Skip to main content
search

Hinged Bridgeplate Overview

Hinged Bridgeplates (sometimes known as hinged dock plate) are secured to the loading dock and hinge like a drawbridge to allow vehicle access.

Once the vehicle is in the correct position, and doors are open, simply release the locking clamp and lower the plate onto the vehicle.

Their permanent installation provides fast, safe access, whilst minimising manual handling effort when compared to a Dockplate/Dockboard.

Standard features:

  • Built-in treadplate antislip finish
  • Manufactured from high tensile aluminium
  • Crowned and bevelled for smooth operation
  • Bend point 150mm in from the end of the plate; for compliance with BS EN 1398:2009 which calls for a minimum of 100mm engagement onto the vehicle bed.
  • D-loop lifting handles are fitted when the Span is 710mm or greater.
  • Available in capacities from 500-4000kg.
  • A locking clamp is included, to prevent the plate from falling forward when stored in a vertical position (manual with standard hinge, automatic with steel hinge). Please note – the plate will lean back when stored in the vertical position; contact us for information on clearance requirements.

Optional chain lifting handles are recommended. Due to the weight of the plates, two handles are recommended for models marked with * (for two person operation).

A minimum of 150mm thick rubber dock bumpers are recommended to protect the product from vehicle impact.

Dock bumper supports, or similar, should be used to ensure correct vehicle alignment.

Hinge Options (which must be purchased separately)

  • Standard aluminium hinge rail; the plate can be moved sideways along the rail.
  • Heavy duty steel piano-hinge; this does not allow sideways movement, but gives a smoother transition.
schematic of hinged bridgeplate hinge options.

Hinged Bridgeplate Gallery

Selecting the right Hinged Bridgeplate for your application:

  • Step 1: Establish the maximum height differential between vehicle floor level and dock. Note: Maximum recommended height differential is the maximum differential possible with the ramp at 7°, maximum possible is the absolute maximum the ramp will achieve whilst maintaining secure location/ positioning in the vehicle. If the height differential required is greater than a Hinge Bridgeplate can achieve, it can be paired with a Hinged Ramp Combination.
  • Step 2: Select a Hinged Bridgeplate width. What are you using it for? What width is required? In accordance with BS EN 1398:2009, the minimum width should be 700mm wider than the track width of the equipment being used, unless restricted by your loading facilities and measures are taken to prevent operator and equipment from falling.
  • Step 3: Determine the maximum total load. What are you using it for? What load will it carry?
  • Extras: Establish if any extra are required:
    • Hinge (sold separately)
      • Standard aluminium hinge rail; the plate can be moved sideways along the rail.
      • Heavy duty steel piano-hinge; this does not allow sideways movement, but gives a smoother transition.
    • Lifting Handle (HRH-1), recommended to aid lifting to the raised/parked position.

Our range of Hinged Bridgeplates

Model Details Dimensions WxL mm Span mm Height Differential (Max Possible) mm Height Differential (Max Recommended) mm Capacity (Total max load) Kg Weight Kg
BH4820 View 1220 x 510 550 62 45 4000 25
B4838 View 1220 x 980 1020 145 100 1000 36
BH4838 View 1220 x 980 1020 145 100 2250 44
B4843 View 1220 x 1110 1150 164 115 1000 40
B4850 View 1220 x 1280 1320 194 140 500 46
BX4850 View 1220 x 1280 1320 194 140 1000 48
B6018 View 1524 x 460 500 53 40 3250 22
B6020 View 1524 x 510 550 62 45 3000 26
BH6020 View 1524 x 510 550 62 45 4000 32
BH6026 View 1524 x 670 710 88 60 4000 39
BH6038 View 1524 x 980 1020 145 100 2500 55
HRCF-1 Hinge rail with clips and fixings in multiples of 2.5m lengths 15
HRC-1 Hinge rail with clips (no fixings) in multiples of 2.5m lengths 15
PHF-1 Piano hinge with fixings (length to suit plate width) 25/m
PH-1 Piano hinge (no fixings) (length to suit plate width) 25/m
HRH-1 Lifting Handle -