Railway point manufacturer chooses Mitsubishi trucks to drive upgraded operations
1 min read
When Balfour Beatty Rail swapped its century-old foundry for a new facility at South Queensferry, Scotland, the company was keen to modernise every aspect of its operation, including its forklift truck fleet.
The railway crossing point manufacturer approached long-term supplier Douglas Gillespie Plant (DGP), a Mitsubishi dealer. Priorities were equipment reliability and ergonomics, and DGP recommended three 2-tonne models, a 4-tonne truck and a 5-tonne version – all diesel powered. The trucks can be used indoors and out, and each has been fitted with a weatherproof cabin.
The three smaller trucks work in stores, the pattern shop and the maintenance department. To assist the operator while working on pallet movements in the racking, a side shift attachment was fitted to the truck used in the stores area.
The two largest trucks support activities in the foundry areas. The 4-tonne truck is based in the moulding section, while the 5-tonne model moves castings.
The trucks are fitted with an enhanced anti-clogging cooling system to ensure optimal engine temperature for a long life and low maintenance costs. High air intakes, incorporated into the overhead guard, also contribute to avoiding unnecessary downtime.
Alasdair McDonald from Balfour Beatty is delighted with the new fleet: "It's performed very well – especially when compared to our previous trucks. I have been particularly impressed with the increased reliability and minimal downtime we've seen since swapping over. What's more, our drivers are very happy with the new trucks. It's definitely made a difference to their working environment."
