08 Sep Automatic bollards to protect Schools and Students
In Sorisole, Pilomat 275/P 600A automatic bollards regulate road access during school hours, ensuring greater safety for students and efficient traffic management.
The new pedestrian area in Sorisole (Bergamo) is secured by Pilomat 275/P 600A bollards, installed on municipal public land to temporarily close the road section near the entrance to the primary and lower secondary schools.
The project focused on Via Tonale, in the area between Via Piazzalunga and Via Aldo Moro, which has been redeveloped with concrete block paving, large wooden benches, and newly planted trees. At both ends, Pilomat bollards were installed to temporarily close the road to traffic during school entry and exit times, transforming it into a safe pedestrian zone.
Bollards have been strategically positioned at the entrance to Via Tonale, near Via Aldo Moro, and by the schools’ main gate. This configuration prevents unauthorized vehicle access while protecting students and other pedestrians. Activation times are pre-set via a timer, but manual operation is also possible using a remote control or GSM system.
Fully compliant with current regulations, the two Pilomat 275/P 600A bollards feature a GSM activator that allows remote opening and closing via authorized phone calls (restricted to law enforcement and designated staff); an acoustic analyzer capable of detecting emergency sirens and automatically lowering the retractable cylinder to allow emergency vehicles to pass; and an inductive loop sensor embedded in the ground in front of the exit bollard, which ensures the cylinder automatically lowers and rises if a vehicle remains inside the pedestrian area.
Production of the Pilomat 275/P 600A bollards began immediately after the order was received and lasted about six weeks. The products were then delivered to the site for installation, which was carried out in multiple phases to align with the road redevelopment schedule. The final phase of installation and testing was completed in a single day, ensuring full operation in record time.
Installation was handled directly by Pilomat to guarantee compliance with regulations and to maintain the highest product quality standards. Annual maintenance — recommended to preserve efficiency and long-term performance— is also managed directly by the manufacturer, with fast and effective interventions that do not compromise service continuity or safety.
Features and performances
Pilomat 275/P 600A automatic bollards consist of an underground foundation box with anchor bolts for solid ground fixation, housing the cylinder, power supply, operating, control, and command systems. The moving cylinder has a diameter of 275 mm and a height of 600 mm above ground.
The foundation box is made of Aluzinc to ensure maximum strength and protection, while the cylinder (6 mm thick) is available in painted AISI 304 stainless steel.
The high lifting (16 cm/s) and lowering (30 cm/s) speeds bring the bollard into full operation within seconds. Hydraulic operation guarantees maximum reliability, even with intensive use (up to 2,000 cycles per day) and in all weather conditions, supported by an optional thermal resistance kit (with transformer and thermostat) for extreme climates.
The bollards are equipped with all standard safety and signaling devices: a 55 mm reflective top band, movement sound signal, multiled flasher, and two-light traffic lanterns (red-green).
Through the practical management station, operation can be easily controlled both locally and remotely. Commands can be given via a wide range of solutions: security key selector, RFID card reader, radio remote control, phone call, timer, or smartphone app.
An inductive vehicle detector can identify vehicles, while an acoustic analyzer with emergency button is available to detect siren sounds and allow emergency transit.
The power supply unit (IP67 protection rating) can operate on single-phase 230 V or three-phase 400 V at 50/60 Hz, and may also be powered by a UPS in case of temporary power outages.
Standard safety devices include safety reverse function and automatic emergency lowering. The hydraulic control unit is integrated into the bollard and can be equipped with biodegradable oil for reduced environmental impact.
