How to: Sliding Gates

What type of wheels should I use?

The two main considerations when choosing a gate wheel are clearance and capacity. Larger diameter wheels roll better across a bumpy track and double bearings give them a higher load capacity.

Undergate Wheels are easy to fit but often have too much clearance. And if the bolts fall out the wheels will fall off. ALWAYS use loctite on the bolts.
Rebate wheels are far more secure as they sit inside the gate frame and the weight of the gate keeps them in place.
Low Profile Rebate Wheels look great on an architecturally styled residential gate. But more than 20mm of camber in the driveway will leave your gate scraping on the ground.
High Clearance Rebate Wheels allow for up to 50mm of driveway camber and are an excellent option for commercial or residential gates being more secure than undergate wheels while still having plenty of clearance.
Four wheels on a gate doesn’t double their capacity. Unless the driveway is dead level then only two wheels will be carrying the load while the other two are slightly off the ground at all times.
High Clearance Double Rebate Wheels feature a pivoting rocker plate that distributes the load evenly across both wheels. They have high capacity, are very secure and have good clearance. We recommend them for all long industrial gates.

Guide Systems

Choice of guide system depends on whether the gate has a flat top, if it is raked, the speed of the automation and whether the pickets protrude from the front of the frame. All guide systems should be designed so that the gate can never fall over – even if the rollers come loose.

Bearing Rollers should be used for high-speed automated gates. Standard rollers tend to have too much friction and end up dragging and marking the gate. O-Ring Rollers grip the gate and reduce rub marks. A must have if you are concerned with the paint job!
Angle Guides welded to the back of the gate allow it to be guided from one side. It the gate has a curved top or pickets that protrude from the front then an angle guide will be needed.
Truglide Blocks are a very tidy way to guide a residential aluminium gate – especially on sloping ground. They need an angle guide on the back of the gate and move up and down a channel guide. Do not use them with galvanised gates – they will be torn up very quickly.
Rub Strips are a super simple way to guide a small residential gate.

Safety

The safety aspect of gate installs is crucial when it comes to installing gate wheels and gate rollers correctly, maintaining gate stability, smooth operation, and enhanced user safety. Choosing the correct gate wheels and rollers that match the gate’s weight and dimensions is crucial to ensure optimal performance and prevention of accidents. Incorrect installation or using the wrong products can compromise gate functionality, leading to potential hazards or even serious injuries. By prioritising proper installation and utilising appropriate gate wheels and rollers, you can significantly enhance gate safety and enjoy long-lasting, trouble-free operation.

If you need more advice on what wheels and guide system to use for your sliding gate setup then give Edgesmith a call.

Article supplied by Edgesmith
www.edgesmith.co.nz