"Weatherwise" dock equipment now available

When you think about loading docks, do you also think about the weather? Apparently, several dock manufacturers do. For evidence of that, you need look no further than a couple of recent new product announcements that make a very clear connection between docks and weather:

• Sunny and bright: Pentalift Equipment Corp. says its new SolarDock solar-powered hydraulic dock leveler is an industry first. The patent-pending design relies on solar energy to replenish its battery; when fully charged, the battery can supply sufficient power for approximately 150 cycles of the leveler, according to the manufacturer. Installation is inexpensive because there's no need for a dedicated incoming AC power supply. Will it still work when it's cloudy? For the answer to that and other questions, go to www.pentalift.com/PDF/SolarDock-Q&A.pdf.
• Let the wind blow: TKO Dock Doors recently announced that its sectional knockout doors have been approved for high wind-load environments under Florida's stringent building code—the only ones to so qualify, the company says. The company's new Wind Load Door design was tested to withstand pressures of +52.0 and -67.5 pounds per square foot, enabling it to remain intact through straight winds and hurricanes. In addition, users can engage the slide locks located on the knock-out panels, providing reinforcement against high winds and debris. For more information, go to www.tkodoors.com.