Materials handling equipment supplier BLT South Africa (SA) earlier this year launched its updated TXLS series of log stackers onto the South African market, with the new Taylor series designed to efficiently handle a full log load from truck or rail in a single pass.

BLT SA is the sole distributor of the Taylor range of materials handling equipment in South Africa.

“These robust log stackers, which are used for loading, stacking and offloading heavy loads of logs, offer improved productivity and safety, as well as fuel efficiency, reduced exhaust emissions and low maintenance,” says BLT SA marketing director Charity Gumede.

The TXLS-800, TXLS-900 and TXLS-1000 models in the range have rated lift capacities of 36 288 kg, 40 824 kg and 45 360 kg respectively. They are built on an all-welded, high-strength steel chassis and frame, with heavy-duty drive and steer axles.

The TXLS-1000 is currently the most popular in industry as it is the most productive model owing to its durability.

“In the design of these machines, BLT SA has focused on the production of high-performance log stackers that offer the forestry and timber sector efficient duty cycles, low operating costs, extended service life and improved operator safety and comfort,” explains Gumede.

Manufactured in the US, these log stackers are fitted with Tier III turbocharged diesel engines, with low emissions and efficient fuel reduction. Standard engine features include a fuel and water separator, a high-capacity cooling system for operation in all environments and engine and transmission protection systems.

Other features include lower fan and engine speeds that reduce noise levels during operation, as well as a built-in shutdown system for the engine and transmission to maintain high coolant temperature and low oil pressure. Gumede explains that low oil pressure is provided by an auxiliary oil cooler.

This series has been designed for easy maintenance to reduce downtime, with the fault code history recorded by an electronic diagnostic and maintenance monitor on the engine, enabling the user to locate problems faster.

A remotely mounted, three-speed, fully reversing, modulated powershift system handles the transmission of the TXLS series. An operator-controlled electric declutch feature provides the vehicle with precise positioning that ensures soft directional changes.

There is a separate air-to-oil transmission cooler and a remotely mounted filter to reduce oil spills. The hydraulic tank, which promotes system cooling, has full-flow in-tank return filtration. Therefore, it is ideal for all filtration tasks involving recirculated and leakage oil. The flow direction from the inside outwards makes the filters easy to service and environment friendly.

The mounted operator’s station is in an offset position for greater visibility over centre-mounted machines, which also enhances comfort and safety.

New ergonomically designed features include full hydrostatic fingertip steering for smooth, precise control, an air suspension seat for reduced vibration, and a tilted steering wheel and hinged-down instrument panel for operator comfort. Antislip steps and handrails ensure safe mounting and dismounting.