BD Loops FAQ
FAQ
Loops are commonly buried 6-8″ below the surface, but can work as deep as 14″ in depth. A loop will perform better the closer to the surface they are. A loops detection height is 2/3 the short leg of the loop. Maintain a 6′ short leg if possible which would have a 4′ detection height. Detection height maxes with an 8′ short leg.
Loops work by inductance and detect metal. Loop detectors require a percentage of change to trigger a detection, which means that enough metal needs to enter the detection field after the initial setup to trigger a detection.
In summary, loops detect moving metal objects such as vehicles.
Yes, loops can be installed on top of rebar, next to drain pipes, manhole covers, and metal grates. All the stationary metal is taken into account when the loop is initially setup and is then looking for a change from that point.
Loops installed near electrical lines are unlikely to experience false detections or interference for most common applications.
We recommend using our saw-cut loops for saw-cut applications. Our saw-cut loops are designed for saw-cut applications. Both styles of loops are rated for direct burial, however the direct burial loop has a larger yoke which provides better crush resistance and is more suited for use in a direct bury application. You can technically cut in a direct burial loop, it will take more effort to install the loop.
Slide gate require 2 loop minimum with an optional 3rd. Example:
*Insert image of slide gate*
Single and double swing gates require 3 loops minimum with an optional 4th. Example:
*Insert image of double swing gate*
If you need help determining the proper size contact BD Loops.
There is no difference in the function of RL or EL part numbers, they are all direct burial loops. RL part numbers are used for loops with 40′ of lead-in. EL part numbers are used for loops with more than 40′ of lead-in.
Yes, follow our installation instructions for installation under asphalt. Install the loop into the subbase and encapsulate in sand.
Yes, BD Loops can make and ship custom sized loops and loops with custom lead-in lengths same day as long as we receive the order from a distributor by 12:00pm PST.
Yes, any excess lead-in may be cut off, but do not cut the lead-in too short because splicing on the lead-in wire creates a vulnerable point that can cause the loop to fail. Have the lead-in be longer than shorter.
Yes, for any loop circuit to function a loop detector is required. BD Loops will work with any brand of loop detector.
Yes, loops are the gates main means of preventing detection on vehicles. Without the proper number of loops installed there will be instances where the gate can close on a vehicle.
Yes, but when running multiple loop lead-ins through the same conduit or trench there is the risk of cross talk between the different loop circuits. Loop detectors are equipped with a frequency setting to eliminate cross talk. Simply set each circuit on a different frequency which will maintain a 5kHz separation eliminating cross talk. Or keep the lead-ins 2″ away from each other to also eliminate the possibility of cross talk.
Installing the loop below rebar will cause the loop to be less sensitive and can lead to performance issues. We recommend always installing the loop above rebar so that less of the detection field will be absorbed by the rebar.