Processes streamlined by Straddle Carrier
March 1st 2011 Windsor Materials Handling supplies a
Combilift Straddle Carrier to steel fabricator
Structural steelwork contractor and fabricator Caunton
Engineering has taken delivery of one of Combilift's
newest products, a Combilift Straddle Carrier, which is
being put to very effective and space saving use in the storage
yard of the company's premises in Nottingham.
Fully automated contractor Caunton deals with over 25,000
tonnes of steel a year, making a streamlined logistical process
crucial.
Safer operation, better use of space and much quicker
procedures were the main factors behind the decision to go with
the Straddle Carrier, according to production director Mark White.
"We asked Windsor Materials Handling for advice on heavier
capacity machines and together with Combilift's Stephen Wells
they recommended we look at the Straddle Carrier, which had
just been introduced into Combilift's range.
"We chose Windsor as our preferred supplier due to the
company's track record of expertise and Windsor's Andy Lane
was spot on with his recommendation. Since taking delivery of
the machine, which has a 30t lift capacity, we have seen
considerable benefits and have much better control of our
logistics. For example, we can now unload a delivery truck in just
10 minutes. It is also ideal for our bespoke loads such as girders
and prefabricated items that range from 12m to 23m in length."
As the name of the machine implies, the frame and wheels of
the Straddle Carrier are positioned either side of the load, which
has enabled aisle widths between stacked product to be set at just
1m, compared to the 3.5m previously needed (for manoeuvring
forklifts). The space this has created in the yard will make it
much easier for Caunton to deal with any delays in customers'
projects without impacting on their own production schedules.
White adds: "Our ability to store finished products was limited
in the past if customers had to put back delivery, but the extra
capacity will avoid on-site congestion, and also allow us to buy in
quantity when the price is advantageous."
The low level transportation of very heavy and potentially
dangerous loads has also contributed to better health and safety
procedures as risky lifting at height is no longer necessary. In
spite of its size the Straddle Carrier's ability to turn on its axis
makes for impressive manoeuvrability, and the low set operator
cab affords 360 degree visibility. In addition the three wheel
patented design ensures maximum stability with all 3 wheels
permanently in ground contact even when travelling across
rougher surfaces. More articles from Windsor Materials Handling Ltd: | 
