An example of equipment used at the loading dock with a static load rating is a Dock Lift.
In a loading application the product is moved onto the dock lift platform when it is in the lowered position, the load remains static or stationary as the dock lift rises to the truck bed height. The dock lift hinged bridge plates are then lowered and the product is moved from the dock lift platform to the truck bed. The transition from the dock lift to the truck bed is level and happens at a fairly slow pace.
As standard dock lifts are available with static capacity load ratings ranging from 3,000 lbs. to 20,000 lbs.
An example of equipment used at the loading dock with a dynamic load rating is a Dock Leveler.
With a truck backed into position at the loading dock and the overhead door open the dock leveler is cycled. The dock leveler deck assembly raises and when fully raised the hinged lip assembly extends, the dock leveler deck assembly with the extended lip now lowers to the truck bed and loading begins.
The standard dock height is 48” above grade. It is not uncommon for trucks to arrive at the loading dock with the truck bed height higher than the loading dock finished floor level. With the dock leveler in position the lift truck approaches often at 3-4 miles per hour and drives across the dock leveler introducing an immediate impact and shock load to the dock leveler deck and lip assembly.
This rolling load is referred to as a dynamic load.
There are many variables at the loading dock to consider when selecting or specifying the correct dock leveler capacity. These variables include knowing the maximum total weight that will be driven across the dock leveler deck and lip assembly, the number of trucks serviced per day, the speed of the lift truck, the percentage of incline/decline etc.
The link was created specifically to assist in identifying the factors to consider when selecting or specifying the correct dock leveler capacity. Â https://www.pentalift.com/solutions/dock-leveler-capacity-understanding-loading-dock-capacity/
As standard dock levelers are available with dynamic load ratings ranging from 35,000 lbs. to 150,000 lbs.
In summary dock lifts are designed to lift and lower a stationary static load and dock levelers are designed to accommodate a moving dynamic load.
For additional information on any Pentalift product please contact the Pentalift Sales Department.