Every manufacturing, processing and storage application is different, yet when it comes to materials handling, there are some common challenges that may lie ahead in the new year.
Here, we look at how Hyster® equipment can be found reliably supporting tough operations to overcome these challenges, and why it starts with finding the perfect match.
Challenge 1: Achieving greener operations
Each year, many businesses are looking to further improve their environmental credentials, and forklifts can play a big part.
Although IC engine powered trucks are becoming increasingly ‘green’ with reduced emissions and greater fuel efficiencies, many of those seeking environmental solutions consider switching to electric trucks. And in the right applications, they are the ideal solution.
One example is the Hyster® J7.0–9.0XNL forklift series with fully integrated lithium-ion batteries. The zero-emissions electric lift trucks with 7-9 tonnes of lift capacity offer comparable diesel engine performance, and rapid opportunity charging, achieving 100% charge in just 80 minutes.
These tough electric options have the endurance to support three shift operations in demanding industrial applications. Operations can expect IC-like capability in terms of productivity, control and autonomy, alongside the added benefit of reduced noise levels, zero emissions and a low Total Cost of Ownership.
Challenge 2: Reduce damage and costs
Reliable Hyster® lift trucks are helping manufacturers and processing applications to reduce damage, and the associated costs, while keeping productivity high. In industrial manufacturing, for instance, when uploading loads of raw materials from a trailer and transporting them with a forklift to a warehouse, it is important not to cause damage as this could prevent the material from being used in production, leading to unnecessary costs.
The Hyster® J1.5-3.5UT four-wheel and J1.6-2.0UTT three-wheel electric forklifts may be well suited to these lower intensive activities. Designed to be simple to use and easy to maintain, the uncomplicated electric lift trucks include a wide mast window, so drivers benefit from excellent visibility, while a robust mast provides stability, helping to prevent the loads from being shaken or damaged.
As this part of an operation can be highly repetitive, there is also potential for applications to automate tasks with affordable Hyster® Robotic solutions, such as tow tractors, pedestrian counterbalance trucks and low-level order pickers. Hyster ‘Driven by Balyo’ technology combines reliable Hyster® lift trucks with robotic control systems to help improve accuracy, boost efficiency, and reduce damage, keeping busy production lines running smoothly, while driving down cost.
Challenge 3: Increase efficiency
With supply chains under pressure, operations may be dealing with unexpected levels of demand, or experiencing a need to do more with less. This makes the right choice of materials handling equipment critical for efficiency.
For example, manufacturing or logistics applications currently using hand pallet trucks in the warehouse may find that switching to the new Hyster® PC1.5 ultra-compact lithium-ion pallet truck brings efficiency gains, without complex maintenance requirements. Operations with lean fleets will benefit from these dependable pallet trucks that are ready to go when needed.
For loads up to 1.5 tonnes, the new PC1.5, powered by a lithium-ion battery, can deliver greater efficiency than a hand pallet truck. Simple to use, these pallet trucks offer significant benefits to the operator compared to a hand pallet truck, with powered travelling, lifting, and lowering.
For more information visit the Hyster website or contact your local Hyster® distribution partner.
