RIB K500 Sliding Gate Operator

Set for sliding garage door with RIB K500 mechanism for up to 500kg gate and 300 opening/closing cycles per day. Available without control panel and remote control. Includes: base and mounting materials, activation plates for limit switches, disengagement keys, installation instructions in Greek, etc.
  • For maximum gate leaf weight of 500kg
  • Non-reversible, permanently lubricated mechanism
  • Maximum number of continuous opening/closing cycles at 20°C: up to 25
  • Up to 300 opening/closing cycles per day.
  • Single-phase motor (230 VAC)
  • Mechanism dimensions: 274x245x267 mm (LxWxH)
  • Gate leaf movement speed: 9.6 m/min
  • Motor power consumption: 229 W
  • Features a key for disengagement (manual operation)
  • Protection rating: IP54
  • Gear type is Z12/module 4
  • Country of origin: Italy
  • Warranty: 2 years

To order this product, call us at tel. 210.555.0632 or buy it online from our e-shop.

The RIB K500 sliding garage door motor contains:

The RIB K500 sliding garage door motor includes:

Initial set:

  • RIB K500 sliding garage door mechanism for 500kg gate.
  • Mechanism mounting base with screws and anchors
  • Manual release keys (2 pcs)
  • Activation plates for limit switches
  • Detailed instructions written in Greek

You can add:

  • ProfelmNet PSD-36T control panel and remote controls at 433.92 MHz from 1 to 5 pcs
  • Metal rack from 3 to 6m (each piece is 1m long)
  • Wired or wireless photocells (with reflector)

If you want to add more remote controls, more meters of rack or photocells, you can call us or order them separately from the set at the links below:

RIB K500 Mechanism - Dimensions

RIB K500 garage door mechanism dimensions
The dimensions of the RIB K500 mechanism are convenient and in most cases, the available space is sufficient.

Selecting a sliding garage door mechanism

The technical characteristics that play a role in selecting a sliding garage door mechanism are as follows:
  • The weight of the sliding garage door. The RIB K500 mechanism is suitable for a gate weighing up to 500kg.
  • The frequency of daily use of the gate. The RIB K500 mechanism is suitable for up to 300 opening/closing cycles per day.
  • The frequency of hourly use of the gate. The RIB K500 mechanism is suitable for up to 25 opening/closing cycles per hour.

The RIB K500 mechanism excels over the competition due to its ability to operate intensively. Even large residential complexes during peak hours would struggle to exceed 25 opening/closing cycles per hour (this corresponds to approximately one vehicle every two minutes). Also, 300 opening/closing cycles per day are enough that a sliding garage door would rarely exceed them.

Finally, the 500kg gate capacity covers most gate types, as an average steel gate weighs 50-60 kg/m. The point where particular attention should be paid is that the gate should operate smoothly in manual mode. This means testing the gate's movement without the mechanism or with the mechanism in manual operation. If the gate does not operate smoothly, it should be repaired before installing the mechanism. Otherwise, it will cause problems to the mechanism and lead to breakdowns.

Sliding garage door - Checks before mechanism installation

The most basic check that needs to be done even before ordering the mechanism is to ensure that the gate operates smoothly by hand. Open and close the gate at a steady speed, approximately the speed it would have with the mechanism. If at any point the movement presents difficulty, there is a jolt, etc., the gate must be repaired before the mechanism is installed.

The checks that must be carried out in detail are:

  • If the track is straight without bends, dents, or rust. It must also be properly secured to the ground.
  • The gate rollers must be in good condition. They should not show signs of deformation or rust. Their movement must be trouble-free.
  • Just before the gate's closed position, check its oscillation. If it moves back and forth significantly, the gate should be intervened and repaired. Possible repair points are the gate's construction material (too flexible), the position of the rollers (they have a large gap with the gate), or the roller mounting point is too flexible.
  • The gate must enter smoothly into the receptacle in the closed position. It must "lock" so that it is not easy to lift it with a crowbar.
  • The open and closed positions of the gate must be defined by mechanical stops. Under no circumstances should the gate leaf be free to pass the closed or open position.

Typical layout of a sliding garage door with mechanism

typical layout of a sliding garage door with mechanism

In the sketch above, we observe a typical layout of a sliding garage door with a mechanism. Obviously, the main element of the construction is the gate leaf, which can be made of aluminum, metal or wood. A basic prerequisite is that it must be robust and rigid enough to be able to move, while touching only the rollers and guides without significant oscillation.

The gate must have mechanical stops to define the closed and open positions. The mechanical stops define the travel of the gate.

The rollers are positioned in such a way that they maintain contact with the gate leaf throughout its entire travel (from the fully open to the fully closed position). Essentially, the rollers keep the gate vertical to the ground. A basic prerequisite is that they do not hinder the gate's movement.

The gate rests on the wheels, which allow it to move. The movement takes place on the track, which has a shape that allows it to work perfectly with the wheels. The wheels must be in good condition without signs of deformation or rust. The track must be properly supported on the ground, be straight, and show no bumps or deformations.

The motor is also placed in a position so that it is always in contact with the gate. The movement is transmitted to the gate from the motor's gear. The rack, which is a toothed bar, is placed on the gate. The rack is the point of contact between the gate and the motor, and through it, the movement is transmitted.

Photocells are the most important accessory of a sliding garage door with a mechanism. They prevent accidents and protect both users and their vehicles. They are placed in the gate opening and prevent the sliding gate from closing when there is an obstacle in its path.

Another accessory for a sliding garage door (not shown in the sketch) is the warning light. It is placed in a prominent position to warn passing vehicles and pedestrians that the garage door is in operation. This is a particularly useful device when the garage door is adjacent to a busy road or when visibility is not optimal.

Installation of RIB K500 sliding mechanism

The RIB K500 sliding garage door mechanism must be installed according to the heights and distance from the door defined in the figure below.

RIB K500 mechanism installation

The rack spacers usually allow minor adjustments of approximately 0.5cm. If the gate is empty at the height where the rack needs to be installed, without any support point, we have two options: either reinforce the gate at that point or change the installation height of the mechanism (with a base) to reach the point where the rack can be installed.

In addition to the above limits for mechanism installation, we must consider that:

  • it should not be installed in an area where water accumulates. If there is such a suspicion, a base should be created to raise the motor.
  • the gate leaf should be approximately 40cm larger than the opening to allow the motor to be installed outside the opening. Otherwise, there is a risk of the motor being hit by a passing vehicle.
  • the base must be installed on a stable foundation. If there isn't one (e.g., a reinforced concrete slab), a concrete base must be created.

Next, we define the position of the accessories. If there are photocells, a warning light, etc., we define their position and then route the wiring. A detailed chapter on wiring will follow below. We simply mention that it should be done by a professional electrician and in compliance with all safety rules.

RIB K500 sliding motor basesliding mechanism base

During the installation of the base, we check that it is perfectly parallel to the gate. We also check with a spirit level that it is perfectly horizontal. The large hole in the base is for routing the cables. The base is installed with plugs (metal anchors) in the reinforced concrete.

Next, remove the cover of the mechanism. To remove it, unscrew the corresponding screws. Secure the mechanism to the two screws protruding from the base. Place it on the base and tighten the screws.

garage door mechanism disengagement

To operate the mechanism manually, lift the small door, insert the key into the lock, and turn it counter-clockwise as many turns as needed until the key stops. In this position, the motor has been disengaged, and we leave it in this state until the rack installation is complete. (Rack not included in the set)

RIB-K500 Garage Door Mechanism

RIB K500 Sliding Garage Door Mechanism Gear

The RIB K500 mechanism features a metal gear surrounded by a protective cover to prevent injuries. Additionally, the mechanism's gear (photo below) has a screw that must be removed after installation and before use.

Sliding Motor Gear

Wiring of RIB K500 sliding garage door mechanism

Wiring of sliding garage door mechanisms

Wiring sliding mechanisms is a process that typically requires specialized personnel.

  • The mechanism requires a 3x1.5mm² or 3x2.5mm² cable if the distance of the automation installation point is far from the control panel. (It is advisable that the mechanism is on a separate fuse in the control panel)
  • Wired photocells require a 4×0.6mm² cable for the receiver and a 2×0.6mm² cable for the transmitter. Usually, we place the receiver near the mechanism. If it is impossible to route a cable across for the photocells, we can install photocells with a reflector, which require wiring only on one side.
  • The warning light requires 1×1.0 mm² or 2×1.0 mm² wiring. (can be added extra from the set)
  • The key selector switch or simple push button requires 2×0.6mm² wiring. (can be added extra from the set)

All cables must be protected from weather conditions (inside conduits).

Sliding mechanism control panel

Sliding mechanism control panel

The Autotech S5060T control panel is included in the set and is integrated into the mechanism. It is a control panel that combines simplicity of use with all necessary functions and is time-tested. It works perfectly with the RIB K500 mechanism.

Technical characteristics:

  • It has a socket for the mechanism's limit switches
  • We can adjust the mechanism's force.
  • There is the possibility for soft start and stop for less wear and tear on the mechanism and the garage door.
  • It accepts safety photocells which interrupt movement when they detect an obstacle during door closing and initiate reverse movement (opening).
  • There is an available setting for automatic door closing with user-selectable closing start time. Photocell use is essential for automatic closing to function.
  • There is an option for electrical braking.
  • The opening direction is adjusted with a microswitch.
  • The panel can accept a push-button (key selector switch or simple push-button).
  • The panel can accept a 230VAC warning light without a flasher or a 230VAC lighting lamp.
  • It has a built-in receiver with simple operation.
  • User information regarding mechanism functions is provided via LED lights.

The above control panel has been tested by thousands of users and has proven to be extremely reliable. Additionally, it features functions such as mechanism force adjustment, slow start and stop, which make it one of the best choices on the market today.

ProfelmNet PSD-36T Sliding Mechanism Remote Controls

Sliding Mechanism Remote Control

The ProfelmNet PSD-36T remote control has 4 buttons to which we can program 4 different mechanisms. It is a fixed 12-bit code at 433.92 MHz. It is easy to use, well-designed, and works perfectly with the Autotech S5060T control panel.

Safety photocells - Operation

Safety photocells are an economical but essential accessory for every type of garage door. They prevent accidents and do not require maintenance or any special care from the user.

Sliding door safety photocells

Safety photocells consist of a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter emits an infrared light beam, in the non-visible spectrum, which is directed towards the receiver. When there is no obstacle interrupting the beam, the gate operates normally. When the beam is interrupted by an obstacle (vehicle, pedestrian, pet, etc.) during the gate's closing, the control panel instructs the mechanism to stop the gate's closing and begin the reverse movement (opening). If the beam is interrupted while the gate is opening, it continues its course normally, while if it is open, it is not allowed to start closing.

In cases where it is not possible to run cables for wired photocells, we can choose the solution of photocells with a reflector. These photocells require wiring only on one side of the gate (the motor side), making them easier to install. They are preferred in situations where the gate and surrounding area have been completed without provision for wiring. They incur a small extra cost compared to wired photocells, but they are a very good solution when wiring cannot be run. In the set, you can add either wired photocells or photocells with a reflector.

Wired photocells NOLOGO IR5001P / Zoom-Z2E

The NOLOGO IR5001P / Zoom-Z2E photocells are a reliable choice of wired photocells consisting of a transmitter and a receiver with a range of 20m. As wired photocells, they require wiring on both sides of the opening.

nologo wired safety photocells

Technical specifications of NOLOGO IR5001P / Zoom-Z2E photocells:

  • Operating voltage: 12 or 24 V DC, 12 or 24 V AC
  • Maximum operating distance: 20m
  • Maximum switch contact current: 0.5 A at 48 V AC/DC
  • Transmitter operating current: 25 mA
  • Receiver operating current: 35 mA
  • Interference rejection circuit from other light sources
  • Auto-focus

They are usually installed at a height of 50cm from the ground. They are simple to install and can prevent major damage and accidents. Their operation is trouble-free as they require no maintenance, are not affected by weather conditions, and do not require any action from the user during their use.

nologo remote controls packaging

Witt Sensoric RP25 reflective safety photocells

reflective safety photocells

The greatest advantage of reflective photocells is that they only require wiring on one side, where the transceiver is installed. The reflector is placed opposite. The reflector measures 10x10cm, while the dimensions of the transceiver are:

dimensions of reflective safety photocell transceiver

Characteristics of Witt Sensoric RP25 reflective safety photocells:

  • Convenient size and shape for both the transceiver and the reflector.
  • Do not require batteries like other competing wireless photocells.
  • Reliable operation even in bad weather conditions. (suitable for outdoor use)
  • Range of 15m, covering the majority of sliding doors.
  • Are not interfered with by sunlight or other light sources, as they operate with a polarized light filter. This means they can even detect reflective objects between the transceiver and the reflector, so it is not easy to fool them with a highly polished car surface.

reflective photocell diagram

Technical specifications of Witt Sensoric RP25 wireless photocells:

  • CE marked
  • Comply with EMC directive 89/336/EEC, EN 61000-6-2 and EN 61000-6-4 standards
  • Operating voltage: 10-40 V DC or 24 V AC (±25%)
  • Minimum operating distance: 0.5m
  • Maximum operating distance: 15m
  • Polarized beam arrangement: excellent resistance to interference
  • Protection degree against dust and moisture: IP-67
  • Easy cable installation. Features a detachable terminal block - cable gland and elastic washer for waterproofing
  • Protection against incorrect polarity power supply
  • Beam direction easily adjusted with 3 screws.
  • Features a red-green LED for obstacle detection or operation (Red when there is an obstacle - Green when there is no obstacle)
  • Instant operation in less than 200 ms from the moment it is connected to power
  • Maximum transceiver consumption: 30 mA at 24 V DC
  • Maximum contact current: 0.3 A at 100 V AC, 0.5 A at 48 V DC
  • Dimensions: 86x44x39 mm
  • Beam width: approximately 1.5° total
  • Response time: less than 10 ms from the moment the beam is interrupted
  • Reset time: the contact returns to its normal state in less than 100 ms from the moment the beam interruption ceases
  • Operating temperature: -25 to +60 °C
  • Test input. When contact #1 is connected to 0 V (GND), the transmitter turns off.

Packaging of the sliding garage door opener kit

The kit is delivered in one package containing the mechanism with all its accessories, as well as any additional accessories (if added to the kit).

The rack is delivered in a second package if it has been added to the kit.

Before delivery, our company's technical control department adjusts the remote controls and checks that the entire system is ready for installation.

Instructions for the sliding garage door opener kit

The kit comes with instructions in Greek that are easy to follow, provided one has basic knowledge and is "handy". Basic knowledge required includes experience in arc welding and electrical work. Otherwise, it is advisable to call a specialized technician.

The instructions include detailed steps for installing the mechanism's base, the mechanism itself, the rack, as well as all accessories that a sliding kit may contain (photocells, remote controls, lamp, antenna, etc.).