Subscribe

Tag: batteries

Hyster offers Sunlight Li-ion option

Posted on by David Priestman

Hyster is giving customers more ways to select the best battery technology for their application with Sunlight Group lithium-ion batteries now an option for selected Hyster forklifts and warehouse trucks.

The Sunlight Li.ION FORCE batteries, which will be available for selected 24V, 48V, and 80V lift trucks and warehouse equipment, are fully linked to the truck via the CANbus communication system to optimise battery management. In addition, Sunlight Li.ON FORCE batteries themselves are fitted with the innovative GLocal Cloud Management System, which offers remote access and insight from anywhere in the world.

Sunlight Group Batteries are particularly well suited to intensive and multi-shift operations, as well as those where hygiene is a priority, such as food, beverage, and pharmaceutical production. Sunlight Li.ION FORCE  batteries are free of gaseous emissions and there is a no risk of acid spillage, making them a ‘clean’ power option.

“In the right application, switching to lithium-ion batteries can help maximise uptime and efficiency,” says Paul Wells, Director, Commercial Aftermarket EMEA for Hyster Europe. “A single lithium-ion battery can replace multiple lead-acid batteries, freeing up charging space, while also enabling opportunity charging during breaks to maximise handling time and reduce overall costs.”

Depending on the application, a single use lithium-ion battery can enable the truck to be used over two or three shifts, and convenient, short opportunity charging periods do not affect the battery life.

In addition, lithium-ion batteries are capable of faster charging than traditional lead-acid batteries, and as no battery exchange is required with integrated lithium-ion power, this may support higher uptime. The new Sunlight Li.ION FORCE batteries available for Hyster equipment are designed with active balancing so that all cells are equally charged at all times and they include a fast charge feature. A choice of rapid charger options is available.

To support charging management strategies and help prevent unplanned downtime, the Sunlight Li.ION FORCE batteries have a discharge indicator which displays the state of charge. Sunlight Group’s Glocal cloud-based telematics also provides real-time monitoring of battery data via WiFi/GSM, as well as insight into the battery’s parameters that allows remote serviceability.

As the batteries integrate with the Hyster lift truck’s CANbus communication system, it is possible to optimise battery performance and life and provide error reporting.

“As the Sunlight Li.ION FORCE batteries also feature a maintenance-free design, with no watering required, applications may find this helps reduce overall maintenance costs,” says Paul. “Only an annual check is required, and the modular design makes service interventions highly efficient.”

Hyster lift trucks with Sunlight Li.ION FORCE batteries, and a wide range of other battery options, are available to order now from the global network of local Hyster distribution partners.

Clark introduces its first Li-ion counterbalance

Posted on by David Priestman

Clark has relaunched the GEX and GTX series. The three and four-wheel electric forklifts in 48-volt technology with load capacities of 1.6 to 2 tonnes are now also available with a lithium-ion battery (Li-Ion). With the GEX and GTX series, Clark has for the first time brought counterbalance trucks with Li-Ion battery onto the market and further expanded the product portfolio in the area of Li-Ion technology.

Customers with intensive applications in particular benefit from the properties of the Li-Ion battery, such as longevity, quick and intermediate charging capability as well as freedom from maintenance. The manoeuvrable GEX and GTX electric forklifts with Li-Ion battery are in demand wherever it is important to deliver top performance reliably and cost-efficiency day after day.

Particularly in multi-shift operations in distribution or industry, where high availability is important, also in the food, beverage, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, where clean operation is essential, the Clark electric forklifts with Li-Ion battery are an indispensable component that ensures high handling performance with low operating costs.

“The Clark lithium-ion batteries are efficient energy bundles that impress with their high availability,” explains Rolf Eiten, President & CEO Clark Europe. “When developing our lithium-ion solution, it was important to us that the customer can not only benefit from all the advantages of this technology, but that in combination with an already proven Clark electric forklift series, he receives a logistics solution at the usual price-performance ratio, which also pays off for smaller and medium-sized operations.”

Two traction motors in the parallel front drive, each with 4.4kW power and 48V three-phase technology, ensure rapid acceleration of the vehicles and travel speeds of up to 16km/h. The AC motors used are designed to be wear-free and very robust. The Zapi Dual AC control system is equipped with CAN bus technology. Three driving modes are available for energy-efficient use of the truck.

Also individually programmable are the wear-free, regenerative braking with the motor brake and the automatic reduction of speed when cornering. Safe use on ramps is guaranteed by the standard ramp function, which prevents unintentional acceleration or rolling back of the truck and ensures that the operator always has the vehicle under control.

The GTX/GEX electric trucks have lift heights of up to 7075mm. The range is available with two wheelbases. The GTX16/GEX16 has a wheelbase of 1312mm. The GTX18/GEX18 and the GTX20s and GEX20s each have a wheelbase of 1420mm.

Li-Ion – high availability with low operating costs

The Clark Li-Ion solution consists of the Li-Ion battery including battery management system (BMS) and a high-frequency charger. The battery capacity is 460Ah for all models in the GTX/GEX series. This means that both the vehicles with a smaller wheelbase and those with a larger wheelbase have the same battery power.

The 48V (160A) charger only requires a power connection (CEE 16 A plug) and fully recharges the battery in as little as 2.5 hours. The charging status of the Li-Ion battery is shown on the truck display. During the charging process, the charger’s display shows the charging status. The BMS has a safety cut-out and thus ensures safe use of the battery.

The Li-Ion battery can be temporarily charged at any time and within a very short time – whenever breaks occur and without damaging the battery or shortening its life. Approximately 6-7% of the charge quantity can be achieved in 10 minutes. Decentralised charging points directly at the place of use ensure that fast and safe charging can take place at any time.

Li-Ion trucks can thus be used around the clock without the need to change batteries. This reduces the downtimes required for battery replacement. In addition, the operator does not have to keep any exchangeable batteries or infrastructure for battery replacement. He can use the expensive storage space thus gained for other purposes.

Another advantage of the Li-Ion battery is the fact that the battery scores with a constant voltage during the entire operation. Full power is always available ⎼ even when the battery is 85% discharged. In short, Clark Li-Ion batteries bundle a lot of energy in a small space. They have an extremely long service life and are optimal for intensive use. Operators can therefore not only increase their productivity by using Li-Ion batteries, but also save costs for maintenance, infrastructure and replacement batteries.

Safe and durable

Because Clark always focuses on safety, Clark Li-Ion batteries are based on lithium iron phosphate technology (LiFePO4). With LiFePO4 batteries, no oxygen is released during the chemical reaction within the cells. This means that there is no risk of spontaneous combustion or explosion of the battery. The use of the battery is therefore very safe. Trucks with LiFePO4 battery perform efficiently even at very low and high ambient temperatures.

With 2,500 guaranteed charging cycles, the service life of the Li-Ion battery is at least twice as long, and depending on the application even many times as long, as the service life of a lead-acid battery. And even after that, the battery can still be used for 10+ years for further uses. In addition, LiFePO4 batteries are more environmentally friendly than, for example, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (NMC batteries), because these require problematic raw materials, such as cobalt. Moreover, NMC batteries can burn if they leave certain operating parameters.

“The investment in a Li-Ion truck is not only worthwhile for intensive applications, but also for all drivers who want to operate a maintenance-free, long-lasting and fast-charging battery with a high safety standard,” says Eiten.

In addition to high availability and high performance, the GTX/GEX series also has a lot to offer the operator: The extremely spacious operator workplace with a generous footwell and plenty of leg and headroom ensures that operators can feel comfortable at work. A choice of adjustable comfort seats with air or mechanical suspension contribute to the high level of operator comfort. The tilt of the steering column can be individually adjusted to suit the operator.

The pedals are car-compliant. The truck can be operated either by adjustable mini-levers integrated in the armrest or by ergonomically arranged hydraulic levers on the truck bonnet. A change of direction is made via the steering column, the armrest or via a double pedal. The multi-coloured, high-contrast display provides information on all important driving parameters. Storage options for documents and mobile phones round off the workplace. In addition, thanks to the nested mast profiles, the vehicle offers the operator a very good view through the mast to the forks and the load.

Manoeuvrable and effortless to operate

The power steering ensures that the operator needs only low steering forces and few steering wheel turns when manoeuvring. With a steering angle of 101°, the GEX16-20s four-wheel forklift turns on the spot almost like a three-wheel forklift. The inner front wheel runs in the opposite direction when the steering angle is high. The rear wheel is thus not pushed over the ground. Tyre wear is thus significantly lower than with other trucks. The GTX16-20s three-wheel truck has double tyres on the steering axle as standard. With a steering angle of 90°, the three-wheel trucks therefore turn on the spot.

Tailor-made for the application

The Clark three- and four-wheel electric forklifts are available with extensive additional equipment so that they can be individually adapted to a wide range of operating conditions. The optional equipment includes, among other things, different cabs, such as rain protection (steel roof), weather protection (steel roof and front windscreen), partial (steel roof, front and rear windscreen as well as PVC side panel) and full cab, mini-levers or mechanical levers, blue LED warning lights, orange safety belt, attachments as well as additional safety options.

 

Cloud-based software helps boost warehouse efficiency

Posted on by David Priestman

To ensure warehouses work at maximum capacity, safe in the knowledge they can manage forklift battery and charging stations both easily and reliably, Exide Technologies has launched its new cloud-based system, Motion+ Fleet.

The new fleet management tool transforms logistics into detailed real-time data. It allows warehouse managers to turn their gut instincts into facts and make informed decisions on battery use – from anywhere in the world.

Motion+ Fleet helps users to run their warehouses more efficiently by:

  • Monitoring real-time condition and status of individual batteries, such as running times, amp usage and load, with easy-to-read traffic light style reports
  • Receiving automatically generated alerts by e-mail, if a battery isn’t working at peak performance
  • Maximising uptime by anticipating imminent issues. This means the user can take immediate action and avoid both disruption and frustration
  • Efficiently managing a site’s energy consumption, such as avoiding energy peaks when charging, and, therefore, stabilising costs
  • Overall, optimising total cost of ownership, simplifying processes and preventing errors with Motion+ Fleet

What’s more, the complete digitalisation of data not only allows users to manage all operations centrally from one location, but, thanks to the co-operation of a leading cloud supplier, it also protects the security of their assets.

The right solution for every customer’s needs

Available as Essential, Premium and Ultimate packages, depending on individual needs, the Ultimate option is perfect for businesses with multiple sites, as it gives the customer the choice of managing an unlimited number of chargers, which is unique in the market.

With more than a decade of experience in developing fleet management systems, Exide knows what customers require: responding to the efficiency demands placed on warehouses and helping them reach their targets. This new and sophisticated fleet management tool allows warehouses to stay in Motion+.

Magnus Ohlsson, Motive Power Business Director EMEA at Exide Technologies, said: “Motion+ Fleet is the perfect solution for customers to control their whole warehouse with just a few clicks! It manages the efficiency of their charger and battery fleets, no surprises, so they can focus on other topics and let the system do the hard work.”

Tested and validated in the real world

A leading dealer of sanitary, heating and bathroom supplies in Germany has put Motion+ Fleet through its paces and a company spokesperson commented on the positive impacts the tool has made: “Thanks to Motion+ Fleet, we have been able to monitor and plan our new battery orders much better and have not ordered batteries unnecessarily, thereby saving money.”

Globalisation is changing the world. Warehouse managers are faced with the challenge of constantly rethinking the efficiency of their business. To do this, they need flexible intralogistics solutions at the highest level to solve tomorrow’s tasks today.

Exide Technologies is working on up-to date products and solutions, so customers can continue to keep pace as the world evolves. Motion+ Fleet is the flagship product of the upcoming new Motion+ Smart Tools series, designed to offer customers innovative digital and cloud-based solutions, as well as other value-added tools and services around industrial batteries and chargers.

 

UgoWork wins software & technology providers award

Posted on by David Priestman

UgoWork, a Canadian energy solutions provider specialising in lithium-ion batteries for industrial trucks, has won Food Logistics’ 2021 Top Software & Technology Providers Award. This award honours software and technology providers that ensure safe and UL approved, efficient and reliable global cold food and beverage supply chains.

UgoWork helps organisations with manufacturing and warehousing challenges to reduce operational costs through improved efficiency in their material handling operations. Here are some key features:

  • Fast and easy charging: Universal charging infrastructure with automotive-grade connectors to power Class I, II and III industrial trucks
  • 24/7 support: Cloud-connected batteries enable constant remote monitoring of their state of health to ensure optimal uptimes
  • Energy as a service (EaaS): UgoWork’s flexible financing programmes and pay-per-use plans offer peace of mind including the replacement and recycling of lithium battery packs

“Energy as a Service is not new in terms of concept, but needed a technological shift to make it happen in the material handling market,” explained Philippe Beauchamp, President and CEO of UgoWork. “When we launched our lithium-ion battery several years ago, it was clear that our customers did not want batteries. They wanted a turnkey solution where the provider would take 100% responsibility of uptime of the systems and bring complete peace of mind for their operations. We introduced the industry with a battery infrastructure and IoT system that allows just that – and we top it off with a level of technical support that is unmatched in the industry.”

Whitepaper: Powering logistics digitalisation

Posted on by David Priestman

In light of the high-profile challenges faced in supply chains since March 2020, there is a growing need for digitalisation and greater automation in logistics, intralogistics and warehousing. Reliable power is critical in this, but it is something that Ultralife Corporation, a global manufacturer of batteries for many and varied industrial applications, argues is often overlooked.

The company has recently produced a whitepaper exploring the digitalisation trend in logistics, which highlights the battery requirements of popular modern logistics technologies. The whitepaper is available to download from Ultralife’s website.

Interest in logistics digitalisation has grown significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic, with labour shortages, elevated demand and component shortages putting strain on operations. Among the principal technologies gaining traction are intralogistics pick-and-place robotics, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in warehouses and asset tracking tags.

Batteries and uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs) are essential in modern logistics devices. However, the requirements of these components are constantly evolving, which engineers must be aware of to ensure reliable and consistent performance. Ultralife’s whitepaper aims to demystify the requirements of batteries for logistics applications, outlining the most beneficial technical specifications and chemistries for each.

“New and advancing technologies are proving invaluable in helping the global logistics industry to overcome demand pressures,” explained Robert Brown, marketing executive at Ultralife Corporation. “These technologies are designed to improve efficiency and effectiveness, but this can only be achieved with a reliable source of power. Unfortunately, the evolving state of technology means that the battery requirements continue to change, so many design engineers may not be aware of the best characteristics.

“In the whitepaper, Ultralife explores the context behind logistics digitalisation — why it is happening, what challenges are being encountered and how that is affecting robot and device design. This background ties directly into the performance requirements of applications, such as RFID asset tagging, and in turn the battery properties that are best suited.”

The whitepaper also references the commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) battery ranges that have been developed by Ultralife Corporation to exceed the standard requirements of many robotics and devices. The ranges of primary and secondary batteries have been developed with the ideal energy densities, discharge profiles and mechanical properties to provide reliable power in challenging logistics environments.

“Our whitepaper highlights some of the COTS ranges of batteries that Ultralife has developed to give design engineers a strong basis to work from,” continued Brown. “However, complex applications will require batteries that are tailored to offer more unique characteristics. For example, an application may need a battery with an irregular footprint, or one that can operate at extremes of temperature.

“Ultralife has worked with engineers globally to develop bespoke battery packs and chargers that meet requirements that might not be achievable with a COTS product. This whitepaper highlights examples of applications where bespoke or off-the-shelf power might be selected.”

Design, automation and maintenance engineers that are involved in the logistics, intralogistics or warehousing sectors can download the whitepaper from the Ultralife Corporation website.

 

Konecranes launches Battery as a Service

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Konecranes has launched Battery as a Service (BaaS), a breakthrough innovation in both technology and business model to facilitate financing and support our customers of the E-VER range of Li-Ion powered electric forklift trucks.

Through this service, Konecranes provides chargeable, upgradable and remotely monitorable Li-ion batteries to its BaaS users. This will allow the customers to purchase an E-VER electric heavy forklift without battery and to choose the best battery set up that suits their needs. The battery is subscribed to a monthly fee, based on its actual usage which can be monitored in real-time at yourKonecranes.com customer portal (the battery becomes an OPEX). This continuous monitoring guarantees the optimal performance of the battery.

The launch of Konecranes BaaS makes the purchase decision much easier and represents a better balance between the capital expenditure (CAPEX) and the operating expenditure (OPEX) which is also more comparable to the LCC distribution of a diesel engine powered lift truck.

BaaS also represents a future-proof solution to long-existing challenges such as battery degradation, battery renewal, battery upgradability and lower resale value. This service keeps the machine resale value independent from the battery degradation.

Batteries can be renewed when the rental agreement comes to an end or if needed by the renter during the hire period.

The innovation of vehicle-battery separation and battery subscription has come true. The successful launch of BaaS is another significant milestone for Konecranes Lift Trucks.

Fronius launches new reliable battery chargers

Posted on by David Priestman

Fronius Perfect Charging is expanding its Selectiva 4.0 product family in the 96V and 120V range. In doing so, the Austrian battery charging technology specialist is reacting to the increasing demand for electric forklift trucks for challenging heavy-duty applications.

Heavy-duty forklift trucks are indispensable for applications like goods handling in the timber and construction industry, recycling, and in the port and cargo ship sector. Until recently, these were mainly powered by combustion engines. Now, thanks to increased awareness of sustainability, stricter requirements, and more efficient drive technology, electrification is making further strides in the heavy load sector. This requires powerful traction batteries in the voltage range from 80 to 120V. In order to charge these lead-acid batteries efficiently and safely, Fronius Perfect Charging is adding two performance classes – 96V and 120V – to its Selectiva 4.0 portfolio.

“We help our customers switch to sustainable, electric intralogistics systems with our powerful charging technology. Our Selectiva 4.0 96V and 120V product range is specifically designed for transporting high-tonnage goods. The battery chargers have a compact design and flexibly adapt to our customers’ requirements. This allows us to reliably supply forklift trucks with power even when subject to challenging conditions, changes in grid quality, or extreme temperature fluctuations,” explains Patrick Gojer, Head of the Business Unit Perfect Charging.

Smart, compact, powerful

The Selectiva 4.0 96V and 120V battery chargers have several new features to help optimise the availability of the forklift truck fleet. One such feature is the Fronius Charger Interlock option, which is used to interlock the battery charging systems during the charging process if two batteries are being used in parallel to power the forklift truck. This prevents any imbalance in the states of charge and ensures that both batteries are evenly charged.

Equalising charges between the batteries are also prevented, as is one-sided discharge. Should the batteries be deep discharged, the new Selectiva 4.0 variants also reliably regenerate the batteries, thanks to a special characteristic included as standard. This represents a substantial cost benefit, especially for large traction batteries.

For full transparency and control of the entire charging infrastructure, the Selectiva 4.0 96V and 120V battery chargers can also be connected with the Fronius Charge & Connect solution. This provides real-time data on the state of charge of the connected batteries, the energy consumption, and the battery charger status. This gives fleet operators an overview of everything, even if there are multiple charging positions in indoor and outdoor areas.

 

Hoppecke launches new heavy-duty battery

Posted on by David Priestman

In highly intensive operations, handling equipment and its traction batteries are often pushed to the limit during daily use. To tackle this, industrial battery specialist Hoppecke has launched a new range, purpose-designed for heavy-duty applications.

Featuring a unique ‘Connect Four’ structure, the trak | uplift quadro offers four essential advantages: running times are longer, as the technology delivers up to 75% more usable capacity compared to a classic PzS cell under load; meanwhile, a fast-charging capability ensures better battery availability; opportunity charging is possible without intensive equalisation charging; and a Protective Shell Separator prevents short circuits due to mossing.

The trak | uplift quadro’s higher efficiency translates into energy savings of up to 8%. There are fewer cable temperature issues too, as the battery runs cooler for longer, effectively extending its service life.

A new design incorporates an optimised pole and electrode concept. A reduced cell height, special copper inserts, four poles instead of two and optimised connection of the electrodes all add up to enhanced conductivity. The trak |uplift quadro also has a significantly reduced internal resistance compared to the standard lead-acid battery. Consequently, the voltage level during discharge is stabilised, resulting in excellent high-current capability.

Hoppecke’s UK General Manager, Stuart Browne, said: “We’re really excited about the new trak | uplift quadro, which is purpose-designed to cope with high-tonnage trucks and intensive operations where equipment typically runs all day.

“Thanks to extended running times, high efficiency and a long lifecycle, the range is inherently flexible, making it ideally suited to demanding applications such as construction, engineering and agriculture.”

Compatible with standard PzS chargers, the trak | uplift quadro is available in three variants.

The standard 48-120v lead-acid battery comes with an electrolyte level indicator. Another battery incorporates electrolyte circulation to eliminate acid stratification. The system switches on automatically and is practically maintenance-free. Finally, the trak | uplift quadro iQ comprises a high-current battery with smart charging and intelligent control. It offers increased flexibility, as charging times are improved by up to three hours. This variant also enjoys the lowest maintenance costs, and energy consumption is reduced by up to 19%.

The new trak | uplift quadro range is available from Hoppecke and all reputable MHE suppliers.

Battery maker Sunlight records 68% growth

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Sunlight, a member of the international investment Olympia Group, has published strong financial results for H1 2021 with an 180% increase in EBITDA and 68% increase in turnover, compared to H1 2020. Recording yet another robust financial performance, the company continues implementing its diverse investment plan in facilities, infrastructure, expansion, R&D and human resources. Simultaneously, Sunlight continues maximising production capacity for lead-acid and lithium-ion energy storage systems, as well as developing, producing, and launching new products.

Turnover for Sunlight in H1 2021 amounted to €126m compared to €75m during the same period last year, i.e. a 68% increase. This is attributed to the dynamic repositioning of #in the global market and the addition of new customers, as well as the trust in the company firmly exhibited by the existing customers. Combined with the swift recovery of the market, the company was well-prepared to develop more rapidly than its competitors.

Despite the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic brought about significant drawbacks to the sector due to certain shortages – for example in semiconductors, used in industrial vehicles and lithium batteries – Sunlight’s positive H1 2021 performance is a testament to its resilience and agility to respond to both challenges and emerging opportunities.

Sunlight also announced that its adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation) for H1 2021 amounted to €13.1m, compared to €4.7m recorded in H1 2020. The impressive 180% surge is due to an increase in sales and reduction of production cost – especially in the motive batteries range – the addition of new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) customers, and the expansion of the company’s product portfolio.

Two new and innovative products were launched in H1 2021: the semi-traction lithium-ion battery, ElectroLife, and the Battery Management System for lead-acid energy storage systems, KnoWi.

Commenting on the release of the H1 2021 financial results, Sunlight CEO, Lampros Bisalas, noted: “I’m very proud of Sunlight’s strong first half performance. The results show that we’re effectively monitoring and addressing an unprecedented situation, such as the one defined by the pandemic. We accurately identify and navigate risks via robust business planning and efficient mitigation actions. We overcome challenges and create opportunities to complete our transformation into a fast-paced and rapidly growing technology company that specialises in integrated and innovative energy storage solutions and contributes to a more sustainable future.

“The market is facing strong pressure due to the increased prices of raw material and this is anticipated to affect the wider supply chain for at least the next 12 months. Despite the uncertainty, we feel confident that we shall maintain our positive financial performance for the entire year, and that we have the foundation to perform even better in the years to come.”

To further increase production and, consequently, growth, Sunlight is implementing a strategic and diverse investment plan to expand the capacity of both lead-acid and lithium-ion energy storage products. This includes the upgrade of the company’s units in Greece (Xanthi and Komotini), Italy (Verona) and USA (North Carolina), with the installation of infrastructure, state-of-the-art machinery, and automated assembly lines. This 5-year business plan entails a total investment of €560m.

Investments are also ongoing in human capital. On 30th June, 2021, Sunlight and its subsidiaries collectively employed 1,206 personnel, i.e., 229 people or 23.4% more than H1 2020. Just the R&D (Research & Development) department has been staffed with 70+ highly skilled researchers and scientists, while the company is dedicated to attracting the most talented professionals available – from both Greece and abroad. And in doing so, maintain and increase its contribution to social security and taxes, which marked a significant 21% rise between H1 2020 and H1 2021.

Sunlight continues its transformation to a technology-agnostic company making the most of Industry 4.0 principles – including use of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning Tools. The company also continues upgrading and digitising its production process. And it continues offering better flexibility, functionality and performance in the development, manufacturing and distribution of lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries for industrial and consumer applications.

MAT Foundry Group moves to lithium-ion

Posted on by David Priestman

MAT Foundry Group UK, a leading manufacturer of cast and machined products, has announced its move to lithium-ion in partnership with Jungheinrich.

Consisting of eight companies and stretching across three continents, the MAT Foundry Group’s seven foundries produce over 350,000 tonnes of iron per year, maintaining ten machining facilities across Europe, Asia, Central and North America combining to form one of the world’s biggest manufacturers of car parts.

The MAT Foundry group subsidiary Eurac Poole started using a combination of diesel and electric Jungheinrich trucks three years ago. Jungheinrich’s lithium-ion EFG trucks will be used to combat ergonomic and efficiency challenges that the drivers faced with the previous outdated warehouse fleet, such as easily rotating 180° within the tight working aisles.

Additionally, the investment in electric forklift trucks is just the latest in a growing number of green initiatives designed to improve the Group’s wider environmental efforts. In a bid to reduce MAT Foundry’s carbon footprint and work towards its sustainability goals, the move to lithium-ion trucks will create a cleaner atmosphere for workers, removing 279 tonnes of Co2 and reducing diesel consumption by as much as 60,000 litres.

Shaun Lindfield, Commercial Director at MAT Foundry Group UK, comments: “We are thrilled to integrate a fully electric fleet into our warehouse in January 2022. The desire for an efficient and more flexible fleet is paramount in our 24/7 operations. We currently use hydrostatic diesel but many retailers have stopped producing this, accelerating our move to lithium-ion and further allowing us to increase our commitment to sustainability initiatives.”

Phil Pearson, Director Region Two at Jungheinrich UK, comments: “MAT Foundry Group is a leader in engineering and manufacturing that requires a flexible, efficient and reliable fleet. Jungheinrich is thrilled to partner with such a forward thinking organisation to support its sustainability efforts in the move to a lithium-ion fleet.

The installation of the new fleet consisting of five EFG 425k, two EFG 535k and two EFG S50 will be deployed in January 2022.

 

 

Subscribe

Get notified about New Episodes of our Podcast, New Magazine Issues and stay updated with our Weekly Newsletter.