forklifts | KION North America | Page 2

Tag Archives: forklifts

Linde at Work: Cambria

Recently, Bennett Material Handling delivered three Linde H50Ts and one H30CT to the Cambria headquarters in LeSueur, Minnesota. Cambria is the only family-owned, American-made producer of natural quartz surfaces which are used primarily in the kitchens and baths of homes and businesses.

Their surfaces are made of pure, natural quartz and feature unparalleled strength and durability resulting in a finished product that is nonporous, scratch- and stain-resistant and maintenance free.

Cambria trusts Linde products to efficiently move these products around their facilities and have purchased nearly 40 Linde forklifts to date. They operate 32 facilities throughout the country, including a state-of-the-art production center, fabrication and distribution centers and Cambria galleries. Each of their 16 distribution centers is equipped with a Linde H30CT and H50T.

The H50T model is part of Linde’s Series 394—a series of internal combustion powered counterbalanced forklifts equipped with pneumatic tires. The load capacities for this series range from 8,000-11,000 lbs.

The H30CT is part of Linde’s Series 1313. Like the Linde Series 394, these are internal combustion powered counterbalanced forklifts, but instead, they are equipped with cushion tires. The load capacity for this series ranges from 5,000-6,500 lbs.

Both models are equipped with Linde’s patented hydrostatic drive system—making them capable of handling the harsh effects of ramps, dust, heat, humidity and pushing. The hydrostatic drive is the unique power transfer from the engine to the wheels allowing these trucks to be very precise and among the easiest to control on the market. Known as the ultimate drive system, the hydrostatic transmission is superior to any other in achieving maximum lift truck performance

In keeping with the corporate identity, all forklifts purchased by Cambria are painted black at the factory in Summerville; The gold dragon logo is added to each truck upon delivery.

Submit your photos of a Linde (or Baoli) at work to: marketing.na(at)kiongroup.com

Product Spotlight: Linde Series 1313

The Linde Series 1313 was released nearly 5 years ago and is still one of the top performers in the class four market. This truck is an internal combustion counterbalanced truck equipped with cushion tires and is offered in four different models. This series has a lift capacity ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 pounds and specifically designed for the harsh conditions of the class IV market.

Safety and Design

The Linde Series 1313 is one of the safest trucks on the market, with its low-mounted propane tank and dashboard combined with a clear view mast which increases the all-around visibility for the operator. This, coupled with simple operations, allows the operator to stay alert throughout his or her entire shift. Additional safety attachments are also available for purchase to further enhance this truck including stop lights, tail lights, rear spotlights and an audible backup horn.

This truck is intended to handle demanding tasks and require the truck to be specifically designed to handle the force and tension that comes with them. All structural components such as the frame, axles and mast are designed to massive proportions. For example, the frame on this truck is made of ½-inch steel with 5/8-inch cross bracing—one of the most substantial designs in the industry.

Comfort and Performance

With all the safety features this truck is equipped with, you would be lead to believe comfort is minimal. In reality, the Linde Series 1313 is one of the most comfortable trucks in the class IV market. With a spacious cab accessible from either side of the truck, it is designed to suit any size operator. It also contains an adjustable armrest, suspension seat and functional positioning of easy-actuation controls. Additionally, the comfort features of the Linde Series 1313 allow the operator to start and finish their shift relaxed making your business a safer and more productive workplace.

Linde did not disappoint when it comes to the performance of the Series 1313. This forklift series is equipped with the original Linde Load system which allows the operator to maximize productivity. The layout of all the hydraulic functions enables the operator to maintain a high level of precision fingertip control and working performance.

Additionally, this truck is equipped with Linde’s hydrostatic drive making it capable of handling the harsh effects of ramps, dust, heat, humidity and pushing. The hydrostatic drive is the unique power transfer from the engine to the wheels and is very precise making it one of the easiest trucks to control on the market.

If you are in the market for a top of the line LPG forklift you can always rely on, the Linde Series 1313 may be the truck for your business. For more information or to a request a demo contact your authorized local dealer today.

Recap: Fall 2017 Dealer Sales Meeting

CONTINUING TO MOVE FASTER TOGETHER

Since the release of five new products at ProMat earlier this year, KION North America has worked to continue capitalizing on that momentum.

From Oct. 25-27, the company hosted a dealer sales update  meeting in Charleston, S.C. There were more than 150 attendees representing 63 dealerships from throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico equaling 85 percent of the company’s dealer network.

PLANT TOUR

Upon arriving in the Lowcountry,  attendees were taken on a private tour of KION North America’s facilities including its manufacturing plant and parts warehouse. Several facility upgrades have been made in the two years since the company’s last Charleston-based dealer meeting including the addition of new assembly and storage areas, a counterweight (CTW) roller system, the changeover to DC-powered torque tools, controlled monitoring and the soon-to-be-completed external covering for stock equipment. The plant tour was followed by a pig and oyster roast welcome dinner.

“We’ve been moving at such a fast pace over the last several years that we wanted to take the opportunity to not only acknowledge, but also to celebrate, where we started and how far we’ve come,” said Vincent Halma, president and CEO of KION North America.

 

NEW PRODUCTS & TECHNOLOGY

The second day was dedicated to learning about new products and technologies which included additions to both the company’s Linde and Baoli product lines. Attendees also had the opportunity to test drive each of the new products along with some popular existing models.

The Linde Series 1346 is a stand-up electric counterbalanced truck with a load capacity ranging from 3,500-4,000 pounds. This truck is best suited for loading and unloading supplies from trucks and working in tight aisles.

In its economy segment, the company introduced the Baoli KBE25C (electric powered) and the Baoli KBG25C (LPG powered). Both cushion tire forklifts, they are designed to work in a variety of indoor environments. Their small size and sharp turn radius are ideal for working in tight spaces, loading docks and in high lift dock-to-stock operations.

Additionally, Dematic showcased the new iGo neo, a dual-use automated guided vehicle. This vehicle can operate as both a traditional walker-rider machine or as a fully automatic AGV. This new technology can improve overall picking performance by up to 30 percent. The iGo neo is powered by STILL and will be sold in North America by Dematic.

These additions complete their goal of the largest new product release in company and material handling industry in a single year, which they began with the introduction of five new volume and economy segment forklifts at ProMat in Chicago earlier this year.

“By adding eight new products to our product portfolio this year, we are one step closer to achieving our goal of transitioning from a premium, niche equipment provider to a full-line material handling equipment provider,” added Halma.

 

GOLF TOURNAMENT

The meeting concluded on Friday with a captain’s choice golf tournament at Dunes West Golf Club in Mount Pleasant. There were 15 teams comprised of over 60 participants. Brian Hutto, a regional sales manager with KION North America had a hole in one on the 169-yard 17th hole. Finishing in first place were Lonnie Boyd and Jon Paul Tabor of CE-DFW and Tim Woeste, KION North America key account manager.

WHAT’S NEXT?

KION North America’s next planned product release will come in 2018 with the introduction of their much anticipated warehouse product line.

Linde at Work: Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority

Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority manages the municipal solid waste and recyclable materials from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania homes and businesses. A critical piece of equipment to this process is the Linde Series 393-02 Model H35T. Delivered to LCSWMA last August, the forklift is used in their 75-yard long, 120-foot deep garbage pit.

Private haulers deliver the waste to LCSWMA who then employs a multi-step approach to trash disposal and processing called an integrated system. This system not only saves substantial landfill capacity, it also creates clean, renewable energy in the form of electricity.

The Linde Series 393-02 is offered in six different models with capacities ranging from 5,500- to 7,000-pounds. Powered by either diesel or LP gas, this forklift is equipped with Linde’s patented hydrostatic drive system—known as the ultimate drive system—allowing it to withstand even the harshest environments.

Pressurized hydraulics and full belly pan help to prevent system contamination and extend the life of the truck. Additionally, fewer consumable parts including no differential, no service brakes and no mechanical transmission, lead to low maintenance costs and extended service intervals—resulting in a vastly improved bottom-line performance.

These are some of the features and benefits not only make the Linde Series 393-02 an ideal forklift for waste and recycling operations like Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority, but also a wide variety of other applications include brickyards, foundries, aluminum smelters, beverage plants, lumber yards and more.

Submit your photos of a Linde (or Baoli) at work to: marketing.na(at)kiongroup.com

Photo Provided / Equipment Depot

Linde at Work: MTU America

During a recent demo at MTU America’s Aiken Plant, the Linde Series 1411 lifted one of the company’s 29,000 lb. diesel engines.

MTU America Inc. is the regional headquarters of Rolls-Royce Power Systems. Their core products—MTU diesel engines and MTU Onsite Energy distributed energy systems — can be found in a broad range of applications—from mine haul trucks, military vehicles and marine vessels to hospitals, data centers and universities. The Aiken Plant manufactures the company’s Series 2000 and 4000 off-highway diesel engines.

Also powered by an MTU engine, the Linde Series 1411 is one of two heavy trucks in KION North America’s product line. Available in 12 models at three variations of load centers, the 1411 boasts a capacity ranging from 22,000 to 40,000 lbs.

A highlight of the HT100Ds-HT180Ds range is the “Power on Demand” capability which balances engine output with the truck load and application, ensuring fuel savings and reduced service costs. It features a short wheelbase chassis yielding the best maneuverability in the industry. This is coupled together with Linde Load Control for added performance, productivity and maintenance savings.

The downside of heavy trucks is that rear visibility is often limited. But, given the sheer weight and size of the engines they produce, MTU was looking for a forklift they could trust. The Linde Series 1411 features a Linde “Clear View” deck and armored glass roof section that provide a 360-degree view for superb all-around visibility.

The MTU demo is just one example proving that Linde heavy trucks are superior when it comes to heavy-duty applications.

Submit your photos of a Linde at work to: marketing.na(at)kiongroup.com

Product Spotlight: Linde Series 1319

The Linde Series 1319 is just one of five new forklifts added to KION North America’s product line this year. Offered in four different models, this forklift is an internal combustion counterbalanced truck equipped with cushion tires. Packed with a host of features without comprising the compact nature of Class IV equipment, the Linde Series 1319 is suited perfectly for indoor environments like warehousing, trucking, distribution and manufacturing applications.

Features and Benefits

The Linde Series 1319 has a capacity ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 pounds. It can best handle items like freight and packaged goods, but can also handle a variety of other items depending on the environment and type of attachment being used. The low-mounted propane tank and dashboard, combined with a clear view mast increases all around visibility for the operator. Additionally, this truck has a low noise output allowing the operator to maintain awareness of their surroundings at all times.

Linde brand forklifts as whole are known for their superiority when it comes to mixing safety and comfort and the Linde Series 1319 is no exception. This truck is designed to the most ergonomic standards. With a spacious cab the operator has accessibility from both sides of the truck. Once inside, cowl-mounted-hydraulic controls, a fully-suspended seat, and functional positioning of easy-actuation controls make the Linde Series 1319 a comfortable truck for all types of operators. This combination of safety and comfort features create a low-stress working environment and allows the operator to start their shift relaxed and finish relaxed.

Increased Productivity

The performance of the Linde Series 1319 is like no other. The 2.5 liter high torque engine, wet disc brakes, two pedal system (inching and brake), foot operated parking brake and precise steering enables the operator to maximize productivity during every shift and maintain total control over the truck at all times.

Coupled with its high performance capability, the Linde Series 1319 is also versatile and adaptive thanks to a variety of optional features. These features include different seat options, an adjustable steering column, optional truck lighting, rearview mirrors and more. This level of versatility allows this forklift to be used in a variety of applications to complete a multitude of different tasks allowing your business to operate more efficiently.

Thanks to time-tested engineering and manufacturing expertise this forklift can withstand the most brutal conditions in severe applications. Given that industrial trucks are subject to high wear and tear, by using quality components like a high-horsepower Ford engine and premium cast axle with tapered bearings, KION North America backs the Linde 1319 with an industry-leading warranty. Extended service intervals augmented by an interactive diagnostic display increase the longevity of this truck.

Overall the Linde Series 1319 is a great all-around truck that can handle the tough conditions. If you value performance, productivity and operator comfort, this could be the truck for you. Need a larger capacity? Read more about the features and benefits of our Linde Series 396 equipped with our unique hydrostatic drive system.

Linde at Work: Doffo Winery

Doffo Winery uses a Linde 393-02 Series H25D forklift to transport grapes during the wine making process at their vineyards in Temecula, California.

The Linde H25D is an internal combustion counterbalanced forklift with pneumatic tires capable of lifting loads up to 5,500 pounds. It features Linde’s hydrostatic drive system. With no differential, no conventional service breaks, no mechanical transmission and no clutch packs, this system yields increased durability, efficiency and uptime. This innovative technology is what allows Linde forklifts to load and unload more material in less time, using less fuel and with reduced maintenance requirements compared to other trucks on the market.

With the help of their Linde forklift, Doffo Winery is able to offer a selection of over 25 different wines ranging from cabernet sauvignon to zinfandel. Founded in 1997, it is family owned and operated in addition to being one of the few micro-boutique wineries in the Temecula Valley region. The property includes 15 acres of hand planted vineyards, wine production facilities and a tasting room complete with more than 100 racing and vintage motorcycles from the family’s private collection.

By using meticulous care throughout the winemaking process, owners Marcelo and Damian Doffo are able to produce intense, rich fruit that expresses their commitment toward making world class wines.

This is a great example of the range of applications in which our lift trucks can be used.

Submit your photos of a Linde at work to: marketing.na(at)kiongroup.com

Photo Provided / Select Equipment Sales, Inc.

Sit-Down vs. Stand-Up Forklifts

With so many options for forklifts out there, it can seem like a daunting task to find the right one for your material handling needs. From pallet trucks to counterbalance trucks and everything in between, there are countless forklift options out there, but it is still important to find the right one to suit your warehouse.

One option that you may have trouble with when purchasing a new lift is whether to buy a stand-up or sit-down forklift. Many purchase a sit-down lift because it is the standard, when a stand-up lift may be a better option. Here are some tips for helping you decide between sit-down or stand-up forklifts.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of a sit-down forklift is driver comfort. Many have found that a comfortable forklift operator is a productive operator. Studies have also found that happy employees work harder and are more productive, so keeping your driver happy by keeping them off of their feet may be the right thing for your operation.

While sit-down forklifts keep operators comfortable, stand-up forklifts have a few considerable advantages to the standard sit-down. One very important benefit of a stand-up lift is visibility. Sit-down lifts only allow the driver forward facing visibility, forcing the operator to twist look over his shoulder when going in reverse. A stand-up lift, on the other hand, offers full range visibility no matter the direction the forklift is moving.

Another advantage of the stand-up lift is maneuverability. Stand-up lifts often offer better turning radius and range of motion compared to sit-downs. In smaller spaces and close quarters, the maneuverability of a stand-up lift may be preferable. Industry experts also suggest that drivers are more alert when standing up.

Despite a few advantages a stand-up lift boasts, you may still find that sit-down lifts are right for your operation and its productivity. Switching to a stand-up from a sit-down lift may cost your warehouse resources and training time that you would rather avoid. There is no one size fits all when it comes to forklifts, so focus on finding the right lift for your warehouse and its needs.

Product Spotlight: Linde Series 396

Offered in five different models, the Linde Series 396 forklifts are internal combustion counterbalanced trucks operating on pneumatic tires. It’s most notable feature is the Linde hydrostatic drive system. Known as the ultimate drive system, the hydrostatic transmission is superior to any other in achieving maximum lift truck performance. The customer driven design makes it versatile and cost effective even in the harshest environments. Seamless acceleration with pinpoint accuracy when positioning are a few features that set this truck apart.

Features and Benefits

The Linde Series 396 has a capacity ranging from 13,000 to 17,500 pounds and is best suited for outdoor applications. It can best handle items like lumber, bricks or any other bulky material. But, with multiple attachments available its capabilities can range from paper rolls to construction materials and just about anything in between.

Along with the large load capacity, the Linde Series 396 is one of the safest trucks on the market. The overhead guard protects the operator from falling debris and the Linde Torsion Support System stabilizes and controls swinging loads and dynamic forces—protecting both the operator and the people who may be working around the lift truck. Some other safety features included an auto-set parking brake (when engine is off), dual back-up control system, and high visibility mast for reduced stress and increased operator awareness.

In addition to their innovative technologies, Linde forklifts are well known for their superior ergonomics—and the Series 396 is no exception. The adjustable steering column and adjustable armrest with hydraulic levers make an operator feel comfortable and at ease. A fully suspended seat absorbs shock and reduces operator fatigue. The compartment is extremely spacious giving the operator plenty of room to move around and maintain a high level of comfort from the start of a shift to the end.

Being a versatile and adaptable truck, the Linde Series 396 has many optional features. Some of these include comfort features like heating and air or an air-cushioned seat. Other features include safety or performance structures like internal and external mirrors, road light package, automatic engine shutoff and a full cab with washers and wipers.

Total Cost of Ownership

Safety and comfort aside, the bottom line is that the Linde Series 396 is one of the most economical on the market. This series has extended service intervals and reduces volume of waste oil and used oil filters. The low noise levels and low emissions make it easy to operate in a variety of environments. This lift truck offers some of the lowest maintenance and operating costs with up to 1000 hr. maintenance intervals and no mechanical wear components like service brakes or a torque converter transmission. Other efficiency features include low fuel consumption and low tire wear, which will help the owner financially in the long run.

Overall, the Linde Series 396 results in greater productivity efficiency, lower operator costs and lower labor costs. With this forklift you can handle more loads with less lifts and less people, which will ultimately have a positive effect on your company’s bottom line.

Not sure if the Linde Series 396 is right for you? Read more about finding the right forklift for your operation.

How to Get Your Forklift Operator Certification

Law requires that employers provide their employees with a safe workplace, and that includes hiring workers that are trained and certified in their field of work, such as operating a forklift. In fact, operating a forklift without the proper training and certification is in violation of federal law. Forklifts are vital tool in the warehouse. But this powerful tool must be handled safely, and only by those who have received proper training and earned their forklift operator certification. Here’s how to get your forklift operator certification.

Rules and regulations for forklift operator certification are stipulated by OSHA. Your company should provide an instructor who offers an OSHA-compliant course. If you decide to conduct the training yourself, you must complete an authorized OSHA trainer course either in the field of construction industry or general industry.

Once training begins, workers must complete two phases. The first phase involves classroom or online instruction, followed by a forklift test. New operators must receive classroom training for 8 hours, experienced operators for 4. Online courses are completed at the individual’s own pace. This phase of training focuses on health and safety information the operator needs to know along with OSHA regulations and the penalties related to them.

After online or classroom training, operators are evaluated by completing an OSHA forklift certification exam. The operator then moves onto the second phase of certification, which involves hands-on training. The training may include completing obstacle courses and utilizing the different controls, ultimately training the operator to work in an equipment and environment-specific setting. Certification requires minimum training of 8 hours of high lifts and 4 hours of low lifts.

After completing the classroom phase, passing the certification exam, and demonstrating competent hands-on skill, the forklift operator may be awarded with his or her certification. The operator must carry their certification card whenever operating a lift, which is valid for three years. After three years, the driver’s performance must be evaluated. Refresher training is only required following an incident or if the driver is found to be operating the forklift unsafely.

Forklifts are powerful tools that can be dangerous when used improperly or operated by someone without training. Not only is having your forklift operator certification required by federal law, it is also essential to the safety and efficiency of the warehouse environment.