Category Archives: Blog

forklift-options-reduce-maintenance-cost

Top Forklift Options to Reduce Maintenance Cost

Reducing downtime, lowering maintenance costs and bringing down cost of ownership are objectives that these factory options are specifically designed to do. The biggest drain on the cost of forklift ownership is having forklifts that aren’t making you money. So it becomes mandatory to reduce the maintenance cost as much as possible. Here are some strategies which you can opt for:

Multi-function display: You can get an idea about the health of your forklift with onboard diagnostics, an oil temperature indicator, maintenance hour meter and a trip meter. Moreover, accidents and abuse can be prevented by adjusting the speed control settings, programming engine auto stop and installing a torque convertor.

Use Hydraulic Accumulator for uneven floors: It absorbs vibration due to uneven warehouse floors and stops it from transfer to the load. Operator comfort is improved, absorbs shocks, reduces shock of loading, boosts the longevity of forklift parts and drastically brings down product damage.

Go for the Pre-cleaner: Reduces the intake of dust to the air cleaner, allowing lift trucks to work longer between services. It indicates the level of dust accumulation and so makes it easy to decide when to go for cleaning.

Using the Radiator Screen: This minimizes the risk of overheating by significant lowering of lint, fibers and workplace dirt in the radiator fans.

Using the Tilt Cylinder Boot: A tilt cylinder boot protects the tilt cylinder rod from damage by dust particles.

Using String Cutters can prevent damage: String Cutters around the front axle stops the debris from wrapping onto the drive axle. This is recommended for applications with debris accumulated on the floor.

Replace worn out tires and wheels: Forklifts have very less suspension. That’s why worn out tires can cause excessive shaking of the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems.

Remove tire chunking and flat spotting: A clean warehouse floor, free of debris and scraps save the load wheels. Go for plastic or metal pallets.

Repair damaged floors: Well-maintained floors extend the life of the tires, including mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems.

Invest in operator safety training: A commitment to safety training for forklift operators can reduce forklift and inventory damage.

Don’t miss scheduled maintenance dates: Servicing forklifts regularly can prevent major parts breakdown that call for expensive repairs.

See that the right forklift is been used for the right application: Keep an eye out on which forklift operators are using for which job could save a lot of hassle. For example, using a Narrow Aisle Reach Truck to run down a ramp or putting pallets into racking using an Order picker could be disastrous.

For more elaborate information on the above options, you may call us on 18008435111or mail us at 

seat-on-vs-stand-on

Seat On vs Stand On Forklifts – Which to Choose When?

People always have the tendency to sit, rather than stand. In most warehouses too, operators choose the seat-on forklift as ideal for their operations. But is it really true? Do they give it thought before deciding on one, or is it just done instinctively?

Here are some tips to help you decide which forklift to order for your business:

Most forklift drivers may find seat-on forklifts more suited to their comfort. So, when the management decide to cater to their comfort and go for the seat-on version, they are a bunch of happy employees. There is general belief that, a happy employee is more hard working and hence more productive. So, maybe companies are knowingly going for seat-on versions because of this reason.

Or again, maybe they are not.

On the other hand, stand-on forklifts have a few advantages of their own too. One of the biggest advantages is visibility. The stand-on version offers complete and full visibility all around regardless of the direction the forklift is travelling. Another advantage of the stand-on model is maneuverability. That is why it is preferable for smaller spaces, closed quarters and sharp corners. Stand on forklifts are preferred for short run operations, where the operators only need to stand for short span of time.

Points to keep in mind while buying the forklift best suited for you:

  • What is your area of business – in what kind of environment will you be using it for?
  • How is the floor of your workplace, even or uneven?
  •  How is the space – is there long distances to be covered?
  • Are there narrow aisles, passages and sharp corners in your work area?
  • How often do you think the operator needs to get on and off the forklift while working?
  • Will the operator need to make short trips or long trips on the forklift
  • Which do YOU think will increase your business productivity, seat-on or stand-on forklifts?
  • For what period of time will the forklift be used?

Unfortunately, when it comes to forklifts you will not get one which is suitable in all circumstances. Not a problem. The nature of your work is the best indicator to help you decide the right one for you.

Take a test drive to understand better:

Forklift manufacturers generally are happy to send their sales representative over to your site to get a first-hand feel of your business, so that they can recommend the right forklift for you. This information can be very valuable for your business in reducing expenses and operational costs.

Linde Material Handling ranks among the top forklift manufacturers in the world. If you are in the market to buy a forklift, you can surely contact them to get a better handle on the right forklift for you. You can also visit the Global Linde Material Handling website for some first-hand information regarding the same or feel free to give us a call on 18008435111 or mail us at in.info@linde-mh.com!

forklift-types

Forklift Selection – The most common types of forklifts and what they are used for?

Be it in a warehouse, a construction site or any other business, moving heavy stuff like machinery is an everyday affair. There are a host of Forklift types that is available in the market like – electric forklift, electric stacker, battery forklift etc. But with so many types to choose from, picking up the one that best suits your business and environment may need careful study.

Counterbalance forklifts are best used for material handling:

These types of forklifts have two trucks that counterbalance each other. They are the most common ones used for material handling in indoor warehouses and stores but they can also be used outdoors on stable, even surfaces.

Three-wheel counterbalance forklifts are perfect for narrow aisles:

These have three-wheels while the counterbalance forerunners come with four. These have more maneuverability and are best for confined spaces and narrow site aisles.

Reach truck forklifts for high rise storage pallet racking:

Extended lift height like Stand-up and Double-deep trucks are Reach truck Forkliftswith forks mounted on the side of the trucks. They are perfect for wide and long loads that would be tough for other types of forklifts to handle. Stand-up trucks are the more common ones and are mostly used in sites where there is only one load per bay. The forks slide under the pallet to lift and move them. Double-deep trucks come with longer forks so it makes them ideal for sites where multiple pallet loads are stored in each bay as these forks can reach right to the back of the bay.

Side loader forklifts for narrow isles:

There are two main types of side loader forklifts – the enclosed cab used mostly in the outdoors, and a stand-up version that is just right for indoor work.

Telescopic handlers for high lifting:

These forklifts look likes cranes and are often mistaken for them too. They can reach heights and angles that normal forklifts aren’t able to. They also have the added advantage of a single telescopic boom that empowers the trucks making them much more powerful.

Rough terrain forklifts:

They are specially made for terrain that is unstable. These forklifts have a more powerful engine and are generally made for better maneuverability. The calibrated counterbalance at the back prevents overbalancing. As a result, it can be easily operated in mud, snow or ice. Perfect for heavy loads, they can handle 3 tons per load.

Pallet trucks and lift trucks are best for storage facilities and warehouses:

There are many models available, some can move up to 5000lbs, though the main difference is between the lift and pallet trucks. The pallet truck has a limited reach and can move loads at ground level. The lift truck is more complex and can move a palletized load onto a higher a higher level.

You now have a lowdown on different kinds of forklifts. All you need to do is match the forklift with your business and environment. If you’re still wondering about which forklift to go for, please feel free to give us a call on 18008435111 or mail us at in.info@linde-mh.com

Forklift Rental: Why Renting May Be Right For You?

Forklift Rental: Why Renting May Be Right for You?

The last thing you need is a nagging worry about investing in a Forklift or distributors taking you for a ride. This is so because the Forklift price in India could be a concern – an area where many companies or individuals might hesitate to invest in. That is the reason why the presence of a robust network of distributors who rent out Forklifts play an important role.

Taking a Forklift on rental can prove to be both practical and cost effective. Here’s why:

  • Capital does not get locked. Plus you don’t need any upfront loan with high interest.
  • You can stay within a fixed budget without any unexpected maintenance cost.
  • Fleet Management Rental Programs will increase Forklift efficiency by establishing KPI’s and fleet management reports. It will also reduce administration cost and keep your staff focusing on the core business.
  • Hiring Forklifts guarantees the best and latest equipment and technology.
  • When the anything breaks down suddenly and interrupts work, going for rentals guarantee an unhindered workflow.

Points to note when you want to rent a Forklift:

  • Be thorough with your research to find out whether all your needs are met or not.
  • Make sure that you have a qualified employee who can operate the equipment

Every distributor is not alike. Make sure that:

  • The equipment is in a good condition before hiring
  • They are a certified dealer
  • You read, understand and are okay with the terms and conditions
  • You read the fine print
  • The equipment is insured

Look at it this way, you must make note of what you are exactly looking for beforehand, and also compare with the points mentioned above. After that, whatever points you think needs clarification, just make it a point to call the dealer and ask directly.

In case of any queries, please feel free to contact Linde Forklift Rentals. Alternately, you can put down your questions here. We will try to answer them as clearly and as promptly as possible. Our phone number is: 18008435111 or you can write us at in.info@linde-mh.com.

linde-safety-tips-for-forklift-operations

Linde Brings Safety Tips for Forklift Operations This Winter

Winter is here and as per data from OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), 11% of the total Forklift trucks are involved in accidents every year. Half of these accidents can be avoided if the operators have proper training and the Forklifts go through proper maintenance.

At Linde Forklift in India we amalgamated our experience and vast knowledge in Forklift Trucks and have prepared a list of measures to adopt to ensure both the Forklift and the Operator are safe during the winters to ensure unobstructed productivity with zero risk.

Awareness and Training:

The first step to staying safe under any conditions is to know them well. Forklift Operators need to know the environment and weather conditions they’d be working under. The conditions include-

• Limited Visibility (Due to Fog and Snow)
• Snow, Ice and Extremely Cold Weather
• Slippery and Wet Roads

Your job as an employer is to ensure that the forklift operators are well trained to adapt to these conditions and modify their working process accordingly. For instance the operators need to maintain alertness at all times so they are aware of any potential hazards and road conditions around them. A part of the operators’ training can be the speed reduction bit. Operators are eager to make up for lost time due to snowfall or get back inside and as a result they end up speeding up the task at hand. This might result in accidents cause no matter how high end your equipment, nature and outside conditions are unpredictable and along with the presence of pedestrians, there are high chances of accidents. Hence, the operators need to work slowly with caution.

Protection of Operators:

No one can concentrate on work at hand if they are freezing in cold and subject to health hazards. To ensure the forklift operators are comfortable in carrying out business as usual and maintain concentration levels, adequate warm clothing needs to be provided along with reflective and highly visible overalls. In addition, they should be provided with jackets and pants that are water and wind proof with polar fleece jumpers.The operators should also be encouraged to take regular breaks and retire to warmer places that can relax their muscles and energize them for work.

Maintenance and Enhancement of Forklifts:

To avoid any mishaps and facilitate smooth workflow, you need to ensure that your Forklifts are prepared for winters with the latest equipment and checked for any and all kinds of mechanical risks. Below are a few thumb rules to use:

• Tyre Inspection for right pressure, quality and life.

• Thorough check of all the electrical systems, hydraulics, engines and batteries.

• Ensure Cabs and Heaters are present in all your Forklifts.

• Conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure fluid and fuel levels, lighting, floodlighting, starters, de-icer levels and all other parts are in order.

• Ensure the Forklift is equipped with Winter Attachments like a plow or scoop attachment for removing snow and ice from the ground and salt spreader or sander to melt the ice, grit the parking, working and loading areas.

• Ensure the Forklift is duly covered protecting it from the rains and wind in stormy weather.

• The Forklift should be sufficiently warmed up before operation so that the engine and hydraulics can be used to their full potential.

• Post operation; ensure a thorough cleaning is carried out on the Forklift to ensure its safe use in the future.

• Storage of the forklift should be in a dry area and a battery warmer can be used or the battery can be kept plugged in to ensure the battery doesn’t end up flat.

• The diesel used should be in accordance with the temperatures along with high quality hydraulic fluids. You can also opt for additives that prevent the gelling or freezing of fuel.

To conclude, as long as you ensure that the forklifts are thoroughly checked on regular intervals, enhanced with the latest technology and the operators are given adequate training and are given the right training and right clothing, the above tips shall take care of the rest. For all your Forklift needs, you can write to us at in.info@linde-mh.com or call 18008435111.

Optimal Safety & Protection For Driver, Goods, And Operations

Optimal Safety & Protection for Driver, Goods, and Operations

With frequent accidents involving industrial trucks we at Linde have set a motto “Zero Accidents”. This helps us in pursuing a comprehensive philosophy of safety. One of the most important things is the operational safety and safety at work.

With our motto of ‘Zero Accidents’ in place, we relentlessly pursue our philosophy of safety. Operational safety and safety at work are the two most important points for the management who are in charge of the intra-company material flow.

Our goal is Good Logistics which prevents 100 % accidents.

With this very focus in mind Linde is developing innovative machinery in industrial trucks as well as intelligence assistance systems, comprehensive training programs and consulting services. The outcomes are articulate results which help operators adapt to the varied challenges of modern intra-logistics.

Safety: Made standard feature

Modern industrial trucks and their operators are now facing an increasing demand day by day to perform the perfect work. The trucks have to be very efficient and work faster with rapid flexibility. With increasing demands at work the risks of accidents also increases. And so forklifts and warehousing handling equipment’s from Linde have various different features designed for the maximum safety.

For e.g. - The Linde Protector Frame on the Linde counter balanced forklift truck offers top-notch protection to the driver. The protective canopy and frame form an enclosed area to protect the driver completely. Through the overhead tilt cylinder the truck’s load is distributed evenly across its entire structure.

Through the overhead tilt cylinder, the load is distributed evenly across the entire frame. Further the composition of the tilt cylinder allows the use of slim profile lift masts. This gives the driver a clear vision. In order to effectively guard against the truck tipping over in all loading and driving situations, the overall system is designed such that the centre of gravity is as far forward and as low down as possible.

Similar design details which help to improve safety are to be found on all Linde industrial trucks. The driver’s workplace is designed in such a way so that the latter’s body stay within the outlines of the truck and at the same time he can keep an eye on the surrounding environment.

Intelligence Assistance Systems

Technology is of utmost importance while handling any kind of machinery. It is one of the most crucial elements in getting the work done. However most of the accidents that happen at the workplace can be traced back to human error.

But at Linde you can be rest assured; Linde Material handling driver’s assistance support the driver by all means and keeping their work safe.

At Linde we use innovative equipment’s such as Linde Speed Assist and Linde Curve Assist which automatically adjust the power output of the engine and the speed of the truck to the surrounding environment and the driving situation.

Some examples of intelligent assistance systems are developments such as Dynamic Mast Control or Linde Blue Spot.

Dynamic Mast Control strongly takes care of the to and fro movements of the mast on a lift truck. This feature allows the forklift drivers to operate accurately and cautiously even at greater heights along with heavy loads.

Linde BlueSpot offers great safety where people and forklifts work in tandem with each other.

Safety begins with the driver

Well trained drivers are essential to carry out smooth operations and reduce the incidences of accidents and material damage.

We at the Linde Academy offer an in-depth education regarding training programs for novice drivers and specialists in all types of truck handling. The focus of these sessions is providing a comprehensive education and safety instructions and adequate training in both theory and practice.

The Linde Safety pilot is a turning point in the development of the safety systems and is surely a huge development in the safety systems. It keeps the driver informed of all the important specifications which includes the current load weight. And that’s not all it also actively prevents various operating lapses.

Digital Fleet Management as a safety measure

With the Digital Fleet Management at Linde, it offers various solutions which improve the safety of the driver. Linde has the personalized access controls feature in which the operator can structure the truck for any particular driver. Depending on the purpose of the truck the maximum speed can be limited. Digital fleet management also offers other functions such as electronic damage monitoring, automated transmission of error codes and analysis of usage data.

On the road to ‘Zero Accidents’

At Linde we follow the mission of ‘Zero Accidents’. Our mission of preventing 100% accidents is imbibed in our philosophy and we strive hard relentlessly to achieve it. Improving our intra-logistics to set new records in safety has been our main aim. Such programs help Linde to continually improve the safety of their intra-logistics and help serve the customers better.