Steel & Metal Handling

Case Study - Multi-Direction Lift Truck Maximises Storage Capacity and Eliminates Crane Handling for Steel Stock

Seeking to maximise storage in a new warehouse and increase product handling efficiency, Chesterfield Steel Services has opted for a Sidetracker multi-direction reach truck operating with a narrow-aisle
cantilever racking system.

The truck has been designed to enable it to perform virtually all materials handling functions inside and outside the warehouse single-handed, which has improved both speed and safety compared with conventional procedures when a crane is used. Loads do not have to be slung or double-handled, reducing labour requirements and the risk of injury.

To enable the Sidetracker to perform the different functions, it has been fitted with two pairs of forks, one 800mm long and the other 1300mm, which can be pivot away to suit the work in hand. The shorter forks carry loads in the 1700mm wide racking aisles, with the longer pair rotated vertically out of the way. For loading and unloading delivery vehicles the longer forks, which can reach the centre of a lorry trailer, are rotated to the horizontal position.

An integral weighing system allows supplies to be unloaded weighed to within 3 kg and stored in a single operation with a single operator. Likewise materials to be despatched are handled with the same degree
of efficiency.

Polyurethane coated forks and load deck protect product from damage and contamination during handling.