Complete Overview of FAAC Bollards: Applications, Models, Ordering
When it comes to controlling vehicle access and enhancing security, FAAC bollards provide reliable, high-performance solutions for a variety of applications. Whether managing traffic in residential areas, securing commercial and industrial sites, or implementing high-security perimeter protection, FAAC offers a range of automatic, semi-automatic, fixed, and removable bollards designed to meet different security needs. From regulating daily traffic flow to crash-rated barriers capable of stopping high-speed vehicle threats, FAAC bollards combine advanced engineering with durability and ease of operation.
In this guide, we'll break down the key applications of FAAC bollards, explain crash ratings and their importance in security planning, and provide an overview of the features and capabilities of each model. Whether you need simple traffic regulation or high-impact protection, this guide will help you choose the right bollard for your specific requirements.
How to Choose the Right Bollard
What kind of bollard do I need? Well, when selecting a bollard, it's important to consider several factors to ensure it meets your security and access control needs. Below are key aspects to evaluate when choosing the most suitable bollard for your application:
Security Requirements vs. Traffic Control Needs
- High-Security (Crash-Rated) Bollards: Designed to stop unauthorized vehicle entry and protect high-risk sites. Suitable for government buildings, embassies, airports, and military bases.
- Traffic Control Bollards: Used for urban traffic management, pedestrian safety, and parking access where impact resistance is not a priority.
Site Conditions and Installation Requirements
- Fixed Bollards: Provide permanent perimeter security but require ground excavation. Best for long-term protection.
- Removable Bollards: Ideal for areas requiring temporary access, such as event spaces and restricted parking zones.
- Automatic (Hydraulic) Bollards: Require electrical power and underground installation, best for frequent vehicle access control.
- Semi-Automatic Bollards: Operate without electrical connections but require manual activation, making them cost-effective for low-traffic areas.
Frequency of Access and Automation Preferences
- Frequent Access Areas: Automatic hydraulic bollards allow seamless entry for high-traffic locations such as corporate buildings, transportation hubs, and industrial sites.
- Occasional Access Needs: Semi-automatic or removable bollards provide access control without requiring a power connection.
- Permanent Barriers: Fixed bollards offer continuous security for areas that don't require vehicle access.
Understanding Bollard Crash Ratings: M30 and M50
When it comes to perimeter security, not all bollards provide the same level of protection. While standard traffic control bollards help manage vehicle flow and restrict access, crash-rated bollards are specifically designed to stop high-speed vehicle threats. FAAC's high-security bollards have been tested under the ASTM F2656-20 standard, achieving M30 and M50 crash ratings, two of the highest levels of impact resistance available. These ratings ensure that FAAC bollards can effectively prevent unauthorized vehicle entry and protect critical infrastructure from hostile attacks.
The ASTM F2656-20 standard evaluates how well a security bollard can stop an oncoming vehicle based on its weight and speed. Here's what M30 and M50 ratings mean in real-world security:
- M30 Rated (Comparable to K4): Stops a 15,000 lb (6.8-ton) truck traveling at 30 mph (48 km/h).
- M50 Rated (Comparable to K12): Stops a 15,000 lb (6.8-ton) truck traveling at 50 mph (80 km/h).
These ratings indicate how much force a bollard can withstand while remaining functional, making them essential for high-risk locations that require proven impact protection. You can learn more about crash ratings here: M30/M50 Bollard Crash Rating Information.
FAAC Bollard Applications and Recommendations
In residential settings, bollards help manage private access, enhance security, and improve aesthetics. Homeowners and gated communities often use automatic or semi-automatic bollards to prevent unauthorized vehicle entry while allowing seamless access for residents. Fixed bollards may also be installed near garages, driveways, or pedestrian walkways to create clear separation between vehicles and foot traffic. J200 HA (Automatic) & J200 F (Fixed): The J200 HA is perfect for homeowners and gated communities needing automated, hands-free access, while the J200 F provides a cost-effective fixed solution for permanent entry restrictions without requiring automation.Residential Areas
(Driveways, Gated Communities, Private Estates)Our Recommendations:
Businesses require bollards to protect assets, regulate access, and prevent unauthorized parking. In industrial zones, such as warehouses and factories, automatic hydraulic bollards allow only authorized vehicles to enter loading areas, reducing security risks. Office buildings and corporate headquarters also utilize bollards at entrances to ensure only permitted personnel can drive in, often integrating them with access control systems for added security. J275 V2 HA (Automatic) & J275 F (Fixed): The J275 V2 HA offers high-frequency operation, making it ideal for warehouses and corporate parking lots, while the J275 F serves as a permanent traffic barrier for restricted zones, ensuring security without ongoing maintenance.Commercial & Industrial Properties
(Warehouses, Factories, Office Complexes)Our Recommendations:
In busy city centers, retractable bollards are a key component of smart urban infrastructure, allowing streets to switch between vehicle access and pedestrian-only use. Many municipalities deploy automatic bollards that rise and lower based on a schedule or traffic control signals, helping to minimize congestion and prioritize pedestrian safety. These bollards are particularly useful in European-style historic districts, plazas, and entertainment areas where restricted vehicular access is required at certain hours. J275 V2 HA (Automatic) & J275 SA (Semi-Automatic): The J275 V2 HA allows for smooth, automated vehicle control in urban spaces, while the J275 SA offers a manual alternative with a gas-spring-assisted mechanism, ideal for areas with occasional vehicle restrictions.Urban Traffic Management
(Pedestrian Zones, Restricted Areas, Smart Cities)Our Recommendations:
High-security government buildings, military facilities, airports, and train stations require maximum protection against unauthorized access and potential vehicle-based threats. Crash-rated bollards (K4, K8, and K12-rated models) are commonly installed at embassies, military checkpoints, and police headquarters to prevent forced vehicle entry. These locations often opt for Emergency Fast Operation (EFO) bollards, which deploy instantly in high-risk situations. JS80 HA (Automatic, Crash-Rated) & JS80 HA EFO (Emergency Fast Operation): The JS80 HA is a K12-rated, high-impact bollard, perfect for stopping vehicle-based threats, while the JS80 HA EFO provides instant emergency deployment, ensuring rapid security response in critical situations.Government, Military, and Transportation
(Military Bases, Police Stations, Airports)Our Recommendations:
Large public gatherings, such as concerts and sports events, require temporary or permanent vehicle control measures to ensure the safety of attendees. Stadiums and arenas use fixed and removable bollards to create vehicle-free zones, while automatic bollards help event staff regulate traffic around entrances. Additionally, crash-rated bollards prevent vehicle-based attacks, providing an extra layer of security during high-profile events. J275 V2 HA (Automatic) & JS48 R (Removable, Crash-Rated): The J275 V2 HA ensures automated traffic control for event spaces, while the JS48 R allows for temporary high-security protection, which can be removed post-event for normal traffic flow.Event Venues & Stadiums
(Concert Arenas, Convention Centers, Public Squares)Our Recommendations:
Shopping malls, retail centers, and car dealerships use bollards to protect storefronts, manage parking areas, and large display rooms. Fixed bollards are commonly placed in front of glass storefronts to prevent accidental or intentional vehicle crashes, reducing the risk of damage and theft. Automatic bollards in underground parking garages allow only authorized vehicles and delivery trucks to enter restricted zones, improving overall safety and organization. J275 F (Fixed) & J275 SA (Semi-Automatic): The J275 F provides a permanent safety barrier for storefronts, preventing vehicle crashes, while the J275 SA gives mall security a manual but easy-to-operate solution for regulating deliveries and restricted access zones.Retail Centers, Malls, Dealerships
(Storefronts, Parking Lots, Delivery Areas)Our Recommendations:
Bollards are essential in securing port facilities where high-value shipments are processed. Crash-rated removable or fixed bollards prevent unauthorized vehicle entry in restricted cargo areas, ensuring compliance with maritime security regulations. Bollards also help create controlled pathways for trucks, improving traffic flow efficiency and worker safety in busy loading zones. JS80 HA (Automatic, Crash-Rated) & JS80 F (Fixed, Crash-Rated): The JS80 HA is designed for high-impact security, protecting critical dock areas, while the JS80 F provides a fixed anti-ram solution, ensuring only authorized vehicles can enter sensitive port zones.Docks & Ports
(Harbor Facilities, Shipping Terminals, Cargo Loading Zones)Our Recommendations:
Educational institutions use bollards to separate vehicle traffic from pedestrian pathways and create safe zones around campuses. Schools and universities install automatic or fixed bollards near main entrances to prevent unauthorized vehicles from driving into pedestrian-heavy areas. Some campuses also use retractable bollards to control special access zones, such as faculty-only parking or bus lanes. J275 V2 HA (Automatic) & J200 F (Fixed): The J275 V2 HA allows controlled access to restricted areas, ensuring safety around pedestrian-heavy zones, while the J200 F offers permanent traffic control at school drop-off areas and restricted parking lots.School Campuses & Universities
(Pedestrian Zones, Restricted Parking Areas, Bus Lanes)Our Recommendations:
FAAC Bollards: Models, Features, Color Options
The FAAC J200 Hydraulic-Automatic Bollard is designed for residential and light commercial applications, providing reliable vehicle access control with a sleek, modern appearance. Its integrated hydraulic system ensures smooth automatic operation, seamlessly working with existing access control systems. This bollard is ideal for driveways, private parking areas, and gated entrances where both security and aesthetics are priorities. Built with either painted steel (Dark Grey RAL 7021) or satin-finished stainless steel, it offers excellent durability and resistance to environmental factors.
Specifications:
- Height: 600 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 200 mm
- Rise Time: Approximately 5 seconds
- Descent Time: Approximately 7 seconds
- Crash Rating: Not Crash Rated
- Input Voltage: 220-240V AC, 50/60Hz
The FAAC J200 Semi-Automatic Bollard is a reliable solution for areas requiring controlled vehicle access without electrical connections. Ideal for historical city centers, private driveways, and parking areas, this bollard operates via a gas actuator that enables automatic raising upon key release, while manual pressure lowers it back into position. Available in either painted steel (Dark Grey RAL 7021) or satin-finished stainless steel, it ensures durability and blends seamlessly with various architectural styles.
Specifications:
- Height: 600 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 200 mm
- Crash Rating: Not Crash Rated
- Manual Lowering Operation: Yes, key-operated with manual pressure
- Key-Operated Release Mechanism: Included
The FAAC J200 Fixed Bollard provides a permanent solution for defining pedestrian areas and controlling vehicle access in both residential and commercial settings. Ideal for applications such as walkways, parks, private driveways, and building entrances, this bollard offers a constant physical barrier without requiring power or maintenance. Available in either painted steel (Dark Grey RAL 7021) or satin-finished stainless steel, it blends seamlessly into various environments while ensuring durability and aesthetic consistency.
Specifications:
- Height: 600 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 200 mm
- Crash Rating: Not Crash Rated
- Reflective Strip Color: Orange
The FAAC J275 Hydraulic-Automatic V2 Bollard is designed for intensive use in commercial, industrial, and urban restricted access areas. It provides robust security and efficient traffic management, making it ideal for locations requiring frequent access control, such as high-traffic urban zones, industrial complexes, and sensitive sites. The integrated hydraulic system ensures smooth and rapid operation, seamlessly interfacing with modern access control systems.
Specifications:
- Height Options: 600 mm / 800 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Rise Time: Approximately 5-7 seconds (depending on height)
- Descent Time: Approximately 3.5-4.5 seconds (depending on height)
- Crash Rating: Not Crash Rated
- Input Voltage: 220-240V AC, 50/60Hz
- Reflective Strip Color: White
- Manual Lowering Operation: Yes, via hydraulic manual override
- Protection Class: IP67
The FAAC J275 Semi-Automatic Bollard is designed for areas requiring controlled vehicle access without electrical connections. It is ideal for historic city centers, private properties, pedestrian zones, and parking areas where reliable access control is needed. This bollard operates via a gas actuator that enables automatic raising upon key release, while manual pressure lowers it back into position.
Specifications:
- Height: 600 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: Not Crash Rated
- Reflective Strip Color: Orange
- Manual Lowering Operation: Yes, key-operated with manual pressure
- Key-Operated Release Mechanism: Included
The FAAC J275 Fixed Bollard provides a permanent solution for vehicle access control and perimeter security in commercial, industrial, and urban environments. Designed to restrict unauthorized vehicle entry while allowing pedestrian flow, it is ideal for locations such as pedestrian zones, building entrances, and high-security areas. The fixed installation requires no power supply, ensuring continuous operation with minimal maintenance.
Specifications:
- Height Options: 600 mm / 800 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: Not Crash Rated
- Reflective Strip Color: Orange
The FAAC J275 Hydraulic-Automatic 2K20 Bollard is designed for high-security applications, providing robust vehicle access control and impact resistance. Engineered to protect critical infrastructure, this automatic retractable bollard can stop a 7,500 kg (16,500 lbs) truck traveling at 48 km/h (30 mph) in a double-unit configuration, making it ideal for sensitive locations such as government facilities, military bases, and commercial properties requiring enhanced security.
Specifications:
- Height: 800 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Rise Time: Approximately 8 seconds
- Descent Time: Approximately 4.5 seconds
- Crash Rating: M30 (with at least 2 bollards installed)
- Input Voltage: 220-240V AC, 50/60Hz
- Reflective Strip Color: White
- Manual Lowering Operation: Yes, via hydraulic manual override with encrypted key
- Security Features: Anti-tamper head with security lock
- Protection Class: IP67
The FAAC J275 Fixed 2K20 Bollard is a high-security, crash-rated solution designed for permanent vehicle access control in urban areas, government buildings, industrial sites, and transportation hubs. Engineered for perimeter protection, this bollard is certified to ASTM F2656 and IWA 14-1 standards, capable of stopping a 2,500 kg vehicle at 50 km/h, making it ideal for locations requiring robust security.
Specifications:
- Height: 800 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M30 (with at least 2 bollards installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
The FAAC JS48 Hydraulic-Automatic Bollard is a high-security crash-rated solution designed for government buildings, embassies, financial institutions, and critical infrastructure. Engineered for intensive vehicle access control, this retractable bollard provides maximum protection against unauthorized entry while maintaining efficient access for authorized vehicles.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M50 P1 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
- Protection Class: IP67
The FAAC JS48 Hydraulic-Automatic Emergency Fast Operation (EFO) Bollard is designed for high-security environments requiring rapid deployment, such as military bases, embassies, airports, and critical infrastructure. This retractable bollard provides robust perimeter protection against unauthorized vehicle access while allowing efficient control for authorized entry.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Rise Time: Approximately 6 seconds (standard), less than 1.5 seconds (EFO)
- Descent Time: Approximately 2 seconds
- Crash Rating: M50 P1 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Input Voltage: 220-240V AC, 50/60Hz
- Reflective Strip Color: White
- Manual Lowering Operation: Yes, via hydraulic manual override with release key
- Security Features: Hydraulic lock in raised position during power outages
- Protection Class: IP67
Painted Steel Stainless Steel
The FAAC JS48 Removable Bollard provides high-security protection with the flexibility of temporary access, making it ideal for pedestrian zones, event spaces, and critical infrastructure. Designed for locations requiring both security and accessibility, this bollard allows authorized personnel to remove it when necessary, permitting short-term vehicle access while maintaining robust perimeter protection when in place.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M30 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
The FAAC JS80 Hydraulic-Automatic Bollard is a high-security crash-rated solution designed for government buildings, critical infrastructure, and restricted-access areas. Engineered for controlled vehicle mitigation, this bollard ensures secure access control while providing maximum impact resistance against unauthorized entry. Its hydraulic system allows smooth and efficient operation, making it ideal for sensitive locations requiring both security and accessibility.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M50 P1 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
- Protection Class: IP67
The FAAC JS80 Hydraulic-Automatic Emergency Fast Operation (EFO) Bollard is a high-security crash-rated solution designed for critical infrastructure, embassies, military bases, and high-risk government facilities. Engineered for rapid deployment, this bollard utilizes a high-speed hydraulic system to respond instantly to security threats, ensuring maximum perimeter protection while allowing authorized access when needed.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M50 P1 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
- Protection Class: IP67
The FAAC JS80 Removable Bollard offers a high-security solution with the flexibility of temporary access, making it ideal for event spaces, pedestrian zones, government buildings, and critical infrastructure. Designed for areas requiring both security and accessibility, this bollard allows for temporary removal while maintaining robust perimeter protection when in place.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M50 P1 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
The FAAC JS80 Fixed Bollard is a high-security crash-rated solution designed for critical infrastructure, embassies, military sites, and government buildings. Engineered for permanent perimeter security, this bollard provides maximum impact resistance while preventing unauthorized vehicle access.
Specifications:
- Height: 1000 mm
- Cylinder Diameter: 275 mm
- Crash Rating: M50 P1 (with 1 bollard installed)
- Reflective Strip Color: White
Bollard Installation and Maintenance
Bollard Installation Overview
Proper installation is crucial for ensuring bollards provide effective security and long-term durability. The process varies depending on the bollard type:
- Fixed Bollards: Installed by excavating the ground and securing the bollard with concrete, ensuring a permanent barrier. Proper depth and reinforcement are essential for stability, particularly for high-security crash-rated models.
- Removable Bollards: Require ground sleeves that allow the bollard to be inserted and locked in place. Installation involves digging a foundation and embedding the sleeve in concrete to ensure stability when deployed.
- Semi-Automatic Bollards: Installed with a pre-cast foundation or ground casing, but do not require electrical wiring. These bollards use gas actuators for raising and manual pressure for lowering, making them easier to install than fully automated options.
- Automatic (Hydraulic) Bollards: Require extensive site preparation, including underground power connections, control units, and proper drainage. Installation involves trenching for cables, setting the hydraulic system, and programming the access control integration.
Maintenance
- Fixed and removable bollards should be checked for corrosion, structural integrity, and paint wear, especially in high-traffic or extreme weather conditions.
- Semi-automatic models require periodic gas actuator inspections to ensure smooth operation.
- Automatic hydraulic bollards need regular checks on fluid levels, hydraulic seals, and control system responsiveness. Cleaning sensors, lubricating moving parts, and testing emergency deployment functions prevent malfunctions and extend operational life.
For detailed installation and maintenance instructions, please refer to the bollard's manual.
How to Order FAAC Bollards
Ordering the right FAAC bollard system is straightforward with our bundled approach, ensuring you get everything needed for proper installation and operation. Here's what to consider:
- Choose the Right Model: Select a bollard based on your security requirements, traffic control needs, and site conditions.
- Determine Quantity: Decide how many bollards you need to secure your location.
- Understand Installation Requirements: Each bollard includes required installation parts with optional accessories clearly listed for easy customization.
Simplified Bollard Purchase Process
To make ordering easier, we've grouped FAAC bollards with their required FAAC installation components, ensuring you get all the FAAC parts you need for the install (additonal wiring components required*). This structured approach ensures clarity when it comes to what FAAC parts are required for installation and what additional features you can choose to customize your setup.
Automatic Bollards (Hydraulic Models - HA)
- Require a control board* and a pit or pit components, depending on the model.
- Optional accessories often include heaters (for cold climates), solenoid pressure switches, buzzers, and LED lighting for enhanced visibility.
Semi-Automatic Bollards (SA Models)
- Require a pit for installation.
- Optional accessories often include protective covers and release keys for manual operation.
Fixed & Removable Bollards
- Require a mounting frame or base plate (based on model) for secure installation.
- Optional accessories often include decorative covers and LED light kits for added safety and aesthetics.
Please Note: Bollard Control Board Requirements for Hydraulic-Automatic Models
Please note: For automatic hydraulic bollards, the control board is essential for managing operation. Due to the difference in power consumption between the traffic and perimeter protection bollards and the high-security crash-rated models, the required number of control boards differs. Please note the needs of your selected hydraulic-automatic bollard model below to avoid over ordering control boards.
- J200 HA: 1 control board per 3 bollards
- J275 HA: 1 control board per 3 bollards
- J275 HA 2K20: 1 control board per 3 bollards
- JS48 HA: 1 control board per 1 bollard
- JS80 HA: 1 control board per 1 bollard
FAAC bollards offer a versatile range of security and traffic control solutions, from fixed and removable models for permanent or temporary access control to automatic hydraulic bollards for high-traffic, high-security environments. With M30 and M50 crash-rated options, FAAC bollards provide proven impact resistance, ensuring protection for government buildings, critical infrastructure, commercial properties, and pedestrian areas.
Choosing the right bollard is essential for maximizing safety, efficiency, and site-specific security needs. Factors such as security requirements, installation conditions, and frequency of access should guide your selection, ensuring a reliable and effective perimeter protection system.
For expert guidance in selecting the ideal bollard solution, or to place an order, contact us today for a consultation or purchase assistance.
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