Ask two suppliers for a trackless barrier and you could be quoted for two completely different things. The barrier can be used as a mobile security screen and as a folding gate at site entrances.
Mobile trackless barriers
This screen folds up for storage and is moved on wheels (trolleys) instead of rolling in a floor track. When folded, it is wheeled to a convenient location. When the screen is needed it is pulled to the opening and locked in place.
No track in the floor means nothing to damage and no debris to fill up. Most spans can go over wide openings with no intermediate posts, which a shutter can’t do. A mesh or shade cloth backing can be added so nobody can reach through.
Trackless bi-folding gates
When you see a sign that says “trackless” at an entrance, it usually means that the gate is folding rather than sliding. Folding gates can move quicker than sliding gates and don’t leave tracks to collect grit or freeze over in the winter like sliding gates do. Some of them are also LPS 1175 certified.
When a trackless barrier beats a shutter
This design wins in a few situations. Firstly it can be used where there’s no lintel or structure to carry a shutter box. Secondly, it can be used where the opening is very wide or even curved. Thirdly, it can be used where the barrier is only needed in place for a short period of time. Fourthly, it can be used where you need air and visibility through the barrier. It can also be used where the layout is always changing, for example with temporary tenancies, seasonal stock areas, and shared buildings.
It fails on building envelopes. Trellis barriers do not obstruct the weather and are not proxies for external doors. They are to be used in conjunction with an external door and not in lieu of it.
Back to the full guide: Trackless Barriers and Security Grilles
Related: Loading Dock Security