South African distributor of TCM forklifts, Criterion Equipment, now stocks new ranges of forklift trucks designed to handle food and beverage loads during production and in warehousing and transport operations.

One of the features of the distributor’s electric range and gas machines is reduced emissions, which is a critical requirement in the handling of food and beverage products.

Criterion Equipment MD Brenton Kemp says that double pallet handlers with capacities of 2.5 t and 3 t are equipped to handle large loads of cans and bottles.

“The latest TCM engine-powered forklifts, with new features for efficient operation in demanding conditions and for enhanced operator comfort, are further improving handling efficiencies at food and beverage plants,” he states.

Further, he notes that the redesign and upgrade of the iNoma range will provide for easier access, greater operator comfort, improved manoeuvrability, enhanced safety and extended service life.

The use of dual floating systems for the engine and the hood on the new forklifts will contribute to lower vibrations, while the four-point rubber cushion absorbers between the seat and engine and its transmission will keep the transfer of vibrations to the operator to a minimum.

The four-point suspension in the hood will ensure lower vehicle vibrations.

Other features include increased floor space, easier entry and exit with the assistance of a lever and a multifunctional suspension seat. Operators can expect to operate comfortably in all weather conditions with a resin screen guard that is positioned on the overhead guard.

Operator safety is uncompromised, with a double action brake release on the lever, an extra-wide step with enlarged footspace and an antislip mat on the hood of the forklift.

Operator visibility is also improved by 50% with a lowered dashboard and bar and the reshaped counterweight increases safety during backward movement.

Other safety features include an antiroll mechanism during turning, a neutral safety mechanism that prohibits the starting of the engine unless the change lever is in the neutral position and high-mounted rear combination lights.

Improvements on the TCM involve strengthened steering axles for enhanced durability. Mast supports, tilt cylinders and tie bars have been redesigned to allow for a sturdier mast. The durability of this series is also improved by oil-filled lift cylinders.

“Optimal positioning of the fan, radiator and muffler, has improved the airflow and reduced the operating coolant temperature for more efficient operation. These environment-friendly forklift trucks, which conform to new emissions control and energy management systems, have been designed for reduced maintenance requirements,” says Kemp.

Another range of TCM forklifts includes electric three-wheel forklift trucks, equipped with features for reliable performance, safety and minimal maintenance requirements.

The TCM FTB-VII series includes three units with a 500 mm load centre. The smallest unit has a maximum capacity of 1 600 kg and the largest has a maximum capacity of 2 000 kg.

“These forklifts have been designed for enhanced safety during operation in any environment. The meter panel is located at the right of the dashboard to increase forward visibility and there is an emergency battery shut-off switch for urgent stopping. A tilt cylinder lock prevents the mast from tilting forward when the control lever is shifted and a neutral safety mechanism does not allow operation unless the shift lever is set to neutral, even when the key is turned on,” says Kemp.

The machines feature wet disc brakes, which provide for stable braking in all ground conditions and an outside turning radius of 1.54 mm and a minimum right angle stacking aisle of 3.225 mm.

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