How Do Retractable Bollards Work?

Security and traffic control are ever-evolving needs, retractable bollards have emerged as a versatile and efficient solution. These convenient vehicle barriers can be raised or lowered into the ground, providing a means to control vehicular access while allowing unimpeded pedestrian movement. Due to their telescopic mechanism, they offered enhanced flexibility and convenience compared to their fixed and removable counterparts.

There are three main types of retractable security bollards: manual, semi-automatic and automatic bollards. In this guide, we’ll explain how each type of retractable bollard works and how they contribute to enhancing security and traffic control. We’ll also describe their key applications and benefits in a range of environments.

What Are Retractable Bollards?

Retractable bollards, also known as telescopic bollards or rising bollards, are vertical vehicle security barriers that can be extended above ground or lowered beneath it. They offer more flexibility than fixed bollards, which are permanently installed, and a higher level of convenience than removable bollards.

Their adjustable nature makes telescopic bollards an efficient solution for controlling vehicular access while maintaining pedestrian mobility at all times. This versatility has made retractable bollards an increasingly common sight in residential, public and commercial spaces alike.

Types of Retractable Bollards and How They Work

Retractable bollards can range from simple manual designs to more sophisticated automatic systems. While their operation can vary depending on the specific type, all retractable bollards share the same basic principle – they can be retracted or extended as needed, allowing authorised vehicles to pass through unimpeded.

Manual Telescopic Bollards

Manual telescopic bollards are the simplest form of retractable bollards. They require physical strength to lift them up from their socket, or to lower them back into the ground. A built-in locking mechanism ensures that the bollard stays in its upright or down position, preventing the post from being tampered with.

As they require manual operation, manual rising bollards are typically used in settings where authorised vehicles require only infrequent access. For example, they may be used to cordon off pedestrian zones in city centres, allowing construction or service vehicles to enter occasionally.

Semi-Automatic Bollards

Semi-automatic bollards, or lift-assisted bollards, work on a similar principle to manual ones. However, they are built with a gas-powered spring mechanism that reduces the operational weight, helping the user to lift the rising bollard more easily.

This can make them a more user-friendly option, especially for locations where more frequent access changes are required. They still need manual input, but the process is less physically demanding and time-consuming.

Automatic Bollards

Automatic rising bollards, also known as electric bollards or automatic retractable bollards, offer the highest level of convenience and functionality. They can be raised or lowered at the push of a button thanks to an internal hydraulic or pneumatic mechanism, eliminating the need to manually lift the bollard. They are wired in and linked up to a control system, allowing the bollard to be operated remotely via a keypad, fob or similar.

An automatic bollard system would be particularly useful in high-traffic areas such as public car parks. They are typically more expensive than manual and semi-automatic models, but are ideal for settings where access needs change frequently.

Benefits and Applications of Retractable Bollards

Retractable bollards offer a convenient and effective means of access control, theft prevention, traffic management and hostile vehicle mitigation. Their key benefits include:

• Flexible access control: Retractable bollards can be lowered as needed, making them adaptable to various applications where regular or occasional access is required.
• Ease of use: Especially with automatic bollards, raising and lowering the post is quicker and easier than uninstalling it from its setting, as is required with removable bollards.
• Space efficiency: When retracted, these bollards do not obstruct pedestrian pathways or hinder environmental aesthetics.
• Enhanced security: Many retractable bollard models have crash test ratings and offer robust impact protection against vehicular attacks and collisions.
• Variety: Manual, semi-automatic and automatic bollards are available in many distinct sizes, materials, colours and finishes, allowing designers to choose the ideal model for their needs and budget.

In the UK, retractable bollards can be found in a wide variety of settings. They may be used on residential driveways, in commercial car parks, pedestrian zones and outside high-security buildings such as government facilities. Their ability to adapt to changing access needs make them an invaluable tool for maintaining safety and order in public and private spaces alike.

MACs Bollards: Trusted Suppliers of Manual and Automatic Retractable Bollards (UK)

Are you looking for manual telescopic, semi-automatic or automatic retractable bollards? If so, MACs Bollards can help. With more than 15 years’ experience in supplying high-quality bollards for residential, commercial and public use, we have the expertise necessary to match you with the perfect vehicle security solution.

Visit our website today to browse a wide selection of fixed, removable, manual and automatic rising bollards for sale. Our range includes parking, traffic-calming and HVM crash-rated models in a variety of sizes and specifications to suit all applications and budgets.

Contact MACs Bollards today to speak to our helpful team for a free personalised quote. Fill in our enquiry form, email enquiries@macs-bollards.com or call us on 0161 320 6463.