charlieNC, Author at NetConnect

Project Overview:

WM Morrisons Woodhead Bros, a significant player in the food processing industry, required a secure & efficient gate solution for their abattoir in Colne. The project involved the installation of 4 trackless bi-fold gates at key ent

ry points to enhance security, streamline vehicle access, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. This case study outlines the specifications, installation process, and the outcomes achieved through this project.

Client Requirements:

The client sought a robust gate system that met the following criteria:

Security – the gates needed to provide a high level of security with features such as spikes on top and durable construction

Privacy – privacy on site is paramount so the infills needed to screen the premises but also reduce wind

resistance

Speed – the operation of the gates needed to be fast, to allow vehicles to enter and exit quickly without

compromising on safety

Automation – gates were to be automated for ease of operation, with reliable control mechanisms

Safety – compliance with safety standards including live monitored safety edges, safety photocells, and

emergency stop mechanisms

Durability – the gates required weather-resistant finishes given the outdoor industrial environment

Aesthetic – the gates needed to match the existing site colour scheme (Green RAL6005)

Gate Specifications:

The installation comprised of four bi-fold gates with the following specifications:

Gate 1:

Opening Width: 6.5m

Height: 2.4m

Infill Type: 30mm diamond bar

Operation: Double gate swinging inward

Colour: Green RAL6005 with spikes on top

Special features: Double leaf automated bifold gate with galvanised and powder coated steel posts,

motor driven by 3-phase motor and 2 stage wormed gearbox with 30mm diameter torsion bars

Gate 2:

Opening Width: 7.6m

Height: 2.4m

Infill Type: Louvered panel

Operation: Double gate swinging inward

Colour: Green RAL6005 with spikes on top

Special Features: As per gate 1, with the addition of louvered panels for improved airflow while

maintaining security.

Gate 3:
Opening Width: 7.9m
Height: 2.4m
Infill Type: Louvered panel
Operation: Double gate swinging inward
Colour: Green RAL6005 with spikes on top
Special Features: Matching specifications with gates 1 & 2

Gate 4:
Opening Width: 5m
Height: 2.4m
Infill Type: Louvered panel
Operation: Single gate, left hand swing inward
Colour: Green RAL6005 with spikes on top
Special Features: Single leaf gate with similar specifications as previous

Common Features Across all Gates:
Drive System: 3 phase motor with 2 stage wormed gearbox
Control Panels: Installed in IP-rated enclosures for protection against environmental factors
Safety Features:

12 live monitored safety edges per leaf
Dual height safety photocells to prevent accidents
Finger trap guards between gate leaves
Dead man keyswitch operation
Emergency stop buttons
Flashing warning lamps for alerting during operation
Manual disengaging mechanisms for use in case of power failure

Gate posts: Steel, galvanised and powder coated for durability and corrosion resistance

Installation Process:
The installation was carried out in several key phases:
1. Site survey and preparation:
Detailed measurements were taken on site to ensure accurate gate fabrication, existing entry points were assessed for structural integrity and necessary adjustments were made
2. Fabrications & Customisation:
The gates were fabricated to the specified dimensions and finished in Green RAL6005 to match the site’s aesthetic Spikes were added to the top of each gate for enhanced security
3. Installation:
Steel posts were anchored in to the ground at each location
Gates were mounted, and the 3 phase motors, gearboxes and torsion bars were installed
Control panels, safety edges, photocells, and other safety features were connected and tested
4. Testing & Commissioning:
Extensive testing was conducted to ensure the gates operated smoothly and safely
Safety systems were thoroughly checked, including the emergency stop buttons and manual disengagement mechanisms
5. Training & Handover:
Site personnel were trained on gate operation, including the use of the dead man switch, emergency stop, and manual disengagement features
Documentation was provided, including maintenance schedules and safety guidelines

Outcomes & Benefits:
The installation of the four bi-fold gates at Woodhead Bros in Colne delivered several key benefits:

Enhanced Security: The robust design and automated operation significantly improved the security of the site, preventing unauthorised access
Operational Efficiency: The automated gates allowed for quick and easy access for authorised vehicles, reducing delays and improving workflow efficiency
Safety Compliance: the installation met all relevant safety standards, providing peace of mind to the client and protecting site personnel
Aesthetic Integration: The gates seamlessly integrated with the existing site design, maintaining a cohesive visual appearance

Conclusion:
The project at WM Morrisons Woodhead Bros abattoir was a success, providing the client with a secure, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing gate solution.
The installation not only met but exceeded the client’s requirements, demonstrating the effectiveness of a well-planned and executed gate system in an industrial setting
The site have been so pleased with the effectiveness of the gates that they are looking to have more installed in different areas of the site.

charlieNC September 9th, 2024

Posted In: Case Studies

Invercoe Highland holiday Park, a popular holiday destination, recognised the need to upgrade it’s entry and exit systems to enhance security, improve traffic flow and ensure a seamless experience for visitors.

The project involved replacing the outdated entry barrier and installing a new exit barrier, both equipped with advanced features to meet the park’s growing demands.

Project Objectives:

Enhance Security – Improve access control to ensure that only authorised vehicles can enter or

exit the park.

Increase Efficiency – Minimise delays at the entrance and exit points, particularly during peak times.

Ensure Safety – Incorporate safety features to prevent accidents or unauthorised access.

Upgrade Technology – Replace old equipment with modern, reliable technology that meets current standards.

Scope of Works:

1. Replacement of Existing Entry Barrier

New Barrier Installation – The Old BL29 barrier was replaced with a new Pro barrier. This state of

the art barrier includes LED boom and casing lights, enhancing visibility during low light conditions.

Reusing Existing Components – The existing induction loops and loop detectors were retained and integrated with the new system, optimising costs while maintaining functionality.

Enhanced Safety Features – The new barrier includes safety photocells and a magnetic tip support for the boom which provides enhanced stability by maintaining the barrier arm in a horizontal position, even in the event of impacts. It also increases security by preventing unauthorised attempts to manually raise the arm and makes it harder for vandals to tamper with the barrier, enhancing the overall durability and reliability of the system. A magnetic tip support also improves performance in adverse

weather conditions, helping the barrier to function more reliably in various weather conditions, ensuring consistent performance regardless of environmental factors.

Built in Radio Receiver – To streamline operations, a built in radio receiver was installed, allowing staff to control the barrier from outside the entry point.

Ground Loop Maintenance – The existing ground loops were made good with additional sealant applied to ensure longevity and reliability

2. Installation of New Exit Barrier
Advanced Barrier system – A new Pro barrier was installed at the exit point. Like the entry barrier, it features LED boom and casing lights for improved visibility.
Safety & Convenience – The exit barrier is equipped with advanced safety features including a free exit laser unit, which allows vehicles to exit the park without requiring manual intervention. The magnetic tip support ensures the boom’s stability, reducing wear and tear.
Built in Radio Receiver – Staff can control the exit barrier remotely via the built-in radio receiver, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Supporting Infrastructure – The installation included a magnetic tip support for the boom to enhance the overall durability of the barrier

Challenges & Solutions:
Integration with Existing Systems – One of the key challenges was to integrate the new entry barrier with the existing induction loops & loop detectors.
The team carefully assessed the compatibility of the new system with the old components, ensuring a seamless transition without compromising functionality
Ensuring Minimal Disruption – During the installation, it was crucial to minimise disruption to the park’s operations, especially during peak periods. The installation team worked during off peak season
and coordinated closely with park management to avoid inconveniencing guests.

Outcomes:
Enhanced Security – the new barriers have significantly improved the park’s security, allowing for better control over vehicle access and reducing the risk of unauthorised entry.
Improved Efficiency – the advanced technology and remote control capabilities have streamlined the entry and exit processes, reducing wait times and improving overall guest satisfaction.
Increased Safety – the addition of safety photocells, free exit units and magnetic tip supports has enhanced the safety of the barriers, preventing accidents and ensuring reliable operation.

The upgrade of the entry and exit barriers at Invercoe Highland Holidays has successfully addressed the park’s security and operational challenges. The project not only enhanced the park’s infrastructure but also contributed to a better experience for both guests and staff, ensuring that Invercoe Highland Holidays remains a top choice for holiday makers.

charlieNC September 9th, 2024

Posted In: Case Studies

Feughside Caravan Park, a premier holiday destination, sought to modernise it’s infrastructure to enhance guest experience and operational efficiency. The project aimed to install a robust WiFi system across the park, catering to both standard users and those requiring higher speeds, alongside the installation of a new, state of the art barrier and access control system.

Project objectives:

Improve Connectivity – Provide reliable WiFi coverage throughout the park, supporting various user

needs and devices.

Enhance Security – Install a modern barrier and access control system integrated with the park’s management software for seamless operations.

Upgrade Infrastructure – Utilise existing locations for equipment installation while introducing new technologies such as Starlink and fibre optic connections to future-proof the park’s digital infrastructure.

Scope of Work:

1. WiFi System Installation

WiFi Coverage for Tourer Sections – The project included the installation of ‘through the window WiFi’ designed to provide coverage to the touring section of the park. This setup ensures that guests in these areas can access reliable internet directly from their caravans.

Direct to Van ‘Home from Home’ WiFi Kits – for guests looking for more robust internet access, 5GHz Airmax base stations were installed. These base stations support Direct to Van (DTV) kits, offering a ‘home from home’ WiFi experience.

The DTV kits were limited to 10Mbps download speeds to allow for streaming and other data-heavy activities with an option to increase speeds if needed. The standard WiFi was set at 5Mbps.

Strategic Equipment Placement – Existing infrastructure locations were used to mount the WiFi equipment.

The Starlink satellite internet system and a data cabinet were installed in a toilet block on site. A dedicated CCTV pole was erected at the entrance to house the link for the barrier and WiFi aerials. A new access point was also installed in the laundry building.

2. Barrier & Access Control System Installation:

Pro 6m HD Barrier Installation – A 6 metre (HD) barrier was installed at the park’s entrance, complete with boom and casing LED lights.

The barrier system was equipped with advanced safety features, including an auto close

function and a free exit laser device, ensuring smooth & safe operation.

Access Control Integration – The entry barrier was fitted with a combined keypad and proximity reader, mounted on a reader post. This system was connected to an advanced IP controller and integrated with the park’s Camp Manager software, allowing for streamlined entry & exit processes. Provision was also made to allow for future integration with an ANPR system.

Dedicated Server PC – A dedicated server PC was provided to host the barrier software. This server was located in the main house, connected via a new armoured fibre optic cable, ensuring reliable and fast communication with the barrier system.
Network Infrastructure – to ensure robust and reliable connectivity, the system was designed to work independently but with the option to link the main house via the new fibre optic cable. The Starlink connection was the primary internet
source, with BT broadband used as a secondary line for load balancing and failover. This setup ensured uninterrupted service and high speed internet for guests and staff.

Challenges & Solutions:
Balancing Speed & Coverage – one challenge was to provide sufficient WiFi coverage across the park while maintaining the bandwith to ensure a fair distribution among users. By setting different speed limits for standard WiFi (5Mbps) & DTV kits (10Mbps), the system ensured that all guests had access to reliable internet while still accommodating higher usage demands.
Infrastructure Integration – Installing new equipment on existing infrastructure posed challenges in ensuring compatibility and stability. The use of existing poles and buildings minimised disruption, while the installation of new poles and fibre optic links ensured that the system was future-proofed and capable of supporting additional features or upgrades.
Minimising Disruption – To avoid inconveniencing guests, the installation was carefully scheduled during off-season, and temporary measures were put in place to maintain service during the transition.

Outcomes:
Enhanced Guest Experience – The upgraded WiFi system provided guests with reliable internet access throughout the park, accommodating both casual users and those needing higher speeds for activities like streaming.
Improved Security – The new barrier and access control system significantly enhanced the park’s security, with advanced features ensuring safe and efficient vehicle management.
Future-Proof Infrastructure – The installation of Starlink fibre optic connections, and modern equipment positioned Feughside Caravan Park as a technologically advanced destination, ready to meet the evolving needs of it’s guests.

Conclusion:
The comprehensive upgrade at Feughside CP successfully enhanced both connectivity and security, contributing to an improved guest experience and more efficient park operations.
By leveraging the latest technology and integrating it seamlessly with existing infrastructure, the park is now better equipped to service it’s guests and handle future demands

charlieNC September 9th, 2024

Posted In: Case Studies

Installation of Bifold Gates – WM Morrison Woodhead Bros.