Keith WALKING FLOOR - User Manual

Helpful Hints for Using KEITH
®
WALKING FLOOR
®
Unloading Systems
Below is a short list of operational procedures and helpful hints to ensure your
KEITH
®
WALKING FLOOR
®
system provides years of good service.
1. The hydraulic pump and PTO system requires hydraulic pressure of 3000 PSI
with a minimum of 30 gallons of oil per minute for proper operation.
2. The PTO/Pump system requires a pressure relief valve set at 2800 PSI.
3. End Dump truck PTO systems set at a maximum 2200 PSI hydraulic pressure
will not operate a WALKING FLOOR system properly and could cause serious
damage to the system.
4. The WALKING FLOOR system requires a minimum 40 gallon oil reservoir to
ensure oil does not overheat during unloading and result in heat damage.
5. Properly installed, smaller oil reservoirs with coolers can be used.
6. A trailer equipped with a standard KEITH WALKING FLOOR drive is capable of
unloading approximately 32 tons of material.
7. A trailer equipped with a heavy-duty KEITH WALKING FLOOR drive is capable
of unloading up to 52 tons.
8. A trailer equipped with a KEITH WALKING FLOOR drive is capable of unloading
most materials in 4 minutes or less, if the PTO/Pump is set up properly.
9. Unloading speed is a function of oil flow. With an oil flow of 30 GPM, the
average unloading time is 6 to 7 minutes for a 45 ft/13.5 m trailer.
10. All WALKING FLOOR systems are designed for two way operation- loading or
unloading material. A “Control Valve” controls the forward or reverse floor
movement.
11. A partially opened or closed on/off Ball Valve will create heat damage and result
in slower unload speeds. Open and close the on/off valve completely.
12. Heat damage will void the warranty on hydraulic components.
13. Always make sure back doors are open before engaging the WALKING FLOOR
system.
14. Never walk on or stand in the way of the material while unloading.
15. Make sure quick couplers are fully connected.
16. Be sure the quick couplers are connected correctly (Pressure to Pressure-Return
to Return).

Summary

Helpful Hints for Using KEITH WALKING FLOOR Unloading Systems

Hydraulic and PTO System Requirements

Details hydraulic pressure, PTO/pump relief valve settings, and oil reservoir capacity for optimal system performance and to prevent damage.

Trailer Capacity and Unloading Performance

Specifies material unloading capacity for standard and heavy-duty drives, and typical unloading times based on system setup.

Operational Procedures and Safety Guidelines

Covers system operation, valve usage, back door clearance, operator safety, and proper connection of quick couplers.

Troubleshooting Guide

System Not Loading or Unloading

Addresses common issues when the system fails to load or unload, suggesting checks for PTO engagement, couplers, valves, and control positions.

Unload Mode Stops Prematurely

Explains potential causes for the system stopping mid-unload, such as switching valve adjustment or low hydraulic pressure.

Applications for WALKING FLOOR Systems

Discusses suitable materials for unloading, including bulk materials and palletized cargo, with advice on preparation and consultation.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The KEITH WALKING FLOOR® Unloading System is a versatile and robust material handling solution designed for efficient loading and unloading of various bulk materials and general commodities. Manufactured by KEITH Mfg. Co., this system is built for durability and performance, ensuring years of reliable service when properly operated and maintained.

Function Description:

The core function of the KEITH WALKING FLOOR® system is to move material within a trailer or stationary bin using a series of reciprocating floor slats. These slats are typically arranged in groups (e.g., 1-2-3 mode) and move in a coordinated sequence to convey material forward or backward. This two-way operation allows for both loading and unloading, offering flexibility in material handling. The system is hydraulically powered, requiring a dedicated hydraulic pump and PTO (Power Take-Off) system from the prime mover (e.g., a truck). A "Control Valve" dictates the direction of floor movement, enabling operators to switch between loading and unloading modes.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Hydraulic Pressure and Flow: The system requires a hydraulic pressure of 3000 PSI with a minimum flow rate of 30 gallons of oil per minute (GPM) for optimal operation.
• Pressure Relief Valve: The PTO/Pump system must have a pressure relief valve set at 2800 PSI. It is crucial to note that end dump truck PTO systems, typically set at a maximum of 2200 PSI, are insufficient and will not operate a WALKING FLOOR system properly, potentially causing severe damage.
• Oil Reservoir: A minimum 40-gallon oil reservoir is recommended to prevent oil overheating during unloading, which can lead to heat damage. Smaller reservoirs can be used if equipped with coolers.
• Unloading Capacity:
  • A trailer with a standard KEITH WALKING FLOOR drive can unload approximately 32 tons of material.
  • A trailer with a heavy-duty KEITH WALKING FLOOR drive can unload up to 52 tons.
• Unloading Speed: With an oil flow of 30 GPM, the average unloading time for a 45 ft/13.5 m trailer is 6 to 7 minutes. If the PTO/Pump is set up correctly, most materials can be unloaded in 4 minutes or less.
• Hydraulic Connections: Quick couplers are used for connecting the hydraulic lines between the prime mover and the trailer. Correct connection (Pressure to Pressure, Return to Return) is essential.

Usage Features:

• Two-Way Operation: The system is designed for both loading and unloading, controlled by a "Control Valve."
• Versatility: It can handle a wide range of bulk materials, from aggregates to agricultural products. It is also suitable for general commodities, including palletized cargo. For pallets, especially those with protruding nails or knots, using carpet or cardboard underneath can facilitate smoother movement.
• Safety Precautions:
  • Always ensure back doors are fully open before engaging the WALKING FLOOR system to prevent damage or injury.
  • Never walk on or stand in the path of material during unloading.
  • Ensure quick couplers are fully connected and correctly oriented.
• Operational Checks: Before operation, verify that the PTO is engaged, quick couplers are fully connected, the On/Off Ball valve is completely open, and the "Control Valve" is in the desired position (e.g., "Unload").
• Troubleshooting for Non-Movement: If the system does not move after initial checks, it is necessary to check pressure and flow from the pump to the trailer using a pressure gauge and flow meter.
• Troubleshooting for Intermittent Unloading: If the system unloads and then stops, check the switching valve adjustment (refer to the owner's manual) and hydraulic pressure at the pump. Low pressure can hinder slat movement, especially in the 1-2-3 mode, which requires more pressure than the unload mode.

Maintenance Features:

• Hydraulic System Integrity: Maintaining the correct hydraulic pressure and flow is paramount. Incorrect PTO settings (e.g., end dump truck PTOs) can cause serious damage.
• Oil Temperature Management: The recommended 40-gallon oil reservoir or smaller reservoirs with coolers are critical for preventing oil overheating, which can lead to heat damage and void the warranty on hydraulic components.
• Ball Valve Operation: The On/Off Ball Valve must be either completely open or completely closed. A partially opened or closed valve will generate heat damage and result in slower unloading speeds.
• Regular Checks: Periodically inspect quick couplers for full connection and correct orientation.
• Warranty Considerations: Heat damage to hydraulic components will void the warranty. Proper operation and adherence to specifications are essential for warranty validity.

The KEITH WALKING FLOOR® system is a registered trademark of KEITH Mfg. Co., emphasizing its proprietary design and quality. For specific product application questions or further assistance, users are encouraged to contact KEITH Mfg. Co. directly.

Keith WALKING FLOOR Specifications

General

Brand	Keith
Model	WALKING FLOOR
Category	Automobile Accessories
Language	English