The ULAMEX Barbed Wire is a traditional double-strand galvanised steel security wire with 4-point barbs at regular intervals, supplied in 10 kg rolls yielding approximately 77 metres per roll. Designed as the top-line deterrent for perimeter fencing systems, this 2.0 mm diameter barbed wire adds a critical psychological and physical barrier above fence mesh panels, raising the total fence height and making unauthorised entry significantly more difficult and time-consuming.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel, hot-dip galvanised |
| Line wire diameter | 2.0 mm |
| Construction | Double-strand twist |
| Barb type | 4-point barbs |
| Barb spacing | 75–100 mm (standard) |
| Roll weight | 10 kg |
| Roll length | ~77 m |
| Corrosion protection | Hot-dip galvanised |
| Tensile strength | 350–550 N/mm² |
Installation
Install barbed wire in three to five horizontal rows above the fence mesh panel, supported by angled barbed wire arms (Y-arms or cranked extensions) mounted to the top of each fence post. The arms angle outward at 30–45 degrees, creating an overhang that makes climbing over the fence substantially more difficult. Secure the wire to each arm using galvanised wire clips or purpose-built barbed wire holders from our fencing accessories range.
Maintain a wire tension of 200–400 N using straining posts at every corner, end point, and at intervals not exceeding 70 metres on straight runs. Use a wire strainer ratchet (monkey strainer) to achieve consistent tension across the full run. Terminate each wire at the straining post with a minimum of four tight wraps around the post or through a strainer eye bolt.
For a typical solar farm perimeter using 2000 mm fence mesh with a 450 mm barbed wire extension (3 rows), allow approximately 3.3 metres of barbed wire per linear metre of fence (3 rows × 1.1 m per row including sag and overlap). A 10 kg roll at 77 metres therefore covers approximately 23 linear metres of fence with three-row top security.
Applications
- Solar farm perimeter security — the most common application, adding a visible and physical deterrent layer above fence mesh. Many solar farm insurance policies explicitly require barbed wire or equivalent anti-climb topping as a coverage condition.
- Industrial site boundaries — factories, power plants, substations, water treatment facilities
- Agricultural fencing — cattle and livestock containment, estate boundaries, vineyard and orchard protection
- Military and government installations — outer perimeter enhancement
- Construction site security — temporary top-line deterrent on portable fence panels
Material & Corrosion Protection
The line wire and barb wire are manufactured from low-carbon steel with a tensile strength range of 350–550 N/mm², providing a balance between rigidity (to maintain tension over long spans) and ductility (to allow bending around posts and arms without fracturing). The hot-dip galvanised coating applies a zinc layer of 30–60 µm that protects against atmospheric corrosion for 15–20 years in rural and suburban environments (EN ISO 9223 categories C1–C2).
In coastal or industrial-atmospheric locations, the galvanised life may reduce to 8–12 years. For extended service life in aggressive environments, PVC-coated barbed wire (available on request) adds a polymer barrier over the zinc coating, with typical colour options of green, black, or brown to blend with the surrounding landscape. The double-strand twist construction ensures that even if one strand is cut, the remaining strand retains partial barrier function and triggers a visible gap that simplifies perimeter inspection.
Compatibility
- Fence mesh — galvanised welded mesh panels (1500/2000 mm height) forming the main barrier below the barbed wire
- Fence posts — round tubular galvanised steel 42.4 mm × 1.5 mm and 48.3 mm × 2.0 mm
- Fencing mesh accessories — barbed wire arm extensions, wire clips, strainer holders, post caps
- Earthing rod connectors — for grounding the fence line into the site earthing system
Why ULAMEX
As a B2B steel and aluminium wholesaler, ULAMEX stocks barbed wire alongside the full range of solar farm fencing components — mesh panels, posts, and accessories — as well as the complete PV mounting system including profiles, clamps, and fasteners. This means a single order, a single delivery, and a single invoice for your entire project. Our warehouse ships throughout the EU with both full-truck and groupage options, optimising freight costs for heavy steel products like barbed wire where transport represents a significant proportion of the landed cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many rolls do I need for a 500-metre solar farm perimeter?
- With three rows of barbed wire: 500 m × 3.3 = 1,650 m total wire required. At ~77 m per 10 kg roll, you need approximately 22 rolls. We recommend ordering 24 rolls to account for overlap, corners, and wastage.
- Is barbed wire legal for perimeter fencing?
- In most European jurisdictions, barbed wire is permitted on commercial and industrial sites. Some local regulations require warning signs at regular intervals and a minimum installation height (typically 2000 mm above ground level) to prevent accidental contact. Always check local building regulations before installation.
- What is the difference between barbed wire and razor wire?
- Barbed wire uses pointed barbs twisted around a double-strand line wire. Razor wire (concertina wire) uses sharp-edged steel tape formed into a helical coil. Barbed wire is standard for agricultural and solar farm use; razor wire is used in high-security military and correctional applications.
- Can I order PVC-coated barbed wire?
- Yes, PVC-coated variants are available on request in green, black, and brown. Contact our sales team with your colour and quantity requirements.
Securing your solar farm or industrial perimeter? Contact ULAMEX for wholesale barbed wire pricing, fencing system packages, and Europe-wide delivery.