Jungheinrich unveils robust IC-powered forklifts

The DFG/TFG 316-320 and DFG/TFG 425-435 models are designed to handle payloads of up to 3,500kg with maximum stacking height of 7.5m. Kubota engines manufactured at the company's Moosburg factory in Bavaria power the trucks. "These industrial engines, tried and tested around the world in heavy-duty construction machinery, already deliver high torque at low revs," says Marek Scheithauer, head of product management of IC powered counterbalanced trucks at Jungheinrich. These robust trucks are said to be ideally suited to extreme, tough operations in different climate zones. The counterweight on the new stacker is an integral part of the load-bearing chassis, while the steering axle was integrated in the counterweight. "The centre of gravity is not only extremely low, but also optimally positioned between the axles," says Scheithauer. This is claimed to lend the forklift truck outstanding stability and makes additional, electronic stabilisers redundant. Scheithauer adds: "This translates into high dynamic driving stability and ensures outstandingly good safety characteristics, both when stationary and on the move." The proprietary Jungheinrich transmission shaft in the new torque converter features an integrated non-wear wet multi-disc brake. Scheithauer again: "Compared with standard drum brakes, wet multi-disc brakes mean almost no service costs." Moreover, thanks to the encapsulated design, harsh external conditions are designed not to diminish the performance of the brakes. The high-performance cooling system functions fully even in very high ambient temperatures. The aluminium radiator is a single unit and this is said to make the new torque converters suitable for operations in very hot settings and protect them from dust and other harmful environmental factors. Scheithauer adds: "Even in the case of carrying out a service, we can still guarantee high stacker availability and minimise the interruption of internal production and logistics work flows." The combination of the L-shaped engine bonnet that can be tilted almost 90-degrees and the quick-release side panels is claimed to provide excellent access to the engine compartment. The company concludes: "The slim steering column offers greater leg room compared with industrial trucks fitted with run of the mill steering columns. The truck operator can easily adjust the comfortable seat to his or her needs and reap the benefits of healthy and fatigue-free stacker operation. "Lots of organisational aids, like beaker holder and clip pad, allow the operator to maintain a well-ordered, uncluttered workstation." The new model ranges feature an electric parking brake as standard, doing away with the previous handbrake lever in the cab. The operator simply presses a button to activate the brake. A new lifting mast design ensures improved view of the payload, forks and general working area.