Vehicle access control bollards are vital for managing traffic and enhancing security. But what happens when the weather takes a turn for the worse? Can heavy downpours actually stop your bollards from functioning properly?
It turns out, while rain can pose challenges, it rarely leads to significant issues, thanks to robust design and preventative maintenance.
The Resilience of Bollards Against Heavy Rain
Though prolonged rainfall or flooding presents certain risks, well-maintained bollards are built to withstand such conditions with minimal impact:
Corrosion and Rust
Bollards are often made with steel components, which are vulnerable to rust if left unprotected. However, modern bollards come equipped with galvanising or protective coatings, significantly reducing the risk.
Stainless steel bollards, known for their superior corrosion resistance, offer even stronger protection, though regular maintenance to address any minor damage is advised.
Water Ingress
Advanced sealing techniques and water displacement fluids are used to prevent rain from compromising the bollard’s interior, ensuring both mechanical and electrical components remain dry.
Hydraulic and Freezing Concern
For automated bollards, strategic design considerations keep hydraulic systems safe from water contamination. Additionally, measures are in place to prevent water accumulation that could freeze and impede mechanical functions.
Proactive Measures to Maintain Bollard Efficiency in Wet Weather
Acknowledging that prevention is the best strategy, here are several steps to enhance bollard resilience against heavy rain:
- Routine Maintenance: Regular inspections and upkeep, including cleaning, lubrication, and the replacement of worn parts, keep bollards in prime condition, ready to face the elements.
- Material Choice: Opting for materials like stainless steel or employing marine-grade finishes further fortifies bollards against water damage. Concrete bollards benefit from water-repellent treatments to reduce moisture absorption.
- Strategic Placement: Positioning bollards away from water-prone areas and ensuring adequate drainage around installations minimise water exposure.
- Electrical Safety Measures: Elevating control systems and sealing connections protect against water entry, while upgrading to outdoor-rated cables enhances overall wet-weather performance.
Additionally, you should ensure good ground works during installation and channel the drain in front of the bollard to divert surface water runoff.
Embracing UK Weather Variability
The UK’s diverse and often unpredictable weather patterns, from sudden downpours to unexpected cold snaps, necessitate bollard solutions that are as versatile as the climate.
This has resulted in manufacturers using materials that resist corrosion from salt-laden air in coastal areas, as well as mechanisms designed to prevent water accumulation and freezing in the colder, wetter regions.
By tailoring bollard solutions to the specific challenges of the UK climate, businesses can maintain security and traffic control without interruption, enhancing public safety and convenience year-round.
Ensuring Uninterrupted Operation with Macs Bollards
At Macs Bollards, our commitment is to deliver bollard solutions that stand resilient, regardless of weather conditions. Our comprehensive range, designed for optimal performance in wet environments, alongside our expert maintenance services, guarantees that your bollards will continue to function as intended, come rain or shine.
For bespoke advice and solutions tailored to your specific environmental challenges, reach out to us at 0161 320 6463 or via email at enquiries@macs-bollards.com. Discover how our industry-leading bollard systems can enhance your site’s security and traffic control, ensuring peace of mind through all weather conditions.
Macs Automated Bollard Systems Ltd specialise in the nationwide supply of automatic rising bollards. Our experts keep the Macs Bollards blog updated with all the latest bollard news!