Doleco USA, the nation’s fastest-growing manufacturer of lifting, sling, and load-securing technologies, including the DoNova PowerLash Textile Lashing Chain and PowerLift textile Chain Sling, introduced the new LayerLok XP, AF, and SC double-decking systems. LoadLok designed the LayerLok XP and AF for use in dry van and reefer applications. Additionally, LoadLok specifically designed the LayerLok SC for installation in shipping containers. All three LoadLok products are capable of doubling payload capacity, and their introduction increases available options for the shipping industry.
A COMPETITIVE ALTERNATIVE
Vehicle freight efficiency is of paramount importance to today’s fleets; maximizing trailer capacity will continue as a critical concern, particularly as new trailer orders remain backlogged for the near future. Around for decades, but the most popular of the double-decking systems is based on the use of aircraft seating track. Prone to deform and fail over time, manufacturers didn’t design the track for repetitive sliding or to carry vertical loads. Additionally, the same parent company owns the industry’s two primary system suppliers, hindering competition and pricing.
“The LayerLok XP, AF, and SC double-decking systems are each purpose-designed and precision-engineered to meet the harsh demands of the shipping environment,” says Ralph Abato, president and managing director of Doleco USA. “The entry of a new major competitor like Doleco into the North America marketplace will expand customer options and renew competitive vigor within the load securement industry generally and within the double-decking segment specifically.”
“Today, I’m also announcing that Doleco will offer a free LayerLok XP, AF, or SC system to any qualifying fleet,” Abato adds.
All “captive” LayerLok systems never leave the trailer, and users can stow them at ceiling height when not in use. While different in design, each system minimizes material use and weight while maximizing strength and durability. Made of patent-pending materials, the LayerLok XP system has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than competing products. This feature allows it to be designed with the thinnest track profiles in the world.
LAYERLOK XP
The LayerLok XP features a radically different machined aluminum track design with beveled teeth instead of holes or slots. Doleco offers single- and double-track styles, each with surface-mount, semi-recessed, and fully-recessed profiles available. The system’s steel head assembly and beam adjustment tool glide seamlessly within recessed slots on either side of the teeth. This feature virtually eliminates the snag points common to other systems. Optional head assemblies enable the system to operate at just 60 dB, the quietest double-decking system ever designed.
Users can also configure the LayerLok XP with interconnecting horizontal tracks that use turntable intersections. This enables decking beams to seamlessly switch from vertical to horizontal travel. Further, the feature allows users to accommodate a wider array of cargo capacity and securement needs by letting decking beams serve double duty as shoring beams when needed.
“The LayerLok XP system is the apex of payload maximizing and protection technology,” Abato says. “There is not a better, more versatile, or comparably robust double-decking system available anywhere.”
LAYERLOK AF
Netherlands-based LoadLok designed the LayerLok AF as an intelligent alternative to the most common aircraft-track-based systems. The LayerLok AF, modeled on a complementary design, makes tracks and decking beams completely interchangeable with competing systems. Single- and double-track styles with surface-mount and semi-recessed versions are also available.
“LayerLok AF is designed as a universal solution for trailer OEMs and fleets that are comfortable with the status quo, but less comfortable with the lack of competitive sourcing and pricing for aircraft-track systems,” Abato says. “In an industry that is somewhat resistant to change, we’re offering complete systems solutions, individual replacement components, and everything in between, but I think what we’re really offering is a sense of relief.”
LAYERLOK SC
LoadLok designed the LayerLok SC exclusively for use in 20- and 40-ft shipping container applications. LoadLok designed the steel tracks so that users can weld them into position within the container body. In addition to optimizing container capacity, the LayerLok SC helps protect cargo and maintain its stability during intermodal transfers.
LayerLok has been in use throughout Europe for more than 15 years and is already available in 42 countries worldwide. Through an agreement with LoadLok, Doleco is now the exclusive North American distributer and co-manufacturer of the LayerLok XP, AF, and SC.
“We are excited to partner with Doleco USA to bring these new load-securing, payload-optimizing, and cargo-protecting technologies to North America,” Eelco Noort, product manager for LoadLok, says.
Find out more, visit www.doleco-usa.com.
