Container handling equipment specialist BLT SA, which supplies and supports a range of materials handling equipment across various industries, delivered a loaded-container handler to Transnet Engineering, the engineering division of State-owned rail operator Transnet, in the last quarter of 2014.

“[A] robust machine, the Taylor THDC-955, is being used in Pretoria to handle heavy ISO containers that have been loaded with high-value engines and manufacturing components,” says BLT SA marketing director Charity Gumede.

She adds that the container handler, which has a rated capacity of 42 000 kg, will significantly improve operational efficiencies on site and will also increase the overall full container storage capacity at the plant.

“Operators are impressed with the chain-suspended spreader, which allows for easy handling and improved driver comfort. “The shock, which normally travels through the machine when handling heavy loads, is absorbed by these chains,” says Gumede.

She adds that the Taylor THDC-955 has enhanced safety features, including forward- and reverse-motion alarms – wide-angle rearview mirrors, as well as handrails and antislip steps. Further, axle-mounted spring-on, air-off parking brakes, with a brake-saver system, prevent the operator from wearing down the parking brakes.

“The mast pivot housing has a two-piece bolt-on design for easy and safe service removal and the dual-flow system prevents a load from falling in the event of a hose failure. This series also has an emergency lowering valve system.”

This series of container handlers, featuring a heavy-duty three-speed full directional modulated powershift transmission with an operator-controlled air declutch, is fitted with Tier III-certified electronic turbocharged engine.

Further, a high-capacity cooling system with wide-fin spacing reduces dirt build-up and provides efficient engine cooling. This container handler also has a lower fan and engine speed for reduced noise, as well as high-mounted tilt cylinders that are fitted to the rear and a centre-mounted operator station, which ensures mast stability.

The operator station is designed for easy control, enhanced safety and optimum comfort. The centre-mounted, two-door elevated operator cab is shock-mounted with optimal visibility through the mast.

Individual fingertip hydraulic and electric controls on a hinge-down instrument panel ensure smooth, precise handling. Steering is also easy with a tilt steering wheel, which is fully hydrostatic. A single left pedal combines both brake and inching controls.

For enhanced comfort, the floorboard, cab and engine compartment are insulated to reduce noise levels, and a high-performance pusher fan blows dust and debris away from the operator. A vinyl mechanical suspension seat reduces vibration and an anti-cinch restraint enables the operator to move freely.

Maintenance requirements of these loaded-container handlers are minimal, says Gumede. Brakes are easily serviceable, without the need for axle disassembly, the filter element on the chassis is replaceable with easy access by two bolts and tanks are also bolted on for easy removal and cleaning.

The handler also features electronic diagnostics on the engine, with a fault code history for fast problem location and a built-in engine and transmission shutdown system, which is a standard feature.

A dual-element air cleaner with a restriction indicator system offers engine protection and a remote mounted filter reduces oil spills. An exhaust purifier system is an optional environmental feature.

Meanwhile, BLT SA, Africa’s exclusive distributor of Taylor-manufactured container handlers and reach stackers, is running accredited training internship programmes for operators as part of Transnet Engineering’s Supplier Development Initiative.