New generation
February 1st 2006 Linde has launched a new generation of warehouse products that uses a modular design concept to provide shorter lead times while offering a wide range of bespoke options to meet the needs of varying applications
Building on the success of its new X range of reach trucks launched last March, the start of 2006 sees Linde confident of a successful year, buoyed by a new generation of warehouse equipment first seen a few months ago at CeMat in Hanover. In fact, Linde Material Handling (UK) describes 2005 as a "tremendous" year with unprecedented interest being shown in the X range, which as designed and is manufactured in the UK. In a rare example of a positive message about British manufacturing, the company expects to see output from the Basingstoke plant rise to 10,250 units in the coming year.
Automotive principles Central to the design of Linde's latest generation warehouse range is the 'matrix' modular design concept, which incorporates established platform engineering principles from the automotive sector. The range encompasses: low level order pickers (N 20, N24, T 20 SP); rider pallet trucks with fixed platform (T 20, T 24 SP) pedestrian/rider pallet trucks with folding platform (T 20 AP, T 24 AP), and pedestrian pallet trucks (T 30); pedestrian straddle stackers (L 14 AS, L 16 AS), rider straddle stackers with fixed platform (L 14 SP, L 16 SP) and pedestrian/rider straddle stacker with folding platform (L 14 AP), L 16 AP); and rider (P 30) and pedestrian/rider tow tractors (P50).
There are three main assembly modules: the drive module containing motor, controller and electric power steering; the load module comprising forks and mast or towing coupling according to model; and the operator's module for pedestrian, rider or folding platform variations. As result of using the modular concept, Linde can offer shorter lead times. A wide range of bespoke options means that the units can be specified to meet varying needs.
According to Linde, volume production of the basic matrix modules also enhances quality and reliability, extending service intervals, lowing operating costs and increasing productivity.
The N 20 - N 24 series of low level order pickers, in contrast to conventional units in this category, have the battery located behind the operator rather than in the front. The four new models are designed to make the picking process easier and safer, as well as increasing picking rates.
Key features include functional design, maintenance-free AC drive motor and Linde twin-grip steering incorporating all control functions, together with a comprehensive selection of options which includes inching buttons to enable the operator to move the truck remotely to the next picking location.
Designed for efficient, economic movement of palletised goods, the T 20 SP and T 24 SP stand-on pallet trucks feature a central electronic control pod, positioned to provide a 45 degree driving posture so the operator can travel in either direction without having to twist round.
The T30 pedestrian pallet truck with a capacity of 3000kg, provides efficient and economical internal transfer of heavier palletised loads. Its smoothly profiled chassis and low skirt protect the operator from potential contact with the drive or castor wheels. Power assisted electric steering makes light work of manoeuvring heavy loads within confined spaces and the smooth electronic control system ensures safe, accurate placement and retrieval of loads.
For medium-height narrow aisle stacking, the L 14 - L 16 AS/AP & SP range of straddle stackers is suitable for handling the bottom boarded Chep pallets that are in common use in the UK, as well as the European open based pallet mainly used in continental Europe.
With a choice of straddle leg widths up to 1350mm wide, and capacities from 1400 to 1600kg, the stacker range is designed to address the needs of users requiring an economic and versatile truck able to stack pallets up to 4770mm high. The stacker is also suited to medium distance pallet transfer duties and many other generalpurpose or feeder tasks in, for example, various manufacturing processes.
Tow tractors
Also using the 'matrix' modular design concept, the new generation P 30 and P 50 tow tractors offer increased performance and ergonomic features.
The model P 30 with a fixed stand-on, rider compartment has a nominal towing capacity of up to 3.0t, while the pedestrian operated P 50 with a nominal towing capacity of 5.0t can be fitted with an optional folding stand-on platform.
A powerful maintenance-free AC traction motors provide the variable torque flexibility to cope with a wide range of towing duties; while automatic speed reduction occurs when cornering, which is particularly useful when pulling trailers.
Both models have a 50-litre storage compartment and a carrying platform with 50kg carrying capacity.
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