Avoid unnecessary downtime and repairs
The days are getting shorter and winter is coming. Using the tips below, Kraker Trailers can help your moving floor trailers through the winter without any problems.
Clear the platform of ice
Important safety tip: make sure your platform is always clear of ice. The K-Force's platform is very safe, with its high balustrade and anti-vibration chain. It also has a non-slip floor, but ice could cause this platform to become slippery as well. Work safely with your K-Force and clear your platform of ice before you get to work.
Keep the roof tarpaulin free of water and ice
Despite frequent warnings, it is unfortunately still common for accidents to happen because of ice slabs from the roof of a trailer.
Prevent ice slabs from forming and keep your roof clear of water and ice. Ice slabs slide while driving and can fall from your trailer. This is very dangerous for your fellow road users. This is strictly controlled and in case of an accident, both the carrier and the driver are liable.
Park your trailer indoors
Is your trailer loaded? If possible, park your trailer indoors. This does not only make it easy for yourself (you can simply get in and drive off), it is also good for your trailer and the cargo. This is particularly advisable with damp cargo, which brings us straight to point 4.
Lubricate the seams between the floorboards of your moving floor
If you drive with damp cargo, the moisture can creep between your floorboards and freeze. This will result in the moving floor system failing to work. This is also a handy tip if you only drive with dry cargo, especially if you do not have the option to park you trailer indoors.
Note: only use lubricant that you have discussed with your customer beforehand. The reason for this is that the type of cargo determines which lubricant or antifreeze you use.
The position of the piston rods of the moving floor system
Make sure the cylinders of your moving floor system are always retracted when you drive. If you fail to do so, and leave one or more cylinders in the extended position, splash water and condensation could freeze on the piston rods. This ice can damage cylinder seals during unloading. This could result in extra costs and unplanned downtime.
Always stop your floor when the piston rods are in the cylinder.
Check the top rail before loading
Make sure the top rail is clean. This is always important, but even more so during sub-zero temperatures. Is there (damp) product on your top rail? Then this can freeze and the system's brush cannot remove it. Before loading, always check the top rail of your trailer. This is another way to avoid unnecessary delays or damage.
Tips?
Do you have any handy tips for your colleagues? Please feel free to pass them on to Kraker Trailers(info@krakertrailers.nl). We would be happy to publish them: together we make working easier and safer.