Read this tip to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Hoppers and other Material Handling topics.
There are many different kinds of self-dumping hoppers to choose from, and two of the major differences lie with how the hoppers dump. One model features a cable the forklift operator carries in the driver's seat, which the driver uses to release the load at the right moment. The other model has a bumper which dumps the load once the bumper makes contact.
These hoppers are just two of many different types. You can choose low-profile hoppers which look like oversize wheel barrows--these are designed to be used as a catch basin for parts, or placed beneath chutes .
Which ever model you choose, the total weight of the loaded hopper should not be more than half the rated capacity of a forklift transporting the hoppers. The reason? Your forklift operator needs a safe "load center of gravity" when dumping the hopper. If the load exceeds 50% of forklift capacity you may encounter a tipping hazard.
Guru Spotlight |
Carma Spence-Pothitt |