Swing Turnstile Gates (Swing Gate) How Swing Turnstile Gates Work Swing turnstile gates consist of two pivoting panels driven by a brushless DC motor that allows one person to pass per valid authorization. Using Hall-effect sensors, the system detects the position and angle of the arms. Upon receiving a valid signal (card, fingerprint, etc.), the panel rotates about 90°, granting passage, and then automatically locks again once the crossing is complete or the time expires. Performance These gates support medium to high pedestrian flow with smooth operation and minimal noise. They offer an adjustable lane width (typically 0.55–1 m and up to ~1.5 m in some models), making them ideal for wheelchair users or people carrying light luggage. Swing turnstiles are best suited for locations with steady foot traffic, such as shopping malls and office buildings, ensuring fast and secure access. Advantages of Swing Turnstile Gates Elegant and flexible design High compatibility with various authentication methods (RFID, fingerprint, face recognition, QR code) Scalability: multiple swing gates can be connected via a central controller (RS485) to increase throughput Quiet operation Wide lane: suitable for wheelchairs and small luggage Disadvantages of Swing Turnstile Gates Higher cost: manufacturing and installation costs are higher compared to basic models, especially wide-lane versions Indoor use: some models lack complete weatherproofing, making them more suitable for indoor applications Lower impact resistance: forced entry may damage the arms if not properly controlled Internal Components The system features a brushless DC motor with three Hall sensors for precise motion control. The electronic control board processes sensor signals and user authorizations. A hydraulic damper absorbs shocks, ensuring smooth opening and closing. Infrared sensors verify that only one person passes per authorization. Flap Barrier Gates How Flap Barriers Work Flap barriers consist of two cabinets with transparent acrylic or tempered glass flaps. When locked, the flaps form a physical barrier. Upon valid authorization (card or QR code), the flaps retract inward to allow a single person to pass, then automatically close after crossing. Infrared sensors ensure only one person passes per authorization. Performance Flap barriers offer high-speed operation, opening and closing within seconds to ensure rapid throughput. Their slim design makes them suitable for medium to high traffic areas. They support bidirectional access and are commonly used in corporate lobbies, shopping malls, and busy facilities. Advantages Anti-tailgating: integrated sensors detect unauthorized attempts and trigger alarms Emergency safety: flaps automatically open during power outages for emergency evacuation High integration: compatible with various access control and alarm systems User safety: collision sensors stop the flaps if an obstruction is detected Smooth bidirectional operation with audible and visual alerts Disadvantages Higher cost due to complex mechanism and electronics Limited environmental resistance: not ideal for harsh outdoor conditions Lower structural strength: flaps may be damaged under forceful entry attempts Internal Components The system uses a precision linear motor to move the flaps. Advanced electronics with IR, magnetic, and sometimes ultrasonic sensors monitor pedestrian flow. Smart circuits automatically stop the motor upon detecting a body or completed passage and control the flaps to close smoothly. Full Height Turnstile Gates How Full Height Turnstiles Work Full-height turnstiles are floor-to-ceiling rotating barriers with heavy-duty steel arms. They allow entry in one direction per valid authorization and prevent multiple people from entering simultaneously, making climbing or bypassing virtually impossible. Performance Designed for high-security environments like prisons, military facilities, factories, and stadiums, these gates offer maximum protection against unauthorized access. Their enclosed design prevents tailgating or climbing. They provide slower throughput (around 20 people per minute) and are suitable for adult pedestrians only. Advantages Maximum security: full enclosure prevents climbing or simultaneous entry Durable materials: stainless steel 304/316 for maximum strength and long lifespan Flexible integration with multiple access methods (button, card, face, QR, fingerprint) Weather-resistant: suitable for outdoor use under harsh conditions Disadvantages Narrow passage: suitable for pedestrians only Slower throughput compared to other types Large size: requires significant installation space Higher cost due to size and complexity Internal Components Composed of a robust steel frame and internal mechanism with solenoids, springs, and sensors to monitor arm movement. Automatic relocking ensures security after each passage. The electronic control board allows integration with external security systems. Tripod Turnstile Gates How Tripod Turnstiles Work Tripod turnstiles feature three waist-height rotating arms forming a triangular structure. Upon valid authorization (card or fingerprint), one arm unlocks and rotates 120°, allowing one person to pass. Anti-reverse mechanisms prevent backward rotation. The stainless-steel frame ensures durability. Performance Widely used in metro stations, factories, and other high-traffic areas, tripod turnstiles manage flows of 20–30 people per minute. They are highly reliable, support bidirectional operation, and can integrate with various access control systems. Some models unlock automatically during power outages for emergency evacuation. Advantages Cost-effective solution for managing pedestrian flow Durable stainless steel structure Easy integration with access systems (card, fingerprint, face, QR) Emergency mode lowers arms automatically during power outages Disadvantages Lower security: people can jump over the arms Limited passage width: unsuitable for wheelchairs or large carts Simple design: less visually appealing than flap or swing gates Internal Components Includes a mechanical locking system with an electromagnetic actuator to control arm locking and unlocking. A microcontroller (ARM) manages operations, while sensors detect arm rotation and pedestrian presence. The structure is corrosion-resistant stainless steel. FAQ – Turnstile Gates What’s the difference between tripod turnstiles and flap barriers? Tripod turnstiles use three mechanical arms and are more cost-effective but less advanced, while flap barriers use sliding panels, offer faster operation, and a more modern appearance. Can turnstiles be used outdoors? Yes. Full-height turnstiles are best for outdoor environments such as stadiums and industrial sites, thanks to their robust weather-resistant design. Are swing turnstiles suitable for people with disabilities? Yes. Swing turnstiles are the most suitable for wheelchair users due to their wide lane and flexible opening mechanism. Can turnstiles integrate with attendance systems? Yes. All turnstile types can integrate with time attendance systems to log entry and exit times and provide analytics. What authentication methods do turnstiles support? They support multiple methods including RFID cards, fingerprint, facial recognition, and QR codes — and can combine more than one for higher security. Do turnstiles work during power outages? Some models include backup batteries for temporary operation. Others can be programmed to unlock automatically during emergencies. Do turnstiles require regular maintenance? Yes. It’s recommended to perform maintenance every 3–6 months to check motors, sensors, and firmware for optimal performance. What’s the average throughput of turnstiles? Flap barriers: ~30–40 people/min. Tripod turnstiles: ~20–25 people/min. Swing gates: ~25–30 people/min. Can turnstiles integrate with emergency systems? Yes. Turnstiles can integrate with fire alarms and emergency systems for automatic unlocking during emergencies.