In the agricultural sector, incinerators are still mainly used, but there is now a gradual transition to electric forklifts. That is a great development, says Jungheinrich's Mark de Graaff. In addition, more and more attention is being paid to the comfort and safety of the driver and his environment.
In the agricultural sector, incinerators are still mainly used, but the switch to electric forklift is now gradually taking place, says Mark de Graaff, Product Trainer at Jungheinrich. "That is a great development. There is a clear shift towards electrically powered equipment. The reasons for this are: fewer/no emissions, less noise and vibrations, comparable performance, problem-free use in outdoor conditions, long service life due to improved battery technology such as lithium-ion batteries, less maintenance, lower operating costs No hassle with on-site refueling, diesel spills, engine oil leaks and lpg bottles in stock. In addition, due to their watertight housings, maintenance-free technology and modern electric motors, the electric trucks are always more versatile."
The green image also plays a role. "Every industry, including the agricultural sector, must become increasingly green," continues De Graaff. "That is why entrepreneurs may feel a certain pressure to get rid of the 'dirty' image and will consider electric drive. Look at the emission reduction and limitation and at the limitation around the use of diesel/LPG forklifts in closed and semi-open spaces. he advises. "The Working Conditions Act requires optimization of working conditions, such as reducing vibrations. Electric-powered trucks produce less vibrations and noise, so that is better for the driver, who is less tired at the end of a working day."
There is also the Energy Efficiency Directive (EDD) directive. "With electric trucks you meet the goal of lower energy consumption, because electric forklifts are significantly more energy efficient than diesel and LPG trucks. When purchasing a new forklift it is important to look at the entire TCO (total cost of ownership). With the use of electric forklift trucks versus diesel/LPG trucks, significant cost savings are possible in various areas: energy, maintenance, repairs, wear and tear. the batteries. In addition, the trucks with lithium-ion batteries also deliver even more powerful performance."
Forklift deployability
He knows that a diesel/LPG truck has the image of unlimited deployability. "That is partly correct. Ultimately, refueling has to be done or an LPG bottle has to be exchanged. That is comparable with an electric forklift. A modern electric forklift can also achieve a normal eight-hour working day, depending on the deployment. hours. After that it is important to charge or change the battery. A minimum of eight hours is required for charging, depending on battery size and charger type. With conventional lead-acid technology batteries, it is important to complete this charging cycle properly. It is important not to charge the battery too often too early, so if there is still more than 50% capacity available. If you still want to work with lead-acid batteries, a second battery is the solution."
All of the above limitations do not apply to lithium-ion technology batteries. "These batteries can be charged in between without any problems, which means that an almost unlimited use is also feasible," explains De Graaff. "Twice fifteen minutes during the coffee breaks and once during a lunch or dinner break is usually enough. Moreover, there are often several moments when the truck is not in use, so loading is always possible."
Jungheinrich electric forklift trucks in many cases have an electrical control system according to the fly-by-wire principle. "With this, the steering characteristics can be precisely adjusted and steering is quiet and very energy-efficient. The advantage of this technology is that the steering column in the truck can be very slim, leaving more space in the cab for the driver. If the trucks do not have When it comes to electric steering, it's almost always hydraulic. Also very accurate and predictable, but slightly less quiet and energy efficient compared to electric steering."
Ergonomic forklifts
In addition to the increasing demand and the continuous improvement of electric forklifts, ergonomics for the driver are also becoming increasingly important. De Graaff: "Modern cabins with air conditioning and heating make the workplace pleasant, even in less pleasant weather conditions. Only if you, as a driver, feel good at your workplace, can you perform well and maintain this performance over a longer period of time. This applies from the start to the seating position and accessibility of all operating components. In addition, the predictable operation of all forklift functions is crucial for ease of operation and performance. If you as a driver can do the job right the first time, you perform more and the risk of fatigue and making of errors smaller."
Also important, in his view, are sufficient work space for the driver, a footplate without obstacles and space for the largest shoe size, the absence of bottlenecks or sharp corners, well-adjustable suspension and seating position on the seat, infinitely adjustable steering column in angle and height, a clear, understandable and easy-to-read display for all truck functions, optimum all-round visibility through the mast and overhead guard. "Optimum positioning of the powertrain and cabin minimizes vibrations. A clearly visible extra step for safe and comfortable dismounting and a handle that you can grab, so to speak with your eyes closed, are essential."
Jungheinrich Elektrische electric forklifts
Jungheinrich electric forklifts are the most energy-efficient, durable and productive electric forklifts on the market. All our trucks are produced in Germany and almost all models are available with an innovative lithium-ion battery.
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