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 entry 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.