Bollards come in a wide range of types and styles, including assisted lift, automatic retractable, and manual lift options. If your business or other operation requires bollards but you are unsure which of these options is right for you, learn more about them to make an informed buying decision.

Manual Lift

Manual lift bollards are just that–manual. They are operated exclusively by hand and therefore require physical effort to utilize. Manual lift bollards feature simple designs and are classified as light security options ideal for low-traffic areas. They also work well in areas requiring occasional rather than regular access. Cost-effective manual options are available in 4-inch styles and carbon steel materials. You can also purchase them in Type 316 stainless steel which easily endures harsher climates. Some of the numerous applications for manual lift bollards include:
  • Farmers’ markets
  • Bike trails
  • Retail and lifestyle centers
  • Parking structures
  • Parking lots
  • Retail storefronts
  • Entrances
  • Loading areas

    • Assisted Lift

    These crash-rated bollards feature piston-assisted mechanisms that reduce lifting weight. They still require physical effort to operate, but not as much as manual lift bollards. Considered ideal for moderate traffic areas and shared access environments, assisted lift bollards are available in 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch options. Those in 6- and 8-inch styles are classified as medium security bollards, while 10- and 12-inch styles are high security bollards. Common uses for assisted lift bollards include:
  • Parking lots
  • Parking structures
  • Utilities
  • Loading areas
  • Retail storefronts
  • Hospitals (medium security)
  • Malls (medium security)
  • Stadiums and arenas (medium security)
  • Colleges and universities (medium security)
  • Industrial areas (medium security)
  • Government facilities (high security)
  • Power plants (high security)
  • Chemical plants (high security)
  • Waste water plants (high security)
  • Military facilities (high security)
  • Financial institutions (high security)

    • Automatic Retractable

    If you opt for automatic retractable bollards, you’ll enjoy the convenience of remote control. Such bollards operate via electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems, and are M50 crash-tested. They are best utilized in high–traffic or sensitive security areas, and require more maintenance due to the mechanisms involved. Like assisted lift bollards, automatic retractable options are available in 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch selections. Automatic retractable bollards are typically more expensive than manual lift and assisted lift versions, but offer convenience and high-security advantages. Some of their uses include:
  • Hospitals (medium security)
  • Loading areas (light security)
  • Parking lots and garages (light security)
  • Military facilities (high security)
  • Government facilities (high security)
  • Waste water plants (high security)
    • Find the bollards that are right for your applications at 1800Bollards.