KION North America

A New Lease on Quality – The Future has Arrived

The Linde Material Handling leasing program ensures competitive leasing options for the Linde Series 1202 Hydrostatic drive truck.  Compromising on quality is now a thing of the past.  You now have the opportunity to add high-end trucks to your fleet for the price of a lesser competitor. 

The Series 1202 offers the only true 100% hydrostatic drive system that powers the wheels with hydraulic fluid instead of a mechanical powertrain.  This technology brings a better and more effective truck including automatic acceleration and deceleration, preventing wear on the brakes and tires, and delivering smoother transitions with speed.  These advancements, along with optimized energy consumption, increased handling capacity, and virtually maintenance-free engine, create a cost-efficient and robust, productive truck.

For many warehouse operations, the thought of a truck that encompasses such advanced and precise qualities would have been unrealistic in the past and an option that most couldn’t afford. However, those are beliefs from the past and now the future has arrived with affordability that has never been seen before.

The Linde Series 1202 is now an affordable option for your supply chain solutions. 

With extreme versatility including superior functionality in the following applications:

  • Factory
  • Grocery
  • Beverage
  • Food
  • Logistics
  • Electronics
  • Automotive
  • Chemical
  • Recycling
  • Lumber

You now have the ability to be in the drivers seat with affordable options for your operation.

By leasing the Series 1202, there are little or no upfront costs with lower monthly rates which keeps more money in your pocket.  In addition, productivity is increased with less downtime due to the improved fuel consumption, decreased maintenance intervals, and the hydrostatic drive system.

Let’s take a look at how leasing versus buying is the better solution to get the trucks you want at the price you need.

  • No (or little) upfront costs
  • New equipment on a regular basis – high productivity and less downtime
  • Lower monthly rates – more working capital
  • Tied in with maintenance agreements – decreased downtime and heightened productivity
  • Flexibility – adaptable to your needs
  • Frees up working capital – enabling funds for other purchases
  • Lease payments are tax-deductible

The Linde Series 346, Series 1346, and Series 1347 | A New Age of Productivity

The Pursuit of Excellence

The advancement of technology for industrial trucks is ever changing and vital as companies are increasingly looking for ways to excel in efficiency.  The continued pursuit to do things better and faster is the driving force for many.  Companies must consider not only cost but must also look at the big picture of maintaining and increasing efficiency and productivity, as well as employee safety.

Increased Efficiency

The traditional lead-acid battery has allowed us to perform many tasks, and at the time it was introduced to market, allowed companies to be more efficient and effective in production.  However, the battery comes with many negative factors that make its use counterintuitive. Lithium-Ion batteries are forging a new path for companies, requiring little down time and increased proficiency in material handling of supply chains.  The battery itself, whether it be lead-acid or lithium-ion, does not stand alone as the champion for industrial trucks, but the performance difference comes from the combined system of battery and truck. The combination of the Linde truck with lithium-ion batteries compliment the many progressive features Linde trucks hold, making these batteries the new standard in industrial trucks – focusing less on which lithium-ion battery you put in the truck, but how the truck uses that energy.

Unrivaled Energy Efficiency

Companies can decide which capacity sized battery to choose based on their intensity needs.  For example, a forklift could run for a 3-shift operation with the large battery, offering extreme increases in productivity and keeping processes moving. A perfect marriage of truck and battery comes from the exclusive Linde compact drive axle, which eliminates wasteful electrical losses.  Lithium-ion batteries are different in that you can more easily adjust the electric charge capacity to suit the truck application.  Looking at the highly efficient Series 346 for example, the Linde truck would use less energy than a competitor truck while moving the same loads.  The lower energy usage allows you to select a smaller capacity battery, which can save a significant amount of money with lithium-ion technology.  Using lithium-ion batteries in conjunction with an energy-efficient Linde truck proves to be the most cost-effective method because a lower capacity battery can support the same productivity.

Decreased Downtime

Upgrading trucks from manual use to battery supported has increased timing and efficiency, but requires frequent battery changes, taking away from employee productivity. For three shift operations, companies could end up changing lead-acid batteries at least five times.   In addition, changing a battery requires its 1.5-ton weight to be removed with the aid of another forklift or an overhead crane.  For a typical lead-acid battery, regular maintenance includes replenishment of water, overnight equalization charging, and occasional exposure to battery acid.  While these activities are important, they represent downtime for the truck.  Charging a Linde Series 346, Series 1346 or Series 1347 truck, with lithium-ion battery, has never been easier and can be completed at different stopping points or near a break area for example, allowing the truck to complete a quick re-charge during scheduled employee downtime.  Another constructive use is that these trucks do not require a full charge cycle.  Although the battery may be charged completely within an hour, short charges are also encouraged. 

The New Linde Series 1202 Hydrostat Truck: The Breakthrough of Intuitive Design

The Linde Series 1202 is unlike any truck on the market, offering unwavering capabilities you won’t find on any other truck.  Painstakingly constructed to deliver a superior ergonomic truck, encompassing every feature coveted by the world of material handling withfocuses on operating experience, design-to-service, efficiency, versatility and safety. A steadfast design with advanced precision, the Series 1202 is the perfect marriage between man and machine, setting a new industry standard in the world of forklift trucks.

Ergonomically Designed

The Series 1202 is truly operator centered with its straightforward use, focus on drivability as well as features that increase driver protection and decrease fatigue.  The panoramic armored glass roof, slim A-pillars, and low front plate provides outstanding visibility in all directions.  The ergonomic workstation includes a steering column with control levers that are easily in reach along the multi-function armrest. Increased headroom with 12 seat options offer the driver a customized driving experience. The axles, mast, and tilt cylinder are decoupled from the chassis which safeguards the operator from vibrations and shocks, protecting against postural injuries and fatigue.  In addition,reduced noise levels promote an exceptional driving experience.

Efficiency and Performance

The Series 1202 offers the only true 100% hydrostatic drive system that powers the wheels with hydraulic fluid instead of a mechanical powertrain.  This technology brings a better and more effective truck including automatic acceleration and deceleration, preventing wear on the brakes and tires and delivering smoother transitions with speed.  Dual pedal travel control increases efficiency and functionality in conjunction with the hydrostat drive.  In addition, the Series 1202 offers the lowest average automatic engine rpm that is demand controlled, including a hydrostatic drive system with axial piston technology. 

Versatility

With all 1202 trucks, asset management monitoring is a standard feature. Hour meter reading, fault codes and geo location can be monitored from any computer or smart device that has access to internet and cloud service.

Reliability

The Linde Series 1202 is a consistent dependable truck for any of your applications.  Highlighting a maximum residual capacity including, lowest center of gravity, best weight distribution, and overhead tilt cylinders.  These supportive features ensure the operator is working effectively as well as safely, reducing the risk of tipping and loading accidents.  In addition, the robust construction and maintenance-free components of the Series 1202 reinforces truck availability throughout the day, preventing prolonged downtimes. 

Forklift Capacities: How To Choose The Right Truck For The Job

With so many truck options out there, choosing the correct truck for the application can seem like a daunting task.  To enhance productivity, as well as promoting safety, selecting the appropriate truck for your operation can affect multiple layers of your supply chain.  Below we discuss tips to consider in choosing the right truck for the job.

Understanding Lift Capacity

When considering a forklift for your application, you must first look at lift capacity.  Trucks can range anywhere from 3,000 to 70,000 lbs. and offer a multitude of designs to aide in efficiency.  Each forklift has its own data plate where you can find the rated capacity.  Depending on the way the load is carried, and the weight is distributed, will change the amount of weight the forklift can safely carry. 

Knowing a trucks lift capacity does not necessarily equate to matching product in pounds. For instance, if a forklift’s data plate specifies a lift capacity of 5,000 lbs. that does not necessarily mean the truck can carry any load of 5,000 lbs. Understanding the weight, size, and position of the load will better determine the type of truck needed. 

Some questions to consider when deciding on specific truck capacity needs:

  • Where will my forklift be used (indoors or outdoors)?
  • How heavy is my typical load?
  • What is the shape of my typical load?
  • What aisle clearance do I have in the warehouse?
  • How high do my loads need to be lifted?
  • How often will my forklift be used?

Factors that affect Lift Capacity

Center of Gravity

Most counterbalanced trucks have what is called a stability triangle.  The stability triangle is a three- point suspension system that incorporates two front wheels and the center of the steer axle that supports the truck.  When the truck is at rest, the center of gravity is within the stability triangle, however, when the truck is in motion (braking, accelerating and making turns) the center of gravity shifts. It is also important to understand that an unloaded truck can tip with the counterbalance weight as well as a truck transporting a load.  According to OSHA, “the load center is the distance from the face of the forks to the load’s center of gravity.  Many forklifts are rated using a 24-inch load center, which means that the load’s center of gravity must be 24 inches or less from the face of the forks.”  Additional issues that can affect the center of gravity is damaged product or loads un-securely mounted, loads that are off-center, and loads that are exceeding capacity. OSHA:  Load Handling

Attachments

Warehouse operations will often add forklift attachments to aid the needs of their operation.  However, before adding any attachment, operators must consider the affect adding an attachment will have on the trucks center of gravity.  The additional weight is not the only concern, as considering the horizontal and vertical center of gravities can also affect the overall lifting.  To ensure trucks are transporting loads safely, locating the forklift attachment’s data plate will assist in determining proper lift capacity.

Tires

Choosing a forklift, based on lift capacities, involves many more factors than what the data plate states.  Each part of the truck offers their own lift capacities and can directly affect the load you intend to carry.  For example, the type of tires on the truck will help determine lift abilities.  If the truck has small or larger tires, those details will come into play on calculating load size and may require a recalculation of center of gravity. 

There are plenty of other areas to consider and address when determining the appropriate truck options for your supply chain. Calculating lift capacities and considering additional attachments, can negatively affect center of gravity, and can be overwhelming for the operator to navigate.  That’s why our dealer partners are ready to help you find the right truck for the job. Contact any of our dealer partners today at a location near you!  KION NA Dealer Network

Operating A Forklift In Unpredictable Weather – Rainy Conditions

We have entered that time of the year where many are experiencing the unpredictability of mother nature.  Whether it be extreme spikes in temperature or the sudden torrential downpour, the weather can often catch us off guard.  When operating machinery, like a forklift, it is imperative to be alert on any given day, but especially when the weather takes a turn.  Below we highlight several tips and considerations for operating a forklift in the rain.

Eliminate Distractions

Keeping focused on your equipment and your surroundings should always be a priority while operating a forklift.  That means limiting the amount of outside distractions is crucial to maneuver the truck effectively and safely.  Make sure you are wearing proper attire while working in outside conditions so that you are protected inside your workspace.  For instance, not keeping your head covered can cause a decrease in visibility and focus, creating a potential hazard. Also, strong winds can be associated with heavy rains, so wearing water and windproof jackets and pants will also aide in protection and less distractions. 

To decrease the likelihood of taking your eyes off the road, it is a good idea to leave cell phones and audio devices off the truck.  Eliminating those appliances will help keep you focused on the job at hand.  In addition, keeping food and drinks out of the workspace will prevent the urge to take your hands away from the control deck, thus keeping you in control of your forklift.

Watch your Speed

Just as we slow our speed in our car during rainy weather, the same applies for maneuvering a forklift.  Even with the latest improved features on Linde trucks, of automatic acceleration and deceleration that deliver smoother transitions with speed, wet weather can still greatly affect the driving experience.  Operating the forklift cautiously, during compromised weather, will ultimately make you, the operator, more effective and efficient over the course of the day as well as decreasing the probability of an accident.

Be Alert to Driving on Multiple Surfaces

If you are operating between multiple terrains (indoor and outdoor applications) it is extremely important to be aware of the surfaces you are driving on.  When transporting loads back and forth from the yard to the warehouse, the inclination may be to increase speed since the surface you are driving on is now dry.  However, the wheels on the forklift will still be very wet and will make abrupt stops difficult.  Maintaining consistent, slower speeds, while transitioning from outdoors to indoors, will create a more secure logistical operation.

With the Linde internal combustion trucks, you can automatically rely on the ability of being prepared to deliver solid production in any weather condition. But with the Linde outdoor electric trucks, you’re also assured a precise and agile operating experience with Linde’s robust drive technology, backed by attentive traction control and precise navigation.

The Linde Series 1219 LPG Counterbalanced Truck

Exceptional performance – Undeniable excellence

Superior capacity retention, ample performance, and impressive ergonomics are the backbone of the Linde Series 1219. An exceptional truck, designed with extreme versatility, offering the ability to be used in many different applications. The Linde Series 1219 is the truck you want and the truck your supply chain needs.

Power and Performance

With lift capacities of 5,000-6,500 lbs, there is no limit to what the Series 1219 can do for your operation.  Available in four different models and four capacity ranges, this truck offers generous power and traction, highlighting high flotation tires, with outstanding maneuverability and establishes the ability to operate over a multitude of terrains.  In addition, the Series 1219 has excellent cornering stability, allowing the operator to maneuver easily across the yard in many outdoor applications. The advanced engine technology and durable driveline provides the operator the capacity for maximum productivity, including an exclusive Linde mast design with nested channels, reduced cylinder cross-section and protected internal hose reeving, creating a 20,000 hour chassis design. 

Efficiency

The one-piece solid steel cast steer axle is made up of the strongest axle construction preventing welds to fail which equates to less downtime.  The ergonomic layout of all hydraulic functions allows for a high level of precision, control, and working performance. Extended maintenance intervals are achieved by using high-quality parts with assemblies and low fuel consumption as well as low exhaust emissions, offering decreased downtime for the truck and operator.

Operator Ease

The Linde Series 1219 has an operator focused compartment offering a spacious interior and accessibility from both sides of the truck.  The ergonomically designed workplace produces a low-stress environment with a smoother ride, introducing less fatigue, low noise, and simple operation. In addition, there are several speed control settings allowing flexibility and controlled movement. The functional positioning of deck-mounted hydraulic controls along with clearview mast, increasing all-around visibility, creates a truly effective truck.

The Linde Series 1219 embodies every feature your warehouse operation demands to be effective, efficient, and with an emphasis on the operator.

Baoli – A dependable, reliable utility truck at a great price

In the world of material handling, companies have many factors to consider when purchasing a forklift truck.  Businesses want forklifts that are not only productive and reliable, but also cost effective.  Companies often have limited choices due to pricing and find themselves settling for less.  By choosing the Baoli brand, companies no longer need to compromise.  Baoli offers dependable, reliable utility trucks at a great price, with exceptional product support and a premium warranty.  Baoli support is fully integrated into the KION North America supply chain and service system. 

Smart Engineering and Exceptional Value

Baoli brand trucks have built their reputation on value – a cost-effective choice, exceeding expectations.  Baoli’s advanced fuel systems and electronic control units (ECU) make these trucks more fuel efficient.  Not only that, but the Baoli brand offers a 500-hour maintenance interval, decreasing costs and downtime.  Baoli is a high-quality, tough as nails truck, with a focus on operator comfort and dependable performance.

Baoli offers the following optimized standard specifications:

  • KION North America warranty
  • Wide view mast, good forward visibility
  • Overhead guard optimizes visibility with plexi-glass cover for added protection
  • Rear pillar assist with horn for operator convenience and security
  • Fully suspended and cushioned operator compartment
  • Adjustable comfort suspension seat and tilt steering column
  • Proven quality engine exceeding the economy segment standard
  • Low center of gravity
  • Highly fuel efficient

Power and Performance

Baoli offers many diesel and LPG forklift options with capacities of 5,000 – 10,000 lbs. and electric forklifts with a 3,500 lb. capacity.  The Baoli brand is designed to accomplish the most demanding jobs. Baoli trucks offer proven engines, used in forklifts worldwide for reliability and durable performance.  With proven power systems and standardized components, Baoli upholds the values of an industry leader.

Exceeding Industry Standards

Cost effective does not translate to limited features.  Baoli trucks constantly exceed industry expectations, combining comfort, convenience, and ease of maintenance into one ergonomically designed package. Equipped with operator comfort and convenience features including a fully suspended and cushioned operator compartment, adjustable suspension seat, and tilt steering column, the Baoli brand comes with the features and options you need at the price you want.

Product Spotlight: The Re-designed Electric Center Ride Tow Tractor Series 1103

Maximizing drivability, performance, and efficiency is the cornerstone of Linde designed trucks.  With focus on the applicational use, as well as operator comfort and productivity, the newly re-designed Series 1103 encompasses and exceeds every feature needed to tow.  Offering ways to work better, smarter and more efficiently, even in the most demanding applications.

Drivability 

With the operator in mind, the re-designed Series 1103 is built with a comfort operator platform, offering a smooth ride and large operating compartment, reducing operator fatigue.  In addition, the compact footprint with responsive steering allows precise traveling and maneuvering in tight places.  The forward driving position with a unique Linde twin-grip steering control, showcases an ergonomic tiller head that governs travel direction, speed and automatic return to neutral.  This feature offers ease of use of controls by either hand and its power steering reduces steer effort by 70%, decreasing operator fatigue.  The operator platform also incorporates an operator-presence sensor, protecting the operator from any unintentional harm.

Performance & Reliability

The Series 1103 delivers responsive acceleration braking and travel speeds with a powerful 24-volt 5.4hp, AC drive motor, allowing for maximum productivity, excellent reliability, increased towing capacity and ideal for stop and go operations.  Recognized as being one of the toughest trucks in the market, the Series 1103 delivers high performance acceleration, with generous 10,000 or 15,000 lb. towing capacity.  Having the job application and operator in mind, the latest features and re-design results in an extremely durable and reliable truck. The high quality electrical parts, in conjunction with the heavy-duty, bottom-mounted Kordel drive unit, make the Series 1103 a dependable asset in your warehouse operations, delivering reliable performance.

Serviceability

The Series 1103 allows easy access to the trucks key components by removal of a one-piece durable lift off motor compartment cover.  The thermosetting resin cover offers superior impact strength, durability, and lifelong proper fit.  In addition, a digital display assists with charging and maintenance planning by means of a diagnostic computer port.

Efficiency

The AC motor controller provides effective and efficient use of battery voltage and has extremely wide torque and speed range, supporting tailored parameters to meet a wide variety of application requirements.  Zero speed ramp hold applications are also accomplished, as well as full regeneration capability and smooth low speed control.  Maximizing the Series 1103’s capabilities are a reality with the addition of new AC technology, enabling extended maintenance intervals for motors resulting in decreased down time. 

Product Spotlight: The Redesigned Electric Center Rider Pallet Truck Series 1102

We keep the world moving and with that, Linde is continuously looking at new ways to meet the needs of our customers.  Seeking innovative designs to maximize ergonomics, performance, and reliability is paramount in Linde trucks.  The newly redesigned Linde Series 1102 encompasses all those features and more, offering ways to work better, smarter and more efficiently.

Ergonomics

With the operator in mind, the re-designed Series 1102 offers a forward driving position with a unique Linde twin-grip steering control, showcasing an ergonomic tiller head that governs travel direction, speed and automatic return to neutral. This feature offers ease of use of controls by either hand and its power steering reduces steer effort by 70%, decreasing operator fatigue.  Another attribute is the suspended operator platform, that not only provides the operator with an extremely comfortable work environment, but also incorporates an operator-presence sensor, protecting the operator from any unintentional harm.

Performance

The Series 1102 is extremely versatile, enabling low-level order picking and is designed for both long and short travel distances, all backed by the powerful 5.4 hp AC drive motor.  In addition, it allows for operation on or off the truck using the Easy Pick system with electronic coasting feature.  Recognized as being one of the toughest trucks in the market, it delivers high performance acceleration, braking, and travel speeds but also offers a smooth delivery while transporting heavy loads up to 8,000 lbs. 

Reliability

With the job application and operator in mind, the latest features and re-design results in an extremely durable and reliable truck.  Transporting heavy loads are not an issue as the heavy-duty fork stiffeners provide strength along all the way to the tips.  The durable casters and forks provide greater strength, stability, and longer integrity over the life of the truck, making the Series 1102 a dependable asset in your warehouse operations – even in the most demanding applications. 

Efficiency

The AC motor controller provides effective and efficient use of battery voltage and has extremely wide torque and speed range, supporting tailored parameters to meet a wide variety of application requirements.  Zero speed ramp hold applications are also accomplished, as well as full regeneration capability and smooth low speed control.  Maximizing the Series 1102’s capabilities are a reality with the addition of new AC technology, enabling extended maintenance intervals for motors resulting in decreased down time.

Maintaining Your Forklift – Keeping It Clean Will Prolong Its Working Life

When considering ways to extend the life of your forklift, one often gravitates to the more obvious ideas.  Depending on how your truck is powered, you may be thinking regular oil changes, keeping a close eye on the motor/engine, following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule or regular up-keep of the tires.  One, as important step to maintaining a forklift that often gets overlooked, is cleaning/disinfecting the truck.  Below we will highlight some important steps that will ensure your forklift is functioning at peak performance and will remain running for a long time.

Clean off exterior debris

Just as you would clean your personal car when it becomes visibly dirty, the same applies for the forklift.  Depending on your truck’s source of power will determine what tools you can clean with.  For an electric truck, knocking off accumulated grim with a broom will help dislodge unwanted particles, making it easier to clean.  An air compressor can also assist with the removal along with non-toxic bio-degradable solutions.  Keep in mind that water can affect your trucks electrical components, so use caution to prevent electrical damage.

As noted in the Linde service guide operators manual, “hot steam or cleaning materials with a powerful degreasing effect should only be used with great caution as this will affect the grease filling of bearings with lifetime lubrication, causing it to escape. As re-lubrication is not possible, the bearings will be irreparably damaged.“

When cleaning a non-electric truck, it is advised to use a pressure-washer to knock-off hard to remove substances.  In addition, the use of the pressure-washer will prevent the operator from getting too close to the truck, during cleaning, protecting one from potential hazardous run-off or splash-back.

The Linde operator’s manual states, “when cleaning with a water jet (high-pressure or steam cleaner etc.), it should not be applied directly to the area of the front axle, electric and electronic components, connector plugs or insulating material. Water should not be used for cleaning in the area of the central electrical system and switch console.“

Don’t forget the underside of the truck

It is often noted that we clean what we see, however, hidden parts of the truck are as important, if not more to maintain.  Depending on where you work, your truck may be used in many different environments.  Dirt and grim can easily build up in those hard to reach areas, causing potential issues to the undercarriage of the truck.  Keeping those areas cleaned, will prevent major issues down the road.

Work from the top of the truck down

For heavier soiled areas, pre-soaking your truck may be necessary.  That will allow build-up to soften, making it easier to clean.  When cleaning your truck, make sure to start at the top and work your way down.  That way, grim and dirt will flow down, and you are not having to re-clean areas.

Allow proper dry time

Once your truck is sufficiently cleaned, park it in an area that will allow appropriate dry time – preferable in the sun.  Allowing your truck to dry will ensure that its components are working efficiently and will prevent damage to the truck.

Protect yourself

No matter how you plan to clean your truck, make sure you are using protective gear.  When using cleaning materials or tools, there is always a chance that substances can splash back on you.  Be sure to wear protective eye-wear, boots and gloves, as well as long sleeves and pants to protect your skin.