Overview
With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Speedwell Automation has earned a well-deserved reputation as a leader in the design, construction, and installation of premium gate systems for homeowners. Based in Berkshire, conveniently located between Hungerford and Newbury, Speedwell Automation has become a trusted name in the domestic market. Over the years, Speedwell Automation has developed an impressive portfolio, showcasing a wide range of expertly tailored gate systems that enhance the security of properties and complement the style and character of each home.
They have been awarded our Proper Job award for this stunning swing gate installation completed in Newbury, West Berkshire. The customer requested gates in a natural finish that would weather gracefully to a silver-grey tone, seamlessly blending with their oak-framed Coach House. The design needed to allow a clear view of the house while ensuring the security of the property and keeping the customer’s dogs safe. The result is a stunning blend of functionality and elegance, proving that practical solutions can also be visually striking.
Challenges
Undertaking this project required careful consideration of the site’s unique challenges, as the ground is often waterlogged. After discussing various options, it was decided that an “on-gate” opener would be the best solution and provide reliable functionality despite the challenging conditions.
Automation
Speedwell Automation opted to power this pair of swing gates with a Beninca TOM30ME 230v operator, delivering seamless and dependable performance. The TOM30ME rams not only deliver outstanding performance but also look incredible against these beautiful gates. The unique hinge design serves multiple purposes: it seamlessly fits around the radius ends of the gate frame, positioned towards the back of the posts to maintain a consistent static gap between the gate post and frame. This thoughtful engineering helps mitigate pinch and crush risks typically associated with hinge gaps on swing gates.
Additionally, the hinge system integrates top and bottom hinge styles with the Hi Motions 460 hinge, which features built-in physical stops. These stops act as a fail-safe, preventing the gates from opening beyond the pre-set angle in case of excessive wind force.
Thanks to this intelligent hinge design, many common trap hazards have been avoided, and Speedwell Automation achieves compliance with force test requirements thanks to the motors’ inherent obstacle detection, possible because of encoder technology built within the operator. For vehicle safety, an induction loop embedded in the ground, using a Procon LD102 loop detector, works alongside PUPILLA photocells with IRI.CELL anti-vandal covers, providing a polished and secure finishing touch.
To enhance access control and safety, a Videx GSM intercom system was installed which provides the end user with full control of their gate system through their smart phone via an app and ability to open the gates when a call is made. Finally, Pooky Mousehole downlighters were added, providing practical lighting with a touch of style to brighten up the gate area.
Summary
Congratulations to the team at Speedwell Automation for this outstanding install. The result was a stunning, fully automated entrance gate designed to meet the client’s needs perfectly. We particularly liked the finer points, the neat installation of motor cables, motor brackets where the bolt heads are covered and of course, that fantastic hinge design. It’s all about those finishing touches!
When asked about customer feedback, Speedwell shared: “They look amazing thank you, we are very pleased we asked you to do the gates for us!”
If you’re based in the Berkshire area and looking to install electric gates on your property, Speedwell Automation is a top choice. Browse their range of gates and services on their website: www.speedgates.co.uk. Alternatively, you can reach out to Andrew directly by email at andrew@speedgates.co.uk or call 01488 760 380.
Important Disclaimer
The ‘Proper Job’ installs is a marketing campaign to promote Beninca UK products and our network of installing customers.
Please be aware that:
- Beninca UK does not vet, review, or endorse the installation practices depicted in the images used for this campaign. The selection of installations is based solely on the visual appeal of the images provided.
- The term “Proper Job” is used purely as a marketing slogan. It does not imply that the installation meets any specific standards or regulations.
- Beninca UK takes no responsibility for the quality, safety, or compliance of any installations featured in this campaign.
- The installers are solely responsible for ensuring the installations comply with relevant gate safety legislation and best practices. While Beninca UK provides training and resources, the responsibility for safe and compliant installations rests entirely with the installer.