Patented system adds extra safety and peace of mind for upper-level loading.
Milwaukee, WI – PFlow Industries, the pioneer in vertical reciprocating conveyor (VRC) technology, highlights its DeckLock™ Safety System, which provides critical protection in material lifting environments. The DeckLock system is designed to eliminate accidents caused by carriage overload, protecting workers, valuable materials, and machinery while supporting efficient workflow for industrial users.
Built for maximum reliability, DeckLocks automatically extend at critical upper levels to provide added prevention against unintended or uncontrolled carriage descent, while keeping the deck level with the floor for safe forklift loading and unloading. This exclusive solution is available in gate-operated mechanical, pneumatic, and electric versions, each engineered for seamless integration with PFlow VRC solutions. When the carriage reaches an upper level, the DeckLocks engage automatically before the gate opens and retract when it closes—delivering added safety exactly when it matters most.
Electrical DeckLocks utilize a gate-mounted electrical switch paired with an electric actuator, column-mounted for all 2- and 4-post mechanical VRCs. They may be controlled with or without a PLC (programmable logic controller), and they feature adjustable limit switches, a removable pivot pin for maintenance, and terminal strips for pre-wiring. Electrical DeckLocks are suitable for applications with non-PFlow gates or multiple gates per floor level, with the exception of limited outdoor environments.

Pneumatic DeckLocks combine electrical solenoid valves with a pneumatic actuator cylinder. Available for all 2- and 4-post mechanical VRCs, pneumatic versions are compatible with limited outdoor applications above 32°F and are approved for explosion-proof environments. Mechanical DeckLocks employ a gate-mounted cable mechanism that directly actuates the lock cam, and are ideal for 2-post VRCs with single gates per floor level.
The DeckLock Safety System is optional, providing an extra layer of security beyond the substantial safety measures built into every PFlow VRC. While mechanical VRCs rely on spring-set brakes sized to deliver at least 150% of maximum capacity, wear or insufficient maintenance can diminish effectiveness. Additionally, inadvertent overload has the potential to lead to dangerous carriage descent and brake slippage. The patented DeckLock design provides critical, exclusive protection under these overload and brake-wear conditions, delivering confidence and security to a variety of operations.
For more information, visit https://www.pflow.com/safety-gates/decklock/.
About PFlow Industries
PFlow Industries is the global leader in vertical reciprocating conveyors (VRCs), pioneering solutions that safely and efficiently move materials between levels. Since 1977, PFlow has set the standard for innovation in vertical material handling, with thousands of VRCs operating worldwide across industries including manufacturing, warehousing, food processing, pharmaceuticals, retail, and data centers. From engineering and design through product delivery, PFlow provides custom VRC solutions that improve operational efficiency, enhance safety, and reduce long-term operating costs.
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