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INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN |
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facilities . In these settings , strip curtains serve as barriers to minimise the loss of cold air when doors are opened , thus playing a crucial role in maintaining the desired temperature and hygiene standards .
In modern loading bays , goods are often moved directly from cold room facilities onto trucks . Loading bays can be designed as part of the building or situated outside on a loading platform or mounted on a freestanding frame . Opting for external loading bays offers several advantages , such as freeing up valuable space within the warehouse and enhancing energy efficiency . This setup allows for the integration of features like dock levellers , dock shelters , and load houses , which contribute to a more efficient loading process .
There are primarily two types of dock levellers : air-powered and hydraulic . When constructing a new facility , incorporating a loading dock is a crucial consideration , especially when handling heavy items with equipment like lift trolleys and forklifts . Dock levellers play a vital role in ensuring worker safety by bridging the gap between the loading bay and the truck floor . For effective operation , docks should have a minimum height of 1.2 meters , whether loading with a forklift or pallet jack .
Ideally , loading docks should be part of the initial design and construction of a warehouse . However , many older facilities may lack these features but can be retrofitted to meet modern requirements . Retrofitting involves assessing the existing layout and functionality to determine the
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best placement for equipment . This process may require constructing ramps or modifying existing structures to meet the 1.2m height requirement for docks .
Several accessories complement dock levellers to enhance their functionality and efficiency . These include bumpers that protect the dock and door from damage , dock shelters that help prevent cold air from escaping , thereby improving energy savings and working conditions , and other supportive features .
A notable advancement in dock leveller design is the telescopic dock levellers . This innovation allows the doors to open within the sheltered area by extending outward , providing greater reach and flexibility . Telescopic dock levellers facilitate access to trucks or containers that are positioned farther from the dock , thus streamlining the loading and unloading process . This technology is especially beneficial in cold climates where maintaining sheltered access and precise temperature control is essential , effectively preventing any temperature loss .
Another significant development is the introduction of insulated dock levellers . These levellers feature a fully sealed underside and incorporate insulation materials to minimise temperature gaps , reduce energy loss , and prevent the influx of cold air . Insulated dock levellers are particularly favoured in European countries with stringent energy efficiency regulations . By maintaining better temperature control , they help businesses lower energy
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Image by © Cold Link Africa |
Rapid shut door .
consumption and operational costs . While these insulated dock levellers are relatively
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new to South Africa , they have a wellestablished history in Europe . CLA |