Nowadays, swing and sliding gates are designed to be more functional and ergonomic. This is precisely the case with automatic gates, equipment that has won you over with all its advantages! In addition to improving your daily life, an electric gate is practical, comfortable, and secure. Its operation is ensured by the photocells with which it is equipped. But why and how should you install photoelectric cells? What is the required height for a gate photocell? Let’s explore these questions!
Automatic Gate: Why Install a Pair of Photocells?
Very discreet, photoelectric cells or gate photocells are safety accessories fitted to every automatic gate (swing, sliding, self-supporting). These small oval or rectangular objects are located on either side of your gate. And they are far from insignificant!
Indeed, these cells play an essential role in the operation of your automation system. They automatically stop the equipment when an obstacle is detected. If a person, vehicle, or animal passes through the detection zone (i.e., in the gate’s path), the pair of photocells immediately stops the closing maneuver. They then trigger the mechanism to reverse, preventing serious damage to the equipment or the obstacle in question. They therefore guarantee safe use of your motorized gate and reduce any risk of accident.
Ensuring optimal protection during your equipment’s maneuvers is a good reason to install this safety system. But it’s not the only one!
Indeed, the installation of photoelectric cells is mandatory in 2 situations:
- Your aluminum gate opens onto a public road. In this case, you will also need to install a flashing light to signal the opening or closing of the gate, as required by European standard EN 13241-1. The objective is to ensure that automatic closures do not shear, pinch, crush, or injure anyone.
- The motorized equipment operates in automatic mode, meaning that closing is triggered automatically after opening, without voluntary action by the user after a certain time.
Good to know: despite the important role they play, gate photocells are very accessible and inexpensive. With around thirty euros, you can equip yourself with them.
How Do Photoelectric Cells Work?
You’ve understood: even if installing photocells is only mandatory in certain cases, it’s an accessory that is essential! It allows you to enjoy your motorized gate safely and with peace of mind. But what is the operating principle of gate photocells? The Districlos experts explain it to you!
Photoelectric cells always come in pairs: a transmitter cell and a receiver cell. They consist of a power indicator, power terminals, and lenses. Their operation is ensured by the emission of an infrared beam (invisible continuous line) from the transmitter cell to the receiver cell. The latter controls the opening or closing of the automation system.
The principle is simple: the receiver cell receives the beam properly. This confirms that no obstacle is present in the gate’s path during its closing. The automatic equipment can continue its maneuver.
Conversely, when an obstacle interrupts the beam, the gate stops automatically. Indeed, if a pedestrian or vehicle crosses in front of the signal emission zone, it alters the intensity of the light radiation. The receiver cell then transmits this information to the control unit. It instantly stops the motorized equipment’s movement.
Good to know: it is possible to activate or deactivate the cells. To do this, consult their installation instructions.
How to Choose the Right Gate Photocell?
There are many models, with several variants. But don’t worry: Districlos will help you choose equipment suited to your needs and situation!
Here are the main criteria for choosing a photocell for a sliding or swing gate:
- Its range. It is essential to ensure that it is suited to the length of your gate, given that the cells are positioned on the pillars. If your electric gate measures 14 m, don’t make the mistake of choosing photoelectric cells with only an 8 m range!
- The installation context. If you have the option of running cables for electrical power, we recommend adopting wired cells. They guarantee greater reliability of the device. Otherwise, there are wireless cells, easier to install, but requiring regular maintenance (battery replacement).
- The desired longevity. Choose quality photocells from recognized brands (such as CAME), as they will be subject to intensive use. To reduce the risk of deliberate or accidental damage (weather conditions, etc.), you can opt for an anti-tamper model. It is equipped with a protective metal casing to enhance the equipment’s robustness.
- The reception angle. If you have angled gate pillars, it’s better to opt for an adjustable model. It offers a larger reception angle (approximately 30°) and therefore widens the detection field. A significant advantage depending on the situation to optimize safety.
Good to know: are you considering motorizing your sliding gate? To facilitate the success of this project, Districlos offers you a complete motorization kit including a set of photocells with a 10 m range. Excellent value for money for this equipment from the CAME brand, a reference whose expertise in this field and product quality are recognized.
What Is the Required Photocell Height for a Gate?
Safety cells are only effective if properly positioned! That’s why Districlos explains the key points for installing them to ensure their operational effectiveness. Gate photocells are installed both on your gate pillars and on the outside. For them to work properly, they should be fixed at the same height, facing each other.
No standard specifically defines the installation procedures for gate photocells. However, the recommendation regarding photocell positioning is a height of 50 to 60 cm from the ground.
Districlos advice: adjust the sensor height of your sliding gate according to external elements to the motorization of your equipment. If you have young children or pets, take their size into account when adjusting the gate photocells. Indeed, if you opt for a height greater than that of your pet, for example, the installed gate photocells may not detect it. This could lead to a tragedy. Furthermore, to optimize safety, you have the option of installing additional gate photocells on columns inside your home.
Our experts support you: before installing the photocells, discover our professional advice for choosing the right motor for your sliding gate.
How Are Gate Photocells Connected?
The connection of a gate photocell can vary depending on the type or nature of the cells.
There are indeed several cell models, namely:
- Standard cells. They require 2 wires on one side and 4 on the other for their connection.
- Battery-powered cells or cells with reflector that require 4 wires on one side and batteries on the other side for their connection.
- Bus cells. They only require 2 wires on each side.
To ensure that the cells work properly, the installer must test all the gate photocells.
To enjoy the benefits of installing an automatic gate with peace of mind, also consider installing photocells! This safety device is not systematically mandatory. But it guarantees the protection of people and reduces the risk of accidents. A plus for your peace of mind! And now that you know how to properly position photoelectric cells on your gate, nothing is holding you back!
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Expert in fencing, gates, and outdoor landscaping since 2019.
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