With numerous types and styles of turnstiles available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down the differences between each style and their ideal applications. By understanding each type, businesses and organizations can find the best option for their access control needs. Whether your priority is maximum security, smooth traffic flow, or aesthetics, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Mechanical Access Control Turnstiles
There are two main types of access control turnstiles: mechanical and optical. The difference between these two types is how they operate. Mechanical turnstiles have rotating arms or barriers that users must push to pass through. After passage, the arms automatically lock again, preventing the next person from entering without proper authorization.
Full-Height Turnstiles
Full-height turnstiles provide the highest level of security since their barriers extend from floor to ceiling, preventing anyone from climbing over or crawling under. The barriers are usually made of stainless steel, making them highly resistant to tampering and vandalism. However, they may cause issues for those using wheelchairs or with mobility impairments. The openings cannot be adjusted to be wider, and they require manual effort to push through. These turnstiles are best for high-security locations like government buildings, correctional facilities, and military bases.
Tripod Turnstiles
Tripod turnstiles are named for their three rotating arms that block unauthorized individuals from entering. Like full-height turnstiles, the barriers are often made of stainless steel, but they stand at waist height. Compared to other styles, they are more compact since they require only one cabinet and the arms don’t extend very far. However, their narrow lanes and rotating arms can make passage difficult for individuals with mobility disabilities. They offer a moderate level of security, often seen in places with heavy pedestrian traffic, such as transit stations, amusement parks, and stadiums.
Optical Turnstiles
Optical turnstiles, also known as speed gates, create an invisible barrier between the two cabinets using infrared sensors. Unlike mechanical turnstiles, physical barriers are not necessary, but they can come with them to reinforce security. When access is granted, the invisible beams disconnect and any physical barriers open to allow the person through. After passage, the beams reconnect and the physical barriers are reset for the next user.
Lane-Drop Arm Turnstiles
Lane-drop arm turnstiles have two stainless steel arms, one on each side, which retract into their cabinets to permit entry. After a person passes through, the arms ascend to their original positions, obstructing entry. While they have a minimalistic appearance, they leave a sizable gap beneath the bars, which people can crawl through. However, since they don’t require physical contact to operate, they’re hygienic and suitable for individuals using wheelchairs or that have mobility impairments. They’re commonly found in both outdoor and indoor settings like public buildings, entertainment facilities, and commercial offices.
Swing Turnstiles
Swing turnstiles typically have one or two swinging panels that pivot forward, allowing individuals to pass through in one direction while preventing unauthorized entry from the opposite direction. The lanes are wider compared to tripod or lane-drop arm turnstiles, catering to individuals carrying luggage or using wheelchairs. Swing turnstiles can be configured with single or multiple lanes to accommodate varying levels of pedestrian traffic. This, combined with their durable stainless steel construction, makes them perfect for outdoor areas with high pedestrian flow to ensure payment into transportation hubs, sports venues, or stadiums.
Glass Swing Gate Turnstiles
Glass swing gate turnstiles resemble swing turnstiles, except their panels are made acrylic or tempered glass instead of stainless steel. Like swing turnstiles, they operate without physical contact and their lane width can be modified to accommodate individuals using wheelchairs. Despite providing the same level of security and lane flexibility as swing turnstiles, their gates offer a more stylish and visually appealing appearance. Glass swing gate turnstiles are ideal for secure environments where aesthetics and interior design are important, such as corporate offices, hotels, or educational institutions.
Retractable Turnstiles
Much like glass swing gate turnstiles, retractable turnstiles have waist-high barriers made from acrylic or tempered glass. However, these turnstiles operate by retracting the barriers into the cabinets to allow passage. The lane widths can be adjusted and do not require physical contact to operate, thus accommodating wheelchair users and those with mobility impairments. Configurable for single or multiple lanes, they suit bustling places where aesthetic matters, such as commercial offices, hotels, and educational institutions.
Wing Turnstiles
Wing turnstiles have acrylic or tempered glass barriers that retract into the cabinets to allow passage through. The panels have a unique wing shape, offering a modern and contemporary aesthetic. Like retractable turnstiles, they are configurable with single or multiple lanes to cater to different pedestrian traffic volumes. With wider lanes and no physical contact, they offer accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs or experiencing mobility impairments. They’re best suited for indoor installations in settings like commercial buildings, educational institutions, and hotels.
Container Turnstiles
Container turnstiles are portable units consisting of turnstile units installed within a CONEX box. They are best for outdoor and temporary locations. Once the event or project concludes, the container turnstile can be easily transported to the next location, ready for immediate use. Users can install any style of turnstile within the container, depending on their needs. For instance, if the container turnstile is going to be used at construction sites to prevent trespassing, full-height turnstiles may be the optimal choice for maximum security. If the container turnstile is intended for a public event like a music festival, swing turnstiles may be preferred as they are well-suited for areas with high foot traffic and accessible to everyone, including wheelchair users.
Access Control Solutions from 2M Technology
Understanding the different types and styles of turnstiles is important for implementing an effective solution for access control and pedestrian management in various settings. Whether you choose the robust security offered by full-height turnstiles or the sleek aesthetics from glass swing gate turnstiles, each type caters to specific needs and environments. By selecting the appropriate type and style of turnstile, businesses can enhance security, streamline pedestrian flow, and accommodate entry for all. Contact the 2M Technology sales team today to start building your access control solution. Our experts can assist you in choosing the right turnstile for your industry and even help create a custom turnstile system tailored to your needs.
