A self-dumping metal hopper can make a positive difference in your materials and bulk handling processes, making it an ideal addition to the types of equipment you use in your business. This product can be a significant investment, so it makes sense to be careful and make sure that you are buying it from a reputable and experienced retailer. There are some things that must be considered while purchasing a self-dumping metal hopper, and these include the size of your forklift or truck, how often you would use it, and the weight and type of material that needs to be transported. Apart from these, you must take time to consider the following factors, too:
- The experience of the manufacturer – Buy a self-dumping metal hopper only from an experienced and reputable manufacturer and retailer of industrial hoppers. You should be able to count on their expertise and trust their recommendations when it comes to choosing the right hopper that meets your requirements.
- Durability – A good self-dumping metal hopper is built to last. Look for a product that is made with 12 and 10 gauge carbon steel bodies for 2,000 to 4,000-lb capacity or light duty loads. This is good enough to handling paper, plastics, aluminum cans, lightweight recyclables, and metal turnings. Larger capacity hoppers that can handle 4,000 to 8,000 lbs or 8,000 to 10,000 lbs of material must be made with seven-gauge carbon steel, 1/4” carbon steel, or 3/16” carbon steel. This way, you can be sure that they can safely handle heavier and larger loads, like heavy construction materials, minerals, hot ash, sand, castings, concrete, glass, coal, rubber, and forgings.
- Features of the hopper – Look for unique features, such as the rolled structural angle rocker with welded trunnion pins, and a trip lever assembly with an internal spring for secure latching. Lock fastener pins must secure rocker angles to the rocker plate, but they must be removable in case repairs are necessary.