Method of Operation

What methods of operation are available?

The range of roller doors and security shutters for sale within this website are available in a choice of manual and electric operation to suit user requirements. The options available will vary depending on the shutter or door design you have chosen and the size you require however most models will be available with the following options.

Manual 

• Belt Operated – Designed to be used on light weight shutters for low level domestic applications, the curtain is opened and closed using a belt / cord fixed inside the building.
• Rod & Crank – This method of operating the shutter is more suited to slightly larger openings sizes. A metal rod is fixed to the barrel of the shutter and is simply turned one way to lift the curtain and turned the opposite direction to lower the curtain.
• Spring Assisted – This is by far the most common method of operating a manual shutter. Featuring a spring loaded barrel, the curtain is counterbalanced to help take the weight of the shutter as it rises and falls within the guide channels. The spring tension is set during installation by simply rotating the barrel the correct number of turns and locking it in place. Security is provided by a centre mounted lock with the user simply turning the key to secure it in place.
• Chain Hoist – Generally fitted to large galvanised roller shutter doors, the chain hoist system is capable of opening and closing the curtain with relative ease. Where required the hoist is specified with a ratio of 4:1 to ensure faster operation. The drawback to this design is that a shutter fitted with a chain hoist is only suitable for internal installation to prevent anyone gaining access to the chain.

Electric 

Whilst the type of motor will vary depending on the design of shutter and size of opening the method of operation will remain pretty much the same throughout our range. Options available include the following.

• Key Switch – The user turns the key to operate the curtain. This option requires the user to hold the key in the on position on what is referred to as a “hold to run basis”. The design of the switch can be surface mounted or flush mounted to be less prone to vandalism.
• Rocker Switch – Usually located safely inside the building a rocker switch works on the same hold to run basis as the key switch option. Available in a range of styles, this type of switch can be hard wired or for retro fit installations can be specified in a wireless version to remove the need for concealing the wiring.
• Digital Keypad – Mounted outside the building, a keypad is a great option if a number of people need to gain access to a space on a regular basis. Simply type in the code and the door will open and close automatically.
• Remote Control – Available in a variety of designs including 2 and 4 channel models, remote control operation adds convenience to any installation. When selecting this method please be aware that unless you fit some additional safety devices then the shutters will only operate on a hold to run basis.

In addition to these options being available for single shutter installations, we are also able to offer a variety of solutions for multiple installations that need to be operated using a single control unit. In these instances we normally recommend the use of a group controller. Should this apply to your installation please contact us to discuss further.

What is the advantage of automation?

In situations where the shutter is to be used on a regular basis or there are a number of them in place to secure the complete building we recommend the use of automation as this will save time opening and closing them.

What range does the remote control operate the shutter from?

This will depend on several factors including the strength of the battery and signal. As a general rule of thumb the remote can operate the shutters from around 25 metres away however we always recommend you only operate the shutter or garage door when a clear line of sight is available.

Do i need to lock an automatic security shutter?

Unlike a manual shutter that needs to be mechanically locked after each closing cycle, electric shutters will lock automatically every time. As the curtain descends, the locking straps engage to hold it in the fully closed position.

Can the doors be operated in the event of a power failure?

Where required, electric shutters can be fitted with a manual override system to allow operation by hand in the event of a power failure. To operate this system you simply attach a crank handle to the motor and turn in the relevant direction for opening and closing.

Please note that shutters mounted on the outside of the building will need to specify a lockable override cover to prevent anyone tampering with it who is not authorised to do so.