What are Edge of Dock Levelers?

In modern logistics systems, dock levelers are a very common structure in logistics terminals. edge of dock levelers are an option for many warehouses and logistics centre due to their unique design concept and convenience. The edge of dock levelers are cleverly installed on the side of the platform without the need for complex pit construction, saving space and increasing efficiency. In this article, we will introduce the components, advantages and potential limitations of edge of dock levelers to help your company better understand the dock leveler.

Edge of dock levelers are a type of loading platform used to fill the gap between the edge of the loading bay and the trucks and ramps. Unlike hydraulic dock levelers, edge of dock levelers are mounted directly on the platform edge and fixed to the edge of the platform. There is no need to reserve pit space on the platform. Seppes edge of dock levelers are ideal for logistics terminals where there is insufficient space for installation.

Main Components of Edge of Dock Levelers

Surface treatment of edge of dock levelers

The main structural parts of hydraulic edge of dock leveler are made of high-quality high-strength patterned steel plates and profiles that are tightly welded. All steel structure components are painted with two coats of primer and two coats of topcoat, and high-quality polyurethane topcoat is selected. After drying, the paint film thickness is not less than 0.08mm. This treatment method effectively improves corrosion resistance and service life.

Dock Leveler Structure and Technical Performance

Dock leveler structure: It adopts an overall surface structure design. And the surface adopts a high-strength tensile patterned plate table panel. The bottom frame of the panel adopts Seppes unique “I” steel support structure, which effectively decomposes the distribution of force, reduces the torsion of the frame, and is more sturdy and durable.

Open-hinge joint structure: Made of high-strength tensile patterned steel plates, connected by a 25-30mm diameter galvanized connecting shaft. Compared with traditional tubular welded joints, the open loose-leaf joint increases the welding area by 300%, the force-bearing area by more than 2.5 times. The loose-leaf small spanner increases the bearing capacity by up to 4 times, and it is easier to maintain.

Spring balance structure: The spring balance structure has the characteristics of high strength, high toughness and easy operation.

Open base structure: Easy to clean and maintain the pit.

Independent leg structure: The patented 28-ton (60,600lbs.) support leg structure can keep the cargo and forklift on the horizontal plane. When the truck suddenly leaves the loading area, minimizing the risks of accidents and ensuring the safety of operators.

Assembly maintenance support rod: The loading dock leveler is equipped with an assembly maintenance support rod. It can support the dock leveler during equipment maintenance or pit cleaning to ensure the safety of operators.

Connecting shaft: The use of 2 concentric shafts can effectively reduce the deformation of the shaft caused by stress concentration.

Floating adjustment: When the loose-leaf small lever is placed on the rear of the truck, it can be deflected vertically.

Anti-collision rubber: The front end of the dock leveler is equipped with two heavy-duty anti-collision rubbers.

Four Advantages of Loading Dock Levelers

Flexible and Convenient Installation

The biggest highlight of the edge of dock plate is its installation flexibility. It does not require pre-excavation and construction of foundation pits, which can reduce the use of space. Whether it is a new logistics or an old warehouse renovation, warehouse dock levelers can be installed quickly. It can greatly shortening the construction period, reducing installation costs and labor costs. In addition, the flexible installation method also allows enterprises to easily migrate or reconfigure edge of dock levelers when adjusting the warehouse layout.

Maximize Space Utilization

Since the platform space is not occupied for foundation pit construction, the space in the platform area is maximized. Especially when the installation space is limited, loading dock levelers provide more flexibility and convenience for warehouse management compared to pit platforms. The unique design of edge of dock levelers not only improves the efficiency of space utilization. But also provides more flexibility and convenience for warehouse management. By optimizing the space configuration, warehouse managers can better arrange storage, transportation and personnel flow, thereby improving the overall efficiency of logistics.

Efficient Gap Adjustment

Edge dock levelers can effectively adjust the gap between the platform and the carriage. It forms a bridge, so that small handling tools such as trolleys and forklifts can load goods smoothly and quickly, improving work efficiency. By adjusting the lifting and lowering of edge of dock levelers, operators can quickly adapt to trucks of different heights and sizes, reduce waiting time, and thus increase loading and unloading speed. This efficient adjustment ability makes edge of dock levelers particularly suitable for environments such as logistics centers and warehouses.

Economical and Practical

Compared with traditional pit dock levelers, hydraulic dock levelers are more affordable in price. The operation of edge of dock levelers is mainly to lift the lip plate up and down, and overlap the lip plate on the rear side of the carriage. However, due to the lack of assistance, the adjustment range of edge dock levelers is small. The structure of dock plate leveler is simple, the maintenance cost is low, and it is more economical and practical in long-term use.

Potential Limitations of Edge of Dock Levelers

Load Capacity Limitations

While edge dock levelers meet most daily loading needs, their load capacity is relatively limited, typically under 3 tons. They are not suitable for heavy-duty electric forklift operations. Truck dock leveler support half the load capacity of traditional dock leveler. It makes them ideal for lighter cargo and situations where the height difference between the truck and the platform is minimal.

Limited Lip Lifting Range

Because there is no main board to assist, the lip lifting adjustment range of loading dock levelers is small, usually about ±10 cm. This limits its flexibility to adapt to different heights of carriages. In particular, in the case of a large height difference between the carriage and the platform, additional auxiliary equipment may be required.

Customization Needs

Although edge of dock levelers can be customized according to customer needs. But this customization also means that when purchasing, you need to consider the specific situation and future development plan of the warehouse more carefully to ensure that the selected platform can perfectly match the actual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Edge of Dock Leveler?

Edge of dock levelers are equipment used for loading goods, which can form a smooth transition between trucks and warehouses. It helps to transfer goods quickly and safely through the lifting mechanism, improving loading efficiency.

Q: What is the Difference Between Edge of Dock Levelers and Dock Levelers?

Compared with traditional pit levelers, edge of dock levelers do not require foundation pit construction They are flexible to install, have high space utilization, and generally have lower maintenance costs and prices.

Q: What Types of Vehicles are Edge of Dock Levelers Suitable For?

Edge of dock levelers are suitable for many types of trucks, including flatbed trucks, vans, etc. It can effectively adjust the height difference between the truck compartment to ensure safe loading and unloading.

Q: Is the Installation Process of Edge Dock Levelers Complicated?

Not complicated. The installation of edge dock levelers usually does not require large-scale foundation pit construction. It is suitable for new and renovated warehouses, and shortens the construction period.

Q: How to Maintain Edge of Dock Levelers to Ensure its Long-Term Use?

Regular inspection of the lifting mechanism, cleaning the surface and lubricating moving parts are the key to maintenance. Keeping edge dock levelers in good condition can extend its service life and improve safety.

Q: What is the Load-Bearing Capacity of Edge of Dock Levelers?

The load capacity of edge of dock levelers varies by model, and they can usually carry several thousand pounds of cargo. It is recommended to check the technical specifications of specific products for detailed load capacity.

Q: How Safe is it to Use Edge Dock Levelers?

Edge of dock levelers are designed with multiple safety features, including non-slip surfaces and fall protection. Ensuring that operators follow safe operating procedures can greatly reduce the risk of accidents.

Q: What Factors Should be Considered When Purchasing Dock Levelers?

When purchasing, you need to consider the platform’s load capacity, size, applicable vehicle type, and maintenance requirements. In addition, it is important to choose a reputable manufacturer.

Q: How Long is the Service Life of Dock Levelers?

The service life of loading dock levelers usually depends on the frequency of use and maintenance. Proper maintenance can extend its service life to more than ten years.

Q: Are Edge of Dock Levelers Suitable For All Types of Warehouses?

In most cases, edge levelers are suitable for a variety of warehouse types, including logistics centers, manufacturing warehouses, and distribution centers, but specific applicability needs to be evaluated based on warehouse design and operational needs.

Q: Which Companies Have Your Seppes Brand’s Hydraulic Dock Leveler Cooperated With?

Seppes exports to more than 70 countries and cooperates with more than 60 Fortune 500 companies such as IKEA, Johnson & Johnson, and Fresenius.