The company recently purchased a new Hyster H8XM6 specially equipped with a double block clamp to remove blocks from the production line, transport them to the yard and stack them up to five high. The site in Ashburton, Devon, is Glendinning’s main hub and the primary quarry operation.
“We distribute more than 100,000 concrete blocks a week from our site in Ashburton,” said Richard Webb, operations manager at Glendinning in the South West of England. “Every single block is handled by just two principal lift trucks, so reliability is critical.
“We have a semi-automated production facility with packs of mostly 100mm concrete blocks leaving the building on a conveyor. We have two lift trucks that must always be available to keep up with production and also load 20-25 vehicles each day.”
Glendinning reports that it can fully load lorries using the lift truck with double block handler attachment in less than 5 minutes, giving fast transport turnaround times. The company prides itself on quality service and fast, efficient response to customers in the construction industry, and Hyster lift trucks help support this. In a year, Glendinning can produce and distribute up to 7.5m building blocks to customers.
“We made sure that we involved our drivers in the purchase decision, so they trialled numerous lift trucks,” continued Webb, explaining that the drivers discounted most brands after just a few minutes. “One important factor was the hydraulic operation. With fingertip controls for precise and effortless control of the attachment and load, this is made so easy for drivers with the Hyster lift truck.”
“We hear from our operators all the time that the H8XM6 is a pleasure to drive and that it is quiet and comfortable for an entire shift,” he said, adding that whatever the weather, the cab also gives drivers a protected environment that aids maximum productivity.
Visibility was also a key consideration, not only of the load through the mast and over the double block attachment, but all around. To give greater driver awareness in the busy yard, the fully trained drivers also have the option to glance at reverse camera screens. This contributes to additional visibility of pedestrians, moving vehicles and infrastructure and helps to minimise damage to the products, buildings and other vehicles.