6' Sliding Gate design

 

dimension of sliding gate

Engineering a Grand Sliding Gate: A Fabrication Guide for Security and Scale

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This design is for a substantial, security-focused sliding gate, notable for its impressive width of over six meters. Unlike ornate wrought iron designs, this gate prioritizes robust functionality and clean lines, making it ideal for industrial facilities, large estates, or high-security compounds. Let's break down the material requirements, fabrication process, and engineering considerations for this large-scale project.

Sliding gate design

Design Analysis: A Focus on Structure and Function

The core of this design is its sheer size and sliding mechanism. The key dimensions provided are:

• Total Gate Width: 6,127.8 mm (approximately 20.1 feet)

• Total Gate Height: 1,838.8 mm (approximately 6 feet)

• Lower Panel Height: 1,219.2 mm (approximately 4 feet)

• Pillar Height: 1,457.2 mm above base (approximately 4.8 feet)

The design utilizes a double gate system that likely slides on a heavy-duty track, supported by the noted 4" wheels.

sliding gate design with dimension

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Refined Material List & Cut List

Based on the AI's calculations and standard fabrication practices, here is a detailed material list. We assume the use of standard steel rectangular hollow sections (RHS) for strength and ease of welding.

Primary Steel Members:

• Main Frame (3" x 1/2" RHS): This heavier section forms the primary perimeter, providing the structural integrity for the entire gate.

  • Total Length Required: ~15.93 meters

  • Cut List:

    • Top & Bottom Rails (2 pcs): 6,127.8 mm each

    • Left & Right Stiles (2 pcs): 1,838.8 mm each

    • Middle Vertical Support (1 pc): 1,838.8 mm

• Vertical Infill Bars (2" x 1" RHS): These bars provide the security infill and visual style.

  • Total Length Required: ~44.13 meters

  • Cut List: 24 pieces, each cut to 1,838.8 mm

Additional Critical Components:

• Sliding Mechanism: A heavy-duty 4-wheel roller system rated for the gate's significant weight (likely 500kg+), including a 4" diameter V-groove wheel set and a matching steel track of sufficient length (gate width + overtravel).

• Cross-Bracing: To prevent sagging and racking, diagonal bracing is non-negotiable. This could be made from 50x50x3mm SHS or 40x10mm flat bar, running from the bottom of the hinge side to the top of the closing side.

• Structural Posts: Heavy 150x150mm SHS or UC/UB steel columns concreted into the ground to support the gate's weight and sliding forces.

• Hardware: Heavy-duty gate locks, bolts, and fixings. Hinges are not needed for a sliding gate.

• Finishing:

  • Anti-rust Primer: Zinc-rich primer.

  • Top Coat: Industrial-grade enamel or powder coating.

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Fabrication Concept & Step-by-Step Process

Phase 1: Workshop Fabrication

1. Material Prep & Cutting:

   • Precisely cut all 3"x1/2" RHS and 2"x1" RHS members to the lengths specified in the cut list.

   • Cut diagonal bracing members to size.

2. Jigging and Assembly:

   • This is the most critical step. Assemble the gate on a perfectly flat and level surface (e.g., a large welding table or a flat concrete floor).

   • Lay out the top, bottom, and side frame pieces. Use clamps and squares to ensure the frame is perfectly square before any welding.

   • Tack weld the frame at all corners. Re-check for squareness.

3. Welding the Infill:

   • Mark out the positions for the 24 vertical bars on the top and bottom rails. Consistent spacing is key for a professional finish.

   • Clamp and tack weld each vertical bar into place.

   • Install the diagonal cross-bracing. This is essential for maintaining the gate's geometry under its own weight.

4. Final Welding and Finishing:

   • Once everything is aligned, execute full MIG or ARC welds on all joints.

   • Grind all welds smooth.

   • Attach the roller bogey assembly to the base of the gate according to the manufacturer's instructions.

5. Surface Preparation:

   • Clean the entire gate with a degreaser to remove oil and mill scale.

   • Apply anti-rust primer and your chosen top coat.

Phase 2: On-Site Installation

1. Post and Track Installation:

   • Install the main structural posts, ensuring they are perfectly plumb and set in deep concrete foundations.

   • Install the steel track on a solid, level concrete beam. The track must be perfectly level and aligned for smooth operation.

2. Hanging the Gate:

   • Carefully lift the gate and set the 4" wheels into the track.

   • Ensure the top of the gate is guided properly (using guide rollers or a top track) to prevent swinging.

3. Final Adjustments:

   • Test the gate's movement. Adjust the rollers to ensure smooth, effortless sliding without any binding.

   • Install the locking mechanism.

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Crucial Engineering Considerations

• Weight Management: A gate of this size will be extremely heavy. The chosen 4-wheel system must have a load rating exceeding the total calculated weight of the steel structure. Underestimating this will lead to immediate failure.

• Foundation is Key: The concrete foundations for the end posts and the track must be massive. They are resisting the entire horizontal load of the sliding gate. Professional engineering advice is highly recommended for this aspect.

• Preventing Sag: The inclusion of a middle vertical support and diagonal cross-bracing in the design is correct and vital to combat deflection over time.

• Professional Help: Fabricating and installing a gate of this scale is not a typical DIY project. It requires skilled welding, heavy lifting equipment, and a solid understanding of structural loads.

By meticulously following this guide—from ordering the correct lengths of steel sections to ensuring a professional-grade installation—you can achieve a formidable and reliable gate that offers unparalleled security and a commanding presence.