Swing Arm Barriers: Wide-Span Vehicle Control with M50 Crash Protection

Barrier1 Systems’ swing arm barrier gates provide controlled vehicle access across spans up to 34 feet while delivering ASTM F2656 M50 crash protection. Unlike fixed bollards that create permanent barriers, swing arms enable operational flexibility for facilities requiring both security and vehicle throughput. Three distinct installation approaches (surface-set, in-ground, and portable kit-based) address excavation constraints and power availability.

Barrier1 Systems' Swing Arm Barrier Gate Portfolio

System	Model #	Crash Rating	Spans	Operation	Foundation Type	Made in USA
Avenger M50 Manual Drop/Swing	DACB-PAM-1200-DS	M50-P3	14'-24'	Manual	Surface-set on 6" pads	Yes
Avenger M50 Manual Swing	DACB-PAM-1200-S	M50-P3	14'-34'	Manual	Surface-set on 6" pads	Yes
Hellfire M50 Kit Drop/Swing	KBVB-MAN-1200	M50-P3	14'-18'	Manual	Kit-based mount	Yes
Hellfire M50 Kit Swing	KBVB-MAN-1200-S	M50-P3	14'-34'	Manual	Kit-based mount	Yes

ASTM F2656 Certified Protection

The horizontal arm configuration presents unique engineering challenges compared to vertical oriented barrier systems; the extended span must absorb and redirect impact forces while maintaining structural integrity across the full barrier width. Each Barrier1 Systems swing arm model has undergone full-scale, third-party crash testing with 15,000-lb vehicles at 50 mph impact speed to verify M50-P3 performance.

Swing Arm-Specific Performance Features:

Extended span coverage eliminates multiple barrier installations across wide entrances.
Dual-axis operation provides both horizontal swing and vertical drop functionality in select models.
Impact force distribution across the full arm length prevents localized failure points.
Emergency operation capability allows authorized personnel to control the barrier during security incidents, ensuring rapid response without compromising system safety.

Key Things to Know About Swing Arm Barrier Gates

Unlike permanent bollards that create constant vehicle restrictions, swing arms enable facilities to control access dynamically. Facilities can allow authorized vehicles while maintaining immediate threat response capability.

Operational Flexibility Advantages

Access Control vs. Permanent Barriers: Swing arms open for routine operations and close for security, eliminating the need to choose between accessibility and protection.
Wide-Span Coverage: A single 34-foot swing arm replaces multiple fixed barriers, reducing operational complexity.
Dual-Mode Operation: Manual drop/swing models provide both routine horizontal access and rapid vertical deployment for changing security conditions.
Security Protocol Integration: Electric systems instantly convert from traffic control to active protective barrier when protocols activate.

Operational Scenarios Where Swing Arms Excel

Loading Dock Security: Allow delivery vehicles during business hours while providing secure after-hours perimeter protection.
Checkpoint Management: Process authorized vehicles efficiently while retaining immediate closure capability for unauthorized approaches.
Emergency Vehicle Access: Supports access for fire trucks and ambulances that cannot pass between fixed bollards.
Facility Flexibility: Adjust perimeter configurations as operational requirements evolve without permanent changes.

Installation Options Support Different Operational Needs

Surface-set Systems: Ideal for relocatable security layouts that must adapt to evolving operational requirements.
Kit-based Deployment: Perfect for temporary or remote installations where permanent infrastructure is not feasible.
In-ground Installation: Provides permanent high-security checkpoints with consistent long-term performance.

Who Benefits Most from Swing Arm Barrier Gates

Wide Vehicle Entrances

Single-lane barriers inadequate for truck access
14'-34' span coverage from a single crash-rated barrier

Dual-Use Facilities

Require both routine access and rapid closure
Manual or electric operation adapts to daily and emergency conditions

Remote Installations

Limited or unavailable power infrastructure
Kit-based manual systems operate independently of utilities

Utility-Dense Sites

Underground infrastructure prevents excavation
Surface-set installation avoids utility conflicts

High-Throughput Checkpoints

Security screening creates vehicle queuing
6-second operation minimizes traffic delays

Why Choose Barrier1 Systems for Swing Arm Barrier Gates

Wide-Span Engineering

Proprietary cantilever design enables spans up to 34 feet with single barrier systems, eliminating the complexity of multiple installations while maintaining certified M50 crash protection.

Dual-Operation Capability

Manual and electric operation options provide tailored solutions for both routine access control and emergency security protocols.

Federal Compliance

GSA contract holder with DoD-listed anti-ram barriers. Manufactured in Greensboro, NC, meeting Buy American Act requirements and streamlining procurement for government projects.

Fast Protection Without the Wait

Customer testimonials

Barrier1 was a key contributor to the success of our project, and their willingness to help and solve problems was appreciated by the rest of the project team.

Hensel Phelps Construction Co.

I was most impressed with the technician’s professionalism, knowledge, and desire to get the job done. Their maturity level is wise beyond their years and was greatly appreciated by our building engineering team.

San Francisco Transit Authority

Superb professionalism and people who willingly go above and beyond their job. Our Barrier1 technician was very polite, professional, and hard-working. As a Captain, I know and value having good team members.

North Carolina National Guard

GSA CONTRACT HOLDER

Barrier1 is a certified General Services Administration (GSA) contract holder, enabling us to work with any government agency.

ASTM CERTIFIED

Our products and designs adhere to procedures and standards approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

PROUDLY AMERICAN MADE

Manufactured in Summerfield, NC, our full line of bollards, barriers, and arms reflects our dedication to quality and American craftsmanship.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most common questions our barrier experts hear about Barrier1 Systems’ drop arm barrier gates:

How do swing arms compare to traditional drop arms for wide entrances?

Swing arms provide horizontal clearance for oversized vehicles while maintaining crash protection. Drop arms require sufficient vertical clearance, while swing arms need horizontal space for the swing radius.

What maintenance do swing arm barriers require?

Quarterly lubrication of pivot mechanisms, monthly visual inspection of arm integrity, and annual testing of safety systems. Modular construction enables component replacement without full system downtime.

Can swing arms operate during power outages?

During a power outage, electric swing arm gates can be manually operated as outlined in the system’s O&M manual.

Do kit-based systems maintain certified crash ratings?

Yes, Hellfire kit systems achieve identical M50-P3 performance when properly installed on concrete barriers meeting manufacturer specifications.

What are the exact power requirements for electric models?

Avenger Electric requires 208/220/230V single-phase 30A plus 110V 20A for control systems. Phantom requires 208/220/230V single-phase 20A plus 110V 20A for control systems.

Wide-Span Security for Critical Access Control

Barrier1 Systems’ swing arm barrier gates deliver M50 crash protection across spans up to 34 feet, providing flexible security solutions for wide entrances. With surface-set installation avoiding utility conflicts, kit-based deployment for remote locations, and dual-operation capability combining routine access with emergency security, these barriers solve complex facility protection challenges.

For product details or pricing, contact our technical specialists at (336) 617-8478.