Electric retractable bollards

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However, many existing systems are showing their limitations: costly maintenance,
susceptibility to damage, repeated breakdowns and noise pollution. At BES, we started with
a simple observation: towns and businesses need reliable retractable bollards that do not
compromise on safety or user comfort.
That is why we have developed a range of electric retractable bollards based on a unique
concept:

- a brushless motor
- a stainless steel chain drive

Find out in this article why these two design elements were chosen to offer operators
reliable, durable retractable bollards designed for the most intensive use.

BRUSHLESS MOTORS: the benchmark for precision and durability

Brushless motors are a tried-and-tested technology that has been in use since the 1990s in
demanding industrial sectors where reliability is non-negotiable. They are found in particular
in:

- Industrial robotics, with robotic arms that require repeatability.
- Machining with machine tools used in the automotive and aerospace industries,
which must remain fully functional over time and ultra-precise.
These environments demand numerous movements—sometimes millions of
cycles—without any loss of performance, which is exactly what automatic retractable
bollards in urban settings require.

The key advantages of the brushless motor
It is recognised for having an efficiency of over 95%. In practical terms, this means that
almost all the energy consumed is actually used to raise or lower the bollard. This allows for:

- Less mechanical wear on components (less friction), resulting in excellent long-term
reliability
- No overheating, even with intensive use: the motor generates virtually no heat,
minimising the risk of breakdowns.
- Quiet and smooth operation, perfectly suited to urban or residential areas
- Reduced maintenance costs throughout the product’s lifespan.

In terms of figures, a brushless motor offers significantly higher efficiency than a brushed
motor, whose efficiency typically ranges from around 50% to 75% depending on the motor
and application. This difference means it consumes less energy.
How does this translate to our BES electric retractable bollards?

Thanks to the brushless motor, our electric range (> Discover electric bollards) offers:

- Up to 9,000 movements per day (1 movement = 1 raising or 1 lowering) without
faltering during peak traffic periods
- Very fast movement speeds to open or close the access point quickly and seal it off.
Excessively long raising or lowering times can compromise site security.
- Precise speed adjustment, ideal for pedestrian safety.
- Maintenance of the bollard’s position without mechanical locking: no parts prone to
breakage are required for this action, resulting in less corrective maintenance.

Why use a chain drive?
The chain drive is a strong technological choice, specifically designed to eliminate the faults
observed in belt systems. To ensure smooth, controlled movement, we have opted for a
factory-pre-lubricated stainless steel chain.
Inspired by technologies already used in motorbikes and bicycles, this drive system transmits
the motor’s power without loss, ensuring smooth, precise and durable movement.

The advantages of a chain drive
- Direct power transmission, with no loss
- Resistance to moisture, frost and heat
- Excellent durability, with no drift

Excellent strength even under impact: with over 15 years’ experience and a fleet of 4,500
installed bollards, the number of chains broken due to impact is close to zero (around ten)
Easy and minimal maintenance.
Under the maintenance schedule we recommend, the chain is only due for replacement
after 6 years of operation of the retractable bollards. Annual maintenance requires only a
check of the drive mechanism. (degreasing and adjusting the chain tension where
necessary). This can be carried out by a single technician without the need to remove the
bollard from its housing.

The limitations of belt drives
Some bollard manufacturers use belts instead of chains. These have several drawbacks:
- Stretching over time, particularly due to sensitivity to moisture and heat
- Prone to breakage after the first few impacts
- Clattering noises when the bollard lowers
- Less flexibility and control over the lowering process

An ideal solution for the most demanding sites
The combination of brushless motorisation and chain drive enables BES bollards to cope with
the most demanding environments, whether to create a no-parking zone, redevelop an
urban space or implement secure access control.

- High-volume access control
- City centres and sensitive urban areas
- Businesses and sensitive sites (military, industrial, government)

The practical benefits of this technological combination:

- High cycle rates to cope with daily vehicle traffic without downtime, unlike hydraulic
technology, which struggles to handle peak demand.
- No loss of performance, ensuring fully operational and safe access.
- Quiet operation, considerate of local residents and users.
- Clean technology requiring no fluids, unlike hydraulic solutions which can cause oil
leaks and environmental damage.

- Perfect synchronisation of movements (particularly in the case of a row of several
bollards) for smooth and aesthetically pleasing access.

- Adjustable movement (acceleration or deceleration) to ensure safety and smooth
traffic flow.

In summary, this technology offers a sustainable and reliable alternative to traditional
hydraulic systems. Our electric retractable bollards are designed for intensive use, with low
maintenance costs and a high level of safety.