Loading dock bumpers protect the dock from the impact force of backing trucks/trailers,
that can cause structural damage to the loading dock, dock equipment and building. The impact force of an approaching truck/trailer
can generate up 300,000 lbs. of impact force. The impact resilience and strength of dock bumpers
can aid in preventing damage from occurring. Blue Giant provides several styles of dock bumper designs,
and a general guideline of factors to consider when applying dock bumpers for your application needs.
Factors that affect dock bumper selection;
A) Dock Height
Dock Height Considerations
B) Dock Approach
Dock Approach Considerations
C) Truck Bed Heights To Be Serviced
Truck Bed Height Considerations
D) Truck/Trailer Traffic Volume Per Shift - Light (1-3), Moderate (4-8) or Heavy (over 8 trucks)
E) Dock Equipment To Be Used (Dock Leveler or Portable Plate)
Dock Bumpers
Blue Giant dock bumpers are available in "molded" and "laminated" styles, with an optional steel face plate available, depending on the specific model.
Dock Bumper Thickness
Blue Giant dock bumpers are available in three (3) standard thickness of 4", 4.5" and 5.5", depending on the specific model.
Dock bumper thickness of 4" - 4.5" is suitable for most standard application, to effectively protect the dock from the
impact forces of backing trucks/trailers. For moderate to heavy traffic applications a 5.5" thick dock bumper provides
greater impact absorption ability. Caution should be taken when increasing bumper projection beyond standard which can
reduce the loading dock levelers lip projection onto the bed of the truck/trailer.
Note: If greater bumper projection is required consider
Cantilevered Docks and Pit Projections or bumper build-outs of proper strength and construction, while maintaining proper dock leveler lip projection upon the bed of the truck/trailer. Replacement cost of standard
style dock bumpers vs. extra-thick dock bumpers can be a dramatic life-time cost savings.
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