[September 2008]

Sichelschmidt's Paint Jobs

Sichelschmidt has recently supplied two electric Explosion-proof pedestrian reach trucks with special attachments to a major paint manufacturer. These have greatly improved operational efficiency as they work in various locations around the site as universal tools for feeding production lines, loading and offloading HGV's, general internal handling and stock consignment.

The wide range of highly specialised products typically offered by paint manufacturers means that this sector is always on the lookout for flexible machines which can speed up the manufacture of specific and constantly changing product lines. Sichelschmidt's two trucks do just that: both are fitted with a weighing facility, and the larger 1600 kg capacity model also has a clamp for paint drums, enabling it to supply the production lines with the correct amounts and combinations of raw materials. Using it in the filling facility has also done away with reliance on rather cumbersome stationary dosing and coating appliances.

Due to the flammable nature of the materials handled, Sichelschmidt supplied both trucks from its Explosion-proof range, the design and manufacture of which take into account the sensitive and demanding nature of the operational environment. The d 1200 EEX and the smaller d 416 EEx both comply with all the guidelines set out in the ATEX directive, and are certified to work in Zones 1/21 (gas) and 2/22 (dust).

The flexibility offered by these tailor made trucks looks set to make them a firm favourite with the paint and coatings industry. Both smaller paint manufacturers and major global concerns in this sector can now profit from the durability and reliability of Sichelschmidt's forklifts for their production, handling and storage procedures.

[May 2008]

More Room To Move With the Multi-way Forklift

Sichelschmidt has developed a multi-way forklift, which makes the handling of long loads considerably easier. The company actually built its first 4-way forklift as long ago as 1960, and has been able to draw on decades of experience in the development of this new model. The steel, timber, plastic and metal sectors are just some industries which can benefit from the M900’s flexibility.

The M900 will operate in aisle-widths identical with the truck’s length, so is much more economical with space than conventional reach trucks. As the driver’s seat is front facing, the complete load is constantly visible, for much easier manoeuvering and cornering. Sensitive electronic steering enables very exact handling of loads and an elective steering programme allows precise steering when in sideways as well as in forward mode, turning a 4-way forklift into a multi-way truck.

Sideways travel is activated by the push of a button, and hydraulic fork positioners allow the truck to handle not only long, but also palletised loads. Sichelschmidt is the pioneer of AC drive in the materials handling sector, having introduced this into its range around 15 years ago, and the M900 naturally features this technology. The powerful 48 Volt-ASM- motor enables high volume handling with low energy consumption, and the hydraulic three-point brake provides a smooth and safe drive. Excellent ergonomics provides easy access to and from the cab and optimum layout of instrumentation. The M900 is available with lift capacities of 2t, 2.5t and 3t, with reach heights of up to 8.5m.

Sichelschmidt’s flexible manufacturing process enables individual customer requirements to be taken into account for a tailor made product.

[November 2007]

Supersized Explosion Proof Pallet Truck

Sichelschmidt has built a “supersized” pedestrian pallet truck for a major logistics supplier to the chemical industry. This XXL truck has been specifically designed to move large capacity containers of high quality automotive paints, which weigh in at 3,700kg, and also features substantially wider and longer forks compared with the company’s standard pallet trucks.

As the truck will be working in an area which stocks flammable liquids, it has been built to accord with the ATEX directives for operation in Gas-Ex- Zone 1. Sichelschmidt’s frequency controlled ASM three phase motor technology is used for the drive and lifting mechanisms. This not only secures an excellent degree of flameproof protection due to enclosed components, but also improves the performance of the trucks whilst reducing energy consumption. Even when working in harsh conditions, long intervals between battery charging can be achieved.

At a load centre of 1050 mm, the load capacity is 4 tonnes, and a nominal capacity of an impressive 7t can be achieved. The truck is actually more of pallet stacker than a pallet truck, as the lift height of 370mm is achieved not by raising the forks but by means of a lifting frame. In spite of the very specialist requirements of this model, the only one off construction involved was in the initial build stage. Sichelschmidt was able to take all other major components, such as the drive units for example, from standard models. Basing production on a modular construction allows Sichelschmidt to simplify the build process, whilst the use of standard components enables easy supply of spare parts.

Two further flameproof forklifts from Sichelschmidt’s standard range are being supplied at the same time as the XXL truck. Sichelschmidt is no novice to the design and manufacture of large capacity flameproof forklifts. Last year it provided one of the world’s largest paint manufacturers with ten 4.7 tonne capacity Ex protected trucks, compliant with the USA Class 1 Division 1 directives, fitted with a flameproof weighing facility.