pallet lift

Risk Management & Having a ‘Plan B’

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When things are good you have a smooth operation, the links in the supply chain work hand-in-hand; together producing a well-oiled machine. However, when things are bad — you quickly realize just how much you depend on a steady and consistent supply chain. Risk Management is something that a lot of companies do not like … Read more

Achieving Peak Efficiency with Material Handling Equipment

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Achieving Peak Efficiency
Achieving Peak Efficiency

The definition of material handling equipment is equipment that is related to the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal. Consequently, because material handling equipment is so vital to all stages of production and consumption, business owners and managers are always seeking ways to increase output, control costs, and maximize productivity. In other words, the three vital aspects to whether material handling equipment is achieving peak efficiency or not.

Material handling equipment is divided into four categories:

1. Storage and Handling Equipment
2. Engineered Systems
3. Industrial Trucks
4. Material Handling

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Making Your Facility’s Loading Docks Safe For All, Part 2

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Eco-Max Micron Pallet Wrap
Eco-Max Micron Pallet Wrap.

Last time, we considered the loading docks at your distribution center or warehouse, and how a few simple changes can make a world of difference in personnel safety. Now let’s continue with more tips for improving safety at the docks!

One kind of potential hazard at any loading dock is when a pallet gets damaged or breaks while being moved. A way to reduce the danger associated with a load of materials shifting or falling because of a broken pallet is to create and adopt a system to check pallets. Workers might inspect pallets either before or after a certain number of uses. And if a pallet has a noticeable defect but is already loaded with goods, make sure the workers at the loading dock know to have the products moved to a safe pallet. These steps not only make good sense for employee and bystander safety, but they can reduce incidents of damaged goods and equipment.

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Making Your Facility’s Loading Docks Safe For All, Part 1

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In many warehouses and distribution centers, a loading dock is the center of a lot of activity. For most companies, the dock is where supplies come in and where products go out. As one of the key “organs” of your company’s “body”, loading docks give shipping trucks and personnel easy access to storage areas and … Read more

Making Your Workplace Safe For Changing Forklift Batteries

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Industrial forklifts that are battery powered are used in an increasing variety of manufacturing and warehouse operations. Today’s electric batteries provide benefits like reduced emission, which helps many businesses (from small, family-owned groups to large corporations), achieve “green” goals regarding environmental responsibility. The other obvious benefits of today’s electric lift trucks are longer running times … Read more

Proper Forklift Operation Prevents Injury and Product Damage

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Every material handling operation requires different equipment and tools, depending on the types of material you’re moving around. Handling large items and material often requires a lift truck. Deciding when to invest in a forklift, and which one to buy, is a common challenge faced by businesses. Likewise, once the lift truck is purchased, it’s … Read more

Haeco Will Demonstrate Famatec Manipulators at ProMat 2013

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A Famatec ergonomic manipulator allows its operator to handle objects weighing hundreds of pounds with ease and safety. The manipulators – sold in the United States by Ohio-based Haeco – can be useful to many material handling operations, from pallet loading to plate glass installing to automotive assembly. Almost any object, whether smooth or rough, … Read more

Sysco Foods, Walmart Use Fuel Cells to Cut Costs, Emissions

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Toyota forklift
A Toyota fuel cell-powered forklift prototype

Fuel cells are devices that convert fuel into electricity using a chemical reaction involving oxygen or another oxidizing agent. Unlike batteries, fuel cells need constant supplies of the fuel and of oxygen. But as long as those are supplied, the fuel cell can produce electricity continually. The fuel they use might be hydrogen, natural gas or methanol.

The most famous early use of fuel cells was creating power for NASA space capsules, satellites and probes. Today they can be found in various commercial and industrial buildings, particularly in out-of-the-way or hard-to-access areas. Fuel cells can power virtually any vehicle, including cars, boats and forklifts. A recent article from Fuel Cell Today, published online at https://www.fuelcelltoday.com/ , poses the question of whether or not successful utilization of fuel cells in regions including the U.S. materials handling equipment industry will spread to other parts of the world.

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Improve Efficiency with Steel King Adjustable Pallet Racks

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When it’s time to add pallet racks for your business, you can turn to Bahrns for all your material handling needs. Steel King is a leading manufacturer of storage racking products, and its line of pallet racks offers something for the needs of every warehouse or distribution center. A racking system is the basic building … Read more

New Magliner CooLift Offered as a Revolutionary Delivery System

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The new CooLift from Magliner is a product delivery system that combines six wheels, a lightweight aluminum frame and integrated plastic half-pallets with a hydraulic lift to create a state-of-the-art hand truck that is both safe and efficient. CooLift features a 24 volt battery-powered hydraulic lift and a pump back-up system. The battery is charged … Read more