Why Foam-Insulated Decks Are Used
The primary reason for equipping dock levelers with foam insulated decks is to eliminate or reduce condensation from forming on the dock leveler deck surface.
Condensation can form on the dock leveler deck surface when there is a significant temperature difference between the exterior temperature and the building’s interior temperature at the loading dock area.
Safety Concerns Caused by Condensation
Condensation on the dock leveler deck creates a slippery surface. This slippery surface increases the chance of an accidental fall by the loading dock attendant walking on the deck or it could cause the lift truck to slide or spin its wheels when crossing the dock leveler deck.
Where Foam-Insulated Decks Are Commonly Used
It is common for foam insulated decks to be utilized in cold storage or especially freezer warehousing operations where the difference between the building’s inside temperature and outside temperature can be significant.
Primary Purpose: Condensation Control
The primary purpose of the foam insulated decks is to eliminate condensation. The heat/energy loss value of this option is not significant and there are other options that are better suited and better value to address heat/energy loss. Improved weather seal on the dock leveler and/or dock seals or dock shelters are examples.
Pentalift Availability
Foam insulated decks are available on any model of Pentalift mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic activated dock levelers.
This link leads to a photograph of the underside of a dock leveler deck that has been manufactured with the optional sprayed foam insulation:
https://www.pentalift.com/solutions/foam-insulation-2/
How Foam-Insulated Decks Are Manufactured
During the manufacturing process the underside of the deck assembly is pre-painted and then positioned upside down on the assembly bench. The foam insulation is then sprayed full length between the deck beams and then allowed to set and cure; once cured the deck assembly is then installed in the lower frame. The dock leveler is then adjusted, cycle tested and prepared for shipping.
For additional information on any Pentalift product please contact the Pentalift Sales Department.