Following the huge success of Hyster's VNA series in 2006, Hyster unveils the latest solution to high level storage challenges; The K series of high and medium level order pickers.

"For time-sensitive order picking operations, the reliability of the handling equipment is one of the most critical success factors. This is especially important when picking individual items from high shelves at short notice for immediate dispatch." explains Robert O'Donoghue, General Manager for Hyster's Warehouse Products.

Hyster's new K1.0M and K1.0H high level order pickers have been developed to deliver dependability and low cost of ownership, using the latest proven Hyster technology, derived from their market leading VNA machine. The new series provides lift heights up to 8m with 1 Tonne capacity and is packed with features that benefit the overall efficiency of the operation.

PICKED FOR HIGH MANOEUVRABILITY

The order picker series has been designed to provide fast travel speeds of up to 8.8km/h fully loaded and 9km/h when unladen. This is achieved through the employment of 6.4kW AC traction motors. Fly-by-wire controls provide fast, precise and effortless AC controlled power steering, with automatic braking on cornering to improve controllability of the strong, compact chassis. A choice of four performance settings allows the truck to be configured to suit the requirements of the driver and the application.

A MOSFET high frequency controller delivers precise traction and hydraulic control for quick, smooth acceleration, high torque direction changes and lift performance through the 12kW AC lift motor.

In order to increase productivity, the new K series can maintain maximum speed at height while simultaneously travelling and lifting or lowering. The trucks can be supplied with either rail guidance or multi-frequency wire guidance options.

LOWERING ENERGY CONSUMPTION

In order to minimise energy consumption, all new K series trucks employ progressive speed control. The trucks employ regenerative braking and in addition, energy created from the chassis descent is fed back to the battery, saving energy and increasing battery shift life. The K1.0M has a battery compartment to fit 280-310Ah 48V batteries whilst the K1.0H can be configured for 420 up to 620 Ah batteries. Enhanced battery access with easy and fast removal also helps to improve day to day operations.

ERGONOMICS HELP OPTIMISE OPERATOR'S OUTPUT

The operator's role in the picking operation is critical and by investing in ergonomic design, Hyster has delivered a product that can optimise each operator movement, reduce fatigue and add to the overall productivity of an operation. The operator raises the cab to the required picking height and then raises or lowers the forks independently from the cab for loading. Hyster employs full cab sensors, to safely assess when an operator is working in the cabin and thus removes the need for a "dead man pedal". A cushioned floor reduces vibrations and creates a more comfortable work environment.

To reduce operator fatigue the K1.0 is designed with a low step height allowing quicker and easier on/off access and has an overhead height of over 2m. Truck status information is clearly visible on a new graphic display, evolved from the popular reach truck series, this includes precise information on the steer wheel position, cabin platform height, traction speed, lift height, battery discharge levels and the weight of the load being carried.

DESIGNED FOR STRENGTH, DEPENDABILITY AND REDUCED COST

Hyster is well known for its robust designs and the K1.0's 2 or 3 stage mast constructions have high torsional strength, promoting enhanced stability, leading to greater operator confidence. The K1.0 series is packed with features such as Polyurethane Vulkollan® tyres, minimising pressure applied on the floor surface and a slack chain detection device. The vehicles also operate at an average noise level below 70 dB(A).

The K1.0 delivers a low cost of ownership through maintenance free AC. The new K series employs many parts in common with the successful VNA and reach trucks, and like these trucks provides easy access to components and simplified wiring through the use of CANbus technology. The dashboard display also provides full information on the truck's performance and operating status.

All models are available with a range of options including height / speed interlocks, end of aisle slow-down and stop, antistatic drive wheel, lift interrupt and key pad. In addition, the K1.0 can be tuned to specific applications with cold store options, a choice of cab widths and a variety of FEM forks and wrap over forks.

Hyster's local distribution partners can help define the exact requirements to ensure the K1.0 delivers productivity and dependability to the most demanding operation. With superior local support, fleet management solutions and over 140 forklift truck models to complement the K1.0 in operation, Hyster is a strong partner with a full range of tough trucks. For further information visit www.hyster.co.uk or contact UK distribution partner Barloworld Handling, visit www.barloworld-handling.co.uk.