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Tag: forklift technology

Hyster reveals Li-ion trucks with electric drivetrain

Posted on by David Priestman

Hyster has announced its 10-18 tonne lift capacity trucks are now available with an electric drivetrain, helping businesses achieve zero-emissions objectives by making the switch to electric forklifts.

The new Hyster J10-18XD lift trucks lift up to 18-tonnes and feature lithium-ion battery packs providing full power and acceleration, comparable to a diesel forklift but with no emissions.

“This is a breakthrough for businesses in heavy industry that are keen to achieve green objectives in factories, warehouses and yards,” says Jan-Willem van den Brand, Director Global Market Development, Big Trucks, for Hyster. “With support from Hyster, the transition to clean electric power is now simpler than ever and comes with no compromise on performance or efficiency.

“Operations undertaking tough tasks in demanding industries, such as those typically found in timber, metals, and construction applications, can rely on these new electric forklifts inside and outside, for ICE-like performance across one, two or three shifts, alongside the convenience of opportunity charging,” van den Brand continues.

The new Big Trucks are also intelligently designed to prevent overheating, uniquely combining liquid cooled motors and inverters with 350V lithium-ion batteries. The high voltage and low current system featured in the new trucks not only greatly reduces heat development, but also incorporates specially designed water-cooled motors and drive controllers to further prevent heat build-up. Battery monitoring systems also help to control under and overcharging.

Whether the trucks are used to unload steel bars from a train, feed concrete moulds into a manufacturing process, or transport wood-based panels through a manufacturing site, the new Hyster electric trucks may provide even better productivity than a diesel alternative. The quiet and comfortable cabin also improves the driver experience, alongside outstanding visibility, ergonomics, and productivity-enhancing features.

“Regardless of if the truck is used for periodic or continuous operation, you can drive these trucks like a diesel,” says van den Brand, explaining that as with an IC-powered Hyster Big Truck, the new electric models provide exceptional traction power, acceleration and drawbar pull.

However, matched with the right application and operating intensity, the Hyster J10-18XD lift trucks may also help operations to reduce the Total Cost of Ownership.

The integrated lithium-ion batteries produce higher performance than lead-acid counterparts and have a longer life cycle, helping to keep costs down. Plus, each truck can be equipped with modular battery packs to store the necessary power required to meet the operational needs. The system is optimally designed for high power opportunity charging, removing the need to swap batteries, so uptime is maximised, and shift changes and breaks become productive. The new truck option requires just 11 minutes of charge for up to one hour of work.

“With less time needed for charging, a wide range of applications can benefit from greater truck availability,” says van den Brand. “Operations with two or three shift operations can easily top up the charge, preventing the need for battery exchange and a separate charging room.  As the battery and electric motor are maintenance free this also helps reduce costs, further contributing to a low Total Cost of Ownership.”

To support businesses in their journey from a diesel to an electric fleet, Hyster works closely with operations to plan the transition, providing options that enable the correct electric lift truck to be configured for differing application needs. The experts at Hyster also advise on the necessary changes to electrical and infrastructure needs, plus a suitable charging strategy and process.  Further support is given through training and servicing throughout the lifetime of the lift truck.

“Green objectives are also important to many businesses, some of which are exploring the implementation of solar panels and other onsite methods of generating electricity. In many countries there are also tax incentives and grants that support companies looking to invest in zero-emissions equipment,” says van den Brand. “These types of applications will find these new trucks an ideal choice when compared to diesel, both environmentally and economically.”

Those switching to lithium-ion forklifts receive the support of their local Hyster dealers. Across the world, they work with each customer to determine the exact requirements for the specific application and configure the battery system to suit the operation.

Staying safe in the warehouse with STILL

Posted on by David Priestman

Hamburg-based intralogistics supplier STILL recently presented a webinar highlighting ways in which it has harnessed technology to help make the warehouse workplace safer.

In Germany alone, more than 20,000 reportable occupational accidents involving forklift trucks and warehouse equipment occurred last year. So much for the bad news. The good news: there are effective assistance systems that help prevent such accidents. STILL presented some of these innovative safety solutions in a webinar entitled Safe around the warehouse with industrial trucks.

To demonstrate where hazards lurk in the warehouse, Jürgen Wrusch and Janos Poppe took the webinar participants on a virtual warehouse tour. On the way, the two STILL experts explained that each warehouse has specific features and, as a result, an individual risk ranking.

Access and usage control

As early as at the beginning of the shift, hazards may arise from willful or negligent misconduct. For example, when vehicles are used without permission. This could be people who either do not have a driving license or whose driving ability is impaired. Or those who – without thinking of the consequences of their behaviour – want to use damaged vehicles or vehicles unsuitable for the task.

“Each of these reasons conjures up incalculable dangers,” emphasised Poppe. This can be remedied by systems that ensure that only competent operators use a suitable vehicle in proper technical condition. One of these systems is the pre-shift check feature of the STILL Easy Control on-board computer: before the start of each shift, or at user-defined intervals, drivers must confirm the vehicle’s operability via the on-board computer before they can operate the vehicle with all its functions.

STILL’s FleetManager access control system also offers a comprehensive suite of reports and telematics applications that can be used to monitor the use of trucks and drivers on the site. Acceleration sensors can also be used to monitor the driving style of the operators and – if necessary – intervene in the vehicle control.

“The sensor detects mechanical shocks and immediately generates a speed reduction. Road hogs whose wanton misbehaviour poses a danger to people and equipment are thus quickly unmasked and slowed down,” says Poppe.

Collision accidents

After successful access control, movement through the warehouse begins. From this moment on, there is a risk of collisions with other people or vehicles. “One way to prevent this is to use visual warning signals. These significantly increase the perceptibility of the vehicles,” explained Wrusch to the webinar participants.

A proven solution for this is the STILL warning zone light. The optional lighting equipment acts as a visual warning for pedestrians and other drivers in the immediate vicinity by projecting luminous strips onto the side of the hall floor next to the vehicle. This makes the STILL warning zone light a good complement to the STILL Safety Light. This projects blue light dots onto the ground at a distance of approx. 5m in front of and behind the vehicle, which warn of the approaching vehicle and can thus prevent an imminent collision.

A big step towards completely avoiding collision damage to people and vehicles are radio-based safety systems.  “The basic principle of these systems is to establish bidirectional communication via radio waves between vehicles, pedestrians and stationary equipment even without visual contact. For this purpose, this equipment as well as all pedestrians and vehicles are equipped with radio modules,” explained Wrusch. With their help, vehicle control can take place automatically in danger zones, for example by reducing the speed or braking the vehicle if there is a risk of collision.

Tipping accidents

Whenever the forklift truck is in a hurry on its way to the next task, the top risk looms: a tipping accident. “These occur with heavy counterbalance trucks as well as with pallet trucks. The frequent cause is excessive cornering speed,” recounted Poppe.

However, STILL has a suitable remedy for this risk, too, in the form of Curve Speed Control. The steering angle-dependent speed limitation reduces a possible tipping accident by ensuring an appropriate cornering speed. This assistance function is available for various forklift trucks and warehouse equipment and automatically regulates the travel speed depending on the steering angle. This means that the driver does not have to worry about speed when cornering. The vehicle automatically brakes exactly to the point where the operator is safe and at the same time as fast as possible when cornering.

Tipping accidents also occur when drivers overestimate the load capacity of their equipment. If there is too much load on the front of the forks, the truck tips over into the racking. To prevent this from happening, STILL has developed the Dynamic Load Control assistance system. This system limits the lifting height in relation to the load weight and thus prevents the truck from being overloaded.

Wrusch: “The result can be described like this for counterbalance trucks: The higher and heavier the load, the slower the lift. A very effective assistance system that not only makes storage at great heights much easier, but also considerably safer.”

Another innovative system for accident prevention is the Active Load Stabilisation (ALS). An automatic compensation pulse quickly and effectively stops the mast vibrations that occur at great heights, which – in addition to the safety benefit – also reduces the waiting time at the racking up to 80%.

Conclusion

The vision of accident-free intralogistics seems within reach, as the results of the STILL webinar showed. In order to make this a reality, however, not only innovative technical solutions for trucks are needed, but also effective training concepts for warehouse employees to enable them to handle these trucks safely and responsibly.

This is also the purpose of the website specially created by STILL on the subject of safety: www.still.de/safety. Even if the ever more reliable technology can take many decisions away from the operating personnel: industrial trucks are – and will remain in the future – complex tools which safe operation must be properly learned.

New Reflex trucks feature proven innovation

Posted on by David Priestman

Toyota Material Handling Europe is launching the first three models in the new BT Reflex family: the high-performance R-series model, the E-series with unique tilting cab and the flexible O-series for inside and outside use.

The updated BT Reflex trucks will set new standards in terms of safety, energy efficiency and ergonomics. The innovative improvements include an updated ergonomic operator compartment with intuitive controls and an interactive colour touchscreen. All models come with intelligent lithium-ion energy packs, and can be easily connected to I_Site from Toyota.

Reach trucks from Toyota have been class-leading products with innovative features over the past 25 years. Unique tilting cab, transitional lift control, 360° steering, to name just a few. The new generation of reach trucks continues in the same direction, introducing new innovative features focusing in four key areas: intelligent energy, intuitive and interactive driver experience as well as providing more insight into material handling operations.

“With the theme ‘proven innovation’ we not only highlight the importance of our class-leading hero product, but also the fact that we aim to keep investing in innovation to continue to answer our customers’ needs, according to our value Kaizen (continuous improvement). With this product, we are reaching new levels in terms of safety, ergonomics and energy efficiency – and we will continue to focus on bringing customers sustainable and efficient material handling solutions in the future,” says José María Gener, Vice President Sales & Marketing, Toyota Material Handling Europe.

Intelligent energy packs

The new BT Reflex has been developed with three requirements in mind: cost saving, environment- friendliness and energy efficiency. Toyota Material Handling is offering a choice of three intelligent energy packs to fit customers’ application. They are based on Toyota’s own modular lithium-ion battery solutions to give maximum flexibility in operations.

Good charging disciplines can enable the new reach trucks with even the smallest energy pack to work around the clock. Providing businesses with high-quality, cost-effective and safe ways to power material handling equipment is of foremost importance, while keeping the environmental impact to a minimum.

Driver experience has been further enhanced on the new BT Reflex range with a redesigned operator compartment. It offers new ergonomic features and brings safety and performance to the next level.

The new cabin allows for intuitive operation, in all respects. The enhancements include a new steering unit with palm support for optimal driver feeling as well as a new main control console on the right-hand side. Driver comfort has not been forgotten on this new model as it comes with a high-quality air suspension seat as option.

Another noticeable addition to the range is the new large colour touchscreen display offering even greater levels of intuitive control as well as interactivity. The new touchscreen provides a clear and easy way to read critical information as well as direct access to programmable functions to guarantee a high level of performance.

Insight into your operation with I_Site

All reach trucks from Toyota are connected smart trucks, factory-fitted with integrated telematics and are easy to connect with I_Site. The driver interface has been improved, including I_Site features such as Smart Access to allow only authorised drivers to start the machine, but also with Pre-Operational Check to make sure an automated check is done by the driver before every shift.  Connected trucks with I_Site from Toyota allow users to measure and improve for higher safety and overall performance while achieving cost savings.

The new Toyota BT Reflex range features capacities of 1.4 up to 2.5 tonnes and lift heights up to 13 metres.  High performance, exceptional and unique features allow for maximum productivity without compromising on safety, energy consumption and ergonomics and this, even in the most high-intensive operations. Later this year, two brand new models will be added to the reach truck family; a cold store cab and a narrow chassis truck, the N-series.

Hyster to discuss ‘Total Port Electrification’ at TOC

Posted on by David Priestman

Hydrogen and lithium-ion power may move ports closer to total electrification, says Hyster Europe, as it prepares to update on its zero-emission Container Handler and ReachStacker projects at the TOC Global Showcase virtual event.

“For several years, Hyster has been working on unique zero-emissions container handling equipment for ports that incorporate lithium-ion battery and fuel cell technology,” says Willem Nieuwland, Big Truck Program Manager for Hyster. “However, we are now ‘extending the family’ and bringing these benefits to more equipment types to support total green operations from ship to store.”

Hyster recently revealed it was entering a partnership with Capacity Trucks to jointly develop electric, hydrogen, and automation-ready terminal tractors. This addresses growing demand for environmentally sustainable terminal tractor solutions in port, terminal, and distribution centre markets, with initial prototypes expected to be available in 2021 for testing in port applications.

The collaboration brings together Capacity’s robust terminal truck platform with unique Hyster lift truck electric powertrain technology for proven reliability and hydrogen fuel cells.  The Hyster solution in development has lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen fuel cell power integral to the design, rather than as a retro-fit option. It is expected that the final solution will be produced on a large scale, at an affordable price to help ports to reach their environmental goals.

“Importantly, the opportunities for hydrogen fuel cells are a key factor in this development, as this is a particularly interesting area for ports and something we’ve been progressing since 2017,” says Willem. “Hydrogen has the potential to provide the renewable energy model that is most attractive to environmentally driven businesses, without some of the complexities of electric vehicles – such as grid power availability for charging.

“What’s more, this is an area where funding and grants are available, making it feasible for ports wishing to explore zero-emissions equipment options,” he continues.

Hyster continues to develop Container Handlers and ReachStackers powered by lithium-ion batteries, either alone or combined with a fuel-cell range extender, as part of a number of funded projects for end users in the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Valencia.

However, in the past year, Hyster has also launched a number of product innovations that are available now to support zero-emissions handling with high productivity portside.

The new Hyster J7.0–9.0XNL electric forklift series with fully integrated lithium-ion batteries, carries up to nine tonnes, and gives port operations the benefits of comparable diesel engine performance, and rapid opportunity charging. These new trucks are designed with the endurance to support multi-shift, demanding operations, giving a credible alternative to an IC truck, thanks to the unique combination of a lithium-ion battery, a high-voltage drive system, and the use of multi-phase permanent magnetic motors.

Meanwhile portside stores may benefit from the Hyster PC1.5 ultra-compact lithium-ion pallet truck, which can deliver greater efficiency than a hand pallet truck, but without complex maintenance requirements. It is designed to be tough and reliable enough to stand-up to daily operational challenges, but with a low cost of ownership. When the lithium-ion battery needs replacing, operators get a re-charge alert and, in just six seconds, can exchange it, keeping the operation running with minimal interruption.

On Thursday 17th June 2021, from 10.00 – 11.00, Willem Nieuwland will discuss more around the total electrification of ports and the latest updates around zero-emissions Hyster Big Truck developments as part of the ‘Spotlight on the Green Transition’ session at the online TOC Global Showcase. Register to attend at www.toc-global-showcase.com.

Avoiding capacity loss in forklift batteries

Posted on by David Priestman

The right battery charger plays an important role in preserving the capacity of traction batteries in the intralogistics sector. Austrian battery charger expert Fronius International GmbH looks at how its technology can be harnessed to ensure maximum forklift fleet availability and uptime.

Challenging times demand one thing above all from businesses: that they adapt quickly to new conditions and changes. The intralogistics sector is particularly feeling the effects of these expectations in the form of additional shifts, peaks in demand, and so on. For operators of electrically-powered forklift trucks, capacity and reliability are key factors because the availability of the forklift truck fleet is essential to smooth and efficient operation.

Lead-acid batteries have a standardised service life of around 1,500 charging cycles. However, particularly harsh conditions, high levels of utilisation and multi-shift operation can all have a negative impact on this. Permanent above-average usage and frequent opportunity charging in particular shorten the standardised service life of a traction battery.

Operators need to compensate for capacity losses through more frequent opportunity charging or by using back-up batteries. However, this results in longer downtime, higher running costs and reduced availability of forklift trucks. All of this has a negative impact on the total cost of ownership.

Extend battery life and reduce capital expenditure

The right battery charger makes an important contribution to ensuring maximum battery capacity for as long as possible as well as reliable operation of the fleet 24 hours a day. Thanks to the innovative Ri charging process of the Fronius Selectiva 4.0 devices, batteries receive ultra-cool and gentle charging. This extends usage and service life by as much as one year in moderate operation, without any impact on performance.

Fronius Selectiva 4.0 battery chargers are genuine all-rounders when it comes to day-to-day intralogistics activities. Conservation charging, preventing deep discharge as well as rapid and opportunity charging of lead-acid batteries are just some of the options offered by these devices. Special characteristics designed especially for charging lead-acid batteries ensure reliable, gentle and cost-effective charging to suit the condition of the battery. This enables maximum usability, even in the case of unexpected events.

For example, if a battery is not in use for an extended period of time, the Refresh characteristic ensures that its charging ability is preserved and prevents deep discharge. This guarantees that the charging level will not fall to zero and that the battery is ready for use at all times. If deep discharge nevertheless occurs, the battery can be returned to a normal state using a special characteristic. As a result, it will be usable again in no time.

If operators need extra capacity due to additional peaks in demand, for instance, this is where the Power Charging option comes in. With its help, short breaks can be used productively for rapid or opportunity charging. A lunch break of around 30 minutes can provide two additional hours of travel time.

Fronius technology thereby ensures high availability of the forklift truck fleet and also optimises operating costs. Forklift truck operators can also significantly reduce the risk of unplanned downtime in their forklift truck fleet.

UniCarriers provides VNA solution to Delamode

Posted on by David Priestman

UniCarriers has delivered a state-of-the-art e-commerce storage concept comprising a long-term equipment strategy and an efficient material handling operation in a new very narrow aisle (VNA) warehouse for logistics provider Delamode.

An enormous boom in e-commerce over the past few years has led to the need for a new warehouse concept for Delamode PLC’s UK warehouse: The freight and logistics management provider’s double-deep storage system had become inefficient, and the ongoing short-term hire of industrial trucks was no longer up to date.

Delamode began looking for a suitable provider to restructure its warehouse in Braintree, Essex. Longstanding partner UniCarriers offered a VNA warehouse solution with matching material handling equipment. The global manufacturer of industrial trucks delivered not only a seamless logistics concept but also excellent service quality and a great understanding of Delamode’s needs. Altogether, Delamode benefits from a modern system with a high storage capacity, which is no longer at the expense of immediate selectivity. On top of that, the equipment provided is state-of-the-art and on point when it comes to safety.

Delamode is one of the largest companies of the International freight and logistics management group Xpediator PLC, which is listed on the London AIM Stock Exchange. The Xpediator group specialises in international freight transportation, warehousing and logistics services, ecommerce management solutions and specialist transport support services offered by its Affinity Transport Solutions business unit. The Delamode branch in Braintree, Essex, is a pick-and-pack warehouse covering almost 170,000 sq ft with around 150 full-time employees.

The focus is on distributing goods for retail and wholesale, fashion and especially e-commerce – a sector that in recent years increased and developed enormously for Delamode. After years of relying on double-deep storage in Braintree, the system’s limitations were no longer acceptable for Delamode. A high storage capacity due to double-deep storage is always at the expense of selectivity. A total of three pallet movements were necessary to reach a pallet in a back location: front pallet out, targeted pallet out, front pallet back in.

This is a time-consuming process that potentially results in the damage of valuable stock. Nevertheless, the double-deep system worked for years, as many of the pallets had duplicates which is why they were directly accessible at other storage locations. However, with a growing demand in e-commerce and rising throughput in the warehouse, the number of duplicate pallets decreased over time. Employees had to access the back pallets more often than before with increasing effort. Thus, the double-deep storage system had become unsuitable for Delamode.

The Braintree site encountered further difficulties: With-free moving trucks in use, Delamode reported a lot of facility damage causing issues in the racking. Also, the company had relied on short-term hire equipment from UniCarriers and other suppliers for years. As a result, this provided a high degree of flexibility, however, with regard to cost effectiveness, Delamode was looking for a coherent overall concept focussing on the long-term use of material handling equipment.

UniCarriers provided a complete solution

Delamode started to hold talks with three suppliers of industrial trucks. UniCarriers was in pole position according to Lauren Collins, Site Manager, Delamode. This is because the long-standing partner had already distinguished itself in the past with a high quality of service. In the event of potential vehicle breakdowns, UniCarriers can react quickly and reliably thanks to the modular vehicle design.

The service team responds to questions and difficulties, and the right people are immediately available: “UniCarriers’ response time and communication was top-draw in comparison to other suppliers, who struggled to understand the difficulties we had with their equipment,” says Lauren Collins, Site Manager, Delamode.

“UniCarriers, however, did not just offer one standard kit of material handling equipment, but perfectly understood what our specific needs were.”

John Clements, Regional Sales Manager at UniCarriers UK, describes the procedure: “We provided Delamode with several solutions to retain their capacity but to give them back immediate selectivity. We talked them through the advantages and disadvantages of each solution.”

The decision was made in favour of a VNA storage system completed with the appropriate material handling equipment. UniCarriers convinced Delamode with its consultative approach and flexible working methods: It brought additional partners on board – for example the racking provider System Store Solutions – and took charge of the coordination between all parties. As a result, Delamode received an overall package without having to negotiate between many different contractors.

“UniCarriers came prepared to offer more than just the trucks – they provided a complete solution. This made the process a lot easier and therefore convinced Delamode to work with UniCarriers,” Lauren Collins summarises.

Another advantage for Delamode became apparent when the project was already underway: At short notice, Delamode had to adjust its order of equipment – to which UniCarriers reacted without any complications.

New VNA warehouse with matching forklift fleet

For all warehouse tasks – from unloading incoming vehicles to pallet put away and pallet replenishment – Delamode in Braintree now uses a variety of UniCarriers trucks. The keystone of the fleet is the IFOY award-winning TERGO URS, a versatile very narrow aisle reach truck.

Thanks to its swivel fork design, it can work in aisles as small as 1800 mm. In-aisle steering is automated via a signal wire, and magnets indicate the proximity to the end of aisle bringing the truck to a controlled stop. As a result, this truck can operate safely at high speed without the risk of striking the racking. The URS also offers diagonal movement of pallets, thus providing simultaneous travel and lift functions, significantly reducing cycle times and improving productivity.

This machine is the workhorse of the operation, complementing the VNA layout and offering both space and handling efficiency. The remainder of the fleet consists of powered pallet trucks with fixed platform that offer more comfort and safety than conventional pedestrian stackers in confined environments and wire-guided EPH high-level order pickers, twice nominated for the prestigious International Forklift Truck of the Year (IFOY) competition.

The new fleet by UniCarriers perfectly matches Delamode’s warehouse requirements and provides it with the highest degree of flexibility. But that is not the only advantage: “The trucks are spot-on in view of safety. UniCarriers has equipped them with a lot of valuable features, which provide a safer environment for us to work in,” says Lauren Collins enthusiastically.

The issues with free-moving trucks damaging the facility is now resolved by guided vehicles with defined movement. Special framework protects the batteries and charging systems of the electrically-powered trucks from damage. A light system brings additional safety for the warehouse employees: A blue spot LED light projects onto the floor in front of the moving forklift truck visually warning them of the approaching vehicle.

The inadequate storage system and the unnecessarily high effort in Braintree are now a thing of the past. Instead, Delamode benefits from a modern logistics concept. Thanks to adopting a long-term equipment strategy and an efficient material handling operation in the new very narrow aisle warehouse, the logistics provider is saving costs day after day. The fleet of forklift trucks, the racking, the storage safety, and the related installations are all cast from a single mould under the leadership of Delamode’s partner UniCarriers – well rounded off by a high quality of service.

https://www.unicarrierseurope.com/uk/case-studies/Delamode

Linde prepares to launch new-generation electric forklifts

Posted on by David Priestman

June 2021 will see Linde Material Handling launch a new fork lift truck generation that combines “the best of two worlds”, thereby putting the electric forklift on par with ICE-powered trucks.

The German industrial trade fair held in Hanover in March 1971 saw the beginning of what has developed into a 50-year success story: Back then, Linde MH presented its first electric forklift truck. Ever since, the intralogistics specialist has left its mark on electric mobility with numerous technical innovations, advancing to become the European market leader in the electric counterbalance truck segment.

“Looking back, it was a decision that set the course for the future,” says Stefan Prokosch, Senior Vice President Brand Management Linde MH. “Today, we not only offer our customers a huge portfolio of electrically powered industrial trucks with a variety of energy storage systems, but we also use our expertise to electrify vehicles of all kinds – from hackney carriages to trolley cars.”

When the first Linde-branded electrically powered forklift truck was launched in the early 1970s, the enormous potential of electric mobility was not yet foreseeable. Development was primarily aimed at offering a vehicle for indoor applications. With the battery-powered forklift, Linde MH opened a new chapter in the company’s history, as the drive and energy storage system posed different technical challenges than its flagship: the Linde hydrostat.

Highlights of the first electric series in the capacity range from 1 to 1.5 tonnes included the dual-motor front wheel drive, which enabled turning manoeuvres on the smallest possible radius, and the twin-pedal control replicated from the hydrostat. This feature was designed to make it easier for operators to switch between the two types of drive.

Over the following years, the demand for electrically-powered forklifts increased steadily. This was because the number of warehouses and distribution centres kept growing – and with it the need for emission-free equipment. At the same time, the demands on these low-noise and emission-free indoor trucks increased: Customers wanted higher payloads, more handling capacity and a greater number of variants to cover ever new areas of application in industry and trade.

Compact axle

The further development of power electronics and digital technology paved the way for the continued success of Linde MH’s electric forklifts. In 1999, the first model featuring a three-phase or asynchronous motor was added to the product portfolio.

The engineers developed dedicated power and control modules for this new drive. This made it possible to combine the advantages of greater performance with a high level of reliability and the capability to handle demanding outdoor applications. Small and maintenance-free, the two drive motors together with the lifting hydraulics and all control components could be combined into a single assembly – the compact drive axle.

Conductor rails replaced long cable lines and ensured lower energy consumption in the new Linde E14 to E20 models from 2006. For the first time, the vehicles also featured an on-board charger for flexible charging at power outlets, as well as overhead tilt cylinders for greater stability of the mast.

Further features were added in 2010 with the 2- to 5-tonne models, including the vibration-decoupled drive axle, the automatic handbrake, the digital battery charge indicator, and a traction control system for excellent ground grip. This met the needs of many customers and contributed in no small part to Linde MH becoming the market leader for electric counterbalance trucks in Europe.

Safety, efficiency, cost-effectiveness – and full performance

In addition to higher performance and low energy consumption, ergonomics and safety were at the top of the list of requirements for every new forklift truck development. And here, too, Linde MH has repeatedly set the pace in the industry over the past 50 years.

Many equipment and performance options were world firsts at the time of their respective market launches and remain unique Linde features to this day. These include, for example, the Linde Safety Pilot driver assistance system: It limits the lifting height if the permissible load capacity is exceeded and regulates the travel speed in relation to the load being transported. Another example is the Linde Roadster.

This vehicle was designed without A-pillars, which improves visibility of the surroundings and ensures greater operational safety.

The use of lithium-ion technology as a new means of energy storage and the development of the fuel cell with hydrogen as an energy source have given electric forklifts further impetus over the past ten years. Even more growth is promised by a new generation of Linde forklifts to be launched in June.

“With a completely new development, our electric trucks will finally catch up with the powerful IC trucks of the Linde brand,” announces Prokosch. Everyone can attend the virtual presentation of the new vehicles on 16th June at 11:00 CEST.

‘Masterpieces’ is the name Linde MH has given to the approximately half-hour product display, which will not only present the advantages of the new design in a vivid and varied way, but also give the people behind the innovations the opportunity to speak about them. (Yourway.Linde-mh.com).

 

AGV from DS Automation lifts to 8.5m

Posted on by David Priestman

With lifting heights up to 8.5 m and payloads up to 2.5t, the ARNY driverless counterbalanced forklift completes DS Automation’s forklift AGV family in the upper performance range.

ARNY is particularly compact. It can utilise all popular methods for navigating, and operate using various kinds of batteries and charging concepts. Its highly modular design, including the load-handling kit, renders ARNY fit for all application areas. A comprehensive safety concept and uncompromising ‘made in Austria’ quality make ARNY safe, low-maintenance and durable, according to DS Automation.

Like all members of DS Automation’s forklift AGV family, ARNY is “born driverless”. It was designed an autonomous guided vehicle (AGV) without any compromises from scratch. In spite of the higher weight it requires for counterbalancing, ARNY features an extremely small turning circle so it can navigate in very narrow aisles.

ARNY is capable of using contour-based navigation as well as laser navigation and it can fall back on magnetic markers or reflectors for higher positioning accuracy. Due to its full compatibility with all free-ranging DS Automation systems, the AGV can operate in existing layouts. ARNY is also equipped with the universal VDA5050 interface so it can join AGVs of any kind from various manufacturers.

As a counterbalancing lifter, ARNY does not require straddles under the fork. Self-supported, it can lift loads to heights up to 8.5m, depending on the lifting mast. Two models of the forklift AGV are available, ARNY for payloads up to 1,500kg, and ARNY HD for up to 2,500kg.

DS Automation integrated a particularly compact, modular load handling system. Aside of numerous fork geometries and adjustments, it excels with the same industrial-grade ruggedness as the vehicle itself.

In spite of its high carrying and lifting capacity, DS Automation says ARNY moves safely at high speeds at which all functional safety is tested and certified. Its 360° sensors facilitate personnel safety without blind spots. Additional options including blue spot and laser line projectors and 3D object protection cameras help further advance functional safety. Safety control is taken care of by a safe PLC in the AGV capable of transmitting safety data over Wi-Fi. This allows integrating ARNY in the best possible way with operators’ overall safety concepts.

When it comes to power supply and charging concepts, ARNY offers operators the full freedom of choice. It can be equipped with rechargeable batteries using all popular technologies. These can be charged aboard the AGV through floor contacts or externally.

ARNY, the highly compact and manoeuvrable driverless forklift from DS Automation takes on the challenges of intralogistics with industrial-grade ruggedness, a highly modular design and superior personnel safety.

The two ARNY models complete the forklift AGV family of the globally leading AGV manufacturer based in Linz, Austria. This family now extends to higher-load categories and consists of ARNY HD, ARNY, AMADEUS and LUCY.

Karl Rapp, Sales, Planning and Marketing Manager, DS Automation, says: “Our highly manoeuvrable driverless forklift not only quickly and safely lifts heavy loads to great heights, ARNY also excels with high durability and low maintenance.”

Hungarian cold store operator bolstered by Yale fleet

Posted on by David Priestman

Hungarian cold store operator ICE Solution turned to Pagát Gold Zrt to bolster its operations, with the Yale dealer providing four ERP15VT three-wheel electric trucks, four MO20P low-level order pickers, two MR16HD reach trucks, two MS15X-IL platform stackers and one MP25T truck.

Specialising in low-temperature warehousing and logistics, ICE Solution is one of the most modern cold storage facilities in the region. Unique in its field in Hungary, the company has been operating since 2008 and now holds two cold stores, located in Győr, suitable for storing goods at temperatures of -25°C. ICE Solution’s facilities can accommodate up to 11,500 pallets for its customers, which include leading poultry, milk, vegetable and fruit processors, as well as the largest domestic retail food chains.

To help its operations run efficiently, ICE Solution requires equipment capable of performing in the extreme cold. In its search for materials handling equipment, ICE Solution required a reliable, durable, and energy efficient solution from a partner that also offered rapid and reliable parts supply. With an average of 25-30 truckloads of goods handled every day, any delays caused by breakdowns would have a significant impact on the company’s productivity, therefore service was an important aspect of any product offering.

To bolster its operations, ICE Solution turned to its trusted dealer Pagát Gold Zrt – the exclusive dealer of Yale materials handling equipment in Hungary. The company was founded in 1991 and offers forklifts for rental, warehouse equipment, aerial work platforms, mobile forklift ramps and used forklifts. Additionally, it provides equipment service countrywide with 18 service cars and 25 technicians.

ICE Solutions and Pagát Gold Zrt have enjoyed a relationship that has spanned over 10 years. “During this time, ICE Solution has made a number of forklift investments,” said Domonkos Csik, Managing Director at ICE Solution. “In partnering with Pagát Gold Zrt, we chose a company that helps us to procure materials handling equipment that suits our needs and provides continuous service.”

After careful consideration of the company’s needs, Pagát Gold Zrt recommended a fleet of 13 Yale trucks. On discovering the benefits of Yale materials handling equipment, ICE Solution was confident it was the right product offering for them. “We chose a diverse range of Yale forklifts to fulfil our warehouse tasks” explained Domonkos.

High productivity in sub-zero temperatures

“Our equipment has to work in extreme conditions, so it’s important that they are able to deliver the same level of output regardless of the temperature. The Yale cold store solution provides a stable performance – even when working at -25°C in our facilities,” added Domonkos.

The most important task the Yale trucks fulfil is utilising space efficiently throughout the warehouse area. Every day the company needs to handle pallets weighing up to 1 tonne in different shapes and sizes, and processes are dependent on each other for a smooth operation.

ICE Solution’s operation requires a truck capable of performing two-shifts with minimal downtime. Four Yale ERP15VT three-wheel electric forklift trucks transport pallets around the facility, with the narrowed tipping frame enabling the operator to move comfortably between the shelves and overhanging pallets.

The cold storage company also required a pallet truck that was capable of picking up and dropping off several pallets of goods at the same time. As part of the preparation process, modifications were made to the Yale trucks to achieve this. The Yale MP25T pallet truck was fitted with a 2400mm-long fork enabling it to carry a load of up to 2.5-tonnes at a time – allowing the operator to stack pallets side-by-side.

“A great advantage of the Yale MP25T is that it is extremely agile and can work quickly, even under heavy workload,” commented Domonkos.

A combination of two MS15X-IL platform stackers, two MR16HD reach trucks and four MO20P low-level order pickers work alongside the MP25T to provide high efficiency and fast response times.

“The Yale pallet trucks, forklifts and reach trucks combine to create an efficient working environment. Due to the dynamic pace and nature of our business, we expect the same dynamism from our materials handling solutions. Our fleet of Yale trucks not only meet our expectations, they exceed them,” concluded Domonkos.

Bespoke handling solution for building materials manufacturer

Posted on by David Priestman

Materials handling solutions expert B&B Attachments has provided building materials manufacturer Aggregate Industries with a prototype forklift clamp, leading to gains in efficiency and safety.

Aggregate Industries manufactures and supplies a range of heavy building materials, primarily aggregates such as stone, asphalt and concrete, to the construction industry and other business sectors. With over 200 sites and around 3,700 dedicated employees, Aggregate Industries supply products to help businesses work sustainably, safely, professionally, and profitably.

The Concrete Products Division at Aggregate Industries based in Callow, Cheddar, identified there was a requirement to standardise the most efficient loading method across the fleet, irrespective of trailer type, while maintaining safety expectations.

Aggregate Industries building block sites had traditionally used a forklift fitted with a pivot-style overhead clamp attachment to load packs of concrete building blocks onto flat beds and crane lorries. However, there is insufficient clearance between the top of some block packs and standard curtain sided trailer roofs to lift the clamp clear, preventing direct loading of curtain sided trailers.

As a result, Aggregate Industries Concrete Block Factories had been using a far less efficient and time-consuming process which involved placing its block packs on to pallets and then loading by a conventional forklift. This loading method was more than double that of flat and crane vehicles loading times and associated costs, plus created a reluctance to take advantage of additional payload and potential backhaul loads that the network fleet of curtain sided trailers offered, and have a premium cost for use, as there is little scope for back haul of other goods.

It became necessary to find a solution to prevent double handling of loads, ensuring that the load travels straight from the yard storage to the curtain sided vehicle.

Neil Spratt, Aggregates Industries Regional Operations Manager approached B&B Attachments with a proposed forklift clamp concept that would create space to enable the twin clamp to lift clear of block packs after they had been loaded onto a curtain sided trailer.

B&B Attachments is a leading specialist in material handling solutions in the UK and Ireland. The company designs, manufactures, and supplies forklift truck attachment solutions. Its design department converted the concept into reality.

Following numerous meetings, a prototype TK45-TEL clamp was manufactured. This model would not only work as a standard twin consolidating overhead block clamp, but also have the added key benefit of being able to load packs directly onto curtain-sided vehicles. As the TK45-TEL had an additional leg retraction selection. Considerable time was spent to eliminate potential incorrect function selection by forklift operators.

This added safety innovation allows its hydraulic system to work independently for each clamp, enabling the operator to clamp, load, and withdraw easily and safely when loading a curtain sided vehicle.

B&B Attachments describes the BlockMaster TK45-TEL as a new, first-of-its kind innovation.

“The clamp preforms all the other duties expected of a twin consolidating clamp,” says Richard Smith, Business Improvement Manager at Aggregate Industries. “The retractable legs and hydraulics control interlocks in this new attachment, provides efficient direct loading of concrete products efficiently on to curtain-sided vehicles.  It also opens the door to exciting haulage efficiency opportunities previously not pursued.”

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