Forklifts article

This month, Kalmar will be launching a new generation empty container handler (ECH) which it says has been developed in response to customer demand, with the focus on five key issues. First, unsurprisingly, comes productivity – more powerful engine, faster lifting speeds. Other issues on the list include quality & environment, safety, total cost of ownership and aftermarket support.

“The new ECHs use reliable components used in other F-generation machines, a reliable Can-Bus electric system, simplified design solutions, Tier III engines, and improved energy efficiency due to variable pumps,” says Dan Pettersson, Kalmar Industries’ product line manager, heavy lift trucks and empty container handlers.

Safety features include improved driver control due to new electric and hydraulic systems, improved visibility thanks to the F-generation Spirit Delta cabin, and improved driver comfort due to the separately suspended and insulated cabin.

Kalmar says the new ECH has a 500 hours service interval and low running costs due to its high productivity and technical reliability.

“The trend in this sector is for an increased level of demand for productivity and availability of the machines,” says Mr Pettersson. “Empty container handling is a fast-paced job which is putting a lot of pressure on increased productivity and at the same time safe operations.”

He says customers need to look at the total picture when choosing a partner for ECH equipment and services, in order to optimise the total costs. The pitfalls in choosing and using such equipment include not reaching the targeted productivity increases due to unreliable equipment, poor support and inflexible solutions, among other things. In operational terms, the temptation to take shortcuts may compromise safety, he adds.

Ian Hunter, one of Barloworld’s big truck specialists, says a noticeable change recently has been the increased importance that the “decision maker” is placing on the driver’s truck preference.

“Purchasers understand that by focusing on the driver’s requirements, it is possible to increase productivity and reduce driver fatigue,” he says.

Barloworld, the UK distributor of Hyster equipment since the 1950s, always carries out a comprehensive “application survey” to ensure that the customer’s core business needs are identified from the outset and the correct truck is specified, says Mr Hunter.

“Specifying the correct truck for the job is a crucial consideration in any purchasing decision; get this wrong and it can lead to major headaches in the future,” he says. “As storage space becomes increasingly at a premium and load handling capacities seem to be ever increasing, it is important to consider all potential future changes to handling requirements.”

When buying big truck products, customers should consider the areas important to their handling requirements – for example, productivity, reliability and cost, says Mr Hunter. He urges anyone specifying new equipment to consider two key factors – lifetime cost and dependability.

“It is important to consider the full lifetime cost of the truck. A truck will be in operation for ten to 15 years on average and will require regular maintenance and support. Always choose a supplier who can offer you a reliable and cost-effective solution for the full life of the truck – not just the initial purchase.

“In terms of dependability, big trucks are specialist pieces of equipment and therefore it can be challenging to find similar equipment at short notice if a truck is out of action. For this reason, I would suggest always choosing a tough truck from a strong brand that has the support networks to carry you through the full life of your truck.”

Hyster’s Vista Cab features “outstanding” ergonomics, says Mr Hunter, with comfort, low noise levels, a choice of controls and all-round visibility, together with air suspension seating and air conditioning options.

“There have been numerous technological advances in direct response to the demands of customers, with particular focus on health and safety and reducing maintenance costs,” he says.

For example, driver PIN access is now a Hyster option on ignition start-up, to ensure that only authorised and suitably qualified drivers can operate the equipment. This system reduces the possibility of unauthorisesd driver use and reduces the risk of damage to both product and equipment, says Mr Hunter.

Transmission and engine management systems now ensure protection against potentially damaging operational procedures; transmission forward to reverse “shifting lock-out” prevents potential tensional stress being applied to the drive train when changing direction, and an engine protection/monitoring system initially derates the engine power and finally shuts down the engine when a fault is detected.

Hyster has recently launched five new “big truck” designs – three heavy forklift truck series, spanning a range of 8-48 tonne lifting capacity, and two new container handlers. All feature Hyster’s “Vista Cab”.