Radar & motion detectors for industrial doors – automatic door control for greater efficiency
Radar and motion detectors for industrial doors have become indispensable in modern logistics, production, and commercial operations. They enable contactless, automatic control of high-speed doors, sectional doors, and rolling doors – with the highest levels of precision, safety, and efficiency. While push buttons or handheld transmitters were often used in the past, radar sensors are increasingly gaining ground in industry. They reliably detect people, vehicles, and movements, thus controlling the opening and closing of door systems. In this guide, you'll learn everything about the technology, areas of application, advantages, and purchasing criteria for radar and motion detectors for industrial doors.
Why radar sensors are indispensable in industry
In modern warehouses, logistics centers, or production facilities, every second counts. Automatic door controls with radar sensors ensure that the flow of goods is uninterrupted. Forklift drivers no longer have to dismount, and employees no longer have to press buttons. Instead, simply move toward the door – and it opens automatically. This means:
- Increased efficiency: no waiting at the gate.
- Hygiene: contactless control is particularly important in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
- Safety: automatic detection prevents collisions and accidents.
Technology & functionality of radar & motion detectors
Radar and motion detectors work based on the Doppler effect . A radar beam is emitted, reflected, and evaluated by the electronics. If the frequency changes due to movement, the sensor registers this and transmits a signal to the door operator. Modern sensors even distinguish between:
- People & vehicles: different radar cross-sections are detected.
- Directions of movement: e.g. only opening when approaching from outside.
- Speed: Forklifts, cars or pedestrians can be recorded separately.
There are also combination sensors that combine radar with infrared or ultrasound technology to provide even more precise results.
Advantages of radar detectors on industrial gates
The use of radar and motion detectors offers several advantages:
- Automatic opening: no operation necessary, gate reacts independently.
- Energy efficiency: Gate opens only when needed → less heat and cold loss.
- Speed: The flow of goods remains uninterrupted, vehicles do not have to slow down.
- Safety: Sensors prevent collisions with people or vehicles.
- Accessibility: ideal for businesses with high passenger traffic.
Areas of application in industry & logistics
Radar and motion detectors are used wherever speed and safety are important:
- High-speed doors: automatic opening in warehouses and production halls.
- Loading ramps: Gate opens automatically as soon as a truck enters.
- Food industry: Hygiene regulations require contactless door control.
- Pharmaceutical industry: safe, sterile access through automatic sensors.
- Car dealerships & workshops: automatic opening for vehicles without additional operation.
Types of radar and motion detectors
Depending on the requirements, there are different types of sensors:
- Simple motion detectors: for smaller gates, person or vehicle detection.
- Intelligent radar sensors: can distinguish direction and speed.
- Combined sensors: combine radar with infrared for greater safety.
- Special sensors: for clean rooms, cold storage facilities or explosion-proof areas.
Safety & Standards
Strict standards apply to gate controls in industry:
- EN 13241: Safety of industrial doors.
- EN 12453: Requirements for protective devices for power-operated doors.
- DGUV regulations: annual inspection of gate systems and sensors.
It is therefore important to use only tested radar sensors that meet these standards.
Assembly & Installation
Correct installation determines functionality:
- Position: usually above the goal or on the side of the wall.
- Range: adjustable for different hall sizes.
- Connection: is made to the control unit of the gate drive.
- Fine adjustment: Sensitivity and detection angle can be adjusted.
For industrial applications, installation by specialist companies is recommended.
Maintenance & Operation
To ensure that radar sensors function reliably, regular maintenance is necessary:
- Cleaning the cover (dust, moisture, insects).
- Checking the detection areas.
- Test run with forklifts and pedestrians to check functionality.
- Inspection as part of the DGUV safety inspection.
Radar & motion detectors at Tormeister24
In the Tormeister24 range you will find high-quality sensors for every requirement:
- Radar detectors for high-speed doors and industrial doors.
- Models with direction and speed differentiation.
- Combination sensors for maximum safety.
- Accessories such as mounts and protective cases.
All products are tested, durable and designed for tough industrial use.
Buying advice – what to look for?
Choosing the right radar sensor depends on several factors:
- Door size: large high-speed doors require powerful sensors.
- Application: Indoor, outdoor or special environments.
- Differentiation: should the sensor be able to distinguish between people and vehicles?
- Assembly: simple plug-and-play models or complex industrial systems?
Conclusion – Efficiency & safety on a new level
Radar and motion detectors are the industry standard for modern gate control systems. They offer maximum efficiency, security, and convenience – whether in logistics centers, production facilities, or commercial buildings. With the tested solutions from Tormeister24 , you can ensure that your gate systems function reliably and in compliance with standards at all times.