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Welcome From our CEO… As a company with a heavy focus on implementing the best technology, both for our customers and our staff, we are very proud to bring you the Technology issue of Uptime. In this issue we take a look at how the materials handling industry is shaped by advancements and breakthroughs that make our jobs that little bit easier. Highlights within this issue include case studies with both Global Manufacturing Group and AWH Pty Ltd. Long-standing customer Global Manufacturing Group, a metal manufacturer, describes how they have benefited from Adaptalift Hyster’s rental solutions. A more recent customer acquisition of AWH who provide economies in warehousing and export services for Australia’s wool industry, also explain how teaming up with Adaptalift Hyster has benefited their organisation. Adaptalift Hyster is extremely excited to launch the Technical Support Hotline which will have many benefits for our customers including a decrease in downtime when servicing is required as well as an increase in response times from our technicians. This advancement will improve on the job training and provide our technicians with the very best technical support. As part of our ongoing investment we have increased the number of forklifts in our Short Term Rental fleet in order to support companies through times of increased productivity. This increase will allow more availability for companies investing in short to medium rental terms over anticipated demanding periods. We are also very proud of our recent market success. Adaptalift Hyster made a commitment to investing in infrastructure in order to provide market leading support for our customers which has proved to be successful. With an increase in our market share, we are proud of our improvements and continue to strive to do even better. We hope you enjoy our Technology issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you. Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any feedback to offer.
Sincerely,
Andrew Satterley Chief Executive Officer
Contents 5
AALH News and Updates: National Tech Support Hotline
5
The Hyster TX Custom Build
6
Advice from the A-team
7
Every Day Technologies Changing the Face of Materials Handling
9
How ForkTrack Technology Improves Workplace Safety
11
AWH Leading the change in Australian wool storage with Aisle-Master Forklifts
15
Tyre Saving Axle Design Technology
17
Did you know: How Forklifts Work?
18
Moving Awkward Loads - The Benefits of Forklift Attachments
19
Rental Remedy Works Well for Global Manufacturing Group
23
The Evolution of the Forklift
25
Advances in Materials Handling
27
An interview with Jason Ko Managing Director of Speedshield Technologies facebook.com/aalhyster
twitter.com/aalhyster Twitter
19
29 11 29
Adaptalift Hyster raises funds for the Starlight Children's Foundation
30
Get Inventive and Win a Lytro Camera
7
AALH News and Updates: National Tech Support Hotline Launching in October, our Service Department will be extending their services to include a National Technical Phone Support Line, where our service technicians can call in and receive assistance and advice over the phone.
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This hotline will be aimed at improving our service among our field technicians nationally. Our technicians will have access to on the spot training and information from suppliers, including attachment queries and problem solving assistance. This will assist in developing our overall national service training. By
centralising our hotline to work with our technicians, we can achieve higher visibility on any common problem areas including issues with particular forklifts or areas of a forklift creating concern. As a result, we can administer national awareness to these common issues. Service bulletins will be posted to keep our branches updated on products and an online library will be set up with different issues and resolutions. Paul Piccinini will manage all technical support calls and emails from both internal staff and customers as part of his role as
National Technical Support. He will log and case-manage these technical support issues; identifying the root cause of the cases presented and provide solutions to our technicians in the field. Coordinating with Service and State managers, Paul will identify and distribute any technical information or critical cases to our AALH branches nationally. Paul will resolve technical issues with suppliers where required. Additionally, Paul has been with Adaptalift for 3 years and in the industry 28 years and looks forward to the benefits that his new responsibility will bring to Adaptalift Hyster and our customer’s.
The Hyster TX Custom Build Even with the large range of materials handling equipment now available, there are still instances where a company’s application calls for the customisation of equipment, in order to improve upon efficiency in the workplace. As a company, Adaptalift Hyster understands the importance of customisation, in order to ensure the safety of operators and increase productivity within ones business. A recent example of this is the development of the Sidecar Hyster Forklift, designed and engineered for the production of aluminium. The custom-made Sidecar Hyster Forklift was developed for use in the confined area of the aluminium smelter. Taking approximately three months to modify, the forklift is capable of operating in areas with extreme electromagnetic fields. This has been achieved through fully insulating and protecting the wiring harness and electrics to prevent any interference with the electrics. Furthermore, the forklift has
been cut down to an overall height of 1.6m to allow for its use within restricted spaces. The overhead guard has also been cut down and widened to suit the sidecar and the 3-stage mast has been reduced to a collapsed height of 1.6m to match the height of the forklift. Additional modifications include the sidecar frame, which was completely engineered and fabricated to mount onto the existing forklift, with the driving controls and assembly moved and mounted to the sidecar frame. Other features within the forklift include the quick fill attachment for the hydraulic oil that allows for quick refilling and oil sampling and an external hydraulic sight glass fitted for quick oil level detection.
Through modifying forklifts, such as the Sidecar Hyster Forklift, Adaptalift Hyster, ensures that businesses are using the correct equipment for their applications, effectively reducing risks and enhancing efficiency.
Advice from the A-team Our QLD Parts A-Team , Daniel Brownlie, Left to right: Steve Dolan, Brett Inglis r, Phil Butcher! drive truck big our and gall Paul Sprin
Benefits of Forklifts in Comparison to AGV Technology With interest growing regarding AGV technology, it is important to consider the benefits that forklifts are able to provide: Forklifts have lower ongoing costs compared to AGV technology and have better market proven reliability. Forklift operators are more capable of detecting issues, such as damaged floors and can flag breakdowns and issues with picking orders. Forklifts can operate at faster speeds and are more flexible at handling different sized loads and non-repetitive tasks.
Blog Post: “Forklifts VS. Automated Guided Vehicles”
When contemplating the use of compressed natural gas for forklifts, it is important to anticipate the capital expense to cover the increased costs of actual CNG equipped forklifts from the manufacturer, as this can be overwhelming. CNG equipped forklifts can also be limited in the class and applications in which they operate. Benefits of CNG include; lower fuel costs against traditional ICE fuel options and less price fluctuation. CNG also burns cleaner than LPG.
Blog Post: “Alternative Fuel Solutions"
Advantages of RFID Tags RFID tags carry large data capabilities, such as product maintenance, shipping histories and expiry dates, all of which can be programmed into the tag. RFID tags contain high levels of security. Data can be encrypted, password protected or set to include a ‘kill’ feature to remove data permanently. They can also read at faster rates than barcodes, approximately 40 RFID tags can be read simultaneously.
Blog Post: “RFID VS Barcodes: Advantages and Disadvantages Comparison"
Hydrostatic Drive Hydrostatic drive offers a fast and more efficient option than what has been offered in the past and provides a number of benefits including: No mechanical brakes to adjust or repair Straightforward access to components for servicing Lower maintenance costs Unlike gear transmissions, hydrostatics have continual power curve with peaks and valleys and they can increase available torque without shifting gears.
Blog Post: “7 Ways Forklifts are Evolving"
To find out more about any of these topics visit our blog… www.aalhysterforklifts.com.au/index.php/about/blog
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Compressed Natural Gas as an Alternative Fuel
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Every Day Technologies Changing the Face of Materials Handling
The continuation of technological advancements has led to significant developments within the materials handling industry. Today we benefit from technology that enables a safer, greener and more efficient workplace. This is apparent when looking at equipment, such as forklifts and examining the commonality of their customisation to work within a variety of environments. The progress made with materials handling equipment, is not the only way in which technology has influenced the industry. Many technologies, that are now commonplace within today’s society, have dramatically changed the landscape of materials handling, in not only the way products are handled, but also in the way in which they are selected, sold and delivered. The ever-increasing popularity of online shopping has forever changed the way retailers interact with customers. This in turn, has altered how the supply chain is managed and therefore, the way in which work is carried
out within the warehouse. On average, online shopping has increased 18% globally in the past three years and many businesses have now set up completely different supply chain systems for their online sales. The importance of both the size and efficiency of the warehouse is also affected. Along with the need for larger warehouses in order to carry more items, there is also the need for increased picking speeds to allow items to be shipped more quickly to the customer. As online shopping becomes the norm, the influences it has on businesses and the materials handling industry can easily be overlooked. Although, it is important to acknowledge that this commonplace technology has not only changed the structure of how consumers shop, but the way the materials handling industry works towards the delivery of a product. Today it is difficult to find an organisation that has not implemented some form of mobile technology into their work practices. The popular-
ity of mobile technology, in the form of a smartphone or tablet, is rapidly growing and many, within the materials handling industry, have started to experiment with the use of these technologies within warehouses and distribution centres. This is seen where mobile applications have been integrated into forklifts, allowing operators to access warehouse management systems or enter data through barcode scanning and RFID. Many view these devices as a means to improve upon productivity and warehousing processes, manage labour and streamline inventory management procedures. Although there are many possibilities to utilise mobile technology within the industry, uncertainty exists as to whether smartphones and tablets are effective within materials handling environments. They currently come up short in regards to meeting critical user requirements and are ill equipped for use in the applications they are used in. Even so, these devices open our mind to the introduction of new technol-
ogy within materials handling and promote the development of alternative solutions. Another common day technology that has had a direct impact on work practices within the materials handling industry is Wi-Fi. Wireless internet connection is being utilised by many devices to increase operational efficiency within the warehouse and has become an increasingly important aspect of many business operations. As an example, safety and fleet management systems, such as ForkTrack, utilise Wi-Fi as a solution to provide real time online reporting through enabling the easy transmission of stored information. As a result of this seemingly effortless extraction of fleet data, managers are able to gain quick access to information that allows them to analyse different ways to improve upon and manage their fleet. Wi-Fi also allows for easy employee communication and inventory logistics through the use of mobile devices. With the ability to access information 24/7,
The integration of what are now every day technologies into materials handling, show how far the industry has come in regards to implementing and accepting new technology to improve upon work practices. Where online shopping has forced many materials handling operations to change their procedures in order to adapt to new technologies, mobile devices and Wi-Fi are being used to experiment new ways to improve upon productivity and efficiency within the warehouse. With the continuation of technological advancements, it will be interesting to see what developments are made within materials handling in the next decade. Written by: Kiri Eagle References: http://bit.ly/W11kRM http://bit.ly/13Qt0NQ http://bit.ly/16yvOR4 http://bit.ly/15jQtCG
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wireless internet connection has made way for a number of improvements within the materials handling industry.
Causes of Injury and Death in the Workplace Forklifts are a major cause of injury and death in Australian workplaces. They are powerful pieces of equipment and must be operated with care. Many behavioural and operational factors lead to forklift accidents: Travelling at excessive speed
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Erratic driving Inadequate servicing of the forklift Malfunction of brakes, steering, clutch etc. Riding with the load elevated Improper turning, breaking or accelerating Jumping from an unstable load Parking forklift improperly
From 2000 to 2007 in Australia over 74,000 workplace injuries were caused by forklift accidents ForkTrack technology enables the monitoring of operator behaviour in order to reinforce safety within the workplace.
How ForkTrack Technology Improves Workplace Safety Intelligent Seat/Seatbelt Interlock Forklift related deaths commonly result from overturns; seat and seatbelt interlocks ensure operators are wearing their seatbelts at all times and stay safely inside the cabin if the forklift tips.
Digital Weight Indicator
Speed & Zone Control Speeding makes it hard to stop in the case of unexpected obstructions and pedestrians. Active speed control can be integrated with zone controls to vary speed restrictions across a site.
Lift/Tilt Lockout Overloading can bend and weaken forks, increasing the risk of a forklift tipping over. Lift/tilt lockout provides control of mast movements in situations where a forklift is nearing its rated capacity.
Handbrake Interlock Forklifts must be parked in neutral with the parking brake on. The Handbrake interlock ensures the handbrake is always engaged when the operator leaves the vehicle, engaging neutral and shutting down the vehicle.
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Overloading of the forklift can cause lack of steering and loss of control. The digital weight indicator provides operators with overload warnings and real time measurement of the load lifted, assisting in keeping the vehicle operating in its safe zone.
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AWH Leading the change in Australian wool storage with Aisle-Master Forklifts
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In a single centre, AWH can have up to 45,000 bales of wool at the peak of the season, and they need to keep track of every bales precise location.
AWH Pty Ltd was established in 1998 in order to remove the duplication of primary warehousing functions within the Australian wool industry. They have 15 facilities across Australia, covering over 900,000 m2 of warehousing space, providing them with the ability to handle over 65% of the Australian wool production. Due to the size of their application and popularity of their services, AWH sought to improve upon efficiency within the workplace through exploring alternate methods of storing and handling wool bales. Adaptalift Hyster was able to step in with the perfect solution in the form of an Aisle-Master Narrow Aisle Forklift, which allowed AWH to lead the change in Australian wool handling and storage methods and provided them with the ability to solve issues brought about by the current work climate. Since the late 1980’s, the production of wool in Australia has more than halved. This has caused many issues within the industry and has resulted in the need to change
original methods of wool handling and storage. Due to the decline in wool production, AWH has had to adapt as traditional methods have become less effective. One of the main changes affecting the company was the continuing decrease in the quantity of bales in each sale lot. Traditionally, wool bales were stored in blocks of stacks on the ground, approximately 8 bales deep and 4 bales high, equating to 32 bales in one stack with a standard height of 3 metres. The current climate has meant that more bales need to be removed from the traditional stacks, in order to gain access to the chosen sale lot bales required for dispatch. After the wanted bales had been retrieved, the unwanted bales had to be replaced back into the stack.
cise location. In order to solve this problem, AWH decided to trial a new method of storing and handling wool within their Gillman store in South Australia. This began with changing from the traditional floor stacking system, to racks for wool bale stacking. This allowed them to shift the storage strategy from bales stored per square metre, to bales stored per cubic metre, resulting in the utilisation of previously unused warehouse space above the traditional floor stacks. This change in method meant AWH could have a better knowledge of where bales were located and provided them with direct access to each wool bale without having to take out and replace unwanted bales, effectively improving the productivity of the company.
This method was creating major concerns regarding productivity for AWH, who handles over 1 million bales per annum. In a single centre, AWH can have up to 45,000 bales of wool at the peak of the season, and they need to keep track of every bales pre-
With improvements made regarding the storage of wool, AWH sought to make further changes in terms of how the product was handled. AWH required a machine that would complement their new storage methods and provide them with the flexibility to
In order to ensure the Aisle-Master was suitable for AWH’s application, Adaptalift Hyster conducted a 4-week trial at the Gillman store, which proved to be an immediate success. The flexibility and multi-use of the machine
fitted the brief exactly. Furthermore, Adaptalift Hyster had a special lighter clamp designed for the project and fitted to the Aisle-Master. This provided AWH with manoeuvrability in narrow aisles and was successful from the outset. Shane Buckley GM South Australia explained, “No other unit would give us this flexibility in our new racking system.” This is demonstrated within the Aisle-Masters unique articulation, allowing for more control and the ability to move and handle odd shaped and soft bales at heights of up to 7.5 metres. Further benefits of the Aisle-Master are its user-friendly design, which is a result of its operation being similar to standard counterbalance forklifts, making driver acceptance far simpler. AWH have also implemented a standard pallet-racking layout. Therefore, if there should ever be unutilised space or a downturn in the wool industry, then a quick changeover of the clamp to standard tynes on the Aisle-Master means it becomes a narrow aisle pallet mover.
The success of the Gillman store trial resulted in two more AWH stores switching over to the new system, the next being the Spearwood site in Western Australia, with Lara in Victoria following shortly after. AWH now have racking at three sites and currently run 12 Aisle-Masters in their fleet. Shane Buckley notes that the Aisle-Master “operates like a conventional forklift and gives far more confidence to the operators when handing wool bales. It allows safer and easier handling of awkward wool bales and its manoeuvrability is key in this area.” The project has now been running for over 12 months and all elements have gelled together incredibly well. This has been a result of the strong partnership between AWH and Adaptalift Hyster, who have worked together to ensure the successful implementation of new racking layouts and handling systems within AWH wool stores. With the innovation and drive to succeed shown by AWH within this project, they show no signs of slowing
down in the future and further developments in the upcoming months continue to look promising. Changes in the wool bale handling method, within the AWH business, has led to greater efficiencies, less downtime and faster turnaround times, as well as the simplification and increased accuracy of wool bale identification systems. The partnership between AWH and the Aisle Master product has been a huge success, from the consultation period through to the field trials and the eventual implementation of the project. The acceptance of the Aisle Master product in a very traditional industry has been excellent. It is a testament to AWH’s commitment to succeed and their ability to embrace change in order to stay competitive and efficient in a rapidly changing environment. For further information on the Aisle-Master, visit
www.combilift.com.au
UPTIME issue03 | 14
move wool bales from the rack to the delivery truck outside. This meant crossing various types of terrain and inclines in and out of wool stores. Furthermore, they also wanted the ability to operate in narrow aisles and to reach up to the ten metre height of the racks to retrieve and further improve upon storage methods through creating more storage space within their warehouses. Additionally, AWH needed the forklift to have a bale clamp attachment, as the wool bales are stacked by themselves and not on pallets. This was resolved through the use of the Aisle-Master Narrow Aisle Forklift with a bale clamp attachment provided by Adaptalift Hyster. This allowed AWH to increase efficiency through providing a solution to all of their requirements.
Tyre Saving Axle Design Technology
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Hyster has applied a new tyre preserving technology reducing conical wear and tear. Featured on the H16.00-22.00XM-12EC series of empty container handlers, this is the first of its kind to be offered in Asia-Pacific.
Conventional dual-tyre axle
The inner and outer wheels are fixed together and turn at the same rate when cornering, despite their different turning distances. This results in tyre drag on one of these wheels leading to conical wear and tear. Tyre wear is said to be the third largest operating cost for container handling operations. This is standard for big trucks made by all manufacturers and affects all types of equipment.
Hyster tyre saving axle
The differential is now mounted in the wheel ends at each side of the axle, allowing the wheels to rotate independently; minimising tyre scrubbing but still providing full acceleration and braking power. Hyster’s tyre saving axle design reduces tyre wear by a factor of 3 for the front (drive axle) tyres, plus .5 for the rear (steer axle) tyres on the latest Hyster 5-8 High Empty Container Handlers. The new axle design reduces the total cost of ownership, reduces downtime from taking trucks out of operation to change tyres, and reduces rubber waste, meaning a better environmental footprint.
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UPTIME issue03 | 16
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Terms & Conditions apply. All prices GST exclusive. All offers subject to availability at time of order. Offers may not be available to all geographic locations nationally. Images for illustrative purposes only. We reserve the right to correct errors and omissions.
Did you know: How Forklifts Work? Mast
Hydraulic Pump
Overhead Guard
Mast
Drive Motor
Batteries
Engine
Fork
Overhead Guard
Pump Motor
Fork
PS Motor
UPTIME issue03 | 17
Front Wheel
Front Axle
Transmission
Clutch or Torque Converter
Engine Powered Forklift
Rear Wheel
Front Wheel
Front Axle
Transmission
Controller
Rear Wheel
Battery Powered Forklift
Forklifts are designed to drive, lift and utilise basic hydraulics to accomplish the movement of heavy objects. It is scientifically proven that in order to lift heavy objects a simple machine must be used. A machine, such as a forklift, is considered as a force multiplier as they allow for exactly that, force to be multiplied. Force is equal to mass times acceleration, so a machine that multiplies this force allows for both the movement of heavy loads and at a faster pace than without the use of a simple machine. How much of a multiplication the machine gives to the force is called the mechanical advantage of the machine. Principles of basic hydraulics allow forklifts to lift heavy loads, as mulitplied forces do more work. As pressure or flow must be created, the hydraulic pump is utilised to create this pressure. Then various components work together to accomplish the lifting. These components are composed of: §§ Hydraulic reservoir (tank) §§ Gear pump (creates flow/pressure) §§ Control valves (to direct flow) §§ Control valve levers (direct manual) §§ Connectors – steel tubing/hosing/fittings
§§ Cylinders (single acting and double acting) - Lift cylinders - Tilt cylinders - Steer cylinders - Sideshift cylinders
There are various power souces including gasoline, LPG, diesel and dual fuel for engine powered forklifts and lead acid battery, fuel cell and hybrid for battery-powered forklifts. 99.9% of counterbalanced forklifts are front wheel drive and rear wheel steering. This is because in a load condition, all of the weight is over the drive axle for maximum traction and braking power. In a turning situation, the rear of the forklift swings while the front end stays stationary. Written by: Siobhan Mitten References: http://slidesha.re/dv6Uup http://bit.ly/1aChUej http://bit.ly/176lIXV
Moving Awkward Loads – The Benefits of Forklift Attachments
Carton Clamp The Carton Clamp is designed to handle large rectangular or square shaped objects that do not require a pallet. These attachments are most commonly used in beverage or appliance applications. Their use removes the need for pallets when handling specific objects, which results in an increase in storage space and a decrease in the cost and repairs of pallets.
Slip Sheeter This is a unique hydraulic attachment in that it substitutes pallets for slip-sheets, decreasing maintenance costs, storage areas and damaged stock due to old pallets. Slip-sheets are popular for bagged cement, seed, grain or packaged food products. The Slip Sheeter attachment allows for easy handling of goods with slip-sheets and eliminates the need for pallet exchange.
Paper Roll Clamps Paper Roll Clamps are used within industries such as newspaper printing, paper manufacturing and tissue manufacturing and allow operators to handle different sized paper rolls. These attachments enable increased handling times and reduced paper damage with automatic clamp pressure and a large selection of clamp pads.
Hyster Pallet Jacks 685mm Wide $
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Telescopic Fork Extensions These attachments allow the ability to load and unload vehicles from one side, resulting in a safer and faster turnaround of vehicles. Furthermore, costs are reduced in that damage to vehicle beds can be eliminated as the necessity to drag a load across the vehicle bed is removed. Telescopic forks can also be extended to transport two pallets at a time.
Hyster TX and DX FE Series Air Filter Suits 2L and 2.2L Mazda Engines
Part Number 2034117
Terms and Conditions: Product images are for illustration purposes only. All prices quoted are ‘each’ prices and exclude GST and Freight. Some parts & PM kits are serial number specific, please advise your serial number to confirm prior to ordering. Whilst every intention is made to ensure stock is available AALH will not be held responsible for supplier stock issues. Not all products featured are stock lines in all AALH Branches, freight charges may apply. Price match guarantee – Normal retail quantities apply & copy of competitors quote is required.
Call 1300 880 335 or email us at parts@aalhyster.com.au
UPTIME issue03 | 18
The creation of numerous forklift attachments has provided businesses with the ability to move almost anything. When applied correctly, attachments can reduce handling times and substantially increase the amount of work completed in the course of a day. A single forklift equipped with one or more attachments can be used around the site for a number of materials handling applications. The below forklift attachments provide examples of how attachments can be used to improve upon productivity within ones business.
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Rental Remedy Works Well for Global Manufacturing Group
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As a business that employs over 100 staff operating on rotating 24-hour rosters, the importance of productivity is high and GMG have found that the efficiency of Adaptalift Hyster hire staff and service technicians has been able to support this.
As a customer of Adaptalift Hyster for seven years, Global Manufacturing Group has benefited from rental solutions that suit their vast materials handling needs. Having previously owned forklifts that were unable to cope with the environmental requirements of a challenging and fast-paced industry, GMG looked to Adaptalift Hyster to deliver a variety of upgraded equipment at a competitive price. Founded in 1982 and based in Queensland, Global Manufacturing Group, have developed into a premier Australian metal manufacturing company. With two sites covering a total of 7000 square metres, GMG have the ability to provide a total turnkey operation with complete in-house control over all facets of the manufacturing process. From customer designs through to the delivery of the finished product, GMG’s aim is to service clients beyond their expectations and deliver consistent quality.
Adaptalift Hyster has been able to assist with GMG’s goal in delivering exceptional products through providing rental equipment and quality service that has enabled the smooth running of their operation. As a business that employs over 100 staff operating on rotating 24-hour rosters, the importance of productivity is high and GMG have found that the efficiency of Adaptalift Hyster hire staff and service technicians has been able to support this. Sonial Nagl, Accounts Manager at GMG stated, “Hire personnel are fantastic to deal with … service technicians are quick, reliable and great.” The rental forklifts themselves have also helped in the productivity of the business. GMG utilises one Combilift C5000, two Hyster H4.0FT6, one H1.8TX and two H2.5TX forklifts, allowing them to safely handle a variety of metal components. With access to continuously serviced and updated machines, GMG has improved safety conditions within the company as well as costs associated with repairs, due to wear and tear of the equipment.
The Combilift C5000 highlights the use of effective materials handling equipment to improve upon safety within GMG. This multi-directional forklift is designed to handle long loads in confined areas, operating in aisles as narrow as 2 metres. As GMG’s doorways differ in height and width between work centres, the C5000 provides the perfect solution in handling long metal components with ease from one work centre to another. When asked how the extra manoeuvrability of their rental machines, provided by Adaptalift Hyster, has been an advantage, GMG responded, “It is great to be able to handle a longer scope and variety of work in particular with the use of the Combilift C5000.” The use of the Combilift C5000 within GMG’s application allows them to improve upon both productivity and safety through ensuring the operator no longer struggles to move loads that are unsuitable for the machine to be lifting.
The use of Hyster Fortens H4.0 forklifts provides GMG workers with an ergonomic machine that allows them to work long shifts comfortably. In a business that continues operation 24 hours a day, features such as the innovative operator compartment, are important in allowing operators to work efficiently throughout their shift. GMG employees are able to benefit from easy driver access, excellent all round visibility as well as conveniently located controls. Furthermore, features such as the robust chassis and high strength mast enables easy loading and unloading of metal parts and components to and from trucks through optimising capacity retention at high lifts. The H4.0FT6 forklifts are designed for demanding conditions and are extremely beneficial to Global Manufacturing Group in the movement of their product.
factory, it is vital that forklift operators are aware of the mast and load when travelling through these areas. The Hyster Vista Mast assists in avoiding hazards presented by cranes through its wider design, which improves visibility and enables operators to safely carry loads throughout the factory. Another potential hazard counteracted by features within Hyster forklifts is the sloping driveway which GMG operators are required to travel down when loading. The Hyster Stability Mechanism within these forklifts reduces truck sway during turns, which improves lateral stability, allowing operators to be confident on uneven surfaces. Furthermore, the Hydrostatic Steer Axle increases steer angle and control for easy manoeuvring. These machines eliminate hazards and provide the perfect solution to GMG’s application.
The Hyster H2.5TX and H1.8TX forklifts also provide a number of benefits to GMG. With overhead cranes for materials handling throughout GMG’s
Through renting with Adaptalift Hyster, Global Manufacturing Group were able to gain access to the range of forklifts required for the variety of applications
within their business. Adaptalift Hyster and Global Manufacturing Group both place emphasis on the quality of their products. This has allowed for an understanding between the two companies that has led to GMG gaining a solution that provides them with modern equipment that assists in the efficient production of quality metal components.
The Evolution of the Forklift WWI: The First World War gave rise to the development of new materials handling equipment, such as a bomb handling crane. This was an important period with rapid change and innovation, which provided the foundation of forklifts to come.
1917: Creation of the Tructractor, thought to be one of the first seated counterbalance trucks.
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Early 20th Century: Battery powered platform trucks were developed to move heavy loads. Most of the early materials handling equipment could not be classified as a forklift. This is because they lacked forks and hydraulics and could only lift a load a few inches off the ground. Late 1800’s: The main device used for lifting and moving heavy loads was a ‘hoist’, which is essentially a drum or liftwheel with a rope or chain wrapped around it.
With the forklift now the standard for moving heavy loads, companies were soon realising that they needed to store products in a more efficient way to best utilise the space available. Storing up was the obvious choice, so storage racking and new forklift models were created. Warehouse equipment like reach trucks, pallet trucks and narrow aisle forklifts enabled loads to be stored
at height, allowing businesses to save space by utilising smaller aisle widths for increased storage. With the diverse range of loads being handled, new attachments were manufactured to further improve the way loads could be moved, making forklifts even more versatile. The modern forklift is a much more advanced machine and has developed
dramatically since the use of hoists and the first forklift. The growing focus on ergonomics, the environment and productivity has led to substantial improvements to materials handling equipment. The focus on ergonomics in recent years has ensured the operator is as comfortable as possible in order to prevent strain and maintain productivity. This is seen within features
1930’s: Standardised pallet was created, leading to a greater need for forklifts
1935: Hyster developed the ‘BT’, a forklift with a cable hoist system. The ‘BT’ was a pioneer in the heavy-duty forklift field and could lift up to 6,000 pounds. WWII: The war effort helped accelerate advancements in forklift design and the increased hours that forklifts were in use meant new models had to be even more durable and battery electrics had to last longer on a single charge. This resulted in the development of forklifts that could last a full 8-hour shift before needing to be recharged.
such as ergonomically designed seats, adjustable seat and steering column, non-slip tread, easy to reach handrails, and air conditioned cabins. Furthermore, the environmental impact of forklifts has not only shaped the design of new forklifts but also customer expectations. Alternative fuel types with less impact on the environment have been created, with a range of battery electric models
now available. In addition, the growing focus on decreasing emissions and meeting industry standards has resulted in cleaner running engines.
modern forklifts has taken a giant leap forward in recent years.
While the forklifts of today are still used for the same reason as the forklifts before them, to move heavy loads from one point to another, the options available and the technology powering
References: http://bit.ly/T2HGl http://bit.ly/1bcOLYI http://bit.ly/E0LnY
Written by: Daniel Ng
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1923: The first electric powered machine with forks and an elevated mast was developed, considered to be the first real forklift.
Advances in Materials Handling
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Peter Whiffen Managing Director Recent advances in materials handling technology have transformed the humble forklift into a warehousing management system on wheels, connected to the host company’s systems and communicating in real time with them. The biggest development over the last five years I have seen is the advancement in telemetry, for not only fleet management but also product development, advancement of safety features, energy usage and integration of information into business systems, particularly service management and inventory management. Telemetry products are now fitted at the factory as a factory-fit option with suppliers providing options to dealers to utilise a customisable gateway directly into their management systems, thus providing real-time operational hours, product fault codes and incidences of impact directly into their system, eliminating the need to view this information in a
third-party product. Manufacturers are able to analyse fault codes and activate product improvements from this information, harnessing data from around the globe in all manner of operating conditions. While measurement of carbon footprint and carbon trading has been on the agenda for some time and has slowed somewhat due to the GFC, it is again gaining momentum with improving global economic conditions. Telemetry will see energy usage measured in real time and provide the means to understand and put in place efforts to improve each company’s carbon footprint, possibly providing the forum to activate carbon trading in real time. Not only has telemetry now been accepted as real value to equipment users, it will continue to be the biggest development in the next five years. Equipment users are well behind other industries in taking up the benefits of the information explosion
in productivity and product development, but I believe this is about to change rapidly. Continued advances in emission reduction technologies, driven by legislation, commercial and environmental concerns, have brought advancements in engine technologies at a huge rate over the past few years, no doubt with more to come. Seeing engines become more efficient, emitting less noxious gasses and burning less fuel, generally having a smaller impact on our environment while simultaneously delivering greater power is a fantastic achievement. Historically, MHE technologies have lagged industries such as automotive and heavy haulage, but that is certainly changing. Hyster, for example, has a full range of Tier 4-compliant engines in its range, and the performance and operating cost improvements alone make them a must-have. As businesses get more meticulous in analysing the costs of their opera-
tion, manufacturers and equipment suppliers have to become innovative and in-tune with the key indicators in their customer fleet. One such aspect has been tyre wear in big trucks, and the massive ongoing cost that is to customers. Hyster has put all its efforts towards designing a contra-rotating tyre saving axle to limit the conical wear caused by hard turning, particularly evident in empty container handlers but evident in all dual-wheel forklifts. The capacity for each wheel to turn independently while still allowing full acceleration and braking has shown significant improvement in tyre wear, with results showing tyres lasting up to three times as long in the same application. Peter Whiffen is the founder and managing director of Adaptalift Hyster. For more information visit
www.aalhyster.com.au
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MAXIMISE YOUR OPERATING EFFICIENCY AND WORKPLACE SAFETY 1300 880 335 aalhysterforklifts.com.au STRONG PARTNERS. TOUGH TRUCKS.
ForkTrack combines advanced safety features with an unprecedented level of fleet efficiency, offering reduced fleet running costs, instant monitoring and control, real-time web based reporting, and operator accountability and performance. ForkTrack integrates seamlessly with the award winning Speedshield product range, including Zoned Speed Control, Variable Speed Limiting and Lift Height Monitoring.
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An interview with Jason Ko Managing Director of Speedshield Technologies We recently had the pleasure to interview Jason Ko about Speedshield Technologies and what makes the people behind the company tick.
Thank you for taking the time to talk to us Jason; can you tell us a bit about Speedshield and what it is the company does? Speedshield is a tech company – software, IT, electronics, hardware design and development all rolled into a commercial solution. Our focus to date has been on safety tech and telemetry tech in the industrial equipment industry, primarily forklifts. However, we do many other exciting things that are less known. The real big-ticket item is our new telemetry tech, which gives equipment users the ability to monitor their forklift fleet productivity. We are talking utilisation and operator performance data streaming in near real time to business intelligence reporting systems. This allows users to look at their costs and work out how to drive them down. The total solution is very elegant.
You must have a great bunch of knowledgeable people within the company. Can you describe who they are and what motivates them? We are very much a Gen Y workforce, passionate in the technology space. When I say Gen Y, I mean attitude, not age! There is always a buzz of ideas on how to tackle a problem, quite a friendly conflict, but it is always welcome in the quest of producing the next best thing. I think our staff are satisfied through the company’s ability to allow innovation to foster and having an applied commercial outlet. Good work is better when you can see the results have real impact.
It sounds like a challenging industry. Is that something you thrive on, being challenged every day? I certainly love the design process and the manufacturing industry.
Are there any innovations you are working on now that you can give us the scoop on, or is everything hush hush? The nature of the people we have in this office will always mean there are an endless number of innovative ideas, cool gadgets and products we should do. Trying to find the commercial outlet for them is the challenging part, as at the end of the day, we are a business. We are currently working on a neat robotics
project with the universities of Melbourne and Monash, to produce forklifts that operate themselves! Yes, this has been done before, but not in the way we are doing it.
It sounds like the future is exciting for Speedshield, where do you see the company heading in the next five years? Following our five-year plan, we will grow our business off the back of OEM equipment agreements and new retail fleet management opportunities, which we are putting the business case together for. We will always maintain a 20% non-commercial budget to keep innovation going. It is definitely an exciting time.
Speedshield and Adaptalift Hyster work quite closely together, how does this relationship help the business? Adaptalift Hyster have had it
tough dealing with us. They have seen us come from a four-person job, working under their roof, to a global business with over fifty staff. Adaptalift have always been our proving ground for the newest tech and whilst that may sound great for them, it is very painful putting up with the teething issues! We are certainly grateful for the support they give us, both financially and as a channel to the Australian forklift market; we would not be where we are without them.
What advice would you give someone who is looking at installing a telemetry device on their fleet? Look at value and not cost. The ROI on a well-executed telemetry solution is near immediate. Do not get caught up in the products features, look at the overall solution and how that will practically benefit you in the areas of safety and operating cost reductions. The key
is to stick with it, it is certainly the way of the future and if it is not working out, either you have the wrong product or you are looking at it the wrong way.
What do you see as Speedshield’s greatest accomplishment so far? Its people, we have a closeknit community that has grown to international friends. Our cultural values of innovation, excellence and people are echoed throughout our company, from China to Australia and across to the Northern hemisphere. It has been a great accomplishment getting the working cultures across the planet together and seeing people pull off something extraordinary.
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I thrive on the whole endto-end supply chain of tech, how and what we develop, how we turn those ideas into something commercial and the business of manufacturing and product distribution. Also the people involved in getting there and really meeting and driving the demand of our solution. It is a complex product and its supply chain is not simple, it is certainly not boring.
Adaptalift Hyster raises funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation
Since June this year, Adaptalift Hyster has been committed to fundraising on a monthly basis for our nominated charity, the Starlight Children’s Foundation. On the last Friday of every month, employees are encouraged to wear casual dress and make a gold coin donation to the charity. So far, we have been able to raise over $500 nationally for the Starlight Foundation and we hope to donate even more in the upcoming months to our charity of choice. The Starlight Children’s Foundation supports and changes the lives of seriously ill and hospitalised children and their families throughout Australia. Through the implementation of numerous programs, they have lifted the spirits of hospitalised children and relieved them of the pain and isolation that comes along with suffering from long term illnesses. The Starlight Foundation are a most worthy cause as these programs provide sick children with the opportunity to laugh, play and enjoy life. To find out more about the charity, make a donation yourself or learn how your organisation can get involved visit their website www.starlight.org.au.
Simply tell us what you would invent to improve upon the use of your forklift and go in the draw to win an amazing Lytro 8GB Camera plus a Hyster prize pack! The Lytro Camera technology is amazing, allowing you to refocus on any part of the image after you have taken the photo! It needs to be seen to be believed. Visit www.lytro.com for more information. To enter, simply email your invention to marketing@aalhyster.com.au and tell us how it would improve the use of your forklift.
Terms and Conditions: • Entries close 20th December 2013 • Competition is open to Australian residents only • The winner will receive 1 x Lytro 8GB Camera, and a Hyster prize pack consisting of a cap, stubby holder, pen, golf balls and a keep cup. • This is a game of skill, and chance plays no part in determining the winner • The winning entry will be chosen by the AALH judging panel shortly after the closing date • The winner will be contacted via email and announced on our Facebook page
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Have you ever had an idea about an inventive forklift customisation or attachment that would make your life much easier? Then this is your chance to WIN.
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