Gantry truck wash systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially 3-D computerized shape profiling gantries, with many businesses turning to these powerful machines to keep their fleets clean and well-maintained. However, while these systems offer many benefits, they are not without some limitations. I have had the opportunity to work with clients in the trucking industry and have seen firsthand the challenges they face when it comes to maintaining their vehicles. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages and the limitations of gantry truck wash systems and what you need to know to ensure that your fleet stays in top condition. From issues with water pressure to the limitations of the gantry system itself, we’ll explore the pros and cons of this popular cleaning method and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision for your business. Here’s everything you need to know about gantry truck wash systems!
Advantages of Gantry Truck Wash Systems
Gantry truck wash systems have quickly become one of the most popular methods for cleaning and maintaining large vehicle fleets and for retail commercial truck wash operators. These systems offer several advantages that have made them a go-to for many truck wash businesses. One of the primary benefits of gantry truck wash systems is their speed and efficiency. These machines can clean an entire truck in just a few short minutes, allowing businesses to keep their fleets clean or retail commercial washes to satisfy customers with speed and precision, getting them back on the road without sacrificing valuable time and utility.
Another advantage of gantry truck wash systems is their ability to clean even the dirtiest vehicles quickly and effectively. These systems use 3-D profiling computers, high-pressure water with special oscillating and spinning nozzles to mimic hand washing with pressure wash wands, as well as specialized pre-soak cleaning solutions to remove surface tension of adhered dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the surface of the truck. This makes 3-D computerized profiling gantry wash systems an excellent option for fleet washing, and businesses that operate in dirty or dusty environments or those that transport hazardous materials that can leave residue on the outside of the vehicle.
Finally, 3-D computerized profiling gantry truck wash systems offer a consistent cleaning experience that produces results similar to traditional pressure-wash-wand hand washes. These machines are programmed to 3-D map each vehicle and then clean each vehicle in the same unique way, ensuring that every truck in the fleet receives the very best same of care. This wash consistency, which cannot be duplicated by humans, help truck wash businesses and fleet washers maintain a high level of cleanliness across their entire fleet, which has a positive impact on their reputation and profitability.
Limitations of Gantry Truck Wash Systems
While gantry truck wash systems offer many benefits, they have encountered a few limitations in the past. One of the previous drawbacks of these systems was their lack of flexibility. Gantry were historically systems designed to clean one type of vehicle in one specific way. This meant that if a business has a fleet of trucks with varying sizes, shapes, and cleaning requirements, a gantry truck wash system may not be the best option. Now, with 3-D computerized vehicle shape profiling, automated Gantry systems can now ‘custom wash’ each vehicle keeping the new and improved oscillating nozzles operating at high pressure and at the ideal distance from the vehicle surface to create really clean vehicles mimicking the oscillating of a traditional hand wash pressure washer wand, but with more consistency.
Additionally, gantry truck wash systems used to require regular maintenance to operate at peak efficiency. These machines used to use a lot of water and cleaning solutions, which led to clogs and other issues if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance of any automated truck wash system will help prevent these issues and ensure that the system is working as it should. In the new 3-D computerized profiling gantries, old style low pressure high-volume water pumps have been replaced with low volume high-pressure pumps creating 2/3rds less water usage and cleaner vehicles. Maintenance is minimal due to reduced wash cycle times, less chemical usage and automatic maintenance of piping, nozzles, pumps and jets.
Another potential limitation of gantry truck wash systems was their cost. These machines were originally very expensive to purchase and install. Now with new technologies and improved fabrication systems automatic touchless 3-D profiling computerized gantry wash systems cost no more and often less than traditional wash solutions.
Lack of Flexibility in Gantry Truck Wash Systems
As mentioned earlier, one of the primary limitations of gantry truck wash systems is their lack of flexibility. This is simply no longer the case with the invention and innovation of computerized 3-D imaging and profiling of each vehicle before washing. In fact 3-D profiling Gantry wash units now are the ideal system to utilize when encountering multiple sizes and shapes of vehicles to wash in the same wash bay. These 3-D gantry profiling systems are now designed to clean every type of vehicle in the most efficient way, which greatly improves wash flexibility to multiple vehicle configurations helping businesses wash diverse fleets. For example, a business that operates a variety of trucks of different sizes and shapes can now increase and improve their wash capabilities to any type or size vehicle and effectively clean all of their vehicles.
Additionally, gantry truck wash systems coupled with a undercarriage wash system can now operate efficiently in areas with harsh winters or other conditions cause salt, mud, and other debris to accumulate on the underside of the truck. Over time, this buildup can cause corrosion and other damage to the vehicle. Now, the new 3-D profiling gantry wash systems coupled with a high pressure undercarriage wash and a wheel blaster can more effectively clean trucks and variable size vehicles in harsh circumstances than any other automatic wash system.
Gantry Truck Wash Systems Require Regular Maintenance
Gantry truck wash systems require regular maintenance to operate at peak efficiency. These machines use a lot of water and cleaning solutions, which can lead to clogs and other issues if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues and ensure that the system is working as it should.
One of the most important maintenance tasks for gantry truck wash systems is cleaning the system itself. Over time, dirt, grime, and other contaminants can accumulate in the nozzles, hoses, and other components of the system, which can lead to clogs and other issues. Regular cleaning can help prevent these issues and ensure that the system is working as it should.
Another important maintenance task for gantry truck wash systems is checking the water pressure. These machines rely on high-pressure water to clean the vehicle, and if the water pressure is too low, the system may not be able to effectively clean the truck. Regular checks can help ensure that the water pressure is at the proper level and that the system is working as it should.
Gantry Truck Wash Systems Can Be Costly
Gantry truck wash systems can be expensive to purchase and install, and they may not be the most cost-effective option for some businesses. Additionally, because these systems require regular maintenance, there are ongoing costs associated with their use.
However, it’s important to note that while gantry truck wash systems may be more expensive upfront, they can actually save businesses money in the long run. These systems are designed to be efficient and effective, which can help businesses save on labor costs associated with manual cleaning methods. Additionally, by keeping their fleets clean and well-maintained, businesses can extend the lifespan of their vehicles, which can also save them money in the long run.
Alternatives to Gantry Truck Wash Systems
For businesses that are looking for alternatives to gantry truck wash systems, there are several options available. One popular alternative is a drive-through truck wash. These systems are similar to gantry systems in that they use high-pressure water and cleaning solutions to clean the vehicle, but they offer more flexibility in terms of the types of vehicles they can clean.
Another alternative to gantry truck wash systems is manual cleaning. While this method can be more time-consuming and labor-intensive, it can be a good option for businesses that have a small fleet or that operate in areas where automated systems are not available.
Choosing the Right Truck Wash System for Your Business
When it comes to choosing the right truck wash system for your business, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the size and shape of your fleet. If you have a diverse fleet with varying sizes and shapes, a gantry truck wash system may not be the best option. In this case, a drive-through system or manual cleaning may be a better choice.
Another factor to consider is the cost of the system. While gantry truck wash systems may be more expensive upfront, they can save businesses money in the long run by reducing labor costs and extending the lifespan of their vehicles. However, if cost is a major concern, a manual cleaning method may be the most cost-effective option.
Finally, it’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of the system. Gantry truck wash systems require regular maintenance to operate at peak efficiency, so businesses should be prepared to invest time and resources into maintaining the system. If this is not feasible, a different cleaning method may be a better choice.
Conclusion
Gantry truck wash systems offer many benefits, including speed, efficiency, and consistency. However, these systems are not without their limitations. Businesses should consider factors such as the size and shape of their fleet, the cost of the system, and the maintenance requirements before choosing a truck wash system. Alternatives to gantry systems include drive-through systems and manual cleaning. By taking the time to carefully evaluate their options, businesses can choose the right truck wash system for their needs and keep their fleets clean and well-maintained for years to come.
