Power & productivity
August 1st 2004 Jungheinrichs new IC counterbalance range boasts higher levels of productivity than any of its competitors. Charlotte Stonestreet went to the European launch
Perhaps better known for its electric warehouse range than its IC counterbalance trucks Jungheinrich looks set to redress the balance and further increase market share with the help of its recently launched Series 4 DFG/TFG 425 - 435 diesel and LPG powered trucks. As the first new product to come out of its consolidated Moosburg production plant, this range is set to be followed soon by additional IC trucks to strengthen the companys overall product portfolio.
In bringing the new range to market, Jungheinrich has identified three main criteria by which potential users will select a truck. These are: costs of ownership, operation and other incidentals; risks to the operation, environment, drive and load; and productivity including performance and operator comfort. In order to meet these criteria, the new series has been designed accordingly, with lifecycle, owning and operating costs and practical productivity high up the list of important considerations, along with what the company refers to as Fail safe.
Put simply, DFG/TFG 425 - 435 trucks offer low operating costs combined with an anticipated high resale value. High levels of reliability are complemented by active/passive driving systems for enhanced safety and better, more productive truck use.
Choice of drive systems
As if this wasnt enough, Jungheinrich has made doubly sure that the new series will meet all needs in this particular market sector by making the trucks available in both hydrostatic and torque convertor drive system versions. The electronically controlled hydrostatic drive gives the versatility and drivability of an electric truck combined with the performance of an IC unit, while the simplicity and strength of the torque convertor version makes it suitable for use in the most arduous conditions.
With lifting capacities up to 3.5t the diesel powered DFG 425 - 435 incorporates a 3.3 litre engine that has been especially developed for use in forklifts. It offers high torque at low engine speeds, along with quick acceleration from standstill and the ability to tackle uneven surfaces, gradients and loading ramps with ease.
The LPG TFG 423 - 435 models feature an environmentally friendly 2.5 litre engine. In common with the diesel engine, the LPG engine also develops high torque at low rpm. As soot particles are almost eliminated with LPG these trucks can be used for combined indoor/outdoor applications and levels of CO, NOx and CH can be further reduced by additional catalytic converter options.
With safety continuing to be an increasingly important factor in the materials handling industry, Jungheinrich has chosen to make stability a prime feature in the design of its new range. According to the company the DFG/TFG 425 - 435 trucks exhibit a stability programme that dispenses entirely with electronics. This incorporates features including a longer wheelbase, a larger track width and a high pivot point steer axle. Another notable design feature is the trucks extremely low centre of gravity, which is mid wheelbase thanks to the position of the counterweight. As result, says Jungheinrich, the trucks are very stable, at all travel speeds and lift heights, loaded or unloaded in all applications.
Also essential to the safety of the trucks is the strength and design of the mast and carriages. Each unit can lift its full capacity to a height of 5m in complete safety. The mast is designed to withstand the toughest applications. Options include a mast suitable for single side trailers loading at extended load centres, rotating clamps, double pallet clamps and high lift height versions.
Vibration levels have been kept to a minimum by securing the complete drive train in the chassis using anti-vibration mountings, as is the floating drive axle. This ensures engine vibrations are absorbed at source and not transmitted via the chassis to the operators compartment. This helps to provide a resonance free working area.
Driver comfort
Driver comfort is particularly important, having been shown to have a marked effect on productivity, and the new trucks feature an ergonomically designed cab. A grab rail aids safe and easy access and the large flat floor has been cleared of all tripping hazards to provide full leg movement. In fact, the cab is reckoned to provide the most space for the operator of any truck in the class, and has 1080mm of headroom.
All the controls are positioned where the operators hands naturally fall. A new integrated direction switch means the DFG/TFG 425 - 435 can be operated without the need to change hand positions. The left hand stays on the steering wheel, while the right hand controls the lifting, changes direction and activates the horn.
To find out more about how you can benefit from enhanced operator comfort, high levels of safety, lower operating costs and increased overall productivity, contact Jungheinrich. More articles from Jungheinrich UK Ltd: | 
