Forklifts Press Releases

February 4, 2009

Jungheinrich`s ETM/ETV 214/216 Electric Reach Trucks Offer Substantial Advantages Over Pantograph Trucks in the U.S. Warehousing Arena

RICHMOND, VA - If you're a company that currently operates pantograph reach trucks, you're likely seeking higher residual capacities at high lift heights in narrow aisles, as well as fewer repairs to the load wheels and the reach mechanisms on your vehicles. If so, the ETM/ETV 214/216 mast-moving AC reach trucks from Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp. are an excellent solution for you.

The increased load capacity and lift height of these trucks is a direct result of their design function, which inserts and removes loads by moving their masts rather than extending or retracting their forks via a pantograph mechanism. "The absence of a pantograph contributes greatly to improved operator confidence and productivity, since the view afforded the operator through the mast and fork carriage is much better, and the fork tips are easier to see," adds Greg Mason, General Manager of Products and Training at Jungheinrich.

The ETVs differ from the ETMs in having more widely spaced outriggers (also called base-legs). Both models offer a choice of mast tilt, but the wider ETV is also available with fork tilt above certain lift heights. In addition, both chassis are available with patented mast-reach cushioning, which means the reaching and retracting of the mast assembly is smooth and precise. Integrated side-shifters are a standard feature on the trucks.

"Another way the ETM/ETV trucks differ from pantograph designs is that the operator sits down to drive the vehicle. This configuration is ergonomically preferable in operations where the operator stays on the truck for long periods of time rather than constantly getting on and off," states Greg Mason. The operator compartment has a low entry height, and the seat, armrest, and steering wheel are all adjustable. The trucks' centrally-located MULTI-PILOT control lever activates all hydraulic functions, as well as travel direction and the horn. The controls are organized in a logical, highly visible manner, providing greater efficiency via the potential for simultaneous use of two hydraulic functions (e.g., lifting and reaching). The operator display is also centrally-positioned, and clearly shows both operational and safety-related data. It allows various travel programs to be selected or adjusted at the touch of a button.

Since the load wheels on these mast-moving reach trucks have a large diameter, they can negotiate rough floor surfaces better than those on most pantograph models. This means a longer tire life due to less wear, and reduced potential for damage - as well as a smoother ride. And the Curve Control program on the ETM/ETV trucks automatically reduces travel speed when cornering for added stability. This type of speed reduction is not typically found on pantograph-style reach trucks.

Jungheinrich's proprietary 3-phase AC technology, present in the trucks' drive, lift and steering systems, offers users higher efficiency and longer operating times per battery charge. Less maintenance, or downtime, is the result of the absence of carbon brushes, brush springs or commutators in the AC motors. Another key operational benefit of AC technology is that it leads to powerful acceleration and quick directional changes without hesitation. Energy reclamation during braking is a standard feature on the trucks, and energy reclamation during load lowering is an option.

For more information about these reach trucks, contact Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., 5601 Eastport Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23231. Call: 804-737-7400. Fax: 804-737-7467, or, visit the website at http://www.jungheinrich-us.com.

About Jungheinich

Jungheinrich is the world leader in warehouse logistics technology. Founded over fifty years ago, the company has grown from its beginnings as a European manufacturer of materials handling equipment to an international supplier of industrial trucks, warehousing technology and materials-flow products. Today, it is a major supplier of forklift trucks around the globe, and offers a complete range of materials handling equipment, rack systems and services related to manufacturing logistics.

Jungheinrich's growth has been due in large part to the high value it has always placed on leading-edge design and technological innovation. This is seen, for example, in the company's proprietary 3-phase AC motor and controller technology, and in a host of productivity and ergonomic enhancements. Jungheinrich has more than 120 strategically-located service support centers and store operations in the U.S., and sales and service companies in countries around the industrialized world.

January 12, 2009

Jungheinrich`s New EZs 350XL Tow Tractor Debuts with Electric Steering and a Low-Maintenance AC Drive Motor

RICHMOND, VA - Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corporation is announcing the advent of a versatile, economic tow tractor (tugger) for towing trailers with up to 11,000 lbs. of cargo. The EZS 350XL tugger has the ability to tow several trailers for flexible handling operations, and features highly efficient, maintenance-free, 24V 3-phase AC drive motor technology, which provides long operating times, powerful acceleration and the ability to quickly change travel direction without hesitation.

The new tugger also offers electric steering to make maneuvering easy in tight spaces. States Ray Schmidt, Class 3 Product Manager at Jungheinrich's Richmond , VA headquarters, "We offer more technically advanced AC technology, while many of our competitors are using older DC technology. Plus, the EZS 350XL's curve control and electric steering capabilities are standard and represent a significant advancement in safety and ergonomics. Some tow tractors use a tiller for steering, similar to what is found on an electric walkie truck. However, a tiller can be very difficult to steer and may require the operator to extend a portion of his or her torso out of the operator compartment, thereby increasing the risk of injury. Other conventional tow tractors offer a T-bar for steering that is marginally easier to turn and safer than a tiller, but there is still no comparison to the effortless turning provided by electric steering."

Two other advanced features on the Jungheinrich EZS tugger should also be mentioned: Curve Control, a system which keeps the vehicle stable during cornering, and SpeedControl, which eliminates the pauses when changing travel directions, a time-wasting problem often present in units with DC motor technology. The EZS tugger is unaffected by upward or downward gradients, giving the operator better control. It also offers rollback protection on inclines, even when loaded, and the brakes set automatically when the vehicle is stopped on an incline. What's more, the tugger compensates for gravity, allowing it to travel at a uniform speed. Three adjustable travel programs are available to adapt the vehicle to the requirements of different operators. A low step height that makes frequent mounting and dismounting effortless, and a tight turning radius are standard features; an optional fold-down seat is offered.

The distance from the operator's driving position to the coupling (or load) is short, plus the coupling is easily accessible and can be seen from every angle. Fast, easy coupling/decoupling of trailers can be accomplished with the help of an optional side-mounted forward and reverse button. The tugger's optional CanDis display shows the state of battery discharge, the operating hours of the truck and any relevant fault codes for effective troubleshooting.

You can see the EZS 350XL Tow Tractor, equipped with electric steering and Curve Control, at Jungheinrich's booth (#2019) at the ProMat show in Chicago, January 12-15, 2009. Or, for more information about the tow tractor, you can contact Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., 5601 Eastport Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23231. Call: 804-737-7400. Fax: 804-737-7467. Or, visit the website at http://www.jungheinrich-us.com.

About Jungheinich

January 12, 2009

Jungheinrich`s Conceptual Ride-On Pallet Truck Makes its North American Debut at Promat 2009

RICHMOND, VA - Today, at ProMat booth #2019, Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corporation presents a technology study in the form of a life-size model of a ride-on pedestrian pallet truck. This Concept Truck looks different than a traditional end-rider pallet truck; it provides a "floating" type of ride for the operator, and greater energy efficiency than today's vehicles. In fact, the energy efficiency characteristics it theorizes would even exceed those found in the 3-phase AC technology currently used in Jungheinrich trucks by some 15% and could potentially lead to considerably higher productivity in customer applications.

The energy storage system presented in this study is based on the use of seven lithium-ion batteries. This highly efficient battery technology is expected to be a viable alternative to vehicle power sources based on hydrogen or methanol fuel cells. Benefits include significant energy cost savings for the user and a lower environmental impact.

Lithium-ion batteries are maintenance-free, are significantly more efficient, and have a usable lifetime twice as long as conventional lead acid batteries. And with approximately one-third of the volume and a quarter of the weight of traditional batteries, they allow the truck to be lighter and more compact. The Concept Truck has a total length of 69.5 inches and a width of 28.4 inches. It is approximately 20.5 inches shorter than traditional ride-on pallet trucks and is ideal for use in confined spaces.

Additionally, a complete recharge of the lithium-ion batteries could take as little as one hour, effectively eliminating the need for a battery change. To top off a battery, the operator could drive into a docking station, where electrical contacts for charging would be made through the fork tips. The entire charging process would be fully automated. The operator could potentially recharge the truck during his or her lunch break.

Working in conjunction with its lithium-ion batteries, the Concept Truck's direct drive design could permit considerably longer travel distances and shorter charging times than possible with current designs. Direct drive means transmissions are unnecessary, resulting in even more efficiency, not to mention considerable noise reduction.

Noise reduction is also an attribute of the truck's lift system - which features no hydraulics and uses a re-circulating ball screw. The operator can experience a remarkably low level of noise while significantly gaining in efficiency.

The advanced ergonomics in the Concept Truck would allow both forward and backward travel to be controlled via thumb movements, ensuring fatigue-free and intuitive operation. In addition, a cushioned, noise-free chassis would afford the operator the novel sensation of "floating" with the truck -- rather than riding on it.

For a look at what the future may hold, please be sure to view the Jungheinrich Ride-on Pallet Truck Concept Vehicle at Booth #2019 at ProMat.

About Jungheinrich

December 2, 2008

RFID Technology and Personnel Protection Systems in Jungheinrich`s EKX 513-515 Turret Trucks Mean Much Greater Efficiency and Safety

RICHMOND, VA - The energy-efficient EKX 513-515, a line of man-up turret trucks from Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., has been a spectacular success since their North American debut a year and half ago. What's more, during this relatively short usage period, Jungheinrich has experienced an amazingly strong demand for the 3-wheel turrets that are equipped with radio frequency identification (RFID) transponder readers as standard, as well as a state-of-the-art personnel protection system (PSS) as an important option. When utilized, both of these features can contribute significantly to improved productivity and operational safety in very narrow aisle working environments; and both systems are provided by Jungheinrich.

With Jungheinrich's RFID system, RF transmitter/receivers are located underneath the truck and small, capsule-sized transponders are buried in the warehouse floor. During truck installation the transponders are programmed to issue a range of commands whenever the truck passes over them - e.g., reduce travel speed, limit lift height, sound the horn, etc. With appropriate programming, essentially any driving parameter can be added or changed. In effect, the truck performance can be tailored from spot to spot to ensure performance is always optimum.

According to Greg Mason, General Manager of Products and Training at Jungheinrich, "Since we first introduced the EKX turrets in North America, we've seen our RFID technology completely live up to its promise of maximizing not only truck productivity in very narrow aisles, but also speed profiles and safe operation characteristics. With RFID, the potential for damage to the truck, product, racking, and building surrounds is significantly reduced while productivity, measured in picks per hour, can be significantly increased. This is because operators can now concentrate more on moving and placing product, knowing that the truck control system is constantly monitoring truck position in the warehouse and optimizing performance in each position to maintain the highest levels of safe and secure operation."

The EKX turret truck also offers Jungheinrich's integrated, laser scanner-based personnel protection system (PSS) that can detect obstacles and pedestrians in the vehicle's path, either in front or behind, while the truck works in very narrow aisle applications. When an obstacle or pedestrian enters its protection field, the PSS will sound an alarm, slow the truck down and stop it safely. In addition, Jungheinrich's RFID transponder continuously acquires aisle data and travel parameters and uses this data to coordinate with the PSS, to control the activation and deactivation of the laser scanners.

Jungheinrich's PSS is available in two versions, Professional and Professional Plus. They're similar in many ways, but on the Plus version, the aisle-scanning distance varies directly with truck speed. The Plus version can also scan aisles of differing widths. Says Greg Mason, "To the best of my knowledge, we're the only turret manufacturer serving North America offering an integrated PSS system as an option. More and more of our customers are requesting this option, to achieve the safest level of operation, especially when the trucks will be operating in aisles where there is even a slight possibility that pedestrians may be present."

The EKX turrets, like all Jungheinrich electric trucks, are based on the company's standard, high-torque, AC motor technology. And the energy efficiency gains on these latest 80V electrics are impressive. Jungheinrich took the previous EKX 513-515 series and substantially improved on the method of reclaiming energy from load and cabin lowering. The trucks are now 30% more efficient in terms of amps fed back to the battery. And the conversion of the battery's DC power to AC is much more efficient, too, providing greater work output per battery charge. Users now experience up to 13 hours of run time vs. 10 hours on the previous models.

Other impressive features: The control console, used to lift and lower loads and drive the vehicle, can be adjusted to a position ergonomically suitable to the operator - or to suit the operation being carried out. The simple press of a switch adjusts the console position forward or back, while a knob is used to adjust the position up and down. This kind of customization should be expected from trucks that are specially built to suit the specific application. The trucks can be configured with a two or a three stage mast for various lift heights, and come in one of five basic chassis configurations with a variety of axle widths to precisely match the aisles in which they work. The advantage of this modular approach is superb adaptability to any warehousing and logistics operation. The EKX trucks can also be optionally equipped with built-in motorized stabilizers for even greater residual capacity to higher lift heights. As the load is being positioned, the stabilizers lower down into position to provide for an additional residual capacity of over 400 lbs. This provides for raising heavier loads to higher heights.

You can see an EKX truck, equipped with RFID and running on wire guidance in a simulated very narrow aisle environment, at Jungheinrich's booth (#2019) at the ProMat show in Chicago, January 12-15, 2009. Or, for more information about the EKX 513-515 Turret Trucks, you can contact Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., 5601 Eastport Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23231. Call: 804-737-7400. Fax: 804-737-7467. Or, visit the website at http://www.jungheinrich-us.com.

About Jungheinich

October 2, 2008

Jungheinrich`s New EFG 2 and 3 Series Trucks Offer Industry-Leading Performance and Increased Energy Efficiency with Their 4th Generation AC Technology

RICHMOND, VA - Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., a green manufacturer and supplier of eco-friendly AC-controlled electric lift trucks, has announced two new series of high performance counterbalanced trucks with capacities ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 lbs. The EFG 213-220 and EFG 316-320 both provide state-of-the-art, 4th generation, 3-phase AC technology in their drive, hydraulic and steering systems.

The presence of this advanced technology is significant because it leads directly to higher levels of energy efficiency, as well as superior truck performance in terms of travel speeds, lift/lower speeds, acceleration and ramp handling ability. It also means longer run times on a single battery charge. The motors, controllers and software in the new vehicles were designed by Jungheinrich to work together smoothly and efficiently. Under separate test conditions to measure efficiency and performance, they provide a 10% and 5% improvement, respectively, over previous EFG truck models. No other company serving the U.S. market offers electric counterbalanced trucks with such a high level of AC technology.

Both series allow the operator to charge and change the battery via simple access from the side of the truck, and provide the convenience of several battery extraction methods, including the use of a hand pallet truck, forklift or crane.

The 2 Series offers six 3-wheel chassis variations, including two compact versions, providing more overall chassis variations than its top five competitors. This series is extremely maneuverable in restricted spaces and works well in outdoor applications. Its AC electric power steering not only leads to greater energy savings, but also renders load handling easier and more precise. The 3 Series offers five 4-wheel chassis variations and is well suited to applications involving longer runs.

Both EFG series offer advanced ergonomics and a high operator comfort level via AC electric power steering. An innovative fingertip hydraulic control design also eliminates cumbersome hydraulic levers and offers advantages similar to the electric power steering in terms of low effort, high precision, low noise and low fatigue. The operator sits in a "floating cab" with a comfortable, fully adjustable armrest and handrest that incorporate Jungheinrich's standard SOLO-PILOT control (or optional MULTI-PILOT control). By having all controls within reach, including the hydraulic controls, directional switch and horn, the operator's hands are always on the controls.

All critical electrical components, including connectors, are protected to IP54 or greater, ensuring superior protection against ambient dust and water ingress. The new vehicles also feature up to 1000-hour service intervals, 2 to 4 times longer than those offered by other manufacturers. The 2 Series, in particular, has eliminated the steering pump and hoses, reducing the need for maintenance. The fully enclosed electric disc brakes are wear-resistant and protected against the elements, assuring long brake life and limited maintenance.

Standard safety features include Curve Control for speed reduction when cornering, anti-rollback on ramps, and automatic parking brake application. Optional load and truck control features include Access Control (preventing truck from moving until the operator is in the seat and the seatbelt is fastened), Drive Control (reducing travel speed based on lift height), and Lift Control (reducing tilt speed based on lift height).

For more information on the new EFG 2 and 3 Series trucks, contact Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., 5601 Eastport Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23231. Call 804-737-7400. Fax: 804-737-7467. Or, visit the website at http://www.jungheinrich-us.com.

About Jungheinrich

Adventive Marketing, Inc.
847-590-1110

July 17, 2008

Jungheinrich Unveils the Versatile, New ETV C16/C20 Electric Reach Trucks with Super Elastic Tires for Indoor/Outdoor Use

RICHMOND, VA - Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., a world leader in the design and manufacture of ‘green' industrial trucks, has announced a new line of 3-phase AC electric reach trucks with super elastic tires and a high ground clearance. These features allow the trucks to operate on both smooth floors in the warehouse and on bumpy, uneven surfaces outdoors.

The new ETV C16/C20 trucks are an excellent choice for cost-effective stacking and retrieval at high lift heights and in restricted spaces. They are also ideal for handling pallets, or working in drive-in racking or single- or multi-shift applications. An optional weather-proof cabin allows operators to work outdoors during harsh weather conditions.

Additionally, the new ETV C trucks offer a savings in storage facility space given their ability to work efficiently in narrow aisle widths from 111 inches. The ETV C16 can lift loads up to 3,500 lbs., while the ETV C20 has a load capacity of 4,400 lbs. Both trucks have lift heights up to 24.3 feet.

Jungheinrich was able to integrate many customer-specific requirements into the design of the new ETV C series. As a result, many highly desirable features present in other Jungheinrich electric trucks have been incorporated here, including:

Electric 180° steering and an optimally-positioned steering wheel, which provides quiet, effortless turning
Jungheinrich Curve Control, which automatically reduces the travel speed when cornering, giving greater stability
Powerful acceleration, fast reversing and quick directional changes without hesitation
High throughput efficiency
Low maintenance

These handling and operational advantages are due to the presence of Jungheinrich's proprietary 3-phase AC technology in the drive, lift and steering motors. In addition, these trucks have an energy reclamation feature that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy during braking, feeding the energy back to the battery. This results in an extended battery life, a longer work cycle on a single battery charge, and with fewer battery charges, a savings in energy consumption.

The ETV C16/C20 trucks provide excellent working conditions for the operator. Electric steering means no steering column in the operator compartment, so the operator can enter and exit quickly and safely. Ample legroom is also available. Sitting position, backrest and body weight on the seat are adjustable to individual needs.

For ease in handling loads, an integrated sideshift is standard. Additionally, loads are smoothly raised and lowered via command from the SOLO-PILOT or optional MULTI-PILOT hydraulic controllers. The ETV C series also offers safe load lifting, due to an optional weighing device that informs the operator of the weight of the load being picked up. The sideways seat orientation and the intelligently-designed masts on these reach trucks provide excellent visibility, even during the transport of high loads.

For more information on the ETV C16/ C20 indoor/outdoor electric reach trucks, contact Jungheinrich Lift Truck Corp., 5601 Eastport Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23231. Call: 804-737-7400. Fax: 804-737-7467. Or, visit the website at www.jungheinrich-us.com.

About Jungheinich