A hydraulic road blocker is a highly effective traffic safety device that is used for securing the perimeters of limited-access establishments and controlling traffic flow and security. Also referred to as a hydraulic road barrier, it consists of a section of solid high-strength metal that can withstand immense impact from high-speed collisions, even from large vehicles like 7.5-ton trucks.
The most used types of road blockers barriers measure between 1 to 6 meters in length and are usually located at entry and exit points of establishments. They are usually embedded into the surface of the road, inside a solid metal and concrete foundation, with a blocker component that can be raised above the surface to desired heights of half to 1 meter or even more. The road blockers are raised and lowered through a hydraulic-powered mechanism, which can be operated remotely and safely with an electrical control system.
Applications of Hydraulic Road Blockers
There are many establishments and locations around the world that require heavy security due to the sensitive nature of their operations, and consequently, are vulnerable to unlawful entry or terrorist attacks.
Road blockers are used to prevent unauthorized or forceful entry of vehicles into such sensitive locations or secure facilities that include government buildings, hotels, airports, banks, prisons, ports, warehouses, military establishments, and many other critical infrastructure sites.
They are also useful in controlling the movement of vehicles on access-controlled roads such as highways, toll-controlled roads, and checkpoints at state and international borders. They can also be deployed to control vehicular movement on roads experiencing heavy traffic conditions.
The hydraulic system powering the road blocker mechanism can be activated to raise the road blockers within 3 to 5 seconds, which is a very impressive reaction time to thwart unwanted entry such as vehicular terrorist attacks. Often, the blockers are studded with sharp metal spikes that can easily deflate tires upon contact.
Different Types of Road Blockers
Depending on their location and usage requirements, road blockers barriers can be categorized into different types, each having unique specifications to suit their role. Some of the common types of road blockers are briefly covered below:
According to design
Road blockers can be single-sided or double-sided, though the most used types belong to the single-sided category.
According to type of installation
- Fixed Hydraulic Road Blockers: These types of road blockers are usually fixed permanently by embedding them in a deep foundation up to a depth of 1500 mm. They are usually installed at entry points where vehicular access is limited or prohibited and offer a high level of security.
- Movable Hydraulic Road Blockers: They are designed for temporary access control and can be easily uninstalled and moved to other locations. They are usually deployed at events that require high security such as sporting events, concerts, political rallies, VIP visits, etc.
- Shallow Mount Hydraulic Road Blockers: This type of road blocker offers similar capabilities to fixed road blockers, but the depth at which they are installed is much shallower, typically around 200 to 300 mm. They are deployed at locations where it is not possible to dig deep foundations, such as underground parking areas.
- Surface Mount Hydraulic Road Blockers: This type of road blocker is fixed directly to the surface of roads where digging is not possible or allowed.
According to crash rating
Hydraulic road blockers are also categorized according to the impact they can withstand from high-tonnage, speeding vehicles. They are usually determined by the weight of the vehicle, the speed at which it moves, and the distance covered by the front bumper of the vehicle after impact with the road blocker.
K-Ratings: Rated for a 7.5-ton vehicle
K4: travelling at 48 kmph
K8: travelling at 64 kmph
K12: travelling at 80 kmph
Road blockers are certified L1, L2, or L3 according to the distance moved by the vehicle beyond the barrier, ranging from a maximum of 1270 mm to less than 84 mm.
M-Ratings: The K-Ratings have been replaced in recent times by the M-Rating, which are governed by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). For the same specifications as the K-Rating, the corresponding M-Ratings are M30, M40, and M50. Further, they are certified from P1 to P4, with P1 representing a vehicle that moves less than 84 mm after impact, and P4 representing movement beyond 2500 mm.
Leading road blocker manufacturers in Saudi Arabia SABTECH’s RB3M1000CT model is an example of a road blocker with an M50-P1 ‘zero penetration’ certification.
PAS 68 and IWA 14-1 ratings
PAS 68, developed by the British Standards Institutions (BSI), and IWA 14-1, which is an ISO standard, are two internationally recognized standards for the certification of impact resistance of road blockers and other hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) products. The HVM products undergo rigorous tests to determine their ability to withstand various kinds of real or simulated vehicle attacks at different speeds and angles of impact. PAS 68 and IWA 14-1 ratings are composed of a string of characters that indicate various parameters of the test undertaken.
For example, the SABTECH RB3MI000CT model is rated to both PAS 68 and IWA 14-1. Its PAS 68 rating is V/7500(N3)/80/90:1.5/4.6. This rating can be decoded as follows:
V – indicates that an actual vehicle was used to test the road blocker
7500 (N3) – indicates the type of vehicle used, in this case, a 7500 kg truck with an N3 classification
80 – indicates the speed of the vehicle, i.e., 80 kilometers per hour
90 – indicates the impact angle, in this case, 90 degrees
1.5 – indicates the impact penetration, i.e., the distance moved by the vehicle after impact past a pre-determined datum line, which is 1.5 meters (within acceptable parameters)
4.6 – indicates debris dispersion, i.e., the farthest distance covered by debris (weighing more than 25 kilograms) from the impact, which, for this model is 4.6 meters (within acceptable parameters)
The IWA 14-1 rating is like the PAS 68 rating, except for the debris dispersion component.
Benefits of Hydraulic Road Blockers
Hydraulic road blockers come packed with several amazing benefits, which make them extremely effective against forced incursion attempts. Some of these benefits are described here:
- In comparison to pneumatic powered systems, the hydraulic power provides excellent reaction speed, and the mechanism operates smoothly and silently, which helps to prevent panic and alarm.
- Hydraulic road blockers have low energy consumption and low power voltage, which makes them very environment friendly.
- Due to their anti-rust, corrosion resistance properties, and limited electrical wiring in the main body, road blockers are low maintenance, long-lasting, and reusable.
- The remote controller is multi-functional, allowing various configurable options to operators to adjust the height, lifting speed, and timing of the road blocker. In case of power failure, the road blockers can be manually raised or lowered.
- They can be integrated with other vehicle control equipment such as parking barriers, traffic signals, biometric or RFID card readers, and loop detectors to create safer and more effective vehicle control mechanisms.
Where to Find the Best Road Barriers Suppliers
SABTECH is the leading manufacturer and supplier of hydraulic-powered perimeter protection equipment in Saudi Arabia. The high-quality, and feature-rich hydraulic road barriers manufactured by them provide the highest levels of security against vehicular terrorist attacks for a wide range of establishments and occasions. The company also provides warranty, maintenance contract, and dedicated after-sales service for all hydraulic, mechanical, and electronic components.
Conclusion
Hydraulic road blockers are vital pieces of equipment to help keep important locations safe and secure from unauthorized vehicular intrusions. They are designed to withstand massive impacts and are powered by a hydraulic system that supports fast and reliable operation. They are long-lasting, cost-effective, and have a low impact on the environment. They are easy to operate, integrable with other traffic-control devices, and can be configured for multiple purposes and events.
Get in touch with SABTECH today to explore options and get the best road blocker price in the market.
Hydraulic barriers are physical security measures that use hydraulic power to control access to a specific area. These barriers are designed to prevent unauthorized entry and protect people and property from potential threats. They are an essential component of security systems in various settings, including government buildings, military bases, airports, critical infrastructure, commercial buildings, and residential areas.
The importance of hydraulic barriers in security cannot be overstated. They provide a physical barrier that deters unauthorized access and acts as a first line of defense against potential threats. Hydraulic barriers have been used for centuries to protect important sites and assets. The concept of using hydraulic power for security purposes dates back to ancient times when moats were used to surround castles and fortresses.
Types of Hydraulic Barriers and Their Features
There are several types of hydraulic barriers available, each with its own unique features and advantages. Some common types include bollards, road blockers, rising arm barriers, and sliding gates.
Bollards are short, sturdy posts that are typically installed in a row to create a physical barrier. They can be fixed or retractable, allowing for controlled access when needed. Bollards are often used in urban areas to protect pedestrians from vehicle attacks and can also be found in front of government buildings and commercial properties.
Road blockers are heavy-duty barriers that are designed to stop vehicles from entering a specific area. They are typically installed at entrances or exits and can be raised or lowered as needed. Road blockers provide a high level of security against unauthorized vehicle access and are commonly used at military bases, airports, and critical infrastructure sites.
Rising arm barriers consist of a horizontal arm that can be raised or lowered to control vehicle access. They are commonly used in parking lots, toll booths, and other areas where controlled access is required. Rising arm barriers are effective at preventing unauthorized vehicles from entering restricted areas.
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Sliding gates are large gates that slide horizontally to allow or restrict access. They are commonly used in residential areas, commercial properties, and industrial sites. Sliding gates provide a secure and convenient solution for controlling vehicle access.
Applications of Hydraulic Barriers in Different Security Settings
Hydraulic barriers have a wide range of applications in various security settings. They are used to protect government buildings, military bases, airports, critical infrastructure, commercial buildings, and residential areas.
Government buildings require high levels of security to protect sensitive information and personnel. Hydraulic barriers such as bollards and road blockers are commonly used to prevent unauthorized vehicle access and protect against potential threats.
Military bases are highly secure areas that require robust security measures. Hydraulic barriers play a crucial role in controlling access to military bases and protecting against unauthorized entry. Road blockers and rising arm barriers are often used at the entrances and exits of military bases to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering.
Airports are vulnerable to security threats due to the large number of people and vehicles entering and exiting the premises. Hydraulic barriers are used at airports to control vehicle access and prevent unauthorized entry. Sliding gates and rising arm barriers are commonly used at airport entrances and exits to ensure only authorized vehicles can enter.
Critical infrastructure, such as power plants, water treatment facilities, and communication centers, requires stringent security measures to protect against potential threats. Hydraulic barriers are an essential component of the security systems in these facilities. Road blockers and bollards are commonly used to prevent unauthorized vehicle access and protect critical infrastructure from potential attacks.
Commercial buildings, such as office complexes and shopping malls, also require effective security measures to protect people and property. Hydraulic barriers are often used in these settings to control vehicle access and prevent unauthorized entry. Sliding gates and rising arm barriers are commonly used at the entrances and exits of commercial buildings.
Residential areas can also benefit from the use of hydraulic barriers for enhanced security. Sliding gates and rising arm barriers are commonly used in gated communities and high-end residential areas to control vehicle access and prevent unauthorized entry.
Designing Hydraulic Barriers for Maximum Security
When designing hydraulic barriers for maximum security, several factors need to be considered. These include the specific security requirements of the site, the level of threat, the desired level of access control, and the available space for installation.
A thorough site assessment is essential to determine the most effective placement and design of hydraulic barriers. This assessment should consider factors such as the layout of the site, potential vulnerabilities, and the desired level of security. By understanding the unique characteristics of the site, designers can create a customized solution that meets the specific security needs.
Customization options for hydraulic barriers allow for maximum security. Hydraulic barriers can be designed to meet specific requirements, such as crash ratings, aesthetics, and integration with other security systems. Customization options include different sizes, materials, finishes, and control mechanisms.
Installation and Maintenance of Hydraulic Barriers
The installation process of hydraulic barriers involves several steps. First, the site needs to be prepared by excavating the area where the barrier will be installed. The hydraulic barrier is then positioned in place and secured to the ground using anchor bolts or other appropriate methods. The hydraulic system is connected to a power source and tested to ensure proper operation.
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the optimal performance of hydraulic barriers. Maintenance requirements may include regular inspections, lubrication of moving parts, cleaning of sensors and control mechanisms, and testing of hydraulic systems. It is important to follow manufacturer guidelines for maintenance and schedule regular inspections by qualified technicians.
Regular maintenance is essential for several reasons. First, it helps identify any potential issues or malfunctions before they become major problems. Second, it ensures that the hydraulic barrier is operating at its full capacity and providing maximum security. Finally, regular maintenance extends the lifespan of the hydraulic barrier and reduces the risk of unexpected failures.
Benefits of Using Hydraulic Barriers for Security
The use of hydraulic barriers provides several benefits for security purposes. These benefits include enhanced security, deterrence of unauthorized access, protection of people and property, and cost-effectiveness.
Hydraulic barriers enhance security by providing a physical barrier that prevents unauthorized access. They act as a first line of defense against potential threats and can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry. Hydraulic barriers are designed to withstand high impact forces and can effectively stop vehicles from breaching restricted areas.
The presence of hydraulic barriers acts as a deterrent to unauthorized access. Potential intruders are less likely to attempt to breach a site that has visible security measures in place. The sight of hydraulic barriers sends a clear message that unauthorized access is not tolerated and that the site is well-protected.
Hydraulic barriers provide protection for people and property. By preventing unauthorized access, they reduce the risk of harm to individuals and damage to property. In high-security settings such as government buildings, military bases, and critical infrastructure, hydraulic barriers play a crucial role in protecting personnel and assets.
Hydraulic barriers are also cost-effective compared to other security measures. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. Hydraulic barriers require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs. Additionally, the presence of hydraulic barriers can help lower insurance premiums by reducing the risk of security breaches.
Challenges and Limitations of Hydraulic Barriers in Security
While hydraulic barriers offer significant advantages in enhancing security, they also have some challenges and limitations that need to be considered.
One challenge is the vulnerability to cyber attacks. As hydraulic barriers become more advanced and connected to network systems, they become potential targets for hackers. It is crucial to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect against unauthorized access and potential tampering with the hydraulic barrier’s control systems.
Another challenge is the potential for mechanical failure. Like any mechanical system, hydraulic barriers can experience malfunctions or breakdowns. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems. It is also important to have backup systems in place to ensure continued security in the event of a mechanical failure.
Hydraulic barriers may also have limitations in extreme weather conditions. For example, heavy snowfall or ice accumulation can affect the operation of sliding gates or rising arm barriers. It is important to consider the specific climate conditions of the site when designing and selecting hydraulic barriers to ensure optimal performance in all weather conditions.
Integrating Hydraulic Barriers with Other Security Systems
To maximize security, hydraulic barriers can be integrated with other security systems such as access control systems, surveillance systems, and alarm systems.
Access control systems allow for controlled entry and exit from a specific area. By integrating hydraulic barriers with access control systems, only authorized individuals or vehicles can pass through the barrier. This provides an additional layer of security and ensures that only authorized personnel can access restricted areas.
Surveillance systems, such as CCTV cameras, can be integrated with hydraulic barriers to provide real-time monitoring of the area. This allows security personnel to visually verify the identity of individuals or vehicles
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