How to select the right features for an airport line marking unit

When choosing an airport line marking unit, think about what you need it for specifically and what features will make the job easier and better quality. Narrow down the many options by selecting the features that fit your needs.

There are so many options when it comes to line marking equipment and accessories, for all kind of applications. Are you considering acquiring one or more airport line marking units? Reflect on what you actually need and expect, to help you make the right choice.

What are your specific application needs?

Googling what line marking unit you need is probably not the best option. Instead, make a list of what you expect from your equipment. Check out the considerations below to make a more informed decision.

• What part of the airport do you need the unit for?
  • Indoor areas like car parks, passenger areas (e.g. check-in, gate areas, luggage collection areas), storage and handling areas…
  • Outdoor taxiways and runways, parking areas, outside boarding, roads…
  • Do you need to mark smaller surface or cover large areas that will take several hours?

• What kind of marking do you have in mind?
  • Lines  (single, double, dotted), patterns (symbols, logos, numbers)
  • One-colour, dual-colour
  • Paint only, beads…

Consider a battery-operated line marking unit for no-fume, no-noise and no-vibration line marking indoors. They also have the power and features to work perfectly well outdoors . Electrical units generally have an autonomy that lasts for about a full working day. You can rely on intermediate charging when taking a break or while other tasks are needed. On top of that, some electrical units have high capacity and/or double battery systems, which prolongue the range, while a fast recharge version limits recharging time.

When working outside, the options range from smaller one-colour models to large vehicle-mounted models offering multiple colours and reflective beads at the same time. Some models allow simultaneous use of multiple guns. For larger jobs, consider units with a ride-on option or even a vehicle-mounted model. The required capacity will also define the paint volume of the integrated hopper.

Ease of use is more than a ‘nice to have’

Who wouldn’t prefer a unit that’s easy to use? Look into some of the options below, and see which ones matter most to you.

• Start and stop at the push of a button using a programmable unit
  Line marking is often a repetitive job, so it pays to look into units that allow you to program the jobs that need to be done.

• Monitor what you do using smart displays
  Look for a unit that has a clear display showing all the striping information at a glance. These systems enable better tracking, measuring and control of every aspect of the line marking job, making an operator’s work considerably easier.

• Reduce clogging and messy work using better filters
  When you want to avoid wasting time on declogging, look into smart filters that don’t get stuck when filled with clutter or debris.

• What are your logistic needs?
  Should you look for a walk-behind model, ride-on line marking unit or a truck-mounted system? Ask yourself whether you need to combine a ride-on add-on with your walk-behind model.

Features that make line marking easier are not necessarily ‘nice to haves’. Consider critically which ones can help your team work faster and more efficiently, as these are important factors.

Going for quality will make your line marking last longer

Looking for a line marking unit that gives you some extra quality assurances? Then you might consider the features below.

• Enhance accuracy
  Do you want more accuracy using laser technology and swift auto-layout of the line marking pattern, or do you prefer manual preparation with chalk, tape or pointers? Laser technology saves time, requires fewer operators and is very accurate. Using auto-layout enhances the output quality of both lines and complex patterns.

• Make sharper lines
  Uneven road surfaces and engine vibrations mean you might not get those perfect sharp lines. So consider investing in a system that reduces vibrations while enhancing the sharpness of the lines you make.

• Make straighter lines
  Units with rear gun mounting as well as advanced wheel and gun adjustment systems enable you to produce straighter lines.

Any feature that can substantially enhance the quality of the job is a bonus. A high-quality job eliminates the need for frequent touch-ups or repairs and keeps the line work in good shape for a longer time. So it saves you time and money along the way.

Gather all the ingredients to choose the proper line marking unit

When looking for a line marking unit for your airport, the desired features and quality can help you refine your needs. Your list of preferences will help you make an informed decision. When looking at the options, keep your eye open for trustworthy brands that offer robust material and expert support. With the right line marking unit, you can mark any line in any colour in no time!