Sliding through 26 meters of a challenge in style with UNICOSlide
Having a good entrance gate solution is critical for shipping ports as it ensures the safety and security of the facilities, personnel, and cargo. The entrance gate serves as the first line of defense against unauthorized access and potential security threats. A reliable entrance gate solution also helps to manage the flow of traffic, including vehicles and personnel, ensuring that only authorized personnel and vehicles are granted access to the port. Additionally, a well-designed entrance gate can also provide a professional and welcoming first impression to visitors and business partners, reflecting positively on the port’s image and reputation. In short, a functional and effective entrance gate solution plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety, security, and efficiency of shipping ports.
THE 26 METER GATE CHALLENGE
A shipping port in Mauritania, NorthWest Africa was in need of an entrance solution to secure their facility. The requirement was for a single gate that could cover the 26-meter road width, which needed to be open during the day and closed at night. The challenge was to find a gate that would fit within the limited width restriction while still providing sufficient coverage for the road. The solution needed to balance the security needs of the port with the practical requirements of the gate opening and closing process.
The A1 UNICO team conducted a site survey at the shipping port and found that a traditional swing gate was not a feasible option due to the limited space available. Instead, the team determined that a track sliding gate was the best solution for the site. To meet the width restrictions imposed by the existing barrier, the whole gate system had to be fitted within 600mm, presenting a unique challenge. The team also considered the importance of ensuring proper support for the 26-meter gate to avoid derailment and potential accidents. The location near the sea also posed an additional challenge as the wind load needed to be taken into account in the design calculations to ensure the stability of the gate. The A1 UNICO team successfully foresaw these challenges to deliver a secure and efficient entrance gate solution for the shipping port.
A1 UNICO’S SOLUTIONING
To provide a fully functional 26-meter entrance gate that ensures safety and ease of operation, the A1 UNICO team took a comprehensive approach to address all potential challenges. At the product design stage, the team conducted a stress analysis under consideration of wind load under operational conditions to ensure smooth and efficient operation. To improve stability, the gate was designed to operate on two tracks and was equipped with diagonal supports. Additionally, for ease of transportation, all sections of the gate were made modular, making it easier to transport and install on-site. The A1 UNICO team’s commitment to addressing every detail in the design and engineering stage has resulted in a functional and reliable entrance gate solution for the shipping port.
Corrosion resistance is a crucial factor in increasing the product life of the entrance gate, especially in harsh weather conditions. The A1 UNICO team addressed this challenge by providing the gate with hot dip galvanized steel for superior protection against corrosion. The team also ensured smooth and uninterrupted operation by incorporating 24 high-quality bearing wheels into the design. The use of hot dip galvanized steel and durable bearing wheels enhances the overall longevity and performance of the 26-meter entrance gate, providing reliable and long-lasting security for the shipping port.
In addition to the physical challenges, automating such a long and heavy 26-meter gate, which was also restricted to a width of 600mm, presented a real challenge for the A1 UNICO team. However, our commitment to providing the best solution for their client meant that this challenge was met with innovative solutions. The team successfully integrated automation into the gate design in between the two tracks, ensuring that the gate could be easily opened and closed, even with its size and weight. The automation also added an extra layer of security and convenience, making the entrance gate not only functional, but also user-friendly. The successful automation of this long and heavy gate within the restricted width is a testament to the expertise and innovative solutions provided by the A1 UNICO team.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, A1 UNICO provided a comprehensive solution for the 26-meter entrance gate required by the shipping port. The team’s attention to detail and consideration of the specific challenges faced by the site resulted in a product that not only meets the requirements but also enhances the overall functionality and longevity of the entrance gate. The use of hot dip galvanized steel, two-track operation, diagonal supports, modular sections, and high-quality bearing wheels all work together to provide a secure and reliable solution for the shipping port. The A1 UNICO team is dedicated to providing the best possible solutions for their clients and this project is a testament to their expertise and commitment.
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