Frommelt Products Corp., a division of Rite-Hite Corp., says its PitMaster under-leveler seal closes off the fourth side of the dock opening – beneath and around the dock leveler. The resulting barrier is designed to seal air gaps to dramatically reduce energy costs and improve industrial hygiene.
Because the front of a typical leveler pit is fully open to the outside environment, it can create a host of potential problems at the loading dock in terms of sanitation issues and wasted energy. To effectively complete the seal at the loading dock, the seal, designed to fit a variety of leveler types, features a compressible sealing curtain made of durable black vinyl. The curtain is held in place by spring-loaded arms and flexible stays that keep the seal engaged against the leveler and pit sides throughout leveler operation, according to the company; a separate header curtain constantly maintains the seal – even when the leveler is in an above-dock position.
The PitMaster closes up the pit and seals air gaps where the leveler, the truck and the dock seal or shelter all meet. The company says that by eliminating small openings or “white space” at the trailer level, the seal helps prevent dust, pests, debris and refuse from collecting in leveler pits; keeps the dock area and the entire facility cleaner; and promotes improved sanitation and industrial hygiene, which can help food facilities pass AIB inspections.
Additionally, the PitMaster helps prevent heating and/or cooling energy from escaping the building. PitMaster components are designed to accomplish this in two ways: First, airflow is blocked by sealing the gaps below and at the corners of the dock leveler; second, by securely sealing up the pit area, an insulating pocket of “dead air” forms beneath the leveler, reducing heat transfer through the steel leveler deck for substantial, around-the-clock energy savings.
In addition to standard components, the seal also has a variety of options, according to the company. Leveler lip corner seals help to eliminate hard-to-seal gaps at corners of the dock leveler; when a trailer is in place, optional filler pads close the gaps between the leveler and dock shelter to further seal white space, gaps and small openings.
The PitMaster installs easily with common tools, the company says; a quick-disconnect feature allows the main sealing curtain to be released for access to the leveler pit when dock equipment maintenance is needed, and sealing components can be replaced quickly and easily, but require no regular maintenance.
For more information, go to www.ritehite.com.
