Oct 3, 2011 7:00 AM

Aware of the importance of saving energy at the loading dock, many facilities have made the investment in vertical storing dock levelers. However, the vertical leveler alone does not prevent energy loss; it provides facilities with the opportunity to save energy by removing the gaps created by a traditional pit-style dock leveler. It is the combination of the vertical storing leveler and a loading dock door that creates energy savings by completely sealing the building envelope.

Due to budget constraints, many facilities are unable to justify the additional expense of a vertical rise freezer door. Installing standard sectional doors, however, prevents the facility from reaping all the energy-saving benefits of a vertical storing leveler.

Recognizing the need for an effective door that is not cost-prohibitive, TKO Dock Doors created the VertiCool door, specifically designed for use with vertical storing dock levelers. The VertiCool combines superior energy efficiency and lower cost of ownership.

Features of the VertiCool include:

•A 4-inch-thick R-23 insulated panel that mirrors the insulated wall panel for superior thermal protection

•48-inch panel heights, reducing the number of panel joints by 50% for energy efficiency and easy cleaning

•Dual compression side seals mounted to the door panel to prevent damage and maintain effectiveness

•A closed-cell foam interior that prevents moisture accumulation and door damage

•A heavy-duty polymer thermal break track that runs the full opening height

•UV-stabilized exterior painted aluminum skin

•Dual overlapping header seal and compression loop bottom seals to keep a consistent seal on all sides of the door

Contact TKO Doors to learn more about the VertiCool and to sign up for a complimentary energy efficiency survey at your facility. E-mail sales@tkodoors.com, call 1-877-408-6788, or access www.tkodoors.com.