynamic solution for traffic management and security.

Types of Automatic Bollards

Automatic bollards can be classified based on their operating mechanisms:

1. Hydraulic Bollards:

   • Mechanism: Utilise hydraulic fluid to drive the bollard up and down.
   • Advantages: High force, durable, ideal for heavy-duty applications.
   • Disadvantages: Higher cost and maintenance due to more moving parts.
   • Applications: High-security areas, anti-terrorism measures, heavy traffic control [1], [2], [3].

2. Pneumatic Bollards:

   • Mechanism: Use compressed air to operate the cylinder piston.
   • Advantages: Cost-effective, quieter, fewer moving parts, less maintenance.
   • Disadvantages: Lower lifting force compared to hydraulic systems.
   • Applications: Medium-security areas, urban traffic control, parking facilities [1], [4], [5].

3. Electric Bollards:

   • Mechanism: Driven by an electric motor that operates the cylinder piston.
   • Advantages: Consistent speed, quiet operation, precise control.
   • Disadvantages: Dependent on electrical power supply.
   • Applications: Urban areas, commercial properties, areas with frequent access changes [4], [6].

Key Features and Benefits

• Controlled Access: Automatic bollards provide effective control over vehicle entry and exit, enhancing security by allowing only authorised vehicles.
• Flexibility: They can be integrated with various access control systems such as keypads, remote controls, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), and more.
• Durability and Security: Designed to withstand significant impact, making them suitable for high-security applications.
• Aesthetic Integration: Available in various finishes and designs to blend with the surrounding environment [1], [7], [8].

Applications

1. Urban Areas: Used to control traffic flow, restrict vehicle access during specific times, and enhance pedestrian safety.
2. Commercial Properties: Secure parking areas, loading bays, and prevent unauthorised access.
3. High-Security Zones: Protect sensitive sites such as government buildings, military bases, and critical infrastructure from unauthorised vehicle access and potential attacks [9], [10], [11].

Considerations for Installation

• Space Requirements: Sufficient underground space is needed to house the bollard mechanism.
• Power Supply: Depending on the type, a reliable power source (hydraulic fluid, compressed air, or electricity) is essential.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required, especially for hydraulic systems, to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Control Systems: Integration with existing security and access control systems should be planned for seamless operation [12], [13], [14].

Popular Products and Pricing

• AliExpress Stainless Steel Automatic Hydraulic Bollard: £1,273.37 + £297.57 shipping [15].
• MairsTurnstile-Online Automatic Rising Bollards: £1,150.00 with free shipping [16].
• Delta Scientific 4-Bollard System: £84,734.85 + £40.68 shipping [17].

Conclusion

Automatic bollards are a versatile and effective solution for controlling vehicular access and enhancing security in various environments. By choosing the right type of bollard based on specific needs and integrating them with appropriate control systems, businesses and municipalities can significantly improve their traffic management and security measures.

Further Reading

1. AliExpress Stainless Steel Automatic Hydraulic Bollard
2. MairsTurnstile-Online Automatic Rising Bollards
3. Delta Scientific 4-Bollard System
4. Automatic Systems High Security Bollards
5. Security Bollards Direct
6. Reliance Foundry Guide to Automatic Bollards
7. ATG Access Automatic Bollards
8. CNZASP Automatic Bollards
9. Bison Security Posts Hydraulic Bollards
10. Sloan Security Retractable Bollards