Properly Outfitted Loading Docks

Rite-Hite.
A vehicle restraint wraps around a trailer’s RIG, securing the trailer to the loading dock.

Recent improvements in door technology combine fast cycling with high-efficiency insulation and sealing. These innovations contribute to low long-term energy costs, improved efficiency, and increased safety. In short, high R-value is no longer the main driver in door selection.

These recent advances have focused on insulated upward-acting doors. New technically advanced freezer doors have the ability to withstand forklift impact, which minimizes maintenance and downtime while maintaining a tight seal over the life of the door. Some impactable doors offer higher R-values, reducing the need for heated panel defrost systems. Other models even offer torque-sensing reversing capability, which eliminates safety and maintenance concerns with doors that use pneumatic or electrical reversing edges for the same purpose.

Significant improvements in the roll-up design category include reduced cycle times and the use of insulated door panels. These insulated curtain panels provide a high enough R-value to avoid needing expensive panel defrost systems. The fastest roll-up doors can operate at 100 inches per second, a rate that minimizes air infiltration and ensures optimal productivity.

Rite-Hite.
Vertical-storing leveler allows loading dock doors to close on the pit floor.

Newer upward-acting doors also incorporate a perimeter thermal air seal for added energy savings through a tighter closure.

In addition to their temperature separation capabilities, the most advanced high-speed doors comply with Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines that are frequently referred to by the FDA and USDA.

Remember to Protect the Supply Chain at the Loading Dock

In most instances, a systematic approach that incorporates automatic vehicle restraints, vertical dock levelers, appropriate seals/shelters, and the proper sequence of operation is the best way to secure a loading dock. These products, working together as a system, enhance security, protect employees, reduce contamination, and improve environmental conditions within a building and throughout a given supply chain.

Swietlik is director of customer relations and sales support for Rite-Hite. Reach him at [email protected].

AUTHOR DISCLAIMER: The information provided herein is provided as a general reference regarding the use of the applicable products in a specific application. This information is provided without warranty. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are using all mentioned products properly in your specific application and in accordance with all laws and regulations.