What’s the difference between hydraulic dock leveler and mechanical dock leveler?

The difference between a hydraulic and a mechanical dock leveler of Master Well is obvious on the surface – the hydraulic dock leveler works automatically with the push of a button, while the mechanical dock leveler is activated with a pull chain. The most important is the cost of ownership. A hydraulic dock leveler probably will cost as much as 10 percent more upfront than a mechanical dock leveler. However, the higher cost of hydraulic dock levelers is mitigated by the fact that they tend to last longer than the mechanical dock levelers. Some more differences of a hydraulic dock leveler and a mechanical dock leveler of Master Well are as follows:

A hydraulic dock leveler:

Master Well hydraulic dock levelers are ergonomically efficient and easier on workers because there is no bending and chain pulling, resulting in a lowered chance of injury.

•Is started by a simple push of a button.

•The push-button controls raise the leveler and extend the lip.

•As the buttons are released, the platform then floats down to the trailer floor.

•A hydraulic dock leveler tends to operate in a range between 12 inches below and 12 inches above the level of the dock.

•Normal operation doesn’t require pulling a chain.

•When loading is complete, the operator pushes a button to return the leveler to its stored position. (An automatic return also can be programmed.)

•Master Well Hydraulic dock levelers are ergonomically efficient and easier on workers because there is no bending and chain pulling, resulting in a lowered chance of injury.

•Master Well hydraulic dock leveler has one motor, two cylinders and hoses.

A mechanical dock leveler:

•Is spring-powered, requiring manual activation.

•It must be positioned onto a trailer by first pulling a chain (at the leveler’s rear) which sets the “hold down” system free, letting the platform rise and the lip extend.

•The operator then must walk onto the platform and use his body weight to lower the leveler onto the trailer bed.

•Should the trailer be below dock height, the operator then has to pull a second chain (this one near the leveler’s front) in order to retract the support legs. This allows the platform to travel below the deck.

•The ergonomics of a mechanical dock leveler is less efficient than a hydraulic dock leveler.

•The mechanical dock leveler has springs, hold downs, lip latches and more moving parts, parts which are consistently under pressure, requiring more frequent replacement, particularly of the leveler’s springs.

•In addition, the mechanical springs are heat/cold sensitive – expanding in the heat of summer and contracting in the cold of winter – requiring consistent adjustment as a result.

To learn more about whether a hydraulic dock leveler or mechanical dock leveler is right for you, please contact Master Well dock leveler experts today. We are happy to give you a professional suggestion for your choice.