The MyGate Q71S Control Board Installation Manual : Printed 11/02/2013 13:16
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Will my gates still open in the winter when it is very cold and icy?
Climate conditions do affect how the internal mechanics operate. During periods where the outside
temperature can drop as low as -20 in some parts of the UK, the motors can physically have trouble
starting, just like a motor vehicle. Although the internal gears are protected by machine grease, of course
anti-freeze cannot be used. If the motors do struggle to push and pull the gates and you are finding them
closing short or opening short, a simple adjustment to the torque force is required to give the motors an
extra helping hand. This adjustment will increase the power output to the motor to help it mobilise. During
the summer season or where the temperature increases, this torque force adjustment may need to be
reversed as the mechanics will be able to move a lot more freely and you may find your gates closing
quicker or over closing / opening. For the MyDiamond and MyAster, if you are finding ice forming on the
motor arms, wiping the arm with liquid paraffin will help reduce ice formation. Due to the unique way the
motors are fabricated, no ice will get into the motor via the arms, however if it has settled and compacts
when the arm retracts to open your gate, the ice build-up may force the arm not to fully retract.
What happens if there is a power cut?
In the event of a power cut, naturally the gate automation kit will not function. Once the automation kit has
completed either a closing or opening cycle, the arms are locked into position. All Gate Motors automation
kits have an emergency release system, where a special key is used to disengage the motor gearing from
its mechanical arm to allow the gates to be opened manually.
Always remember to re-engage the emergency release when power has been restored. If the release is not
engage, the motor(s) will fail to operate.
If the power cut is a result of a grid surge and you find the gate automation kit ceases to function once
power has been restored, check the quick blow fuses on the control board to ensure these have not blown.
Do the motors need maintaining?
Unlike hydraulic motors, the Gate Motor gate automation kits are electromechanical motors and do require
periodic maintenance including cable checks to make sure there are no breaks, chew marks from animals
and make sure the motors are free from dirt, free from fallen branches from neighbouring trees and other
obstacles that could pose as a risk to the efficient working of the gate motors.
Following practical maintenance will ensure continued uninterrupted automation service.
