Barrier arm: how to protect and improve it?
Overview of barrier arm accessories
All arms for Nice barriers are made of white-painted aluminum. This lightweight material, combined with the elliptical profile, makes the arm more resistant to strong winds. However, the arms can also be upgraded with other useful features and safety elements.
Arm types and lengths
Nice barrier arms are available in two sizes: 45x58mm and 69x92mm.
The smaller arm is for smaller barriers (WIDE S, WIDE M, S-BAR) and comes in just one size (4m) and cannot be extended with an additional arm section.
The larger arm is for larger barriers (WIDE L, M-BAR, L-BAR) and comes in three sizes (3m, 4m, 5m) and the sections can be joined together. This makes it possible to create an arm up to 9 metres long. To join arm sections, use the NICE-XBA9 connector.
For greater stability
For longer arms, we recommend using an arm support. This keeps the arm from hanging unsupported and swaying in strong winds. For this purpose, use the height-adjustable support, which is anchored on the other side of the barrier and supports the arm when it closes.
Another option is the mobile folding support, which is mounted directly onto the arm. When the barrier rises, this support rises with the arm and pivots into a vertical position on its swivel joint. When the barrier closes and the arm lowers, the support also drops freely to the ground, stabilising the arm.
For better visibility
To make the barrier itself more visible, you can install a traffic light or warning light directly on it. The arm can also be enhanced.
The simplest option is to use reflective stickers. They reflect incoming light and help drivers stay alert from the moment they see them. Another option is to install lights along the edges of the arm, or fit them into the impact-protection rubber. These warning lights are available in the following lengths: 4m, 6m and 8m.
For greater safety
The arm can be fitted with additional safety features. A suitable option is impact-protection rubber, which provides extra protection for the arm against potential impacts along its travel path.
Another popular option is the so-called barrier arm skirt. This is an aluminum barrier attached to the arm. It fills the space beneath the arm, preventing people from passing under the barrier. It can also be mounted on top of the arm, but we recommend this only for advanced installations.
For unusual setups
This category mainly includes two arm extensions. The first is the bracket for manually swinging the arm to the side. This mechanism allows you to swing the arm aside by 90°.
The second extension is the folding joint for low-clearance spaces. This is mainly used in underground garages or anywhere a long arm is needed but there is not enough clearance to raise it fully. The two arm sections are joined by this joint. When the arm is raised, it folds at the joint, so only the first section rises to the vertical position.
