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Lowestoft (UK)-based Nexen Lift Trucks – a designer, manufacturer and supplier of forklift trucks and warehouse equipment – has launched the FBXT and FBX, the company’s latest electric additions to its premium, UK-built X-Range series.

As part of the continuing expansion plans for its UK-based manufacturing facility, the research, design, development and production of the new electric counterbalanced forklifts was undertaken at NexenÂ’s European headquarters in Lowestoft, rather than those the company owns in Taiwan. This allows Nexen, which has over 40-yearsÂ’ experience in the materials handling sector, to place the design and production in the hands of some of BritainÂ’s top designers and engineers.

A strong emphasis during the design process ensures these machines provide class-leading performance, with the 3-wheel FBXT and 4-wheel FBX counterbalanced electric forklifts offering lifting capacities from 1,600 to 2,000kg. Both are available in long- and short-wheel-base formats, providing a productive and energy-efficient solution for numerous indoor/outdoor lifting applications.

All models offer the latest technological advancements associated with the material handling industry, including high-capacity, DIN-STD batteries for multiple-shift operations. Both models are built to the highest exacting standards using premium quality components which, combined with NexenÂ’s signature X-Range fully-floating cabin design, provides exceptional operator comfort and superior ergonomics that dramatically reduces driver fatigue.

NexenÂ’s FBXT and FBX electric forklifts feature regenerative braking to enhance battery life and improve energy efficiency. An automatic parking brake ensures no adjustments are required, which further reduces equipment maintenance requirements. Numerous options are also available for NexenÂ’s X-Range, including operator presence, fingertip controllers, load weighing systems, etc.

Like all Nexen forklift trucks, the electric-powered X-Range series has been designed with an emphasis on ease of maintenance and features class-leading accessibility to all serviceable parts, including the complete control panel, which can be completely removed in less than two minutes. Nexen will offer a unique service exchange programme to ensure downtime is kept to the absolute minimum. To further enhance accessibility, an optional fully-tilting cabin feature is also available; all models feature rapid and stress-free side entry battery removal.

The SPE120XR, SPE120XRD and SWE120XR have joined the BT Staxio P- and W-series from Toyota Material Handling Europe. Equipped with retractable masts, a compact chassis and the ability to handle different types of pallets, the Japanese giant says these models are designed to save space and increase efficiency.

This unique range combines the compactness of a stacker with the flexibility of a reach truck. This results in a versatile solution that can handle any pallet type up to a height of 4.8 metres. The range consists of a pedestrian stacker (SWE120XR), a platform stacker (SPE120XR) and a double pallet handler (SPE120XRD). The short turning radius and the retractable mast make this solution ideal for working in narrow aisles, tight spaces and adaptable to a wide variety of environments, including cold store. The models can also be optionally fitted with a side-shift or fork positioner to increase productivity.

With all driver functions integrated in the handle (driving, lifting, lowering, reaching, tilting, side-shifting and fork positioning) the new models are very easy to operate. Optimised Truck Performance adjusts speed when cornering and the Totalview concept allows for excellent visibility through the mast to the fork tips at any height, offering safe driving conditions. The platform SPE-version with ‘one-touch’ foldable gates and in-height adjustable steering arm further improves driver ergonomics and productivity.

The new stacker range is also highly energy-efficient and available with Lithium-ion battery as an option. This battery technology is ideal for intensive operations thanks to a reduced energy consumption of up to 30%. Furthermore, Lithium-ion provides an exceptional battery life and the option for quick charging at any time – eliminating the need for battery change in multi-shift applications.

“Especially in narrow areas you will benefit from the flexibility, energy efficiency, user-friendliness and high vertical and horizontal performance of the new BT Staxio W- and P- models. These stacker trucks with retractable mast will help you save storage space and increase efficiency”, says Martin Mimer, Product Management Warehouse Trucks at Toyota Material Handling Europe.

The new BT Staxio SPE120XR(D) and SWE120XR will be one of the many products, solutions and technologies that Toyota Material Handling will be presenting during CeMAT 2016 (May 30th to June 3rd). Come and see us in Hanover at Pavilion 32.

Working in the sub-zero world of the cold store demands the highest standards of visibility, reliability and comfort. Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks has now developed a brand-new range of cold cabins for its SENSiA reach trucks, which the company says are tailored to work productively and reliably – even in temperatures as low as -35 degrees.

Like every product in the Mitsubishi cold store line-up, SENSiA cold store models have been specified with cold-resistant cabling and waterproofed electrics: protecting against damage from cold and moisture. While SENSiAÂ’s thermostatically controlled heaters protect critical components, its hydraulics have been optimised to perform in the coldest of conditions.

Recognising a reach truck is only as productive as its operator, designers at Mitsubishi looked for ways to do more than keep operators warm in their cabins.

Developed for energy efficiency, each cabin is generously insulated and features a 1700 W heater to ensure the optimum working environment for each operator throughout the longest shifts.

Available on standard chassis reach trucks, cabins are spacious by design. Every element of the operator compartment has been specified to keep it uncluttered: from its intelligent fingertip controls to its folding steering wheel console.

Controls are kept within easy, avoiding unnecessary movement to reduce the risk of operator fatigue. For added control, every cold store model benefits from SENSiAÂ’s intelligent SDS (Sensitive Drive System). Fitted as standard, SDS automatically tailors the truck’s performance to the specific needs of driver and load. As a result, it delivers smooth start and stop movements and agile, stable performance.

Visibility is paramount in any lifting operation. Like every SENSiA reach truck, cold store cabin models offer 360-degree visibility. The cabinÂ’s heated side windows protect against frost, misting and condensation, ensuring exceptional visibility and safe, productive performance.

A clear-view, crash-proof polycarbonate roof – fitted as standard – means operators benefit from maximum upwards views, while being shielded from falling debris of any shape or size.

The cabinÂ’s robust steel frame, which features a reinforced collision guard, offers added protection to operator, bodywork and door when working in tight spaces.

SENSiA is the latest addition to the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks range of lift trucks dedicated to cold store applications. Other products in the range include VELiA, its low level order picker; electric counterbalance trucks, including the popular EDiA EM and its family of pallet trucks, PREMiA.

LayerMaster, from B&B Attachments, is a new solution for both layer picking and layer splitting loads. It allows a pallet to be quickly broken down or built up by clamping layers, and can be adjusted for a wide range of products including boxed and frozen goods, glass and plastics containers, tinned products and plastic trays. Very versatile, it can lift up to half of a 2400mm high pallet at a time or, alternatively, just a single layer of boxes, thereby enabling the load to be quickly broken down or built up by clamping single or multiple layers. The open centre version is capable of lifting a full height 2400mm load.

LayerMaster is unique in the way it clamps on all four sides of the product – which means minimal pressure is required to hold the load. Where a number of different layer weights (or product types) are required to be handled, a multi stage valve is supplied as standard to enable up to 3 pressures to be selected, which can be set by B&BÂ’s experienced engineers.

The LayerMaster system is now widely used throughout the fresh produce sector and can be seen at most major supermarket distribution centres. The speed and versatility of the patented system can help businesses reduce time, labour, repetitive strain injury claims and significantly increase safe working practices and productivity.

The market is now changing from height reduction of loads being the norm, to now seeing more and more companies looking to order pick. This new approach is rapidly being applied to more and more applications.

In a traditional operation, the picker will go to a location and transfer goods manually onto another pallet, and then move on to the next location, depending on the picking requirements.

A layer-picking attachment on a forklift truck makes it possible to pick single or multiple layers of products, and allows the user to build up mixed pallets quickly, safely and efficiently with minimal manual labour. In a warehouse or distribution centre, picking usually represents about 25 percent of all labour costs. This type of attachment can typically process orders in excess of 1000 cases per hour, compared to 100-250 cases per hour manually.

A bio-mechanics study, recently commissioned by health & safety specialist, Pristine Condition, in conjunction with Tesco Distribution, has revealed ground-breaking results, and helped the supermarket retailer achieve 60% reduction in manual handling incidents.

The purpose of the study was to objectively and technically measure the manual handling risk reduction when applying Pristine Principles across a number of key Tesco Distribution Centre manual handling tasks.

Using ViSafe wireless motion sensor technology, the study measured movement and muscle activity when undertaking the tasks pre and post Pristine ConditionÂ’s manual handling training.

The tests were undertaken across a range of tasks comparing the outputs both before and after Pristine Condition manual handling training. This included the loading and pulling of cages, and loading, unloading and stacking pallets. The results were exceptional. Objective data provided by ViSafe quantified the advantage of Pristine Condition techniques in reducing risk for injury across all tasks assessed as ranging between 35% and 94%, in particular reducing muscle demand by up to 73%.

Tesco Distribution had historically followed the same route as many other companies – following HSE guidance and hierarchy of controls. However, because that approach often fails to properly address the issue of incorrect technique then predictably manual handling incidents were still prevalent, causing injury to colleagues and cost to the business.

Tesco took the initiative to employ Pristine Condition – H&S Specialist and global leader in manual handling – to create a bespoke training programme to address manual handling incidents across their Distribution Centres.

For the first time ever Pristine Condition brought Olympic weightlifting techniques to industry, dispelling many myths and fallacies, and introducing realistic, achievable Principles and control measures.

International logistics service provider Militzer & Münch has extended its Iran service range with a tracking and tracing service from the point of departure all the way to the consignee in Iran. Militzer & Münch started its activities in Iran over fifty years ago with transports to Iran by truck – today, the Militzer & Münch product portfolio comprises services covering the entire supply chain.

Shipments are tracked using a tool that transmits its location via the GSM cellular network. As the tool is not permanently installed, it can be used by different carriers. At this time, Militzer & Münch can monitor up to 250 trucks. Via an online tracking platform, customers can call up the status of their shipment at any time. “With the new end-to-end tracking and tracing system our logistics services have become even more transparent, and safer”, says Dr. Lothar Thoma, CEO M&M Militzer & Münch International Holding AG. “It is part of our quality standards. We accompany our customers every step of the entire supply chain – from the transport and customs clearance to warehousing and last mile distribution in Iran. This also includes the transport and storage of temperature-sensitive goods.”

In the past, Militzer & MĂĽnch transported almost 75 percent of the goods via truck, 20 percent were shipped via sea, and five percent were air freight. Militzer & MĂĽnch reckons sea freight volumes as well as road transports are going to increase. In preparation for the official lifting of the sanctions, Militzer & MĂĽnch negotiated partnerships, for instance in order to secure truck capacities for the time after the sanctions. At the moment, possibilities for rail transports from and to Iran are being examined as an additional option for customers.

“Especially the mechanical engineering sector will profit”, explains Dr. Lothar Thoma, “but we also see good chances for the automotive and the medical engineering industries. Moreover, the field of project logistics opens up new opportunities as there is pent-up demand in many sectors in Iran, such as the oil industry. Spare parts logistics in the aviation sector will also benefit from the lifting of the sanctions.”

Militzer & MĂĽnch is one of the few logistics companies that have comprehensive infrastructure in Iran. Through the PTB Group, a sister company, a staff of over 600 at 15 locations in Iran is available to Militzer & MĂĽnch. The PTB Group offers about 130,000 square meters of warehousing space, 30,000 of which are roofed. Customers store goods such as spare parts to be able to serve the Iranian market in a timely manner.

In Bandar Abbas, a port city in Southern Iran, the PTB Group uses areas in a designated free trade zone and operates a container terminal. Customers can store their goods duty free, until they are sold or on-forwarded within the country. This offer is especially interesting for the manufacturers of farm machinery or entire plants, as such voluminous goods can in future also be delivered to Bandar Abbas by RORO vessel.

Volvo Trucks is now launching improvements on its FM, FMX, FH and FH16 model range, telling customers that increased fuel efficiency on the engine along with new aerodynamic improvements on cab and chassis can reduce fuel costs by up to five per cent.

Fuel costs are a key issue for hauliers with heavy workloads. To address this, Volvo Trucks has a dedicated fuel focus, where potential areas for improvement are continuously identified and integrated in product development. The latest improvements have now been introduced on updated engines which comply with the Euro-6 Step C regulation and aerodynamic optimisations made on the Volvo FH cab, with some weight optimisations on the chassis.

On the engine a number of changes have been made mainly on the D11 and D13 engines, such as low-friction pistons, an all-new improved turbo, a higher compression ratio, an enhanced camshaft and software updates, which contribute to the fuel reduction. Among the measures that will improve the aerodynamics and reduce air resistance include re-designed front spoiler, air deflectors, mudguards and a tighter wheel housing on FH models.

“Since fuel accounts for a third of hauliers’ costs, every drop counts. We are constantly working on improving the fuel efficiency of our vehicles. It is a philosophy of utilising every possible improvement and optimisation, small and big. With these latest updates on the engines and the aerodynamics, drivers receive an even more efficient truck with the excellent performance of the Volvo Trucks and further improved fuel efficiency, meaning more money saved for the operator. These are a number of small improvements that can ultimately lead to significant savings,”
says Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks.

How much fuel these improvements can save will depend on the truck specification and application. The company says that, for a Volvo FH driving long-distance transport, combined optimisations can improve fuel consumption by up to 3 per cent. In severe applications, such as timber transport, it claims a fuel saving of up to 4 per cent can be realised when the truck is combined with Volvo Trucks newly-introduced I-Shift automated transmission with crawler gears and the new liftable tandem axle. “The unique advantage of excellent startability combined with a suitable rear axle ratio that optimises engine revs at high speeds when carrying heavy loads, and lifting the tandem axle when not fully loaded, will result in lower fuel consumption on highways,” it concluded.

Qimarox has extended its range of material handling components with the Prorunner mk10, a product lift for pallets up to 2,000 kg. The company says the The Prorunner mk10 allows companies to transport up to sixty pallets per hour, ten metres upwards. Qimarox will talk about this product lift at Modex, the popular international trade fair, taking place from today in Atlanta (USA).

This year, Modex says it is responding to the ever-changing market, which requires flexible and innovative logistics processes. “To survive these days, companies need to continuously monitor and optimise their processes. The trick is to choose exactly those products and systems that offer your organisation the most added value from the overwhelming range on offer today,” said the company in a statement.

An example is the Qimarox Prorunner mk10, which is based on the design of the successful Prorunner mk9 pallet lift. The most important difference is that the new Prorunner mk10 features four instead of two columns, which allows “this very robust lift to effortlessly lift loads of up to 2,000kg”.

The Prorunner mk10 can easily bridge any difference in height between 0.40 and 10 metres. Even at a height difference of 10 metres, the lift can still easily transport sixty pallets per hour “with ease”. The Prorunner mk10 is equipped with a lifting platform of 1200 x 1200 mm as standard, so that it can handle not only euro pallets, but also product carriers of different sizes such as block pallets.

The Prorunner mk5 is described as “literally and figuratively the highlight of the fair”. This elegant product lift works according to the time-honoured paternoster principle, which results in a versatile vertical transport system with a capacity of 2,000 products per hour. Because a single elevator system can be used for both upward and downward product flows, the Prorunner mk5 is ideal for vertical sorting, or as a component in storage and order picking systems.

The standard model of this maintenance friendly and sophisticated product elevator is available for the fixed price of only $ 9,250 including infeed and outfeed conveyors.

Besides product and pallet lifts, Qimarox also develops and supplies components for packaging systems. The Highrunner mk7 is an innovative palletiser, which is capable of quickly and efficiently processing products of different shapes and sizes into stable pallets. Qimarox also supplies standardised, modular components for wrapping pallets in foil. New in this range is a machine for wrapping pallets in stretch wraps.

All components are installed, integrated and maintained by trained system partners, so you are assured of a local specialist who speaks your language and may already be familiar with your organisation and processes.