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As more businesses load containers or trucks , the demand for efficient loading and unloading systems has increased . Dock levellers create a secure and convenient link between the loading bay and the truck .

Loading bays , along with guides , shelters , seals , levellers , doors , curtains , supports , and rails , all influence the functionality of the cold chain , spanning from farm packhouses to retail outlets and transportation in between . Today , there are numerous designs and technologies available to choose from . In this feature , we explore these solutions ,

Loading dock equipment

Dock leveller in stock .

examining their functionalities , how they enhance value , mitigate risks , and improve overall operational efficiency . Additionally , we consider their impact and integration with refrigeration and storage systems within facilities .

Dock levellers and curtains are pivotal in maintaining temperature control during loading and unloading operations . Sustaining an uninterrupted cold chain requires meticulous attention to sealing and insulating dock levellers and curtains to reduce air leakage and minimise heat transfer .

Kobus Pretorius , an application engineer at DDL Equipment , elaborates : “ To reduce heat transfer , DDL offers three types of dock sealing systems : CCS ( Contact

Curtain Seals ), DCS ( Dock Cushion Seals ), and Combo shelters . These systems are designed to accommodate vehicles of varying sizes and their specific applications . The choice of system depends on the type and dimensions of the vehicles being loaded and the building ' s exterior mounting surface . Additionally , sectional and high-speed doors are included to help manage the environment . Different models are available to suit various environments and can be operated through various methods , such as push buttons , radar sensors for detecting pedestrian traffic , remote controls mounted on forklifts , loop detectors embedded in the floor , or even biometric systems .”

Dock levellers and curtains play a crucial role in preventing airborne contaminants like dust , pests , or pollutants from infiltrating cold storage areas . Effective sealing mechanisms , including inflatable or brush seals , are essential for maintaining the cold chain by creating a barrier between indoor and outdoor environments .

Pretorius further explains : “ DDL employs brush seals and PVC skirts , which can be installed at the front of a dock leveller to create an additional barrier that reduces the entry of contaminants . This setup also inadvertently helps to reduce theft . The seals cover the entire vehicle to block pollutants and dust . High-speed doors are increasingly used to manage temperature control , prevent cross-contamination between areas , and keep pests out of the building . These doors operate by opening and closing rapidly , incorporating numerous safety features . For instance , some models can automatically realign themselves if they are bumped and will resume normal operation . These highspeed doors are specifically designed for various environments .”

He emphasises that safety is a major priority in dock operations . Manufacturers prioritise incorporating safety features into dock levellers and curtains to prevent accidents and injuries . These features include safety edges , photoelectric sensors , and emergency stop systems . “ Safety is a crucial element in the design and production of docking systems . Ongoing research and development continually enhance our offerings , which may range from simple handrails and walkways to advanced

signaling systems . For example , our designs allow for the integration of additional safety sensors as needed .”

Dock levellers and curtains endure substantial wear and tear from frequent use and harsh conditions . To ensure durability and long-term performance , manufacturers use high-quality materials and robust construction techniques . Regular maintenance and inspections are vital to detect and resolve any issues promptly , thereby reducing downtime and extending the equipment ' s operational life .

“ For example , DDL seals are crafted from a double layer of durable canvas , which makes them repairable in most cases , thus extending their service life ,” notes Pretorius . “ Canvas is also washable and withstands cleaning with chemicals and disinfectants used to maintain dock hygiene . For dock hardware installations , aluminium is preferred due to its lightweight nature and resistance to rust when exposed to the elements . It is recommended to service dock levellers quarterly , and customers might also consider a Service Level Agreement ( SLA ) for added peace of mind , ensuring their dock equipment remains in optimal condition and any potential issues are addressed promptly . In coastal or corrosive environments , fully galvanised dock levellers and pit frames are often chosen .”

Manufacturers must comply with relevant regulations and standards for dock levellers and curtains . These regulations may include safety codes , building standards , fire safety measures , and energy efficiency requirements . Adhering to these standards ensures the safe and efficient operation of dock facilities and helps avoid potential penalties or legal issues .

Pretorius details that dock levellers are built to the BS-EN-1398 standards , which adhere to both British and European regulations and align with local food safety requirements . “ At DDL , our dock levellers are engineered by our in-house team , with third-party engineering firms conducting Finite Element Analysis to scrutinise every component and ensure long-term durability . Additionally , we perform strength tests to assess the dock leveller ' s lifecycle .”

Automation and technology are becoming more prevalent in the cold