Best known for its wide range of 4-way forklifts, sideloaders and other innovative materials handling solutions, Combilift branched out in a new direction last year with the launch of its Combi-WR ‘Walkie Reach’ range.

The Combi-WR was premiered at IMHX in Birmingham in March 2013 and this was followed by the launch of the multidirectional Combi-WR4 at Ligna in Germany. These machines have now been shortlisted in two categories of the 2014 UK Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) Awards for Excellence.

“We developed the trucks in response to feedback from customers for a cost effective smaller unit for handling lighter loads,” says Combilift MD Martin McVicar. “Incorporating the benefits of AC technology in its traction, pump and steering motors, the WR models have a lift height of 4.2m and a load capacity of 1,450kg. With pantograph and sideshift functions it is the only pedestrian reach stacker which can work in an aisle-width of 2.1m pallet to pallet. This offers a very safe way of handling pallets as well as longer loads in confined areas.”
 
The Combi-WR
Nominated in the safety category, the Combi-WR’s unique multi-position tiller rotates the rear wheel parallel to the chassis, enabling the operator to remain at the side of the unit – rather than between the rear of the truck and the racking – when placing and picking in the aisles. This eliminates crush risk and makes for safer operations all round, particularly in areas when other members of the workforce or the general public may be present.

This side-on position also avoids the need for the operator to look through the mast to see where the load is in relation to the racking. Automatic cornering speed-reduction and adjustable speed according to the operator’s experience are further safety features.
 
The Combi-WR4
The design of the Combi-WR4 has caught the attention of the FLTA for inclusion in the ergonomics category shortlist. The truck’s unique multi-position tiller, electronic power steering and precise fingertip controls make it easy and effortless to operate, so reducing leaning, reaching, bending and general manual strain.

Push button control rotates the rear wheel parallel to the chassis. A subsequent push of the button repositions the wheel parallel to the tiller. Moving sideways in narrow aisles with the tiller arm facing the direction of travel is most beneficial for the operator’s line of vision when carrying long loads. Dual front wheels also allow smooth 90° right-angle stacking.