What Is a Metal Turnstile?
Your choice of turnstile will depend on factors like environment, security needs and aesthetic preferences. You must decide between galvanized or powder coated carbon steel turnstiles; corrosion-resistant marine grade stainless steel options like 316; or traditional full height security models featuring metal detector portals.
Types
There are various kinds of metal turnstiles, each designed for specific uses and security levels. From those compliant with ADA regulations that can easily integrate into access control systems and visitor management platforms to more advanced models that incorporate facial recognition temperature scanners fingerprint readers and QR codes; every model offers its own distinct advantages that make it suitable for various environments.
One of the most widely used types of metal turnstile is waist high model. Also referred to as tripod or half-height security turnstiles, these features typically feature tripod legs attached by three fixed arms at waist height – ideal for paid access applications (e.g. fare gates on public transport or pay toilets) as well as office lobbies that need restricted access for certain personnel. They can even resemble revolving doors by having moving arms at waist height!
Based on their application and desired level of security, other types of metal turnstiles may include sliding barrier or swing barrier models with optical sensors to monitor people and automatically open or close barriers as required. Such turnstiles are frequently seen in prisons and government buildings where additional protection is necessary.
Material choices for turnstiles depend on its use and environment conditions, with galvanized and powder coated models designed to reduce corrosion risk, while others using stainless steel provide more durable finishes. If it will be exposed to harsh environments like marine or salt spray environments, 316 stainless steel should be specified to safeguard its system from corrosion and extend its life expectancy.
No matter the model of turnstile chosen, it is imperative that throughput be considered when specifying one. This can be determined by examining current building occupancy levels, projected future maximum occupancy projections and peak ingress and egress traffic times to ensure that it can accommodate an expected number of people per minute entering and exiting premises.
Materials
Metal turnstiles are physical barriers used to secure secure areas through identification methods like proximity card readers, keypads, biometrics and QR systems. Used widely throughout stadiums, mass transit stations, airports offices and sports arenas based on security requirements; each venue requires its own specific design for instance a sports stadium will necessitate something very different than commercial office.
Turntiles come in three main varieties: optical, full height and waist high. Your choice will depend on factors like layout, size and number of lanes needed, desired level of security, budgetary considerations and aesthetic preferences.
Turntiles can be constructed from various materials such as stainless steel, galvanized steel and aluminum. However, stainless steel 304 or 316 alloy is the most popular material due to its corrosion resistance; additionally it’s easy to sanitize as it can be polished or powder coated brushed and powder coated as desired. Additional popular choices for turnstile construction are brass bronze and cast iron.
Contractors should take care when selecting their type of turnstile. A reliable partner will provide accurate information regarding its specifications, features and quality; in addition to providing after-sale support. Furthermore, technical guidance must be offered so as to meet all pre-installation requirements.
Selecting a full-height turnstile must take into account both its environment and location of installation. Traditional stainless units may be ideal for many locations; other materials available include galvanized or powder coated carbon steel units as well as galvanized or powder coated carbon steel alloy. If unsure which one is the best choice for you, ask your supplier for a material test report that can identify its actual alloy composition; this will lead to more durable and reliable turnstiles that withstand the elements for many years to come. Additionally, full-height turnstiles come equipped with features like ADA gates or integrated access control systems as well.
Installation
Metal turnstiles provide an effective means of managing building access and visitor management. They can easily be integrated with other security systems and feature various features and options to meet any facility’s unique requirements. A thorough site evaluation should precede installing any metal turnstile – this helps identify any issues which might inhibit its efficiency such as obstructions or power requirements – after which an experienced security consultant can advise on which turntable type and options would work best in your facility.
Full-height turnstiles can be installed in various ways, from single sector installation to multi-lane configurations. The number and configuration of gates will depend upon the size, layout and expected traffic patterns in their installation area; multi-lane turnstiles can accommodate standard as well as ADA width lanes as well as pedestrian security gates.
Full-height turnstiles are most commonly constructed as motorized, three-sector gates with sliding doors that close automatically to prevent tailgating. Doors open upon receiving valid ID such as an employee badge or fingerprint scan and close once no such scan has been presented – however if anyone attempts to enter with metal objects such as weapons, built-in metal detection locks shut to prevent entry and alert security guards immediately; until such time as all threats have been cleared away.
Security turnstiles often utilize barriers made of solid steel arms or thick glass panes to prevent unauthorised entry. These types of barriers can be installed in high-security establishments such as prisons, data centers, manufacturing sites and refineries as well as office lobbies, government buildings and public transportation terminals.
Full-height security turnstiles are typically constructed of stainless steel or carbon steel. Stainless steel comes in various grades such as 304, 316 and 201 and the higher its grade is, the better its resistance to corrosion and rust will be. Some turnstiles even feature powder coating for smoother finishes with increased durability.
Maintenance
Pedestrian turnstile gates are reliable security gates that will stand the test of time, but they do need regular inspection and maintenance in order to prevent malfunctions and reduce wear-and-tear on components, thus prolonging its lifespan. Here are a few things to keep in mind about the maintenance process.
First, examine any visible damage such as dents and scratches on the physical barrier to the gate; these may impede its operation and should be repaired as soon as possible. Secondly, look out for signs of corrosion on metal components; if any exist, protect these with anti-corrosion coating and ensure that it can continue functioning as intended.
Start by cleaning the surface of the pedestrian turnstile gate with cleaning solution or anti-rust oil. Scrubbing should then be followed up by polishing using soft cloth and talcum powder for best results. Any dust or dirt which accumulates should also be wiped away with this soft cloth before applying talcum powder as a final touch to remove dust or dirt that has collected on its chassis. Should any rust spots appear, touch them up using paint of similar hue as your turnstile’s chassis color.
Finally, it is necessary to conduct regular inspections of both your full height turnstile and pedestal enclosure. Inspect the power supply units, printed circuit boards, cable assemblies and pedestal mounting hardware for any signs of damage; secure it securely before checking optical beams, lane status indicators and CPU functionality to make sure everything is functioning as designed.
As most turnstile movements are mechanical, it is vital that their moving parts be regularly lubricated with oil. Apply lubricant to bearings, hinges and any other components requiring it – just follow your user manual’s recommended lubricant and application instructions to keep everything running smoothly.
Utilizing these tips, you can ensure your full-height security turnstile remains in excellent working order and provides reliable service for many years to come. These prevent costly repairs in the future; should any issues arise we are here to quickly address them so your gate remains operational. Reach out to us now for more information or an appointment if needed.
