KION North America

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.

Operating A Forklift In The Sun – How To Work Safely

For most in the material handling industry, when considering safety guidelines when operating a forklift, we often think of specifics of running the truck. For instance, how to safely maneuver it, ensure the operator is protected, as well as others around, and that the truck is being used properly. However, looking at the environment the truck is being used in can be just as important. Extreme hot and cold temperatures can not only affect the truck, but also the operator. Below we highlight tips on operating a forklift in the sun – a topic that may get overlooked.

Build a tolerance for working in the heat

As with anything extreme, building one’s tolerance to withstand hot temperatures while operating a truck is key. If an operator is not well versed in working in certain temperatures, he/she can put themselves at risk for injury. Heat takes a toll on the body and can often fatigue and disorient a person if exposed to the sun for too long. Operating a truck at the same time can have dire consequences. Establishing a schedule for increasing one’s time in the sun, while maneuvering a truck, will better protect the operator.

Guard yourself against the sun

If you must work in the sun, it is extremely important to guard yourself against any additional negative effects of the sun’s rays. Wearing clothing that covers most of your body will help protect your skin and decrease the likelihood of burns. Also, shielding your face with a hat will aid in protecting your face as well as decreasing glares from the sun to help prevent vision impairment. Above all else, make sure you are applying sunscreen before going out in the sun and reapply later in the day if you notice you have perspired a lot.

Hydrate

As obvious as it may sound, making sure you stay hydrated while working in the sun is imperative. When working in high heat temperatures, the body is continuously perspiring, which is the body’s automatic response to cooling down the body. However, that water loss needs to be replenished. Make sure to hydrate with water and not caffeine, even if you feel like you need a pick me up. Caffeine can lead to additional body fluid loss. Taking regular breaks to re-hydrate and refresh will be extremely beneficial to the forklift operator.

Take scheduled breaks

Make sure you are maximizing all scheduled breaks by going inside during those times. Taking a break from the truck, while still outside does not allow your body to cool down and take the respite it needs. To continue working in the sun, your body needs to have frequent opportunities to recharge. During this time, monitor yourself for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. There are several signs and symptoms to be aware of according to WebMD.

Some symptoms of heat exhaustion

  •  Fatigues
  •  Nausea
  •  Headache
  •  Excessive thirst
  •  Muscle aches and cramps
  •  Weakness
  • Confusion or anxiety

Some symptoms of heatstroke

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headache
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Fatigue
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Dry skin
  • Profound sweating

For more signs and symptoms Click Here

We Keep the World Moving

Have you ever thought about how you receive products and supplies?  I’m not talking about going to the store and picking up an item or ordering something online where it later appears by the hands of your preferred delivery service.  No, what I’m asking is a little deeper than that.  For instance, have you ever wondered how those products reach your hands?

In this ever-evolving world, we can virtually receive products from anywhere on the planet.  That fact alone is amazing and often incredible to grasp or realize.  But how does one get a product from point A, to B or C and so-on? 

Today’s economy has created consumers who expect a quick turnaround on receiving goods.  From order to delivery, each step within the supply chain must work seamlessly to complete the result of delivering the product from warehouse to recipient.  The key piece of equipment that connects each sequence and stop along the way is the forklift.  To ensure productivity and expedited service, forklifts provide the delivery of bulk items efficiently, effectively and are the crucial piece to the supply chain puzzle.  Forklifts are the chosen vehicle, keeping America’s inventory moving.  From supplying, storing and picking to transferring goods and docking, forklifts are the heartbeat of any logistics network, keeping the global economy moving. 

How do we readily and easily receive goods and products?  How do we keep America’s economy thriving? 

With forklifts.  We Keep the World Moving.

How to Modernize Your Warehouse

Do you want to stay ahead of the competition in 2020? If so, it’s important to modernize your warehouse. This includes technology, efficient equipment, and implementing sustainable efforts. Look below to see where your warehouse should improve upon.

Technology

A key component of modernization for any business is technology. Technology will give you the tools to be more productive and efficient in the warehouse. One way to incorporate this is by going paperless. This will allow for improvement in inventory management. All tasks and progress in the warehouse should be documented on computers/I-pads. By doing this you can instantly access all of the important documents used in your warehouse. 

Efficient Equipment 

Is your operating equipment up to date? Stay ahead of the competition by investing in new equipment. Some machines can do double the work that 2 or 3 older machines are able to do. This will cut costs for maintenance on all of the machines as well as saving your business time. 

Sustainable efforts 

Modern efforts in anything today means being sustainable. A part of upgrading your equipment is equipment that is beneficial to the environment. Electric equipment is better for the environment in reducing emissions and also saves money on fuel costs. A recycling program should also be implemented. Cardboard boxes make up a vast majority of most warehouses. Employees should be trained and informed on how to recycle. 
In 2020, more businesses will be modernizing their warehouses. By staying ahead of the competition and creating a plan for your warehouse to incorporate these efforts, will ensure your company sees a big return on this investment in the future. KION North America wants to see your company grow. If you find you need help with the latest, modern equipment our team would be happy to assist.

Forklift Attachments

Forklift attachments can be easy to overlook, but they are essential in modifying the capability of your equipment. Depending on the task at hand, a particular forklift may or may not be best suited to get the job done. This is where attachments come in. With the right unique modification, it’ll not only be more convenient, but there will be more productivity. Below is a brief list of basic forklift attachments to offer you a better idea of what kind are out there and how they can benefit you.

Fork Positioners

If you’re looking to handle nonstandard material and must be able to adjust the distance between forks quickly, a positioner is a must. Fork positioners give the operator the power to adjust the forks to fit various pallet sizes quickly, efficiently, and safely. 

Side Shifters

If you’ve ever experienced a lot that wasn’t properly aligned with your forks, you probably aren’t alone. A side shifter allows the operator to adjust the forks from left to right without ever leaving the driver’s seat, making for an easy and safe transition without moving the entire forklift. 

Multi-Pallet Handlers

Everyone wishes they could successfully multitask. With a multi-pallet handler, you can. This attachment allows for multiple loads to be operated at the same time, scaling down your workload and getting it done in half the time it would’ve typically taken. 

Rotators

While traditional forks lift up and down, a rotator will be most beneficial when transporting bins or containers. Because of its ability to rotate and reposition, it’ll help in dumping or emptying the containers without the help of another operator. 

Forklifts help in the day-to-day transporting of materials, but there are many ways that they can be improved. Rather than taking up more time by needed extra operator assistance, consider investing in a forklift attachment that will result in faster and safer productivity!