3 Types of Barrier Gates
Published on : January 5, 2022
What are the types of barrier gates?
- Boom Barriers
- Flap Barriers
- Turnstiles
If you’ve ever been to a private parking space, train station, toll gate, or a large private property for a company, chances are you’ve seen barrier gates before. They are widely used in spaces such as these because they are good security measures and they have been effective for a while now. To control access for both vehicles and people, there are places where you would need different types of barrier gates. They provide additional security than typical doors or gates that anyone can open for secure areas.
Getting the right kind of barrier gate is crucial to get enough security for certain areas. What kinds of barrier gates are there? Where are they best used? Which type would be best for your building? Keep reading to learn more.
Boom Barriers

Boom barriers are great for controlling vehicular access to certain areas. The most common place you’ll see these barriers are at the entrances of parking spaces. Other than that, you’ll see them in places where only authorized vehicles are allowed to enter such as private properties.
Because of their ability to control traffic, boom barriers have become a must-have for any compound or building with restricted access to its premises. This type of barrier gate is a largely mechanized device, but thanks to modern technology, some of them can be encoded and even automated.
It keeps your premises safe because these barriers are made to be heavy enough to stop vehicles, and booms can stretch up to 4 meters. To pass through, drivers need to pay a fee, present identification, or simply have the authorization that the barrier gate can automatically verify.
The SNAP 4 barrier by ELID is a great example of an encoder-controlled, electromechanical boom barrier. It boasts fast and fluid movement and utilizes only the latest technology for its parts. If you need a barrier gate that would boost the security of your premises while also having safety measures, try this barrier gate.
Flap Barriers

Another way to improve security to your building, this time controlling pedestrian traffic, is by using flap barriers. Flap barriers can be generally integrated into your access control system. It can be placed at entrances so that only people who are authorized, or those who have tickets or pay the fee, in some instances, can enter. This kind of barrier gate is easier for the disabled to get through than other types, such as the tripod turnstile.
You will find this type of barrier gates in places such as airports, stations, and office entrances. A flap barrier gate uses RFID technology, QR code scanners, and face recognition to regulate access. It also has an aesthetically pleasing look to fit with your interior design. Here are some types of flap barrier gates you may find:
Speed Gate
A speed gate is a barrier gate designed to work faster than a typical flap barrier. It is best used if you’re expecting high traffic in the areas you plan to install these gates. Some examples are airports, train stations, and museums. With a speed gate, you would have efficient access control that remains precise and low-maintenance.
Swing Barrier
Swing barriers can be used in single and multiple-lane setups. This type of barrier can be compatible with almost any access control system out there, and they can support magnetic, biometric, and proximity readers.
Automatic Gates
Modern technology has given us the option to automate access control in our buildings. As the name suggests, the barrier gate verifies access automatically, as opposed to card-accessed barriers where you would need to scan a card to get in. Some automatic gates, such as the SlimLane 950/950 SC, offer wider walkways which are better for people with reduced mobility.
Turnstiles

The tripod turnstile is a very common barrier gate that you would encounter in many places. Some establishments that could use flap barriers can also use tripod turnstiles. The main difference is that instead of using flaps to block the path, it uses three revolving arms. Once your access is authorized, the arms will revolve and you will be able to pass through.
It is useful for places where only a limited number of people may enter. It also only allows access for strictly one person at a time. Unfortunately, people who cannot walk upright will have trouble using tripod turnstiles.
Although flap barriers are generally more high-tech, some tripod turnstiles use fingerprint and face recognition technology too. These turnstiles are more cost and power-efficient, and usually cheaper as well. Some establishments, such as jewelry stores, use full-height turnstiles for maximum security. Businesses and companies would only need to invest in these for highly-restricted areas.
Key Takeaway
The many types of barrier gates may be broken down into more specific classifications, but these are the kinds that would be useful to know about. Each type of barrier gate, be it a boom barrier, flap barrier, or a turnstile, have their own place in the world today. So if you plan on choosing one, make sure it fits your purpose!
At ELID, we manufacture the best and most reliable access control systems in Asia. We use cutting-edge technology for all of our products, including barrier gates. If you need smart gates or access control and security systems, try checking out our products. Feel free to contact us today for any inquiries!
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