Kalmar Industries, part of Cargotec Corporation, states that its new ECF50-90 5t-9t electric FLT series with ac AC power technology has joined its list of environment-friendly equipment that qualifies for the company's Pro Future ("green label") status (WorldCargo News, May 2008, p2).
The ECF50-90 uses two compact AC traction motors, the speed of which can be controlled individually. The electronic control system provides rapid response to the driver's actions and smooth transitions when accelerating, decelerating, starting and stopping, says Kalmar.
Using ac technology has a number of advantages, adds the company. For example, motors and pumps are more responsive, producing improved drivability. There are fewer mechanical parts and no carbon brushes or contactors for directional switching or the regenerative systems. Overall, ac contributes to enhanced productivity and a longer battery life while also reducing energy consumption and the need for maintenance.
"With the rising costs of diesel and other fossil fuels, operators are continuously searching for reliable, efficient alternatives in materials handling," said Andreas Schumacher, VP, Kalmar Germany.
Regenerative systems enable the battery charge to be replenished when the vehicle is decelerating and when braking. The new machine is quieter, reducing noise pollution and providing a better work environment for the driver. By using fewer hydraulic connectors, hydraulic oil leakage is minimised and oil usage is improved.
Components have been placed to optimise heat dissipation and ease of access. The battery is located behind the cab, where it can be fixed or, optionally, it can slide out or be removed using fork pockets. For operations requiring continuous use of the truck for several shifts, Kalmar battery handling and exchange.
The control system (KCS) displays operational, diagnostic and alarm information via a steering wheel panel and can be used to customise truck functions. The KCS features a CAN-bus interface using the international CAN-open standard.
Kalmar has also relaunched its "low-built" (LB suffix) FLT aimed at container stuffing/stripping operations. Kalmar has supplied only a small number of LB FLTs over the years (about 150 worldwide), but says that customers across Europe are showing increasing interest in its new DCE80-6LB machine (8t-600mm).
"The low-profile build means these machines offer exceptional manoeuvrability and can equally be employed in other confined spaces, such as on ro-ro and twin-deck vessels," said Peter Ivarsson, director, product line light forklifts
The DCE80-6LB features a new electrical system and new drive line, using a six cylinder Perkins 1106D engine coupled to a ZF 2VG94 transmission. The hydraulic hoses feature a new, more robust design and the vehicle appearance has been given a new, more rounded look.
A duplex full free lift mast is standard, with triplex full free lift mast available as a standard option. These masts enable the forks to be lifted without raising the mast over the cabin height, which is 2200mm high. The cross member in the mast is U-shaped, to provide optimal visibility from the cab.
The new machine is available with two lifting heights. The duplex full free lift can lift to 2035mm and the triplex full free lift to 3060mm. Both offer a forward/backward tilting fork of between five and seven degrees |
