As one of Britain’s fastest-growing ports – with a throughput of 12 million tonnes each year – the Bristol Port Company (BPC) understands the need for forklifts that can perform – whatever the challenge.
So when the company needed to retire two trucks from its twohundred- strong fleet, its managers contacted Bristol Forklifts, the South West’s leading Mitsubishi dealer, for an onsite demonstration of GRENDiA EX 5.0 tonne diesel counterbalance.
Following glowing feedback from their forklift operators – who were impressed by the truck’s instinctive driveability, exceptional visibility, and unrivalled reliability – BPC purchased two trucks outright.
“Our reputation as the UK’s most economical port distribution location – offering access to a population of 45 million – means that demand is always increasing. To meet this, our trucks need to be able to work long shifts in a very challenging environment,” says BPC Development Engineer Paul Osborne.
“These new GRENDiA trucks – complete with a range of special modifications – meet our every requirement… and then some.”
Diesel Reliability
BPC were certain of one thing when looking for new trucks: reliability was key. With the trucks required for tasks across the whole 2,600 acre site, operating hours would be long and unplanned downtime would significantly affect productivity.
Mitsubishi forklifts are built with reliability in mind – particularly their engines. Ian Mounce, Director of Bristol Forklifts, explains: “The industrial-strength inline 6-cylinder S6S diesel engine was designed specifically for use in forklifts and, since it utilises the more suitable drive chain mechanism, it benefits from reduced servicing costs and downtime.
“Optimised engine power and torque grant low RPM and fuel consumption. Combine this with clean burning, fuel-injected engine technology and you have yourself a smooth, robust combustion engine with low emissions and low noise – particularly important for enclosed warehouse, container, and hull work – and an impressive fuel economy.”
All mod cons
The Mitsubishi trucks will fulfil a number of diverse roles at the large site – including container stuffing, de-stuffing, and paper handling. The trucks will even be lifted into the ship hulls to assist with unloading.
Mr Mounce explains: “GRENDIAs are formidable pieces of equipment – as standard. However, with a wealth of specialist modifications available, we were able to work closely with Bristol Port and kit the trucks out with everything they’d need to really excel at the varied tasks ahead of them – from small additions like mirrors and on-board fire extinguishers to much bigger ones…
“A lowered overhead guard, for example, allows trucks to fit inside shipping containers, while oversized diesel particulate filters purify the exhaust emissions to suit such confined spaces.
“As well as extra lighting at both the front and back of the vehicles, the trucks have been fitted with raising lights specifically suited to stevedoring tasks. Extended front mudguards will prevent paper rolls from being tarnished by muck while reversing, and quick-release 3rd and 4th hydraulics will accommodate 5 different attachments – from paper roll grabbers and carpet booms to special timber forks. To top it all off, both trucks received custom colouring and decals.”
Dust covered
Working indoors and out, in all weather conditions, it’s all too easy for forklifts to pick up and deposit unwanted dust and dirt inside. As well as doing the vehicle itself no favours, such dust can contaminate stock and even damage the health of drivers and other indoor workers. Not so for these forklifts…
The Mitsubishi FD50N, like all GRENDiA EX models, has been specially designed to limit the dispersal of airborne dust particles. Sealed arches not only provide protection from general warehouse detritus (strapping, stretchwrap, etc.) but, in combination with a special belly-seal, also prevents dust from being sucked up inside. Raised air intakes, ensure that the engine is not sucking in floor-level dirt.
MITSUBISHI FORKLIFT TRUCKS
Greenline: 0845 371 3048
Email: info@red-diamond.co.u
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