If you run a business that involves shipping and
receiving goods, you have to ensure the safety and speed of loading and
unloading your products. Dock levelers are highly recommended machines for this
matter. The purpose of dock levelers
is to bridge the gap between the edge of the dock and a truck or a facility
floor. They are easier to use, more durable and offer the highest load capabilities
of up to 55,000 pounds.
3 Types of Dock Levelers:
Hydraulic Dock
Levelers are generally stronger than others. It helps prevent the fast drop
of the leveler despite the weight of the load. They use a fluid-force to push
the cylinder and lift the deck. Air
powered dock levelers use cylindrical air tower power to lift the deck of
the leveler. Both are remote switch operated. Mechanical Dock Levelers, on the other hand, is the most common
type of dock levelers. It uses springs and cylinder. A chain has to be pulled
to lift the deck and has to be walked down until placed properly.
Here are some certain factors that you might want to give
consideration when deciding what type of dock leveler you want to use.
·
Determine the maximum load expected. Both the
weight of the lift truck and cargo must be included when determining the load.
·
The span of trailer deck heights you need to
accommodate.
·
The frequency of the use of the dock leveler.
·
You also have to take note the weight of your
cargo and of the forklift, to ensure that you select the correct dock leveler
capacity.
·
SAFETY? Signaling & Controls? Most Florida
dock levelers are available with LED signaling lights and alarms. This can help
prevent accidents due to advanced trailer departure. They should come with
guarding or a safety lip to avoid falls from the loading dock. Safe equipment
equals safe workers.
Another option is choosing between manual levelers for
low-traffic docks. Unfortunately, manual levelers require a high cost of
maintenance. And powered levelers are best for higher volume docks. It promises
a long run maintenance costs and rapid production.