Yard Ramp - Yardramp Design

Yardramp Design

Some yardramps are constructed from aluminium, but although this has weight advantages, their cost is typically much higher than their steel equivalents; most yardramps are therefore constructed from welded steel unless the weather conditions are such that aluminium needs to be used, i.e. in climates with temperatures well below freezing.

There are a variety of choices for the decking material as it is required to be both tough and non-slip in a range of operating conditions. Most manufacturers use some form of open grill sheeting supported on a rugged base structure.

The basic layout of a yardramp is an inclined section of about 9 m (29'6") in length and 2.25 m (7'5") in width, followed by a flat approach section of about 2.5 m (8'3") in length at the top, with a lip to enter the container or truck being loaded or unloaded. Both sides of the ramp usually have safety rails to prevent forklifts from accidentally driving over the edges. The yardramp is supported on an undercarriage, or adjustable legs, fitted with wheels which are used to transport the yardramps around.

The undercarriage/legs are adjustable so that the height of the ramp can be raised whilst the truck is put into position, and then the yardramp is lowered so that the front lip supports the weight of the yardramp on the container or truck floor. It is then vitally important that the yardramp is allowed to float up and down with the vehicle as it raises/lowers on its suspension.