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Airoflex

Introducing the Next Generation of the Airoflex Portable Tipper

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Airoflex built the original Portable Tipper to handle the toughest off-highway dumping applications while still being road-ready in minutes. The new version keeps that same 45-ton capacity and rugged, over-the-road-ready design, and adds a round of upgrades focused on one thing our customers ask for most: less time spent cleaning and maintaining, more time running.

Here’s what’s new.

Hydraulic Leveling

The updated tipper now levels hydraulically, making Fully hydraulic leveling makes it faster and easier to get set up level on uneven ground before every dump.

Reduced Deck Slope

We decreased the deck slope byto 3 degrees, improving stability and control during operation. Making it easier to back on to.

Removable Cylinder Trunnion Bearings

The cylinder trunnion bearings are now removable, giving crews direct access for inspection and maintenance without tearing into the structure around them. allowing them to be replaced easily and removed for maintenance.

Replaceable Cylinder Mount Bearings

The cylinder mount bearings are a common spot for material buildup and corrosion — and historically, a tough spot to clean. On the new design, these bearings bolt on as standard stock items, so a damaged or worn bearing can simply be swapped out instead of repaired or worked around. Airoflex also keeps these parts in stock to help keep customers operational.

Enclosed Subframe Structure

We redesigned the subframe to close off the areas where material is used tends to collect. The result is a tipper that looks better, stays cleaner, and resists corrosion, with far less time spent scraping buildup out of hard-to-reach spots. We made the same kind of updates around the backstop and main pivot, opening up easier access for cleaning and maintenance in those areas too.

Relocated, Recessed Gladhand / Airline Hookup

The gladhand and truck air hookup now sit at the center of the deck, eliminating the need for extension hoses on hookup. The connection is also recessed, protecting it from damage during operation.

Updated Outrigger Wing Design

The outrigger wings have been redesigned to reduce spillage,  both over the top and underneath the wings, for a cleaner dump and less material lost around the unit.

Removable Sideshields

Sideshields are now removable, so a damaged shield can be replaced quickly, or swapped for an alternative design to fit a specific application.

Same proven platform. Built to stay cleaner and run longer. Improved performance

Every update on this list traces back to feedback from customers and operators of these units.  Airoflex is proud to offer a new upgraded version of portable tipper.  crews running these units in the field, less buildup, easier access, faster maintenance, less downtime. If you’d like to know more about like a closer look at any of these updates, including a walkthrough on the tipper itself, contact Airoflex or request a quote.

How To Bleed Telescoping Hydraulic Cylinders

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AOF Article - How to bleed cylinders-1

Proper air-bleeding is a critical step in installation and use of hydraulic cylinders. This article will explain how to bleed telescoping(multi-stage) cylinders and the parts required.

bleeder location

The location of the bleed port will vary depending on the type of cylinder.

airoflex - standard cylinders

Standard Cylinders

Standard Airoflex cylinders will have the bleed port on on the smallest sleeve (near the top pin of the telescoping end) at the a-frame of dumper connection.

airoflex-inverted-cylinders

Inverted Cylinders

Inverted cylinders, typically used on smaller trailer tippers or portables tippers will have the bleed port on the top of the cylinder (furthest away from the telescoping end) next to the lifting eye.

PORT VARIATIONS (TELESCOPING CYLINDERS)

  • Airoflex standard telescoping cylinders
    • Size: 1/8" NPT Port
  • Inverted Cylinders
    • Cylinder Model 911001 (portable tippers, some trailer tippers)
      • Size: Varies (adapter available for all port sizes)
        - Bleed Port Adapter Part #: 903036
    • Cylinder Model 911003 (2025 and newer)
      • Size: 1/8" NPT Port

required parts

airoflex-bleed-adapter

Bleed Adapter - Part #: 903036

The bleed adapter attached directly to the bleed port on older inverted cylinders (model # 911001). This part should be removed after cylinder is bled.

airoflex-bleed-valve

Bleed Valve - Part #: 903016

The bleed adapter attached directly to the bleed port on older inverted cylinders (model # 911001). This part should be removed after cylinder is bled.

airoflex-bleed-hose

Bleed Hose - Part #: 905023

The bleed hose connects to the bleed valve. The hose is used to direct oil to a bucket or other containment while the cylinder is being bled. The hose should be removed after the cylinder is bled. Longer versions are available.

CYLINDER BLEEDING PROCEDURE

  1. Start pump motor(s) and allow the power unit to idle for 10 - 15 minutes.
  2. Bump the controls for each circuit to check for proper response / operation.
  3. Bleed any auxillary line circuits (back-stops or pit doors) first. These are typically dual acting cylinders. Ensure all auxillary lines are bled and operating correctly before bleeding the telescoping cylinders.
  4. Remove the bleed port plug from the cylinder.
  5. Install the bleed adapters if applicable (part #903036). Warning: Do NOT overtighted the bleed adapters as the male threaded end can break off in the cylinder port.
  6. Install bleed valve (Part # 903016) and the bleed hose (part # 905023).
    • Note: Longer versions or extensions of the bleed hose are available.
  7. Place the bleed hose so the oil drains into a clean bucket or other storage container
  8. Actuate the cylinder control and continue until out-flowing oil is free of air bubbles.
  9. Remove the bleed hose, bleed port and bled apadater (if app.) and replace the port plug.
  10. Operate the cylinders through a full range of motion.
  11. Cylinders may need to be bled multiple times over several days until all the excess air in the system has been removed.
    • Note: Ensure the tank oil level is maintained after bleeding. Only clean oil should be put back into the power unit reservoir and it should be run through a filter prior to being added to the reservoir.

Wind Speed and Truck Dumpers

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Wind speed not only affects the truck dumper itself, but also the truck and /or trailer. Understanding how wind speed impacts truck dumpers is critical for proper design and safe operation.

Parallel Wind Direction

Wind acting parallel with the truck dumper, referred to as a ‘head’ or ‘tail’ wind, applies the greatest force directly to the deck. A head wind blowing from the front to the back of the dumper typically does not present significant issues when the dumper is loaded. Even with the deck unloaded, the dumper typically has sufficient mass to counteract wind forces; however, raising the deck while unloaded during high winds is not recommended.

A tail wind blowing from the back to the front of the dumper typically places the most stress on both the structure and hydraulic system.

This added stress occurs because the wind acts in the same direction as the gravity load of the truck or trailer. Depending on wind speed and direction, a tailwind can add several thousand pounds of additional force to the deck. If the deck is aged or the truck is heavier than the dumper’s load rating, the additional load can cause structural damage to the main frame.

Cross Wind

Cross winds are of greater concern than parallel winds, despite putting less force on the dumper itself. The reason for this is the truck and trailer, and not the dumper deck. The trailer presents a large surface like a sail for the wind to act upon. The trailer is most vulnerable to wind while it is in the raised position after the contents have been unloaded. An empty trailer is relatively light compared to its surface area. High wind speeds on an empty trailer can put a twisting force through the trailer and into the dumper frame, regardless of whether the tractor is tied down or not. In a worst-case scenario, the wind will cause the trailer to shift on the deck, creating more torsional forces on the dumper and potentially causing the truck and/or trailer to fall. Safety/retainer hoops are a last-resort feature and are not designed to restrain trailers during high-wind events.

combination winds

Wind very rarely acts completely parallel or perpendicular to specific pieces of equipment. Wind direction can change rapidly, and swirling or turbulent winds can create a combination of forces in multiple directions. Surrounding geographic features, buildings, or nearby equipment can create additional currents or wind turbulence, adding to the complexity of the wind loading.

Design Parameters

Airoflex dumpers are designed for site-specific wind loading based on ASCE hazard data. This allows the wind forces to be accounted for in the major axes of the dumper for both structural design and foundation loads. The design wind speed may be very high, and is NOT the operational wind speed for the dumper.

Operational Parameters

Airoflex recommends a maximum wind speed of 20 miles per hour, based on a 3-second gust, as the cut-off for operating any truck dumper. Larger models (65-foot deck length and up), dumpers located on flat or open terrain, or areas prone to high wind gusts, may require a lower wind speed maximum. Smaller dumpers, or dumpers that are blocked from the wind by buildings or other structures, may be able to operate safely at higher reported wind speeds due to being shielded from the full wind force.
Any increase in the dumper’s maximum operational wind speed is site-specific and depends on the user’s safety procedures. The user assumes full responsibility for operating above the Airoflex-recommended guidelines and should not do so without proper consideration and safety protocols in place. When deciding whether to operate a truck dumper under specific weather or wind conditions, a general rule of thumb is to consider crane operation. If a crane would not be operated at the current wind speed or weather conditions, then a truck dumper should not be operated.

Conclusion

Wind forces have a great effect on the design and operation of truck dumpers. Understanding how they interact with a truck dumper can not only help with better structural designs but also allow for safe and continued operations. Please contact Airoflex with any questions about design or operation regarding wind speed.

Understanding Tilt Angle

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understanding tilt angle

Tilt angle is a key factor in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of a truck dumper. It affects how smoothly and effectively a load is discharged, as well as the overall stability of the equipment during use. In this article, we’ll explore what tilt angle is, how to determine the correct angle for different applications, and the potential risks and safety hazards associated with using an improper tilt angle.

Terms

Tilt Angle: The angle of the dumper deck with respect to horizontal. See Figure 1.

Angle of Repose: The steepest angle at which a sloping surface formed of a particular loose material is stamble.  See Figure 2.

Ѳ (theta): Symbol typically used to represent angle.

Figure 1: Tilt Angle

tilt angle

Figure 2: Angle of Repose

tilt angle of repose

How Much Tilt Angle Do I Need?

As a general rule, the optimal tilt angle for a truck dumper is the minimum angle at which the material will flow freely out of the trailer. For most bulk materials, this typically falls between 30 and 60 degrees. However, certain environmental and material factors can reduce flowability and may require the angle to be increased. These factors include:

  • Freezing Weather, Ice/Snow
  • Wet/High Moisture Content Material
  • Sticky or Adhesive Materials

Many facilities receive a wide variety of materials under different conditions. In these cases, it’s often recommended to set the dumper based on the material with the highest angle of repose to ensure consistent unloading performance.

Additionally, some trailer types—such as tankers—may require much lower angles, generally in the range of 15 to 30 degrees, due to their design and how material is contained.

Setting the Tilt Angle

While some dumpers may have multiple limit switches, the one that controls tilt angle is almost always located at the main pivot point. There are two common types of limit switch mounting configurations used to adjust the tilt angle:

  • Limit Switch Adjustment. See Figure 3.
  • Tab Adjustment. See Figure 4.

In the Limit Switch Adjustment style, the trigger tab is fixed in place, and the tilt angle is adjusted by moving the limit switch forward or backward along its mount. For finer tuning, the limit switch arm can also be adjusted.

In contrast, the Tab Adjustment style features a fixed limit switch position (though the arm can still be fine-tuned), while the trigger tab is field-welded in place to achieve the desired tilt angle.

Both styles are commonly used, but newer dumpers tend to favor the Limit Switch Adjustment method due to its ease of adjustment and the fact that it does not require field welding.

Figure 3: Limit Switch Adjustment

Figure 4: Tab Adjustment

Hazards

Improper use of the tilt angle can cause serious problems with the equipment and pose safety concerns.

  • Never Exceed a 63 Degree Angle: 63 degrees is a common angle used throughout the industry. This angle will allow most materials to flow freely while keeping the center of gravity of the truck and/or trailer in front of the dumper pivot. If a higher angle is required, a specialty solution/equipment may be required.
    • Cylinder Damage: Most telescoping cylinders used on truck dumpers are designed with some extra stroke at the top and bottom range of motion. Do not set the tilt angle based on fully extending a cylinder. The cylinder may fully stroke out at an angle greater than 63 degrees. This can also put extra impact stress on the cylinder.
    • Center of Gravity: Tilting a dumper more than 63 degrees can start to affect the balance point of the truck/trailer that is being dumped. If the angle is too steep, the trailer may start to fall back off the dump deck. The dumper and trailer are also most susceptible to winds at higher angles as there is less weight on the tires and landing gear (and tractor).

Conclusion

Understanding the angle of repose of your material is key to setting your truck dumper at the ideal tilt angle for efficient and safe operation. It not only boosts performance but also plays a critical role in maintaining safety standards. If you’re unsure about the angle of repose for a specific material, need help determining the right angle, or are dealing with sticky or non-flowing material, the Airoflex team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Full-Size vs. Trailer-Only: Which Dumper Is Right for You?

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Full-Size vs. Trailer-Only? When it comes to material unloading in industrial operations, choosing the right type of dumper is crucial for optimizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Two common options are full-size truck dumpers and trailer-only dumpers. Each has advantages and drawbacks depending on your operational needs, facility layout, and budget. In this comparison, we will explore the features of both systems to help you make an informed decision.

Full-Size Truck Dumpers

Full-size truck dumpers come in two main styles: Extended Arm and Standard Pivot. Both types are built for unloading large volumes of material.

One of the top advantages to a full-size truck dumper would be for the quick unloading times. This is particularly useful for facilities with higher truck traffic or unloading volumes. With a full-size dumper, you don’t have to worry about unhooking the trailer in order to get started. The driver simply backs onto the dumper to unload and drives off without the hassle of unhooking or hooking their trailer.

ADVANTAGES:

  • Are needed for use with B-Train trailers.  (see photo to the right)
  • Quicker unloading cycles due to not having to unhook the trailer
  • Drive-over option

Extended Arm

Full-Size vs Trailer-Only Extended Arm

Standard Pivot

Full-Size vs Trailer-Only Standard Pivot

Trailer-Only Dumpers

Trailer-only dumpers are designed specifically for unloading trailers, typically with a shorter deck and lighter load capacity compared to full-size truck dumpers. These dumpers can be used in a variety of configurations, including extended arm, standard pivot and portable styles, making them versatile for different operations.

One of the advantages of trailer-only dumpers is their lower cost. The shorter deck requires fewer materials and less construction work, making it a more affordable option upfront. Moreover, since they often feature smaller cylinders, these units are more economical to maintain, with less fatigue stress on the equipment over time.

ADVANTAGES:

  • More affordable than full-size dumpers due to reduced material and construction costs
  • Lower maintenance costs because of less fatigue stress and smaller cylinders
  • Can have a short lead time on production
  • Can be galvanized
  • Portable and Semi-Portable Options
Full-Size vs Trailer-Only

Portable Model

Full-Size vs Trailer-Only Portable Model

Extended Arm

Full-Size vs Trailer-Only Extended Arm

Standard Pivot

Full-Size vs Trailer-Only Standard Pivot
Key Considerations

Space and Infrastructure: If your operation involves tight space or requires the ability to relocate equipment, trailer-only dumpers—especially portable models—may be more suitable. On the other hand, full-size dumpers are better suited for facilities with developed truck access or those requiring large-scale, high-volume unloading.

Speed and Efficiency: Full-size standard pivot dumpers are generally better for fast, continuous unloading. However, if cycle time is less of a priority and limited space is a concern, trailer only would best suit your needs.

Cost vs. Volume: If your facility handles a high volume of material and requires a dumper that can handle large trucks and trailers efficiently, full-size dumpers are often the more suitable choice. However, for smaller operations or facilities with limited budgets, trailer-only dumpers can be a cost-effective.

Conclusion

The decision between full-size truck dumpers and trailer-only dumpers depends on several factors, including budget, space, cycle time, and unloading needs. If you need higher volume and faster unloading, full-size dumper might be the best choice. On the other hand, if cost efficiency and equipment footprint are paramount for smaller-scale operations, a trailer-only dumper could provide the flexibility and savings you need.

By carefully considering these factors and assessing your specific needs, you can select the dumper system that maximizes both efficiency and cost-effectiveness for your operation.

An Overview of The Trailer-Only Truck Dumper

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Trailer only truck dumper

WHY USE A TRAILER-ONLY Truck DUMPER

When it comes to material handling equipment, choosing a trailer-only truck dumper offers unique advantages and specific use-case benefits. Below, we’ll explore why trailer-only dumpers might be the best choice for your operation, their various types, and how they can meet your needs efficiently and cost-effectively.

BENEFITS

Cost Efficiency
Trailer-only dumpers are generally more affordable than full-length dumpers due to their shorter deck length. This design reduces material costs and simplifies construction, resulting in significant savings without sacrificing functionality.

Reduced Fatigue Stress
With shorter and lighter loads being lifted, the deck experiences less fatigue stress over time. This can lead to improved durability and a longer lifespan for the equipment, lowering maintenance costs in the long run.

Smaller Cylinder
Many standard pivot models feature smaller cylinders. This not only contributes to cost savings but also allows for easier maintenance and repairs when compared to the larger cylinders required in full-length dumpers.

DRAWBACKS

Slower Cycle Time
One limitation is that the dumper’s cycle time remains the same as a full-length version. While the shorter deck may simplify some aspects of operation, it doesn’t inherently improve the speed of the dumping process.

Types of Trailer-Only Dumpers

Extended arm trailer only truck dumper

Extended Arm

Extended arm dumpers are ideal for use with above-grade hoppers but can also be employed with a material chute. The extended pivot point allows the trailer to be lifted higher, providing increased clearance for material to flow more efficiently. These dumpers are often back-on style, but drive-over versions are also available for added versatility.

standard pivot trailer only truck dumper

Standard Pivot

The standard pivot is the most commonly used type of trailer-only dumper and is available in two styles:

Inverted Style: Inverted dumpers feature cylinders attached directly to the deck. This design is often the most cost-effective option and provides a wide range of uses, including below-grade hoppers, over-wall/pit bunks, trailer loading, and tanker trailer unloading.

A-Frame Style: These utilize an A-frame structure similar to extended arm dumpers, offering robust support for a variety of applications.

portable trailer only truck dumper

PorTable

Portable trailer-only dumpers are an excellent choice when relocation is required. Whether managing a moving pile in a stockyard or transporting the dumper between multiple facilities, their compact size allows for flexibility while still being capable of dumping a full-sized 53′ trailer.

Conclusion

Trailer-only dumpers provide a cost-effective, durable, and versatile solution for material handling. Whether you’re looking for a portable option, a standard pivot model for general use, or an extended arm dumper for specific applications, these units deliver reliable performance and efficiency. Contact your Airoflex sales representative today to learn more and determine which dumper best suits your operation’s needs.

Exploring the Different Types of Full-Size Truck Dumpers

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TWO MAIN STYLES

There are two primary types of full-size truck dumpers: Extended Arm and Standard Pivot, also commonly known as Back-On and Drive-Over dumpers, respectively. Each style serves a specific purpose, and in this article, we will explore their features in detail to help you decide which option is best suited for your facility.

Extended Arm (Back-On)

full-size truck dumper with extended arm

The structural arm extending back to the pivot point gives extended-arm truck dumpers their name. Designers position the pivot point near the mid-point of the hopper, allowing the deck to follow the hopper’s arc. This elevated design raises the dumper higher off the ground, creating ample clearance for the trailer’s contents to fall efficiently into the hopper.

Extended-arm truck dumpers are most commonly used with above-grade receiving hoppers. They can be used without a hopper (see figure 2). 

Extended arm on full size truck dumper
full-size truck dumper with extended arm

Benefits:

  • Typically designed to be entirely above grade, simplifying repairs and maintenance.
  • Allows for the use of fixed backstops, reducing maintenance requirements over time (learn more about backstops HERE).
  • The most commonly used type of tipper.

When evaluating dumpers, two key factors to consider are driver interface and staging, as well as cycle time. Extended arm dumpers require drivers to back onto the platform rather than drive straight through, which can be slightly more challenging for drivers. Additionally, the cycle time for an extended arm dumper may be slower compared to a standard pivot dumper, primarily due to the time it takes for drivers to position their trucks. Most drivers can position a truck more quickly when driving forward rather than in reverse.

It’s important to note that the overall cycle time is influenced more by the loading and unloading process of trucks and trailers than by the raise/lower time of the dumper itself. With proper site layout and efficient truck staging, an extended arm dumper can approach the time efficiency of a standard pivot dumper. Learn more about cycle time HERE.

Standard Pivot (Drive-Over)

full-size truck dumper with extended arm

Standard pivot truck dumpers have their pivot point located at the back end of the deck, near the backstop. Due to this pivot placement, standard pivot dumpers remain closer to the ground compared to extended arm dumpers. They typically discharge materials into a hopper or pit located below the dumper. These dumpers are commonly used with below-grade hoppers or for dumping over a wall or into a pit.

Note that standard pivot dumpers qualify as “drive-over” only when accessed from the pivot end. Operators often pair them with pit doors and below-grade hoppers for efficient operation. Designers typically configure dumpers with a pit or wall system as back-on style dumpers.

full-size truck dumper with extended arm

Backstops:
Back-on style standard pivot dumpers use the same types of backstops as extended arm dumpers, with additional options such as tanker-style and potato gate-style backstops. Drive-over-style dumpers most commonly use tollgate-style backstops. Operators also utilize pop-up and wheel lock backstops, though these are more common on older dumpers or added based on specific customer requests. (See Figure 3 for reference.)

Benefits:

  • Enables faster truck cycling, especially with drive-over designs.
  • Keeps the truck and deck closer to the ground for added stability.
  • Easier for truck drivers to operate, particularly with drive-over configurations.
  • Helps reduce traffic congestion in the dumping area.

When considering drive-over style standard pivot dumpers with below-grade hoppers, foundation work and the water table are primary concerns. Below-grade hoppers are similar in construction to above-grade hoppers but often involve more extensive foundation work, making them a costlier upfront option. The below-grade design requires careful attention to groundwater management and maintenance access. However, for facilities handling large volumes of material or accommodating high truck traffic, drive-over dumpers are often the optimal choice. On the other hand, if unloading speed is less critical, extended-arm dumpers with above-grade hoppers may offer a more cost-effective and practical solution.

full-size truck dumper with extended arm

Summary

This article highlights just a few key considerations when determining the best type of truck dumper to suit your budget and facility needs. Selecting properly sized and well-planned equipment is essential, as it can significantly impact the efficiency and productivity of your operations. At Airoflex, we understand that every facility is unique, and we are here to help you make an informed decision. Feel free to contact us anytime to discuss truck dumper options and explore the best solution tailored to your specific requirements.

Are You Storing Your Telescoping Hydraulic Cylinders Correctly?

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Hydraulic Telescoping Cylinders - Airoflex

Proper storage of telescoping hydraulic cylinders is crucial to maintain the longevity of spare cylinders in storage or for cylinders for transport.

General Storage Requirements

What to avoid when storing cylinders

High Temperature/Direct Sunlight: This includes areas near heaters or other equipment that may produce large amounts of heat. Elevated temperatures can damage the cylinders seals, especially when the cylinders are dry. Cylinders should be stored under a roof if possible.

Water: Including rain, snow, wash-down or run-off/drainage area. Low ventilation or damp areas should also be avoided to prevent steel corrosion and rusting.

Sub-Freezing Temperatures: Although cylinders are designed to be operated in sub-freezing conditions, long-term storage in sub-freezing conditions, especially if the cylinders are dry, can cause premature failure of seals.

Dirty Areas: This includes dirt floor building when cylinders are stored in direct contact with soil. It also includes areas with excessive dust/debris build up or high potential for chemical exposure.

Vertical Storage

Cylinders should be stored in the vertical position if possible. Telescoping truck dumper cylinders can be very large and heavy. When stored horizontally the weight of the internal tubes can cause deformation in the seals over time. Vertical storage prevents this by loading the cylinder as it was designed to be in operation. Some seals also required hydraulic pressure to engage. Even with a small amount of oil in the cylinders, vertical storage allows the seals to work properly. although it can be minor, sometimes oil can leak out of cylinders if stored horizontally.

Note: Storing cylinders vertically does not guarantee that no oil will leak from them if they have been filled or contain a trace amount of oil, but it does reduce the likelihood of leaks.

When storing cylinders vertical, the base of the cylinders (the non-telescoping end) should be at the top.

Inverted Cylinders: These would be stored as shown in the picture on the right, in the same position they would be installed.

A-Frame Cylinders: These are stored upside down or in the opposite position in which they would be installed.

Cylinders should be restrained in vertical storage racks to prevent damage to the cylinder, other equipment, or injury to personnel in the event of a cylinder tipping over.

Restraining brands are not required but are a beneficial addition when storing cylinders. Lifting a cylinder by either end would allow it to extend or “scope out”. This can make handling of cylinder a bit more complicated.  restraining bands can be added to prevent the cylinder from scoping out during transport / lifting. Contact
Airoflex if you need restraining bands.

Horizontal Storage

Finished cylinder tubes in a horizontal storage rack.

If cylinders can’t be stored vertically, they can be stored horizontally. A rack similar to what is shown is optimal, but cylinder may be stored on dunnage, if necessary, as long as the below requirements are met.

  • Cylinders should be restrained from rolling.
  • Wood, plastic, or other soft materials should be used to support the cylinders to prevent damage to the main stage from metal-on-metal contact.
  • Do NOT support cylinders from the pin eye of the base pin. See diagrams below for proper support locations.

Note: Telescoping hydraulic cylinders stored horizontally are more prone to leaking if they contain any oil. There is also a chance for deformation of the seals if left in one position for extended periods of time. Cylinders should be rotated every three months in storage to prevent deformation of the packing. If cylinders are stored in direct sunlight, high temperatures areas, or areas with large temperature changes, the cylinder may extend (scope-out) on its own. This is typical only a few inches but may be up to multiple feet. This is due to thermal expansion of the oil and/or the tubes. If does not damage the cylinders, and any extension can be collapsed by pushing on the top of the pin eye (do not use large equipment to collapse the cylinders as it may damage them).

Which Hydraulic Oil Should You Be Using?

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All Airoflex dumpers run on hydraulic power. Choosing the correct hydraulic oil is important for the proper operation of your dumper.

Which Hydraulic Oil Should You Be Using

Oil Types

There are (4) four main types of oils: Mineral oil, synthetic oil, water-based oil, and biodegradable oil. 

MINERAL OIL: Mineral oils are the standard for most applications. They are made from refining crude oil and are versatile and cost-effect. Mineral oils are recommended for use in all Airoflex hydraulic cylinders.

SYNTHETIC OIL: Synthetic oils are manmade and can offer a variety of increase performance characteristic compared to mineral oils. Synthetic oils are NOT compatible with the seal material is Airoflex cylinders and should be avoided.

WATER-BASED OIL: Water-based oils contain high amounts of water and are used in applications where fire or environmental hazards are a concern.  Airoflex cylinders and power units are not designed to operate with water-based oils.  If you application requires these types of oils contact Airoflex for options.

BIODEGRADABLE OIL: Biodegradable oils are made from synthetic esters or from natural sources such as vegetable oil. These oils are typically used around bodies of water or where environmental contamination is a concern.  Contact Airoflex before using biodegradable oils.

SEE BELOW FOR A LIST OF OIL TYPES THAT ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH AIROFLEX CYLINDER SEALS.

Non-Compatible oils
  • HEPG (Polyslkyleneglycol Base)
  • HEPG (Polyslkyleneglycol Base)
  • HEPR (Other Base Liquid – Primarily Polyalphaolefins)
  • HFC (Glycol Solutions, Polyalkylene Glycol Solutions or Water Glycols)
    • Typically > 35% Water Content
  • HFD-R (Synthetic Phosphate Esters)
  • HFD-U (Synthetic Anhydrous Liquids Other Than Phosphaste Esters)

Generally: Airoflex cylinder seals are not compatible with:

  • Hot Water / Steam
  • Strong Acids / Strong Alkalis

OIL TEmperatures

Airoflex dumpers and portable tippers operate in a wide range of environments and weather conditions.  Always consult with a local oil supplier or Airoflex to determine the correct oil grade for your locations and application.  The oil temperate range for Airoflex cylinder seals is -40 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit.  Temperatures for power units and proper operation may vary from this range.  Coolers and oil heaters should be used for extreme temperature locations or high use applications. 

Cylinder Types

Standard Cylinder:  Standard cylinders are typically larger (12-16″ diameter) and used on A-frame style dumpers. All current seals on standard cylinders are made from acetal plastic or thermoset polyether urethane.  older model cylinders or cylinders that have not been serviced in a long time may have different seal styles and materials. All standard cylinders should use petroleum/mineral based oil with a viscosity of ISO 32-46.  Oil viscosity may vary depending on dumper location. See figure 1.

Inverted Cylinders: Inverted cylinders as shown in figure 2, are typically used on trailer only tippers or on all portable models.  Inverted cylinders should use mineral base oils with a 150 SSU viscosity at 100 degrees Fahrenheit. SAE 10 or SAE 20 grade oils are acceptable.

Hydraulic Maintenance

  • Oil filters should be checked monthly and replaced often. Regularly changing oil filter can greatly increase the life of the hydraulic oil and the operation of the truck dumper.
  • Oil should be checked quarterly to ensure it is in good condition.  Signs of bad oil include, discoloration, water, separation, debris, burnt smell. 
  • The oil level should also be checked to ensure proper function of the power unit.  The oil level should be check and filled (if necessary) when the dumper is in the down position and has been de energized.
  • Old oil should be recycled or properly disposed of.  Never dump old oil onto the ground.
  • When refilling the oil tank, ensure that the same type of oil is being replaced.  A new type of oil may not mix with residual oil in the and cause the unit to malfunction.
  • Contact your local oil supplier or Airoflex with any questions about changing or inspecting hydraulic oil.

Hydraulic Oil Safety

Airoflex truck dumpers and cylinders operate with pressured hydraulic oil.  pressures typically range from 500 to 1,500psi.  Pressured oil is dangerous.  High temperature and high-pressure oil can cause serious injury if not handled correctly. Any personnel working with a dumper hydraulic system should have/use proper training, tool, and lock-out procedure.

Have questions about the maintenance of your Airoflex truck dumper? Contact us here or give us a call at 563-264-8066.

Truck Dumper BackStops: Which Option is Best for You

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Truck dumpers have a wide variety of backstops with many different functions. We have simplified it so you can find which option is best for you.

backstops

Fixed Backstops:

Fixed backstops are the most common type of backstops. They are also the simplest, and easiest to maintain. A fixed backstop is a fully welded steel structure built to a predetermined height. The backstop heights are based on the trucks the dumper and are designed to receive and based on customer preference. Occasional cleaning and painting are the only required maintenance items for a fixed backstop.

fixed backstop

Manually Adjustable:

Manually adjustable backstops are very similar to fixed backstops, but the cross beam can be adjusted vertically to accommodate a wider range of trailers. The cross beam is adjusted by two manual jacks on the inside of the backstop uprights. The beam ends are pinned for added safety. Typically beam heights range from 36″ to 50″, but custom ranges are available.  

manually adjustable backstops

Hydraulicly Adjustable

Hydraulicly adjustable backstops are identical to the manually adjustment version but are powered by hydraulic cylinders rather than manual jacks. The cylinders are located on the outside of the backstop uprights. The backstop height is adjusted from a separate panel (shown) or from the main dumper control panel.

hydraulicly adjustable backstops

Toll Gate:

Toll gate backstops are used on standard pivot dumpers combined with below-grade receiving hoppers. The toll gate backstop raises to allow trucks to drive through and onto the dumper deck. The backstop then lowers so the truck and back up and unload. The cross beam of a toll gate backstop can also be set to various heights to accommodate different types of trailers. Check out this video of a toll gate backstop in action.

toll gate backstops

Potato Gate:

Potato gate backstops are a version of a hydraulicly adjustable backstop with an added gate for controlled material flow. The lower structure and crossbar are a standard hydraulic backstop. The top section is a hydraulic-operated gate that can be raised and lowered to control or meter the material flow from the trailer during unloading. These gates are typically used for potatoes but can handle other materials as well.

Pop Up:

Pop-up backstops are used in a similar style as toll gate backstops. They are typically used with drive-over/below-grade hoppers. The backstop is a large structural block and retracts flush with the deck to allow the truck to pass over. It then extends to allow the truck to back up and unload. Pop-up style backstops are less commonly used than toll gate styles.

Wheel Lock:

Wheel lock backstops are rotating structures that are hydraulicly operated. The wheel locks lay flush with the deck and extend upward to lock/chaulk the trailer wheels without contacting the bumper. Wheel lock backstops are mostly found on older model dumpers and are not commonly used.

Bumpers:

Airoflex backstop bumpers are sturdy rubber bumpers (commonly used on the truck dock) with a steel cover. The steel cover protects and extends the life of the rubber bumper. Steel covers are optional and can be removed if desired. The bumper mounting system is fully internal and contained within the bumper so there are NO protruding / sharp components to damage trailers. Bumpers and covers are a stocked spare part at Airoflex and are replaceable. Only certain models of backstops can use bumpers. See the chart below for more details.

Looking for Airoflex truck dumper and trailer tipper replacement parts? Search our large in-stock inventory for pins, pin eyes, A-frame bearings, pivot bearings, stuffing boxes, adjustable packing glands, packings, spanner wrenches, and replacement cylinders for the main dumper, backstops, pit doors, and wheel locks. To order parts, give our sales department a call or send us an email.

Download the spare parts brochure. See Airoflex Spare Parts Terms and Conditions.