Commercial Gates: The Ins and Outs of How They Work

Metal security gates are a common security feature for many commercial businesses that allows them to control who does and does not have access to their site. Along with security fences and railings, automatic gates look smart, clearly mark out the boundaries of your property and, most importantly, they keep your business premises protected.

But how do they actually work? We’ve put together this short guide explaining how security gates allow specific people to have access and how they can be controlled from both inside and outside.

Letting Staff In and Out

Electric aluminium gates are perfect for letting staff members of a business into the property whilst keeping other people out. But how do they know who to open for? The answer is a transmitter.



A transmitter is a device that sends a signal to an automatic gate telling it to open. This is usually in the form of a remote or fob, which is what’s given to anyone allowed access, allowing them to open the gate. With remotes, there is usually a button you press that will send the signal to the transmitter. With fobs, there is usually a receiver attached to a wall adjacent to the gate that you must reach out your window and touch the fob to in order for the signal to send.

The receiver is connected to motors also in the gate. When this receiver receives the signal from the transmitter, it starts up the motors, which in turn move the mechanical system that allows the gates to open and close.

Different mechanical systems can be used to determine the way the gate opens. Typically, gates will have two halves that split in the middle and open away from you, although you can also get gates that turn open on a singular axis to one side, or even sliding gate systems.

But how do the gates not close prematurely? You may ask. Well, there are also sensors installed onto them, which is how they know when to close again safely. This removes the risk of the gates closing on any vehicles and causing damage, or causing injury to anyone walking through.

Controlling Visitors

There are also alternative control systems that can be used to operate automatic gates. This often involves a button that, when pressed, will link to a control panel inside the building, which controls when the gate can open. Many places have these systems in place as it allows them to keep their premises protected whilst being able to grant access to any visitors that need to enter the property.

Installing an intercom alongside these systems is also a useful idea, since this allows a company to know exactly who is requesting access and whether it is a visitor they are expecting or not.

Are you looking to install security gates at your establishment? Shuretech provides the services you need. Our bespoke aluminium security gates are made-to-order as per your requirements. Contact us today for your free quote.