Traffic bollards are essential components of modern road safety and urban planning. Especially in big city environments, there exist numerous scenarios where automobile and pedestrian traffic move close to one another. Sidewalks border busy roadways. Drivers sometimes veer too close to the curb. Pedestrians sometimes wander into the road without looking both ways. The result is an increased likelihood of accidents. Fortunately, there are techniques and installations on the market designed to help reduce incidents and increase safety. Chief among these are traffic bollards.
Elongated and easy to spot, traffic bollards serve multiple purposes, such as: restricting vehicle access, protecting pedestrians, and guiding the flow of traffic. Available in various designs and materials, bollards are categorized based on their functionality and installation. This article explores three common traffic bollard types: embedded, removable, and collapsible. All of which are sold here at PalmSHIELD!
Embedded Bollards
Embedded bollards are the most dependable traffic bollard type, as they’re permanently installed into the ground. This reinforced installation offers maximum durability and security. Fashioned from resilient steel, these bollards are designed to withstand vehicle impacts and prevent unauthorized access to restricted areas. They are commonly used in high-security zones such as government buildings, financial districts, and pedestrianized areas. However, you’ll also find them in front of street-side property such as stores and restaurants. As a property owner, you don’t want automobiles barreling over the curb and plowing into your infrastructure. Installing bollards in front of your property provides a barrier capable of stopping most vehicular threats.
The installation of embedded bollards involves deep excavation and anchoring into a solid foundation, ensuring strength and longevity. Of course, there is a downside to the permanent nature of these fixtures. While highly effective for security purposes, embedded bollards lack flexibility, making them unsuitable for locations requiring occasional vehicle access.
Removable Bollards
Removable bollards offer a balance between security and accessibility. While helping delineate boundaries and providing barriers for increased safety, they lack the rigid installation-based strength of their embedded counterparts. Removable bollards can be temporarily removed or repositioned to allow vehicle passage when necessary. For this reason, they are commonly used in areas with changing access needs, such as event spaces, emergency access routes, and seasonal pedestrian zones. But you’ll also sometimes find them in use in road construction. The further the road is developed, the more space can be opened for traffic to pass through, and the fewer sections need to be closed off.
In situations such as these, you need bollards that can be easily reconfigured. As such, embedded bollards — with their permanent installation technique — will not suffice. However, removable bollards are perfect for this scenario! These bollards often feature locking mechanisms to secure them in place when needed. They can be constructed from various materials, including stainless steel and reinforced plastic, depending on the required level of durability. Their adaptability makes them a preferred choice for city planners and property managers seeking flexible security solutions.
Collapsible Bollards
Collapsible bollards provide an innovative solution for locations requiring frequent access control. Designed with hinges or fold-down mechanisms, these bollards can be lowered to ground level, allowing vehicles to pass without removal. When not in use, they can be locked upright to serve as a physical barrier. These bollards are ideal for emergency lanes, private driveways, and restricted parking areas. They are often equipped with manual or automatic control systems, offering convenience and efficiency. While not as robust as embedded bollards, collapsible bollards provide a practical solution where occasional traffic access is required.
Buy Traffic Bollards from PalmSHIELD today!
Traffic bollards play a crucial role in enhancing safety, managing traffic flow, and securing restricted areas. The choice between embedded, removable, and collapsible bollards depends on the specific requirements of the location. Whether for permanent security, temporary access control, or flexible traffic management, bollards remain an indispensable element of modern urban infrastructure. So, where do you get these security fixtures? As we mentioned at the top, right here! PalmSHIELD initially added bollards to our product line so that buyers of our architectural screening could help protect their investment. But our bollards are by no means limited to protecting HVAC screens. Use them for mitigating traffic, protecting storefront property, marking construction zones, etc. Contact our sales team today for a free quote on your bollards!