Self-Dumping Hoppers
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.
The Low Profile Hopper
One kind of self-dumping hopper you may wish to invest in is the 90 degree 'low profile' hopper. This is by far one of the easiest models to use for waste disposal.
The self-dump mechanism is activated by a cable carried with the forklift operator, and the self dumping hopper is secured to the forklift with a chain.
Using these types of hoppers for waste disposal means some added factors--odors, pests and other problems. These can be alleviated by purchasing the optional hopper covers available for the model you are buying. These covers will help prevent pests from being attracted to waste left for overnight storage, they are lightweight, and they come with a lock to prevent unauthorized 'after-hours' additions. These lids are also good for outdoor hoppers as they keep snow and rain out of the hopper.
Some Hidden Hopper Hazards
Using a hopper can hold a few unsuspecting hazards depending on the materials stored and dumped by the hopper. If you are dealing with materials that leave residue such as sawdust, wood chips, broken glass or other inhalables, it's best to use a respirator or face mask to prevent foreign objects from entering the nasal passages and airway.
If there is a 'splash potential' from semi liquid material, melting ice or snow (in the case of outdoor operations), you'll want to take such factors into consideration when dumping. If there is any kind of potential for caustic, corrosive or other irritants left as residue, you'll not only need to beware of the backsplash from such during dumping, but also know how to properly decontaminate the hopper after the dumping operation.
Leak Proof Containers? Double Check!
If you need an industrial hopper for transporting or dumping waste or trash, be sure to select a model advertised with leak-proof construction. Regardless of whether or not you have consumer trash and non-EPA regulated waste, or if you are using an industrial hopper to transport properly bagged and identified workplace discards such as empty detergent bottles or eyewash containers, a leakproof container is still critical.
?Preventing unidentified spills will save much grief in the workplace. Hazmat control is critical and even a puddle of water can become a cause for concern if it is suspected of being something more. Avoid work stoppage and unnecessary hazmat cleanup procedures by using leakproof containers.
Box Dumpers and Industrial Hoppers--a Good Combination
If you have purchased industrial hoppers, chances are you are also considering the purchase of a hydraulic box dumper as well. The expense of one of these units is well worth the time savings, and reduced physical strain, on workers who may have to find alternative dumping methods without one of these units.
The hydraulic box dumper is designed for a pallet truck to deliver the industrial hopper into place. Once the industrial hopper is in place the box dumper is a one-person operation. These dumpers are built with a variety of dump heights, so it can accommodate a wide range of industrial hoppers.
These?machines come in a variety of capacities including a model that is rated for 6,000 pounds. If you anticipate any volume close to the higher end of the capacity of a box dumper, it's wise to buy a dumper rated at the next highest capacity.
Trailer-Mounted Hoppers
Some types of hoppers are designed to be used on trailers--these hoppers have quite a lot of versatility. They can be used as stationary hoppers when taken off the trailer, and many units come with a winch for mobile uses that require partial dumping at different sites.
An important thing for operators to know --?when dumping with these hoppers, they should be attached to the truck for maximum stability. The hoppers come with fork pockets for forklift use, and with a removable hitch. Removing the hitch makes these hoppers a self-dumping hopper fork truck attachment.
Fork truck operators may need to engage a spotter before dumping operations depending on the visibility required. These models come in 2,000 and 3,000?pound capacity ratings. As always, do not exceed half the rated capacity of the fork truck used to make the dump,?otherwise a tipping hazard is likely.
Portable Steel Hoppers
A portable steel hopper is good for transporting plant refuse and other lightweight material. The steel hoppers have casters that allow easy relocation from area to area, and are rated for 1,000 pounds. Remember that many models of steel hopper are designed only for light materials and not for "heavy mass" objects that concentrate a large amount of weight in one portion of the hopper.
Steel hoppers are constructed from fourteen gauge steel and many are built with operator assisted tilt mechanisms. If you need to move a portable steel hopper over rough terrain, consider purchasing a model with an optional power traction drive. This add-on makes the hopper a single-operator container even over difficult terrain such as a building site or construction area.