PECM Issue 73 2025 | Page 92

Matching lift trucks to manufacturing demands

STORAGE , HANDLING & DISTRIBUTION A ROBUST SOLUTION

HYSTER
Matching lift trucks to manufacturing demands
By Eva Nachtergaele , Regional Product Manager , Hyster Europe .
In industrial manufacturing sites , the efficiency and reliability of material handling equipment are paramount . From the transportation of raw materials to the handling of finished products , forklifts play a key role in maintaining seamless operations . Here , we explore considerations for selecting forklifts for the specific needs of manufacturing , why the importance of customisation should not be overlooked , and how Hyster A Series lift trucks deliver a robust solution .
Improving user experience for operators
On busy manufacturing sites with tight production deadlines , the work of a forklift operator can be intensive and physically demanding .
Operators may also be working in harsh environmental conditions , with high noise levels or dusty atmospheres , or where there are corrosive fluids to handle . To keep operators working comfortably and productively , lift trucks need to work extra hard on ergonomics .
Solutions for chemical and plastics manufacturing
Consider operations manufacturing chemical and plastic products . Lift trucks play key roles throughout these applications , from moving raw materials , to feeding production lines , working in both indoor and outdoor storage areas . All while aiming to maintain overall plant productivity .
Raw materials often are handled in large bags , which are stacked on top of one another in a storage area . High visibility in all directions is therefore a principal factor for operators so the Hyster A Series lift trucks deliver on all round visibility . Manoeuvrability is supported by accurate hydraulics and intuitive operator controls .
Plastic manufacturing operations , for instance , may also produce long or large items . These are wide loads to carry on the lift truck ’ s forks , so equipment must be selected with a suitably robust mast . Here , specifying truck stability solutions may also help reduce the likelihood of tipovers , especially when turning corners .
Fork positioners may help unlock greater flexibility in a fleet where a wider variety of load sizes need to be handled , including those with unusual sizes or shapes . The ability
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