The new 12 tonne capacity forklift from Hyster is reducing cost and improving productivity in the paper supply chain, and is helping to keep warehouse environments clean.

"With a nominal capacity of 12,000kg at 600mm load centre, the new Hyster® H12XM-6 provides the strength and performance essential for paper handling operations where several large paper reels are handled at once by an attachment," says Matthew Allen of Hyster Europe, explaining that handling multiple reels is essential in many Paper Handling Operations, for example where ships must be offloaded quickly.

"The tough new Hyster H12XM-6 was designed for high duty cycles and extreme operating conditions such as exposed quaysides at ports and 24hr operations," says Matthew. "But, it also provides exceptional fuel savings, lowers the cost of operation and ensures a cleaner working environment."

The H12XM-6 is reported to offer up to 17% fuel savings compared to the previous generation and is Tier 4i / Stage IIIB compliant with low exhaust emissions. Featuring the 4.5 litre Cummins QSB4.5 diesel engine, it also has cooling on demand, RPM management and "Load Sensing Hydraulics" which are demand sensitive resulting in less waste, lower noise, reduced operating temperatures and greater fuel efficiency.

"Easily integrated with the latest right paper roll attachments, the Hyster H12XM-6 excels where rolls are unloaded from a ship or unloading area and transported to the marshalling area ready to be put away by smaller forklifts in the paper warehouse," says Matthew.

The robust frame and wide drive axle ensure excellent side stability and long-term durability when handling loads at full capacity such as tissue, board, Kraft liner, news print and magazine products reels with varying diameter, height and weight. Rolls can measure from 500mm to 4.5m in height and weigh between 500kg and 6.5 tonnes.

"Different grades of paper require different clamping pressures," says Matthew, explaining that they are prone to damage due to the human factor in typically highly intense operating conditions. "Implementing the Hyster Tracker fleet management system can increase driver accountability in these operations and significantly reduce stock and equipment damage."

The new H12XM-6 suits a range of front end attachments including 180/360 degree rotation, single and split arm clamps and with 'Load Sensing Hydraulics' only pumps oil, when hydraulic operation is required. It provides class leading lifting speeds achieving impressive averages between 0.28m/s and 0.51m/s without loss of capacity up to and including 6200mm.

Like all heavy capacity Hyster trucks, there is an exceptionally durable driveline, oil immersed 'wet disc' brakes and advanced smooth auto-shift transmission system, featuring protective lock-out on forward-reverse shifting, and there are engine and transmission protection systems to ensure reliable operation.

For the driver, the Hyster "Vista" cab offers an outstanding range of standard ergonomic features and delivers excellent all-round visibility, to ensure ease of operation.

Various options are available including a Tier 3 / Stage IIIA option for un-regulated regions outside the EU and North America.