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Tag: forklift technology

Cascade Corporation acquires Lift-Tek

Posted on by David Priestman

Cascade Corporation, a global leader in the manufacturing of lift truck attachments, forks and related technologies, has successfully completed the acquisition of mast manufacturer Lift Technologies, Inc. (USA) and Lift-Tek Elecar S.p.A. (Italy) – more commonly known as Lift-Tek – from Calvi Holding S.p.A as wholly owned subsidiaries.

Lift-Tek is a major global manufacturer of masts, including models in two, three, four and five stage configurations, with capacities up to 52t for a wide variety of applications. Products are used on both electric and internal combustion (IC) lift trucks, very narrow aisle lift trucks, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), telehandlers and more.

Established in 1999, Lift-Tek is recognised by OEMs in the industry for high quality mast products and years of expertise in materials handling. With manufacturing facilities located in Westminster, South Carolina, USA and Piacenza, Italy, Lift-Tek currently serves the North American and European markets as well as international customers.

“We look forward to this new chapter in our company’s history,” says Angelo Ceresa, Board Member of Lift-Tek Elecar S.p.A. “We believe working together with Cascade brings excellent new potential to our operations and that our customers will benefit greatly from this development.”

The acquisition gives the company the unique opportunity to bundle Lift-Tek masts with Cascade attachments for those customers who require a custom solution for the front end of their lift truck or automated guided vehicle (AGV). With Lift-Tek’s special engineering capabilities combined with Cascade’s latest attachment technologies, such as mobile weighing and sensing capabilities, the acquisition provides opportunities for synergy and growth when it comes to product development for digitally integrated solutions.

“Lift-Tek’s reputation for quality products makes them a natural fit for the Cascade family,” says Davide Roncari, President & CEO of Cascade Corporation. “Together, we will be able to provide enhanced options for those customers in need of specialized, integrated mast/attachment solutions.”

Lift-Tek will continue normal operations as independent subsidiaries under Cascade Corporation ownership.

Combilift wins family business award

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Combilift has been recognised as the overall winner of the Energia Family Business of the Year 2021.

Energia, the largest supplier of 100% Green Energy in Ireland, recently hosted its bi-annual awards ceremony virtually, with 19 awards being presented to Irish family businesses. The awards celebrate generations of families who work together and this year’s ceremony focussed on honouring businesses who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and resilience throughout the Covid-19 pandemic while continuing to thrive and grow.

Around 200 family business entries were submitted for consideration by the judging panel. Criteria for success was a business which has drawn on its family values to build a successful company, one which acts as a great ambassador for the sector and makes a significant contribution to society and the wider economy.

Combilift was nominated for two categories, Innovative Family Business Award and Manufacturing & Engineering Family Business of the Year. As the company claimed gold in both of these, it was  therefore eligible for the top award, the Energia Family Business of the Year 2021.

Combilift’s CEO and co-founder Martin McVicar commented: “Combilift are thrilled to receive both category awards and of course the overall Family Business award. We’d like to thank the sponsors of our awards, Energia and also NSIA, and the jury for recognising our company and its achievements with these prestigious accolades. This means so much to our team here in Combilift and their families, we are all very proud, and will celebrate accordingly!”

 

Trelleborg introduces versatile press-on tyre

Posted on by David Priestman

Trelleborg has launched the PS800, its newest press-on solid tyre for medium-intensity material handling applications; versatile for working in all conditions indoors or out.

Luca Sabelli, Product Manager Material Handling at Trelleborg Wheel Systems, said: “At Trelleborg, we know that tailoring our solutions to customers’ needs is essential when it comes to handling their everyday challenges. Designed to help operators that deal with high loads and repeated vehicle cornering within a medium working cycle, the PS800 can get the job done easily with the versatility needed.”

Available in smooth or traction profiles and in two different compounds, multi-purpose and non-marking, the PS800 guarantees high performance and enhanced comfort in indoor operations or the needed grip and increased traction for outdoor ones, even on wet paving.

Trelleborg says both PS800 tread patterns carry good overall performance, day in and day out. Thanks to its optimised compounds, wear is reduced, meaning the PS800 tyre lasts 18% longer than equivalent tyres on the market.

Flexibility comes first with the PS800 line, so customers can select the right tyre to run their operations with confidence in the comfort, stability and safety they will have while working on any surface.

Deadline approaches for IFOY entries

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The application period for the IFOY AWARD 2022 is entering the finishing phase. Suppliers of products and solutions can apply only this week. The application portal at www.ifoy.org is open until 30th October, 2021. In addition to forklifts, warehouse technology and special vehicles, automated guided vehicle (AGVs), shuttles, robots, cargo bikes, drones, cranes, software and apps as well as successfully implemented, integrated warehouse solutions are also eligible for application.

Furthermore, outstanding technical details or components, such as ergonomic innovations, safety solutions or automation components, are also awarded. In the “Start-up of the Year” category, newly-founded companies with innovative prototypes or functional developments can apply for an IFOY AWARD.

Due to its expertise, the IFOY AWARD is considered the most important innovation award in intralogistics. The election by an international jury selected from internationally renowned trade journalists and the leading logistics media – including Logistics Business as the sole UK media representative – is preceded by an extensive audit with nomination and test cycles. The equipment and solutions nominated for the final undergo individually tailored driving or functional tests, including the test protocol comprising around 80 criteria and the scientific IFOY Innovation Check, on the occasion of the IFOY TEST DAYS from 18th – 23rd March, 2022 at the Messe Dortmund exhibition centre.

In addition, jurors and their teams of advisors from the business world will travel to examine the finalists themselves before casting their vote. As part of IFOY TEST DAYS, TEST CAMP Intralogistics will be held again in 2022, admitting B2B trade visitors interested in innovation. The number of participants is limited.

Applications can only be submitted online HERE.

Doosan upgrades electric forklift range 

Posted on by David Priestman

Doosan, a leading manufacturer of robust high-performance forklift trucks, has unveiled a major upgrade to its successful BT/BX 7 Plus Series electric counterbalance forklift trucks, bringing advanced performance-enhancing design and improved capabilities to the three and four wheeled, 1.5-to-3.5-tonne, mid-market product range.

Designed to deliver simple, powerful performance in even the harshest of operating environments, Doosan says its BT/BX 7 Plus models have now been upgraded, resulting in enhanced braking, reduced noise levels, greater cooling performance, and extra driving comfort. Further advantages include: more efficient ergonomics, new safety features as standard – plus greater choice on options – and improved waterproofing for better all-weather performance and reliability.

Safety upgrade

Safety has been stepped-up a gear with Doosan’s all-round braking system, which includes the Doosan Electric magnetic auto Parking Brake (EPB) and Electric Foot Brake (EFB) systems, together with an unlimited ramp-hold capability. With the EPB system the parking brake automatically activates when the driver leaves the seat, ensuring safety around the vehicle, and with the new EFB system brakes are automatically applied as soon as the operator’s foot lifts off the accelerator pedal.

In the cab, clever design features, greater driver comfort and well thought-out ergonomics go hand-in-hand with safer working. The new improved mast design significantly reduces mast oscillation, which allows the operator to safely manoeuvre when the mast is fully elevated. In addition, Doosan’s optional Guardian Stability System (GSS) ensures safe handling by automatically reducing travel speed as a load is elevated.

Further safety improvements include: a newly designed overhead guard with angled roof bars for a clearer upward view, a large panoramic mirror for better rear visibility and a new fence-light feature that offers a warning to pedestrians by projecting red lines around the vehicle. In addition, optional front and rear safety lights are available for extra visibility.

Extra options

An optional feature on the new models is fingertip controls. Fast, precise and fully adjustable fingertip control makes hard work effortless and efficient. Also, with the NFC Start option, security has been improved, allowing only authorised employees to operate the vehicle.

Doosan says operator comfort has been significantly upgraded with the introduction of a new Doosan low-vibration, shock-absorbing seat, with full suspension adjustable up to 150kg and far greater armrest control.

Noise levels have been markedly improved too. The combination of a low-noise drive axle and a new sound suppression design has resulted in a 37% reduction in sound intensity compared to the previous model, creating a far more comfortable working environment for both driver and those working close by.

In keeping with Doosan’s reputation for rugged design and reliable performance, the latest models have improved waterproofing, offering protection against water and dirt in the harshest of outdoor applications, whatever the weather. All connectors are water protected to IP67, controllers sealed and rated to IP65 and motors and pumps offer full dust and water protection to IP43 rating. Electric motor cooling performance has been improved too, with a new centralised cooling fan.

Productivity boost

Helping to maximise productivity and improve safety within busy operational environments, Doosan’s new, improved curve speed control system automatically reduces the vehicle’s travel speed to an optimum level when cornering, reducing the risk of accidents and damage – allowing operators to perform everyday handling tasks with greater confidence.

Further efficiency gains can be achieved in battery changing operations, with Side Lift In and Lift Out (SLIO) and Side Roll In and Roll Out (SRIO) design, allowing fast changeover of batteries for multi-shift operations. Helping to reduce valuable warehouse space, a tighter turning radius on the new BT/BX 7 Plus models offer businesses the potential to move to a more compact racking layout, with narrower aisle widths.

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.

 

 

Halo Bar offers mounting options on Flexi trucks

Posted on by David Priestman

The Halo Bar is an innovative new accessory option developed by Narrow Aisle Ltd for use with all models in the extensive Flexi Truck range of articulated lift truck-based intralogistics very narrow aisle (VNA) storage solutions .

Developed as a mounting for radio data terminals (RDTs), hands-free order-picking screens, label printers etc, the Halo Bar is quickly and easily fitted to a Flexi Truck’s chassis.

Its sturdy U-shaped design sits to the fore of the Flexi’s steering column and at its highest point the top of the Halo Bar’s arc curves below the steering wheel to ensure unobstructed operator forward vision – even when several RDT screens or printers are fitted.

In addition to its role as a computer mounting accessory, the Halo Bar allows stepping into and down from the Flexi’s cab even easier for operators. Operators simply grip the bar’s strong 40mm diameter steel tube with one hand when entering and exiting the Flexi during stock picking operations. This ‘single handed’ entry and exit functionality is both comfortable and safe and, in pre-launch trials, proved extremely popular with operators.

The Halo Bar’s dual functionality makes Flexi models highly suited to modern storage facilities that use screen-based pick lists and fulfilment centres where a high degree of picking and order assembly work takes place alongside full pallet movements.

John Maguire, Narrow Aisle’s managing director, comments: “The Halo Bar is a simple design but we believe that it represents a valuable and ergonomically advanced alternative to, for example, attaching in-cab computer terminals to a truck’s overhead guard which can obstruct the operator’s forward visibility when stacking loads.

“It is becoming quite common to see trucks in operation at some bigger sites with several truck-mounted, hands-free data terminals. The Halo Bar is designed to allow numerous devices to be positioned securely in the optimum viewing position without obstructing the operator’s forward or upward visibility.

“Also, the Halo Bar’s role as a convenient grip helps reduce the physical effort involved in getting on and off of the truck. With the range of operations undertaken within a modern warehouse continuing to grow significantly due to the rise of e-commerce, materials handling equipment is expected to carry out multiple tasks. So, at sites where a Flexi Truck operator is required to take on order picking and order assembly in addition to picking and putting away full pallet loads, the Halo Bar is particularly beneficial.”

Mitsubishi launches powerful new electric forklift

Posted on by David Priestman

Changes to fuel subsidies, enhancements in battery technology and increasingly stringent emissions regulations mean electric trucks are becoming the new favourite – even in industries where diesel was once considered indispensable.

And now electric trucks offer more capabilities than ever before with the arrival of the new EDiA XL from Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks.

Built with a wealth of unique and innovative features, Mitsubishi says its EDiA XL is the perfect alternative to IC engine trucks, having been designed to outperform not only its electric rivals, but also any diesel forklift.

Stewart Gosling of RDD, the exclusive UK importer for Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks, explains: “The new EDiA XL will do everything a diesel can do… only better. It is the first electric to fully overcome every issue that may have stopped some owners of IC engine trucks from making the switch to electric.”

Available in 4-5 tonne models, EDiA XL will handle heavy-duty applications with ease.

“In the past many industries favoured diesel for its brute strength, but electric forklifts like EDiA XL offer power like never before,” adds Gosling.

Take for example, the AutoBoost feature. This kicks in automatically to provide torque and acceleration boosts where and when they’re needed, like on ramps and steep inclines, so power drops are a thing of the past.

Even harsh environments are no match for EDiA XL. Its Electric Differential Lock feature gives the truck better traction and control both indoors and out.

“EDiA XL is an exceptionally intuitive forklift,” says Gosling. “Handling is smooth and precise, high lifts are rock-steady, while Four Wheel Steering enables a 100° lock delivering the smallest turning circle on the market – perfect for working in tight spaces. There’s no challenge the EDiA XL can’t overcome.”

Operator comfort has been placed front and centre with EDiA XL. With its ergonomic, adjustable seat, and its range of advanced control options, EDiA XL helps operators stay productive. Not least because noise levels inside the cabin are extremely low at just 65dB, and microvibrations are minimal thanks to the rubber-mounted cabin.

Gosling concludes: “The placement and design of the mast means operators have unparalleled visibility while working in a comfortable, stress-free environment, giving them the confidence to work efficiently and safely. Every detail has been considered in the EDiA XL. It really does set a new standard for forklift trucks.”

GS Yuasa launches battery range in Europe

Posted on by David Priestman

GS Yuasa has launched a new range of traction batteries for the European material handling market. The launch sees the manufacturer – which describes itself as a world leader for vehicle and industrial batteries – expand upon its class-leading Japanese traction battery range with an all-new line up of European DIN and BS sizes.

The new range of individual 2V cells, full-tank solutions and accessories utilises the very latest technology and premium Japanese engineering for maximum quality and long life. Available in 24, 48 and 80V solutions, the extensive range provides coverage for all makes and models providing reliable power and hassle-free performance.

The new European-sized range is available as a fully plug-and-play solution, meaning it can be easily integrated into a wide range of applications. All batteries offer low maintenance, minimised water consumption and quick charging. They are supplied in a high durability, dip coated tray and are fully recyclable.

As an original equipment supplier, GS Yuasa says it is trusted by engineers worldwide. Its traction batteries are the preferred choice to the Asian materials handling market, and GS brand traction batteries are still widely referenced for their unrivalled quality many years after discontinuation in Europe.

James Hylton, Managing Director of GS Yuasa Battery Sales UK, said: “We’re delighted to have launched our traction range in Europe and offer our world-renowned quality and long service life to the materials handling industry.

“Our experienced engineers have developed this range using their extensive knowledge of traction technology to ensure the highest performance and reliability. We are already receiving a huge level of interest from materials handling suppliers and manufacturers who are delighted GS Yuasa have returned to the European market.”

GS Yuasa  says an optional Air-Mix system enhances electrolyte mixing, prolonging service life and reducing the risk of stratification and premature battery failure. The system brings a number of additional benefits including a 20% reduction in energy consumption during charging and reducing overall charge times by 30%. A fully integrated filling solution makes maintenance quick and easy while an optional LED indicator means electrolyte levels can be checked with just a glance.

Strategic partnership brings spatial intelligence to logistics

Posted on by Keith McKinley

SLAMcore, a leader in spatial intelligence software for robots and other autonomous machines, has formed a strategic partnership with SYNAOS, a specialist in smart intralogistics software solutions for logistics and factories. Together the two companies are announcing SYNA.OS VIEW, a low-cost, real-time, spatial intelligence system for manually-guided intralogistics vehicles (e.g., forklifts and warehouse vehicles). SYNA.OS VIEW addresses the growing demand for real-time location and tracking in busy logistics environments.

Efficiency is key in manufacturing and logistics and understanding the real-time location and operation of all assets allows better planning and more efficient operations.  One significant challenge today is how manually-guided vehicles, such as forklifts, can be cost-effectively tracked and integrated with autonomous vehicles in logistics and manufacturing environments. Adding Visual SLAM to manually-controlled vehicles allows this to happen in dynamic real-world environments.

SYNA.OS VIEW is a single unit that can be added to existing forklifts, vehicles, and machines to provide accurate real-time locations.  The unit uses low-cost stereo cameras and an IMU sensor running on a small, embedded computer and can be simply retrofitted to most vehicles.

SLAMcore’s spatial intelligence software delivers robust and precise localisation ensuring the position of each vehicle is known at all times. Integrated via an SDK with SYNAOS’ onboard software, real-time location is constantly communicated with the SYNA.OS LOGISTICS control system through a standardised interface (VDA 5050).

Until now, the position of manually-guided vehicles like forklifts could only be determined if the vehicles were fitted with expensive UWB positioning or LiDAR systems, often costing up to €15,000. The cost of the SYNA.OS VIEW camera-based system is significantly lower, offers a wider range of potential applications, and can be easily installed on all kinds of vehicles.

“This collaboration shows the power and flexibility of our vision-based SLAM systems,” said Owen Nicholson, CEO of SLAMcore. “Developed to provide low-cost, high-performance spatial intelligence for robots and autonomous machines, our software delivers accurate, robust Visual SLAM location and mapping to entirely new markets. SYNAOS offers the perfect platform for this type of solution, with expertise in intralogistics and leading customers in manufacturing and logistics markets.”

“SLAMcore is one of the leading providers of localisation, mapping and perception software that converts sensor data into spatial intelligence in real time,” says Dr. Timo Bänziger, Technical Entrepreneur SYNAOS. “We are the first to apply this vision technology to track logistics vehicles and implement real industrial applications applying the benefits of cutting-edge computer vision to manufacturing and logistics.”

 

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