What Is the Best Motor for Double Swing Gates in Melbourne?

What is the best motor for double swing gates in Melbourne? If you’re looking to automate your double swing gates, choosing the right motor is about more than just power — it’s about long-term security, convenience, and meeting Australian safety standards. In Melbourne’s changing climate and suburban environments, the ideal motor for double swing gates should offer a perfect mix of strength, durability, and smart features.

This guide explains how to choose the best motor for double swing gates, reviews top-rated models available in Australia, and helps you find the right fit—whether you need a system for a light residential gate or a heavy-duty commercial setup.

Why Automate a Double Swing Gate?

Double swing gates are popular across Melbourne’s homes, farms, and businesses for their wide opening capacity and elegant appearance. Automation enhances this by offering:

• Convenience: Open your gate with a remote, smartphone, or smart home integration.

• Security: Control access without leaving your vehicle or exposing your property.

• Compliance: Many Australian councils require automated access for certain applications, including shared driveways or commercial lots.

But to get these benefits, your motor must be a good match for your gate size, frequency of use, and environmental conditions.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Double Swing Gate Motor

1. Gate Size and Weight

Motor selection begins with knowing your gate’s dimensions and load. Motors are rated based on:

• Maximum leaf length (per side)

• Maximum weight per gate leaf

For instance:

• Light residential gates (~2 m, 250 kg) suit motors like the NICE Aria 200.

• Medium gates (~4–5 m, 500–600 kg) require models like NICE Toona 5024 or BFT Kustos A40.

• Large/industrial gates (6–7 m, 1000+ kg) need heavy-duty options like the NICE Toona 7024.

2. Duty Cycle (Usage Frequency)

• Light use: Home gates opened 4–10 times a day — go for residential-grade 24 V motors.

• Heavy use: Commercial or high-traffic gates — look for industrial-rated motors with continuous duty and higher torque (e.g. FAAC 415L, Beninca Tom).

3. Power Supply: 24 V vs 230 V

• 24 V DC systems are ideal for residential homes due to low-voltage safety, solar compatibility, and support for battery backup.

• 230 V AC motors deliver more torque for larger gates but require licensed installation and are less common in newer residential areas.

4. Weather Resistance

Melbourne’s weather ranges from summer heat and dust to wind and rainstorms. Choose a motor with:

• IP-rated sealed enclosures

• Stainless steel shafts

• Aluminium casings with anti-corrosion coating

Models like the BFT Kustos Ultra and Beninca Tom offer exceptional protection in harsh environments.

5. Speed and Performance

Some motors prioritize fast opening — crucial for busy driveways or commercial sites. For example, NICE Toona 5024 FAST opens a gate to 90° in under 10 seconds.

Quiet operation is also a consideration in residential areas. Motors such as NICE Wingo 2024 are designed with patented noise-reduction features.

6. Safety Features and Compliance

Australia’s AS/NZS 60335.2.103 standard mandates obstacle detection and failsafe operation. Look for:

• Auto-stop and auto-reverse

• Photocell compatibility

• Manual release mechanisms

Always ensure the motor you choose includes or supports safety accessories.

Read more: How to Choose the Right Automatic Swing Gate Openers

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Best Motor Brands for Double Swing Gates in Australia

Melbourne’s gate automation market features several reputable brands. Here’s a breakdown of top-performing brands with standout models for double swing gates:

1. NICE – Italian Engineering, Australian Support

NICE is a global leader in gate automation and widely distributed in Australia. Known for reliability, sleek design, and smart integration, it offers a wide range of motors for residential and commercial use.

Best NICE Models for Double Swing Gates

1.1. NICE WingoKit 2024

• Max Leaf: 2m / 200kg
• Voltage: 24V
• Price: ~$1,000 AUD (kit)
• Features: Quiet operation, self-learning limit switches, encoder-based safety
• Ideal for: Small residential gates

1.2. NICE Aria 400

• Max Leaf: 4.5m / 450kg
• Voltage: 24V
• Price: ~$1,600 AUD (kit)
• Features: Suitable for wide gates, solar-compatible, sleek design
• Ideal for: Medium to large driveways

1.3. NICE Toona 5024

• Max Leaf: 5m / 600kg
• Voltage: 24V
• Price: ~$1,850 AUD (kit)
• Features: Heavy-duty performance, rapid opening, IP44 protection
• Ideal for: High-use residential or commercial gates

Pros:

• Range of models for every need
• Quiet and efficient
• Compatible with solar and smart control systems

Cons:

• Higher price point than entry-level brands

Buy NICE Toona 5024 from DHS at $1,317.27

2. BFT – Robust and Reliable

BFT is another Italian brand with strong presence in Australia. Known for fully sealed actuators and advanced electronics.

2.1. BFT Kustos Ultra BT A40

• Max Leaf: 4m / 500kg
• Voltage: 24V
• Price: ~$1,750 AUD (kit)
• Features: Worm screw drive, obstacle detection, encoder feedback

Pros:

• Sealed for Australian dust/weather conditions
• Excellent for medium-heavy gates

Cons:

• Installation can be more complex

3. FAAC – Built for Durability

FAAC motors are renowned for long-term durability and strength, ideal for exposed installations.

3.1. FAAC 415L

• Max Leaf: 4m / 350kg
• Voltage: 230V
• Price: ~$1,800 AUD (kit)
• Features: Aluminium body, powerful actuator, excellent in high-wind zones

Pros:

• Strong and reliable
• Handles high winds and heavy gates

Cons:

• Requires 230V wiring
• Not ideal for solar setups

4. Beninca – Compact and Capable

Beninca’s linear and articulated motors are appreciated for their slim design and weatherproofing.

4.1. Beninca Tom 30

• Max Leaf: 3m / 500kg
• Voltage: 24V
• Price: ~$1,450 AUD (kit)
• Features: Brass gears, sealed body, encoder for safety

Pros:

• Great value for performance
• Compact footprint

Cons:

• Not suitable for extreme gate widths

Comparison Table: Best Double Swing Gate Motors in Australia

Brand	Model	Max Leaf (m)	Max Weight (kg)	Voltage	Price (AUD)	Best For
NICE	WingoKit 2024	2.0	200	24V	~$1,000	Small residential gates
NICE	Aria 400	4.5	450	24V	~$1,600	Wide residential driveways
NICE	Toona 5024	5.0	600	24V	~$1,400	High-use gates
BFT	Kustos A40	4.0	500	24V	~$1,750	All-weather conditions
FAAC	415L	4.0	350	230V	~$1,800	Windy/exposed installations
Beninca	Tom 30	3.0	500	24V	~$1,450	Compact residential sites

These prices include two motors, controller, remote(s), and mounting hardware — but not installation, which typically ranges from $500 to $1,200 depending on wiring, safety gear, and surface.

Linear vs Articulated Arm Motors: Which to Choose?

Factors Specific to Melbourne Installations

1. Climate Considerations

• Motors should withstand extreme summer heat and rain.
• Choose IP-rated models with sealed enclosures.

2. Power Supply Availability

• 24V DC models preferred in newer suburbs for solar compatibility.
• Ensure voltage is compliant with Australian standards.

3. Gate Materials

• Timber gates are heavier and may require stronger torque.
• Powder-coated steel or aluminium gates are lighter and more compatible with entry-level motors.

4. Regulatory Compliance

• All installations should meet AS/NZS 60335.2.103
• Use certified installers and always include:
  • Photoelectric sensors
  • Warning signs
  • Manual release systems

Safety and Installation Tips

In Australia, especially in Victoria, you are required to meet safety regulations:

• Always install photocells and auto-reverse features.

• Ensure your installer sets limit positions and release levers.

• Ask for a motor that supports emergency manual override.

• For off-grid or blackout-prone areas, select motors with battery backup or solar kits.

Pro installers such as Powered Gates Australia or Gate Automation Australia can help assess your site and suggest the right model.

Buying Guide: What Is the Best Motor for Double Swing Gates in Melbourne?

There is no universal “best” motor for all double gates—the right choice depends on your gate’s size, weight, usage frequency, and budget.

Gate Size	Recommended Motor Models	Ideal For	Estimated Price Range (AUD)
Small (< 2.5 m / < 250 kg)	– NICE Aria 200- NICE WingoKit	Standard residential gates	$1,000 – $1,500
Medium (up to 4–5 m / ~500 kg)	– NICE Aria 400- BFT Kustos A25 / A40- FAAC 415L Kit	Residential & light commercial use	$1,600 – $1,900
Large (> 5 m / > 600 kg)	– NICE Toona 5024 / 7024- FAAC premium models	Large residential or commercial entrances	$2,000+
High-Speed Automation	– NICE TO5024 High Speed Dual Kit (24 V DC, 2200 Nm torque)	High-traffic sites needing rapid access	$2,100 – $2,500

Whichever model you choose, ensure it includes key safety features like magnetic encoders, manual release levers, and auto-stop. For compliance with Australian standards, consider adding external safety beams or rubber safety edges.

In Melbourne’s climate, we recommend sealed, low-voltage motors (e.g. 24 V DC) for reliability and safety. Leading Italian brands like NICE, BFT, and FAAC are highly rated for their durability, local support, and strong performance records.

If you’re unsure which motor suits your gate, most Victorian retailers—such as Digital Home Systems (DHS), Powered Gates Australia, Austech Gate, or Gate Automation Australia—offer professional site inspections and tailored product recommendations.

Always check that your chosen model complies with local standards, includes obstacle detection, and comes from a reputable supplier offering installation and warranty support.

Need help? Reach out to a Melbourne-based automation expert for a site check and tailored recommendation.