Focus on Lift trucks

Modern features a sampling of lift truck products.

Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 6/1/2009

	Pantograph reach truck with traction control The new RR 5700 pantograph reach truck for use in narrow-aisles includes a traction control system, enhanced load handling as well as fast lift and travel speeds. Capable of moving 4,500-pound loads at heights greater than 36 feet, the truck's traction control system prevents the truck from slipping on wet, dusty or sealed floors by reducing tire spin during acceleration and preventing wheel lock-up during braking. Ergonomic features include a suspended floorboard that absorbs vibration and a temperature control package for improved operator comfort in refrigerated or freezer applications. Offered as an option, a rack height selection feature allows operators to stop the forks at a specific rack level with a push-button control. Crown Equipment, 419-629-2311, www.crown.com.
	Electric stand-up counterbalanced trucks Offered in three lifting capacities from 3,000 to 4,000 pounds, the new Platinum SCX series of stand-up counterbalanced trucks is completely AC powered. Two independently controlled AC drive motors and drive units optimize integration through a continuous feedback system for faster acceleration and high travel speeds. For increased energy and savings, the truck includes regenerative braking and auto-power off functions, along with extended battery run times. Other features include three pre-set performance modes, ergonomic cushioning, a multi-function control handle and hydraulic steering. Nissan Forklift, 815-568-0061, www.nissanforklift.com.
	Electric truck with ergonomic features The operator-friendly, AC-powered E45-70XN electric lift truck features a remodeled operator compartment with increased foot and leg room and a removable floor plate for quick maintenance. The ergonomically improved compartment's dash display offers enhanced visibility and pallet control, while a redesigned hood provides maximum battery service access to reduce downtime. The hood's design also allows easy access for the driver entering and exiting the truck. Enhanced speed sensors on the truck's traction motor provide accurate speed monitoring, while the motor's steel skin and cast end bells allow maximum air flow. Hyster, 252-931-5679, www.hyster.com.
	AC-powered narrow reach trucks For narrow-aisle applications, the 9000 series swing reach lift trucks offer energy-saving features including AC technology for longer battery run times, regenerative lowering that automatically recharges the battery, and LED compartment lights. Ideal for pallet handling and case picking, the truck accommodates aisles as narrow as 66 inches. The trucks elevate up to 45 feet, lifting loads up to 60 inches deep or 108 inches wide. A twin tubular mast design supports loaded and elevated forks. Dual I-beam construction and a wide footprint give the operator's platform stability and enhanced visibility. A contoured chair features adjustable padded armrests and lumbar support for operator comfort. The Raymond Corp., 800-235-7200, www.raymondcorp.com.
	Big trucks offer big capacity Three new models in the Veracitor Big Truck line of class five pneumatic lift trucks are rated between 17,000 and 19,000 pounds capacity. Features include a 110 HP Cummins QSB 3.3 turbo diesel engine, oil-cooled wet disc brakes, accu-touch mini levers and a full suspension vinyl seat. The engine includes Tier III emissions compliance and low noise levels, with a forged steel crankshaft, camshaft and piston rods, and oil-cooled forged aluminum pistons. The standard transmission includes three speeds forward and two speeds in reverse for increased gradeability and drawbar pull while allowing top travel speeds for maximum productivity. Yale Materials Handling, 800-233-9253, www.yale.com.
	Reach truck available in three models Offered in three models—including a single reach lift truck in 3,500- and 4,500-pound lifting capacities and a 3,000-pound capacity double reach model—the 8-Series AC reach lift truck line features an AC-powered drive system, AC power hydraulic system and maintenance-free electric disc brakes. Enhancements to the drive system yield travel times up to 17% faster than previous models. And with no motor commutator, brushes or springs, it reduces maintenance costs. Ergonomic features include an 11.25-inch diameter adjustable steering wheel, adjustable battery retaining system to minimize movement, and truck position stability in push-back rack applications. Cushioned hydraulics for the pantograph mechanism generate less noise and truck impact. Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., 800-226-0009, www.toyotaforklift.com.
	Multi-directional lift truck The multi-directional Combi-CB lift truck handles palletized goods and long length products. With 6,000 pounds capacity, lift heights up to 25 feet, and standard 8-inch side shift, the vehicle is offered in LP gas, diesel or electric versions. Rubber tires may be used indoors and outside, while a fully enclosed, heated cabin accommodates harsh or wet environments. The truck's compact size allows it to stuff and de-stuff containers and transport the pallets or long loads directly to the warehouse. Options include a hydraulic fork positioner and detachable four-fork spreader bar. Combilift USA, 336-314-4262, www.combilift.com.
	Tugger pulls up to 11,000 pounds For towing up to 11,000 pounds of cargo, the EZS 350XL tugger pulls several trailers for flexible handling. Features include an efficient, maintenance-free, 24V three-phase AC drive motor for long operation, powerful acceleration and quick changes in travel direction. Electric steering makes maneuvering easy in tight spaces, while a curve control system keeps the vehicle stable during cornering. To eliminate pauses when changing travel directions, the tugger includes a speed control feature. Unaffected by upward or downward grades, the tugger includes rollback protection on inclines, even when loaded, and the brakes set automatically when the vehicle is stopped on an incline. Three adjustable travel programs adapt the vehicle to different operators. Jungheinrich Lift Truck, 804-737-7400, www.jungheinrich-us.com.
	Electric truck saves power Offering capacities up to 4,000 pounds, the 346 series electric trucks include a drive axle assembly that incorporates the drive motors, hydraulic motor, reduction gears, brake system, and power modules, as well as eliminates long power cables to reduce energy consumption. Battery usage is monitored through an energy management system that indicates state of charge, accurately displaying available energy by measuring current and voltage continuously. Ergonomic highlights include uncluttered foot area, a clear view mast, padded adjustable armrest, short hydraulic control levers, spring-assisted battery cover and an adjustable steering column. Linde Material Handling North America, 843-875-8000, www.lmh-na.com.
	Planning for long-hauls, network optimization Offering new functionality—including long-haul planning and network-level optimization—an enhanced version of fleet management software has been released. By incorporating configurable dashboards, asset and driver management, and consolidation facility and hub support, the system provides easy management of fleet operations. Functions include billing, reporting, and facility and dock scheduling. Scalable architecture and authentication framework enable multiple deployment options, as well as built-in data access groups and security. RedPrairie, 877-733-7724, www.redprairie.com.
	Lane-changing SRM for large warehouses Ideal for maximizing space and resources in large warehouses, the lane-changing MaxTriever storage and retrieval machines (SRM) offer fast delivery from (and replenishment to) more than one aisle of a warehouse. Employing a series of automated mini-load and unit-load SRMs, the system is ideal for buffering and storage of raw materials, work-in-process and/or finished goods, and replenishment of forward-picking locations. To optimize material flow, shipping, receiving and equipment use, AutoTrieve software manages continuous flow and can interface with existing host warehouse management software. Diamond Phoenix, 888-233-6796, www.diamondphoenix.com.
	AGVs replace lift trucks to improve efficiency The Automate the Conventional system replaces lift trucks with fork-style automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to improve operational performance and increase efficiencies. The system lowers operating costs, increases inventory accuracy and reduces product and facility damage. The AGVs interface with existing rack systems, conform to a variety of facility types and applications and are easily modified. An advanced laser navigation system allows each vehicle to operate flexibly and efficiently while picking up or depositing full pallets from the floor, conveyor systems, or a stationary pick-and-drop device. Attachments offered include fork positioners, double pallet handlers, clamps and rotating forks. HK Systems, 262-860-6715, www.automatetheconventional.com.
	Consolidation flow rack For improved throughput in consolidation operations where order volume, SKU count, number of lines per order, or the size of each order has increased—making manual consolidation inefficient—a consolidation flow rack system offers operational improvements. Increasing throughput up to 600% over manual processes, the system requires less floor space than conveyor systems and can be installed in less time. The flow rack may be integrated with shelving, rack, cabinets, horizontal and vertical carousels, and vertical lift modules. It also interacts with inventory management and control software and pick-to-light systems for greater operator productivity and picking accuracy. Remstar International, 800-639-5805, www.remstar.com.
	Hands-free bar code imager The RS507 hands-free bar code imager incorporates the supplier's SE4500 imaging engine for accurate omni-directional decoding of 1D and 2D symbologies with motion tolerance. The scanner links seamlessly with the WT4000 wearable mobile computer with Bluetooth and includes intelligent sensing technology. Mobile workers are given fast, intuitive, automatic triggering to improve their productivity in scan-intensive applications while maintaining battery strength on the device. The imager is offered in corded and cordless configurations, and the ergonomic device can be worn on the hand or on a belt. Motorola, 866-416-8545, www.motorola.com.
	High-lift pallet trucks Combining the attributes of a lift table and a pallet truck, the PalletPal lift truck allows operators to pick up, transport and lift a load to the most convenient working height. With a lifting capacity of 1,650 pounds, the high-lift pallet truck can raise loads as high as 31.5 inches. The electric-lift model is powered by a 12-volt, maintenance-free battery to raise a load to the highest position in less than 6 seconds. The manual-lift model provides two lifting speeds: 17 strokes for light loads, 56 strokes for heavy ones. Safety features include an overload relief valve and automatic stabilizers. Forks are offered in 45- and 79-inch lengths. Southworth Products Corp., 207-878-0700, www.southworthproducts.com.
	Robots handle small parts in small spaces For high-speed handling, assembly and packaging of small parts in small areas, the six-axis MH5 and MH5L include internally routed cables and hoses. This maximizes system reliability, reduces interference and facilitates programming. The MH5 offers 27.8 inches of reach, and the MH5L model provides 35.2 inches of reach. Both robots handle 11-pound payloads and can be floor-, wall-, or ceiling-mounted. The robots are directed by the supplier's DX100 controller that can handle multiple tasks and control up to eight robots (72 axes), I/O devices and communication protocols. Its fast processing speeds yield smooth interpolation, advanced robot arm motion, built-in collision avoidance, quicker I/O response, and accelerated Ethernet communication. Motoman, 937-847-6200, www.motoman.com.
	Free pallet wrapper The GW-1200 turntable pallet wrapper provides an alternative to conventional hand wrapping—automatically securing pallet loads to eliminate load failures, improve productivity and reduce worker injuries. Featuring production speeds of 20 loads per hour, the wrapper handles a maximum load capacity of 4,000 pounds and load height of 90 inches. Equipped with manually adjustable film tension, the system works exclusively with the supplier's puncture resistant film. For new customers who agree to a 12-pallet annual machine film commitment, the wrapper is offered at no charge. The promotion includes free spare parts for wearable items and drop shipment of the machine and the film. GaleWrap, 866-425-3727, www.galewrap.com.
	Clean, quiet accumulation conveyor With drive gears formed directly into the rollers, the PosiGrip accumulation conveyor has no separate sprocket or gears and no welded drive components. The rollers are powered by smooth-operating, synchronous belting in a positive drive. Since there is no metal-to-metal contact, no lubrication is required. This makes the conveyor ideal for clean environments such as electronic component manufacturing as well as food and beverage processing. Accumulation zones are driven by the motorized rollers, each with a drive card for easy adjustment of speed. Individually controlled zones are offered in lengths up to 75 inches and widths to 48 inches. TKF, 513-241-5910, www.tkf.com.
	Inventory management software interfaces with SAP FastPic5 order processing inventory management software offers a bi-directional interface with the SAP enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to improve inventory control and order processing efficiency. The interface includes a direct data import and export that synchronizes two-way exchange of pick, put and count orders. The software manages all manual and automated storage and retrieval systems including shelving, rack, drawers, pick-to-light, horizontal and vertical carousels, and vertical lift modules. The software can also manage single workstations and multiple work zones. Other features include bar code scanning, bulk storage management, printable screen lists, on-demand labels, continuous batching and supervisory reports. FastPic Systems, 207-854-8663, www.fastpicsystems.com.
	Vehicle restraint system secures trailer to dock To secure a trailer to the dock with 35,000 pounds of restraining force and prevent falls by personnel or forklifts, the SVR303 StrongArm vehicle restraint system features a low-profile rotating arm. The arm engages the vehicle's rear impact guard (RIG) at a 90° angle. Mountable to either the dock face or the driveway, the system needs only 8 inches of under-RIG clearance. Dual-acting hydraulic cylinders ensure proper engagement. Proximity-sensing buttons that sense the operator's fingers are included on the touch control panel to operate the restraint. Blue Giant Equipment, 905-457-3900, www.bluegiant.com.
	Forklift brakes Warner Electric and Matrix International brand of electric forklift motor brakes, wheel brakes and permanent magnet brakes for suppliers and lift truck manufacturers are offered. The electrically released dynamic (ERD) standard traction motor brake for parking and stopping can be hydraulically amplified. For reach truck applications, the ERD bi-functional brake combines hydraulics with an electromagnetic fail safe brake. The low-profile pan-cake (PK) unit is suitable for dual-drive configurations. Load wheel brakes provide additional braking force for applications with increased load and speed capacity. The Varistop brake line generates variable torque braking and stepless torque change in very narrow aisle trucks and high-level order pickers. Altra Industrial Motion, 815-389-6336, www.altramotion.com.
	Maintenance-free caster swivel forks Built from durable stainless steel, the 2 Series precision swivel forks sport permanently sealed and metal-housed precision bearings to eliminate monitoring and servicing of the bearing structure. Ideal for corrosive and punishing environments, the zero end-play characteristic of the precision swivel mechanism provides smooth running with true fidelity of motion. High-impact strength ensures years of use and performance. The forks pair with an assortment of the supplier's 5- and 6-inch diameter wheel products. Colson Caster, 800-643-5515, www.colsoncaster.com.
	Rugged computing for demanding environments The Duros 1214 fixed-mount PC features an ultra-rugged touch screen polysilicon display and all-in-one aluminum housing to withstand the rigors of warehouse and shipping environments. It is sealed to IP-65 and exceeds MIL-STD-810F standards for drop, vibration, shock and altitude. Mountable to forklifts, pallet trucks and automated guided vehicles, the compact unit includes a 12.1-inch SVGA resistive touch screen display. The computer is powered by an Intel Celeron M processor and can run Windows XP, Embedded or Vista, and Linux. Compact flash storage up to 64 GB and four USB 2.0 ports are provided. A backup battery generates up to 20 minutes of continuous use. RMT, 480-705-4200, www.ropermobile.com.
	Pick-to-light for lift truck picks The Smart Gate XL infrared sensing device attaches to existing shelf or rack units to create an automated pick-to-light system that supports error-free picks with lift trucks. The system works with bin sizes up to 8 feet wide. Controlled by PCs or PLCs to direct and detect picks, lights at each side of a bin illuminate when and where a pick is needed, then turn off when the pick is made. An audible alarm sounds when an incorrect pick is attempted to reduce errors and improve inventory control. SpeasTech, 888-377-6766, www.speastech.com.
	Mezzanines use overhead space Structural mezzanines using bar joist or beam-to-beam configurations provide expansion options for plants and warehouse areas needing wide spans. Packages include engineering and fabrication of structural design, stair, landing and gate configurations. The supplier also manufactures all beams, columns and components from four U.S. plants. Savings can range up to 80% by implementing mezzanine structures compared with the cost of conventional new construction. VertiSpace, 800-742-4830, www.vertispace.ws.
	Charging system for on-road electric vehicles To enable the practical use of on-road electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, a line of charging stations has been developed, including fast charging stations, neighborhood stations, and production test equipment. On-board chargers and a smart battery operating system featuring vehicle-specific algorithms to maximize battery health while the vehicle is in motion or in charging mode are also in production. AeroVironment, 626-357-9983, www.avinc.com.
	Portable, 8-foot diameter fan The AirGo mobile vertical fan measures 8 feet in diameter and is easily maneuvered on four independent, 8-inch rubber tread wheels with locking casters. Easy-to-use adjustable speed controls and 360° angle adjustments provide large volumes of air movement in any direction. For safety, features include OSHA-compliant caging and yellow powder coating for visibility and corrosion resistance. The fan's precision-machined internal gears and aerodynamic airfoils ensure quiet operation. It may be plugged into any 115 volt, 20 amp outlet. Big Ass Fans, 877-244-3267, www.bigassfans.com.
	Small, passive RFID labels Smaller, improved versions of the EPCglobal Class 1, Gen 2-compliant PowerG and PowerM battery-assisted, passive (BAP) RFID labels have been released. The reduction in size enables the tagging of small items in challenging environments. Offered in a thin, flexible, pressure-sensitive label form factor, the PowerG label is ideal for general asset tracking including pallets, while the PowerM works with metal assets. PowerID, +972-3-929-3933, www.power-id.com.
	Skid-configuration palletizer The robotic CPC palletizer features a skid configuration with a Kawasaki industrial robot, pallet magazine and pallet conveyors attached to the main support frame. Prior to delivery, the robot is docked for transport, while the pallet conveyors are folded up around the pallet magazine and robot, permitting the unit to be transported in a single 20-foot shipping container. The system can be installed in four hours by a single engineer. Wiring for light curtains is located inside the base frame. Capable of attaining 18 cycles per minute, the robot palletizes up to 35 cartons per minute. JMP Engineering, +64 9 828 3304, www.jmpengineering.com.
	Plastic pallet manufacturing machinery The Lumina plastic pallet processing system enables sustainable design, manufacturing and production of plastic pallets. As a turnkey manufacturing process, the equipment requires minimal floor space to enable in-house creation of plastic pallets. The system produces any size pallet in quantities from 150,000 to 800,000 pallets per year from a single machine. Other features include the ability to process either 100% recycled material or co-mingled resin using either structural foam or gas assist manufacturing methods. Wilmington Machinery, 910-452-5090, www.wilmingtonmachinery.com.
	Optical positioning system The integration of an optical positioning solution with the VisiblEdge RFID lift truck package enhances flexibility and accuracy when tracking assets in place of, or in conjunction with, RFID portals or handhelds. The system integrates RFID data collection with load location information to support automatic receiving, staging or shipping. Data is sent to a backend WMS or ERP, with accuracy to within 1 foot. Offered as a turnkey packaged solution, the system combines RFID data collection devices, load detection sensors, and positioning data with software. Rush Tracking Systems, 913-227-0922, www.rushtrackingsystems.com.
	Easily networked controller The ILC 170 ETH 2TX controller features two Ethernet ports for easier networking in small applications. The controller includes a built-in Ethernet switch, eliminating the need for a separate switch in certain applications and enabling daisy-chain connection of multiple controllers. An optional SD card memory provides program transfer between controllers. Further, 512 KB on-board data and program memory and 48 KB retentive memory enhance operation. With eight digital inputs and four digital outputs integrated on-board, it features an integrated real-time clock, PLC switch and support of up to three local remote bus branch modules. Phoenix Contact, 800-322-3225, www.phoenixcontact.com.
	Articulated jib lifter The affordably-priced, rugged Conco articulated jib lifter offers reach-in coupled load ranges from 165 to 665 pounds. With a lift range up to 120 inches and standard reach from 8 to 16 feet, the lifter works in light and heavy applications. Standard features include a threaded interface at the cable end and a safety latch hook at the chain end. In low-headroom clearance applications, the secondary arm can be mounted above the primary arm. Both primary and secondary joints incorporate 360° continuous rotation. The lifter can be mounted on an overhead trolley, pedestal, wall or mobile/portable base. Positech, 800-831-6026, www.positech.com.
	Diverter eliminates need for shoe sorters Facilitating high-throughput rates for applications using narrow belt sortation, the Wave Diverter reduces the required gap between cartons to eliminate shoe sorters. It is ideal for situations that require sorting 100 to 200 cartons per minute. Each row of pop-up wheels in the system operates independently, rising as the front edge of the carton approaches and dropping as the back edge of the carton passes over it. The diverter may be combined with other components in the supplier's Turbo sortation system, including induction belts powered by independent variable frequency drives, two-way alignment and diversion, and precise system controls. TGW-Ermanco, 231-798-4547, www.tgw-ermanco.com.
	Caster supports 10,000 pounds Ideal for applications that demand an extremely low overall height and an ultra-high capacity, the Mini-Mite caster is 6 inches tall and can support up to 10,000 pounds. Engineered with kingpinless swivel construction and a 6-inch diameter raceway, the caster includes four holes for mounting 3 × 3 inches wide. The caster wheel measures 4 × 3 inches wide and includes a 1045 steel roller with four precision bearings inside. Hamilton Caster & Mfg., 800-733-7655, www.hamiltoncaster.com.
	Motorized vertical carousel stores parts The motorized parts carousel maximizes floor space by fully using vertical space. Offering single-person operation, one worker can rotate the shelves, locate the desired item, stop at the proper position, and remove the stored product safely and efficiently at floor level, reducing the risk of injury. The system is ideal for storage of spare parts, stock inventory and work-in-process. Units range in height up to 13 feet 10 inches, include up to 18 configurable shelves, and hold a maximum of 13,000 pounds. Stanley Vidmar, 800-523-9462, www.stanleyvidmar.com.

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