Choosing between articulated, linear and underground swing gate operators

There are basically 3 types of swing gate operators available on the market these days, namely, ‘Articulated arm’ swing gate operators. ‘Linear’ swing gate operators and ‘Underground’ swing gate operators.

All have some advantages, but which is the best swing gate operator ?

Lets look at the advantages of the 3 types first

Articulated arm swing gate operators

Advantages

• Able to open the gate at a faster rate than linear actuators, generally speaking.
• Are a far more efficient way of opening the gate than linear actuators
• They do not place any extra load on the gate brackets and hinges than what is required to open and close the gate.
• Are able to handle much larger leaf gates with excellent duty cycles

Linear Actuators

Advantages

• They need very little side room to open the gate compared to articulated swing gate operators
• They generally ‘look’ neater than articulated arm operators
• They are probably the cheapest out of the 3 swing gate operators

Underground swing gate operators

Advantages

• There is nothing seen on the front or back of the gate.

Disadvantages include

• cost, limited to smaller size gates and subject to corrosion due to being ‘underground’

Conclusion

• Overall, the articulated arm type swing gate operator would be generally the better type gate operator to use when opening a swing gate, due to them being far more efficient in operation and most have a greater duty cycle than the linear actuators.
• If there is limited side room, then modified arms can be used
• If cost is the main consideration and the gates are not large, then linear actuators may be the choice
• If aesthetics is the main consideration, and the gates are not large, then underground operators may be the way to go.