Wedge barriers are one of the most popular anti-ram vehicle security solutions. They stop unauthorized vehicles from entering high-security locations like military and government facilities, data centers, stadiums, nuclear plants, and embassies.
These barrier systems raise and lower a series of formidable wedge plates or fingers using hydraulic or electric systems. They are fast and easy to operate, usually within seconds.
What is a Wedge Barrier?
Wedge Barriers are a type of active vehicle barrier (AVB) that can help improve your security at the perimeter of your property. They are commonly used in high-security facilities, such as embassies, nuclear power plants, sports arenas, and military bases.
They work by raising a blocking finger or plate that obstructs traffic flow. They also prevent pedestrians and motorcycles from passing through the barrier.
A hydraulic system or an electric system does this. These systems can raise and lower the blocking finger or plate in seconds.
These barriers are highly effective against vehicles, including large trucks and heavily armored vehicles that can hit them at 50 miles per hour. They have been independently crash-tested to meet ASTM F2656 standards and are widely used in sensitive government and commercial properties.
In addition to preventing cars from entering your premises, wedge barriers can protect sensitive entry points, such as entrance gates and tunnels. They are easy to install and maintain and blend into the landscape without being obtrusive.
What are the Advantages of Using a Wedge Barrier?
Wedge Barriers are an effective and proven security solution for high-security facilities like military bases, Embassies, Power Plants, Sports Stadiums, Corporate Campuses, and more. They have a shallow foundation and fast operation, making them an excellent option for preventing vehicle access in critical points.
Most wedge barriers raise or sink using mounted actuators powered either hydraulically or electronically. Depending on the model, deployment can take less than five seconds. Some walls are equipped with an emergency fast operation (EFO) mode that activates in under 1.5 seconds.
Hydraulic wedge barriers have a proven track record in the industry and offer years of reliable service as long as they are properly maintained. However, they may have problems in cold weather, as the oil viscosity in a hydraulic system can be affected.
Electric wedge barriers are less expensive than hydraulic models and have lower installation, operational, and maintenance costs. They are also environmentally friendly since they do not require hydraulic lines to bury or HPU concrete pads to install. Moreover, electric barriers can be used in all weather conditions.
How Does a Wedge Barrier Work?
A wedge barrier is a vehicle security device using rigid wedge-shaped plates or fingers that spring up to restrict vehicles from entering. In addition, wedge barrier systems are a great way to protect your facility and prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering high-security areas.
Unlike traditional vehicle barriers, they are designed to restrict access to your space completely and can stop armed vehicles and large trucks driving at high speeds in their tracks. These barriers are also ideal for restricting vehicle access into sensitive areas like airports, military bases, and nuclear sites.
Two types of technology are used to raise and lower these barriers: hydraulic and electrical. Hydraulic units use pumping units (HPUs) connected to hoses and underground piping powered by a local single or three-phase power source.
Electric wedge barriers typically require a separate power source, but they are often easier to install in unique locations. They also need adequate drainage to improve performance and reduce the risk of equipment failure.
Both barriers limit vehicle access to high-security areas and can be manned or automated. They are a safe and cost-effective way to protect your facility from potential threats.
What are the Different Types of Wedge Barriers?
Wedge barriers are dynamic security barricades that prevent vehicles from passing through critical points. These systems are commonly used in parking lots, automobile rental facilities, and other public areas that need increased security.
Wedge Barriers come in various configurations, ranging from buried to above-ground and portable. They are excellent for protecting sensitive areas such as airports and military bases.
These barriers can be installed on wide widths, from 8 to 14 feet. They can also be deployed in multiples to cover a wider area.
Shallow foundation wedge barriers are typically found at government facilities such as embassies, air force bases, large corporate campuses, and sports stadiums. They require minimal excavation and help avoid underground utilities such as sewers, power, and cables.
Hydraulic wedge barriers are often preferred for shallow foundation installations as they can be powered by a single or 3-phase source. They have few maintenance issues and use environmentally friendly fluids. However, hydraulic power units can be affected by cold weather. To fix this, they can be insulated with heating units.
How Much Does a Wedge Barrier Cost?
Wedge barriers are installed to prevent vehicle access and increase security at sensitive properties such as military bases, corporate headquarters, embassies, water treatment plants, nuclear facilities, and more. They can be used alone or as part of a security system along with other products, such as bollards, gates, and guard booths, to provide one of the world’s most formidable vehicular protection systems.
They are often a cost-effective way to upgrade your current vehicle security barrier and can be integrated with other gate arms and traffic lights for added visibility and convenience. They are also available in portable models for temporary use.
Compared to other types of vehicle security barriers, wedge barriers are much cheaper to install and require less maintenance, resulting in lower overall costs over the long term. They are also easier to operate and can be installed in all weather conditions without any problems.
Wedge barriers can be installed using shallow foundations, allowing them to retract flush with the ground when not used. They can also be surface-mounted, reducing excavation requirements and minimizing construction costs. They are a popular choice for commercial and industrial property owners.
