A crash gates is a specialized barrier designed to prevent unauthorized vehicle access and mitigate the risks posed by vehicular threats. These systems are often deployed in high-security areas like airports, government facilities, and industrial complexes. Among the prominent options available are the StrongArm M30 and M50 crash gates manufactured by HySecurity, which are widely recognized for their durability and compliance with ASTM crash ratings.
How Does a Crash Gate Work
Crash gates operate as robust physical barriers to stop vehicles from breaching secure perimeters. Their effectiveness lies in a combination of materials, design, and crash certification:
Operation: These gates typically use hydraulic or electric mechanisms to lower and raise a barrier arm, which can stop vehicles traveling at high speeds.
Crash Certification:
The M30 is certified to ASTM F2656-07 standards with a P1 rating, meaning it can stop a 15,000-pound truck traveling at 30 mph with less than 1 meter of penetration. The M50 achieves a P2 rating, capable of halting a truck of the same weight at 50 mph with under 1.2 meters of penetration.
Design Features:
Bright LED lights improve visibility.
Integrated sensors and entrapment shields enhance safety for both operators and pedestrians.
Safety measures such as monitored photo eyes prevent accidental injuries.
Crash Gate Site Preparation and Space Requirements
Installing crash gates like the StrongArm M30 and M50 requires careful planning and preparation. The primary considerations include:
Foundation Requirements:
Both systems demand robust concrete foundations to anchor the barrier securely. For example:
A typical deep mount requires a 4 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft foundation with 4,000 psi concrete and rebar reinforcement. Shallow mount installations may demand additional stabilization measures, particularly in areas with underground utilities or high water tables.
Space Allocation:
Crash gates accommodate clear openings ranging from 12 to 24 feet, depending on the model and configuration. Additional room is needed for pivot posts, hydraulic systems, and safety features.
Electrical and Hydraulic Setup:
These systems are powered by 208/230V AC power supplies, with options for UPS backup to ensure functionality during power outages. Some models incorporate HyInverter systems for consistent performance.
Safety and Accessibility:
Sites must include safety zones around the crash gate to prevent accidental interactions. Barrier systems often incorporate advanced sensors and alarms to notify operators of system movements.
Crash Gate Applications and Versatility
A crash gate can be used in various high-security environments due to its flexibility and effectiveness. The M30 and M50 models are particularly well-suited for protecting critical infrastructure like data centers, airports, and transportation hubs. They are also compatible with multiple safety standards, such as UL325 and ASTM F-2200, ensuring they meet stringent regulatory requirements.
A crash gate, like the StrongArm M30 and M50, is invaluable in modern security infrastructure, offering high levels of protection against vehicular threats. Its installation requires meticulous planning, including appropriate site preparation, foundation engineering, and electrical setup. By choosing the right model and following installation best practices, organizations can ensure both security and operational efficiency.
Crash gates and related hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) products play a crucial role in safeguarding critical facilities and public spaces against vehicle-based threats. In addition to the M30 and M50 crash gates, HySecurity offers several other innovative solutions that deter hostile vehicle attacks effectively. These include bollards, the StrongSlide M30, and the WedgeSmart DC, each catering to different security and design needs.
1. Bollards M30/M50
Crash-rated bollards, available in M30 and M50 certifications, offer robust protection while blending with architectural aesthetics. These bollards stop unauthorized vehicles, whether intentional or accidental, and are versatile in design. They come in shallow and deep mount configurations to accommodate various site conditions:
Shallow Mount Bollards: Ideal for sites with underground utilities or high water tables, requiring only a 12-inch foundation.
Deep Mount Bollards: Suitable for areas without depth restrictions, offering a smaller footprint.
Lighting and Aesthetic Options: Bollards can include integrated lighting, stainless steel covers, and custom finishes to enhance visual appeal while maintaining security
2. StrongSlide M30
The StrongSlide M30 is a crash-rated slide gate engineered to stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling at 30 mph with zero penetration. As the first crash-rated slide gate in HySecurity’s portfolio, it combines security and durability. Key features include:
Lightweight Vehicle Arrestor: Designed for long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance.
Reliability: Operated by the SlideDriver, a proven system in demanding security environments.
Smart Touch Controls: The system integrates with advanced controllers for customizable operation Nice | HySecurity .
3. WedgeSmart DC
The WedgeSmart DC offers a hybrid barrier solution combining a wedge and barrier arm, making it an excellent choice for fleet protection and high-traffic areas. It is designed to stop passenger vehicles at speeds up to 40 mph and includes several safety and efficiency
features:
Fast Operation: With an open/close cycle time of just 5 seconds, it is suitable for busy access points.
Surface Mount Installation: Simplifies setup and minimizes site preparation.
Backup Power Options: Operates up to 150 cycles during power outages with optional UPS backup.
Integrated Safety Features: Includes traffic lights, reflective tape, and LED lighting for visibility and safety Nice | HySecurity .
How These Products Deter Hostile Vehicle Attacks
Each of these systems is engineered to withstand high-impact forces while providing flexible deployment options. The bollards’ fixed and removable configurations, for example, allow tailored security without compromising accessibility. Slide gates like the StrongSlide M30 offer extended clear openings for controlled access, while the WedgeSmart DC is optimized for rapid, reliable operation in emergencies. Combined with advanced materials and crash testing to meet ASTM standards, these products ensure resilience against diverse vehicle threats.
By offering these alternatives, we equip facility designers and operators with a variety of solutions to meet specific security requirements while maintaining operational efficiency and aesthetic considerations.
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