Wheel wash systems are essential on any site where trucks can accumulate grease, dirt, soil, sand, gravel, mud and other harmful build-up in their wheels and under the body of the vehicle.
This debris needs to be eliminated before the vehicle enters public roads in order to avoid polluting the environment, depositing sediment onto the roads or transporting organic matter into restricted areas – all of which could result in contravention of council and state regulations.
Construction projects, mine sites, waste management, landfill and quarry sites are all examples of situations where wheel wash systems would need to be installed – but if you are investigating the various options for such a system, it’s important to make sure you have fully investigated all avenues before making a commitment.
Let’s take a look at the differences between portable or temporary wheel wash systems and fixed ones. While it’s important to know that neither version is superior, certain situations will be more suited to one particular type than another. So, it’s always best to discuss your unique requirements fully with any potential supplier before making a decision.
Portable truck wheel wash systems are specifically designed so that they can be relocated easily and quickly which makes them an ideal choice for short-term projects or where the timeframe of the project is not known. Generally, a portable wheel wash system comes with its own steel pit, so that it can be relocated more easily. This steel pit can be mounted in a concrete pit if located below ground. If it is mounted at ground level, it will require the construction of access ramps.
Fixed truck wheel wash systems are typically mounted in a concrete pit and can usually be installed within a day once the civil works are completed.
Both types are suited for high traffic throughputs and both types can operate on recycled water. Some designs incorporate a detachable water tank for recycling water which minimises water usage as well as minimises water wastage which is a key element in the economic viability of the system.
You can get both mobile and fixed wheel wash systems in fully automated models, meaning the washing system is triggered only when the vehicle passes through a sensor.
Fleet size is one of the key factors that will influence your choice of system – as well as your choice of supplier. For a short-term contract, the most economical option would be to hire a portable wheel wash system – and if necessary, elements of that system such as boom gates, portable generators etc can be customised to suit your exact application.
Whether fixed or portable, a wheel wash system is not only an essential device for ensuring trucks and other vehicles are clean and council-compliant when leaving a site, but it can also be an important factor in protecting the vehicle itself and prolonging its life.
Should you be investigating wheel wash systems, then Australia’s largest supplier of weighing and product inspection equipment, AccuWeigh, should be on your ‘must-call’ list. We can supply and install full turnkey wheel wash systems (both portable and fixed) including all civil work, concreting, roadways, safety railings, walkways and traffic control solutions, and all supported by trained, professional staff at our eight branches across Australia.
Read our Wheel Wash Systems FAQs here, or contact your closest branch to discuss your requirements.