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A turnstile for every requirement

We often see turnstiles when entering buildings and venues of various sorts, and even some supermarkets, but turnstiles are much more than the old metal bars that clanked every time someone pushed their way through. While still performing their basic function of controlling access, turnstiles have evolved to take their place in the technological world we live in today.

Hi-Tech Security Solutions asked local manufacturing companies Turnstar Systems and BoomGate Systems to tell us more about what turnstiles they offer and what goes into making these access control devices.

To start with, we asked about the specific turnstiles the two companies produce. Craig Sacks, CEO of Turnstar Systems explains that the company manufactures turnstiles in an ISO 9001:2015 certified factory, which ensures a quality product. “Turnstar turnstiles use the latest electronic controllers with an extremely reliable, tried and tested solenoid operated locking mechanism which is guaranteed for five years, irrelevant of usage.

“The turnstiles are available in a number of finishes, including powder coated mild steel, hot dip galvanised mild steel and 304 and 316 grade brushed stainless steel – the galvanised and stainless steel finishes being the best option for corrosive environments. For customers who are more security conscious, the turnstiles are available in four-arm configuration, while for customers who need a bit more comfort (even though the security level decreases), a three-arm configuration is available.”

Sacks adds that Turnstar’s products are used in a wide variety of industries, including factories, warehouses, gatehouses, commercial estates, universities and on construction sites.

“Our turnstiles are used to control the movement of people in and out of areas and also to prevent unauthorised entry and also to ensure that the correct person is entering the premises,” says Sandy Rossouw, general manager, BoomGate Systems. The company produces a range of turnstiles, including:

• Full-height turnstiles: double and single, three-arm or four-arm, glass, metal (mild steel or stainless steel);

• Half-height turnstiles: double and single, three-arm or four-arm, glass, metal (mild steel or stainless steel);

• Waist-height turnstiles: double and single, three-arm only, glass, metal (mild steel or stainless steel).

Rossouw adds that BoomGate has a new range of turnstiles which are similar to the old models, but have better electronics and offer more security. The new models are also stronger. These systems are used in many markets, including mining, industrial, stadiums, universities, schools, gyms, rest rooms, casinos, theme parks and any area that needs access control.

Turnstile technology

When it comes to the technology used in the manufacturing and operations of turnstiles, Rossouw says there are two ways technology is used today. “We use technology like laser cutting, robotic bending and robotic welding to manufacture our turnstiles; we then use electronic technology to control the system.

“About 90% of today’s turnstiles are controlled with biometric readers. We can also use breathalysers in mantrap turnstiles to prevent persons entering a site if they are over the legal alcohol limit. We can also deliver systems that use cameras to ensure legal entry, as well as smartcards.”

Understanding the importance of integration in today’s world, Sacks states that Turnstar turnstiles will work with any type of access control system and are fitted with a programmable logic controller that enables the customer to carry out diagnostics, and which simplifies the installation. “Turnstar’s factory is geared up to manufacture reader mounting brackets for the integration of the many readers available on the market.

“Turnstar manufactures a full range of full-height, half-height and waist-height turnstiles as well as single reader turnstiles and speed gates.”

BoomGate’s range includes the Twister, Tornado, Hurricane and Cyclone models.

For more information contact:

Turnstar Systems: www.turnstar.co.za

BoomGate Systems: www.boomgatesystems.co.za

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