Choosing the right security bollard for your specific security needs can be a daunting task as there are so many different types of bollard, each with distinctive functions, applications and aesthetic appeal. They also come in various sizes and are made of a range of materials. Today we outline some of the key types of bollard, the benefits of each and other variables you need to consider to make an informed decision on which bollards to install at your site.
How bollards are used
There are four critical requirements of perimeter security: restrict, control, protect and secure. Part of the process of choosing the right bollard is understanding the requirements for your site. Click here for more information about these four critical requirements.
Types of a bollards
Fixed bollards
Fixed are a simple but effective perimeter security bollard solution. They are permanently installed, cannot be moved or adjusted and are typically made of robust, durable materials, such as steel (galvanized or powder coated), stainless steel, or concrete.. They can be surface-mounted (bolt-down) or embedded in concrete. Fixed bollards are perfect for places that experience intense pedestrian activity and heavy-duty security is required 24/7. Fixed bollards can be used to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian areas or to protect buildings from accidental or intentional collisions. They can also be used to protect other fixed structures or to control traffic flow and guide vehicles through a designated route.
![How to Choose the Right Bollard<br>for Your Specific Security Needs 1 security bollard](https://8c674460.rocketcdn.me/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/fixed-bollards.jpg)
Removable bollards
Removable bollards can be easily installed or removed from a site as needed, providing a high degree of flexibility. They are typically used for temporary or semi-permanent security or traffic control applications, and can be manually or mechanically lifted out of their sockets when not needed. Removable bollards are typically less expensive than fixed bollards, making them a cost-effective option for temporary access control.
Manual retractable bollards
Manual retractable bollards can be raised or lowered manually to control vehicle access. They are typically used in areas where access control is required but occasional access by authorized vehicles is needed, such as driveways, parking lots, or private streets.
Semi-automatic bollards
Semi-automatic bollards are designed to control access to a site without having to manually lift the bollard. Leveraging the assistance of an internal gas strut, the bollard raises automatically when the unit is unlocked–for added convenience without sacrificing security. The gas actuator that enables the operation of a semi-automatic bollard allows the bollard to retain a similar architectural appearance to that of the fixed and removable bollards, without the need for an electrical hookup. Semi-automatic bollards are an ultra-convenient-and cost-effective-perimeter security solution.
Automatic bollards
The main difference between an automatic bollard and a semi-automatic bollard is how they are operated. Automatic bollards are fully automated and require no manual intervention to raise or lower the bollard. The raising and lowering mechanism can be an electromechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic mechanism that can be deployed and retracted by push button, RFID, keypad, key fob, or even via a cell phone. Automatic bollards are typically used in areas where vehicle access needs to be controlled, such as pedestrian zones, restricted areas, or high-security installations.
Anti-terrorism bollards
Anti-terrorism bollards are designed to prevent unauthorized vehicle access and protect against potential terrorist attacks. They provide unsurpassed protection against hostile vehicle intrusion. With the threat of an impending attack ever imminent, implementing a high impact-strength perimeter security solution could be what you are looking for. ANNT’s anti-terrorism bollards offer a range of K4-K12 (M30 – M50) certified crash-rated bollards designed to guard against all vehicular threats—with K4-rated bollards guarding against a 15,000 lb vehicle at 30 mph, K8 at 40 mph, and K12 at 50 mph. Offered in fixed, removable and automatic variants, K-rated bollards are typically used in high-security installations such as government buildings, military bases, embassies, airports, and other critical infrastructure. Private residences and estates also benefit from these silent guardians.
Contact
Click here to contact our perimeter security experts to learn more about choosing the right security bollard or bollards for your project.