Dock shelters can keep your loading dock area safe and comfortable by keeping weather and pests out of your facility, while keeping conditioned air inside where it belongs. Welch Equipment sells, installs and services products from the top producers of dock shelters in the country.
What Is A Dock Shelter?
Almost all dock shelters are constructed with a metal or wood frame that can be rigid or flexible. Fabric and/or fiberglass is generally fastened to the outer surface and fabric drapes attach to the face of the shelter. These drapes seal the sides and top of the trailer when it’s up against the bay door opening. Shelters are generally put to use for larger door openings, and in operations where there is a wide variety in truck heights. Shelters can attain about 70% air flow efficiency.
Rigid Dock Shelter
Rigid shelters are the most popular option, and they are generally utilized for large dimension openings in applications where there is less consistency in trailer height and full access to the back of the trailer is needed. Rigid head frames and sides are reinforced by metal supports that are generally equipped with fiberglass sides to maximize light during daytime work. The head frame also acts as an awning to protect the dock area from precipitation.
Inflatable Dock Shelter
Inflatable shelters, like rigid ones, seal the perimeter of the trailer enabling unfettered ingress and egress to the trailer. A blower is used to inflate the shelter once a truck is backed up to the dock door. These types of shelters are usually part of an interlock system, along with the leveler and door, where the shelter is allowed to inflate only if the dock leveler and door are in the correct positions. Many sizes and shapes of inflatable shelters are available for all types of operations.
What’s The Difference Between A Dock Seal And Dock Shelter?
Seals are made from heavy duty fabric covered foam. They’re attached around the outside edges of a dock door. They allow for a tight seal when a truck backs up to the door.
Shelters, on the other hand, consist of a frame that surrounds the dock door with curtains attached to the frame. When a trailer backs in, the drapes enshroud the trailer entry and create a seal.
Dock Shelters Near Me
To get more information about dock shelter options and capabilities, get in touch with a loading dock equipment specialist at Welch Equipment today! Our team of highly trained experts can help with the design and specification of a wide range of dock equipment options.
