Choosing the Correct Material for a Full Height Turnstile

Full Height Turnstiles

You need a turnstile, and have made the key decision on whether it’s going to be a waist high or full height security turnstile. Now it’s time to consider the next question: What material do you need?

What should you choose? Galvanized or Powder Coated Carbon Steel? Stainless Steel? Aluminum? That’ll be determined by model type and what your budget and use will be.

Full Height Security Turnstiles

Traditional full height security turnstiles, described as “cheese graters” by some, come in galvanized (GALV), powder coated (PC), galvanized over powder coated or stainless steel (304 or 316).

Indoor Installations

If your install is going inside, you have many options. PC looks nicer, as does stainless. However, stainless costs a lot more due to the material cost.

Interested in a more “refined” look? Aluminum turnstiles such as the T80, P60 and RD70 (crafted from aluminum and polycarbonate panels) and matching ADA doors (like the T36 ADA – a glass and aluminum door) are portals that get away from the “cheese grater” look. They’re more design-oriented for offices, courthouses, universities and other places where style and security go hand-in-hand.

Outdoor Installations

If it’s going outside, ask yourself if the turnstile is being placed near a galvanized fence. If so, then a galvanized turnstile and ADA Gate will suffice.

Concerned about the elements or throw a lot of snow melt down? Then consider PC over galvanized to increase the lifespan of the metal, or go with 316 Stainless that’s corrosive-resistant and ideal for marine applications or similar environments. While it does cost quite a bit more, it really holds up nicely in those challenging situations.

Need something with a special touch? We even make stainless and powder-coated combination turnstiles for added style when a job calls for secure portals with special aesthetics.

Waist High Turnstiles

For the most part, waist high security turnstiles are made of 304 stainless (FastPass/PassThru/Executive Series) models. The differences are mostly aesthetic, and relate to the unit’s design.

However, we also make carbon steel powder coated waist high turnstiles (Brute Series), and you’ll need to assess where you’ll be placing the turnstile to ensure longevity. Stainless units are more resilient than powder coated waist high turnstiles, but in addition to location, you must consider what your budget allows.

Optical and Barrier Optical Security Turnstiles

Barrier optical turnstiles are for inside applications, and feature optical arrays with clear barrier panels like the EX300. They’re ideal for lobbies and anywhere where aesthetics and anti-piggybacking control are important.

We can help you pick your turnstile model and material, just give us a call at 330-273-6185 or toll-free at 800-942-0829. We’ll talk about your project and many other subjects, including the need for possible ADA accessibility – something many folks don’t consider.