An outsider may think a forklift is just a forklift but manufacturers of handling equipment beg to differ and continue to develop new solutions and variations on the theme.
Some of these were showcased at Ligna. Hubtex, for example, demonstrated its handling and order picking solutions for bulky wood materials. One of its new models on show was the multidirectional counterbalance forklift, FluX 70, which is suitable for loads of up to 7 tonnes.
The vehicle is equally at home on rough terrain and in narrow aisles and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The FluX 70 combines the advantages of an electric multidirectional forklift with those of a heavy-duty forklift with a combustion engine, said the company.
Hubtex also exhibited the latest generation of its core product: the electric multidirectional sideloader. This is now available in a new design with added features to the meet the challenges presented by Industry 4.0.
The company has revised this vehicle series and adjusted its modular system accordingly. It has put the 48V and 80V drive variants with load-carrying capacities of 3 – 5 tonnes together into one modular system and the forklift’s new design offers optimum manoeuvrability, a highly ergonomic cabin and improved all-round visibility.
The electrohydraulic steering has also been replaced by a purely electric steering system, ensuring maximum energy efficiency during operation. Even in its basic configuration, the vehicle is already designed for gradual automation. Predetermined cable runs, positions for sensors and other equipment features ensure the forklift is ready to meet the challenges posed by Industry 4.0. Numerous assistance systems can be integrated retroactively, for example.
Hubtex also presented its latest developments in automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems at Ligna.
Meanwhile, Doosan is also bringing new vehicles to market. One of the latest is the rugged electric B45X-7 series of four models covering a capacity range from 4 – 5 tonnes.
These four-wheel, electric counterbalance forklifts offer greater durability, enhanced productivity, increased visibility and an extensive range of safety features as standard, said the company. It went on to say that the vehicles, which are described as mid-range, are built for working long shifts outdoors in wet or dusty conditions and are a viable alternative to increasingly regulated internal combustion engine (ICE) equivalents.
A myriad of features include a virtually maintenance-free sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system; a tighter turning circle than its predecessor; anti roll back; automatic speed control; and enhanced ergonomics.
“Companies that are currently considering contracts on 3.5 – 5 tonne ICE trucks should at least be looking at the possibility of switching to electric powered forklifts as a way of reducing their costs, improving safety and cutting their carbon footprint – especially in light of the Euro Stage V emission regulations that came into effect on January 1 this year,” said Brian Grady, sales and marketing director of Doosan Industrial Vehicles UK.
And, if four wheels are too many, Doosan has also just launched the three-wheel electric B15R-7 series.
This three model strong series of electric counterbalance forklifts covers a capacity range from 1.25 – 1.6 tonnes and its compact and versatile nature makes it particularly well suited for small businesses.
It may be small in size but Doosan still describes it as a tough all-rounder. Durability on outdoor duty is aided by a rugged rear-drive axle, IP65-rated Curtis controller and IP20 PAL brushless AC motors, offering maximum resilience to water and dust, said the company.
Among its many features, when equipped with the optional side ‘roll-in and roll-out’ battery facility, batteries can be easily changed for multiple shift operations.
