2012 POY Finalists: Material Handling Systems

Finalists in the Material Handling Systems category for the Plant Engineering 2012 Product of the Year competition.

By Brittany Merchut November 19, 2012

Air caster

The LoadRunner is a material handler that makes it safe for one operator to easily move loads up to 2,500 lbs on air by utilizing an on-board compressed air caster to float a load across the floor. The self-contained unit features a low-profile deck with a 2–in. insertion height and throttle-style fingertip controls. The LoadRunner can assist or replace traditional equipment such as hand trucks, pallet jacks, and forklifts. The LoadRunner unit is emission free and designed for manufacturing, cleanrooms, assembly, testing, and warehouse applications requiring load movement.


AeroGo Inc.


Tire lift trucks

Cat Lift Truck’s 2EPC5000-2EP6500 Series is equipped with powerful ac technology, featuring improved energy efficiency, performance levels, and premium operator ergonomics. The model gives users the ability to run up to two shifts on one battery charge in most applications. The 2EPC5000-2EP6500 Series is equipped with sealed wet-disc brakes, electrical components, and connectors, providing added protection for harsh environments. The enhanced operator control features an adjustable compartment and standard fingertip hydraulic control with an optional enclosed cabin for protection in cold or wet environments. 


Cat Lift Trucks


Chain hoist

The Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist incorporates features that provide steady lifts for a variety of applications. The hoist is designed with a lightweight, durable cast aluminum housing and a powder-coasted finish for high visibility. The Lodestar Electric Chain Hoist has a capacity range of 1/8 to 3 tons and a wide range of speeds creating versatility. The control panel of the hoist allows for quick voltage change, access to terminal strips, and simple fuse installation. The adjustable limit switch prevents the load from over-travel and built-in overload protection helps prevent lifting of dangerous overloads.


Columbus McKinnon Corporation


Electric end rider

The Jungheinrich ECR 327/336 series of electric and rider pallet trucks, available in 6,000 lbs and 8,000 lbs, incorporate a variety of applications including order picking, long distance transporting, and loading/unloading trailers. Designed for durability, the ECR series features thick forks with a cast steel frame and sealed electrical components. The riders come equipped with standard features such as an electromagnetic brake, advanced regenerative braking, and adjustable casters. An optional corrosion protection package provides a galvanized coating on key components, resulting in durability in wet and corrosive environments.


Jungheinrich Warehouse Products


Eco-performance truck series

The Raymond 7000 Series Reach-Fork Trucks feature economic and ecological benefits, maximizing the number of pallets that can be moved per hour. This includes regenerative lowering that produces energy when the forks are lowered to increase battery shift life. The trucks were designed with an A-frame suspension with strong steel springs to provide a strong connection between the wheels and frame. They also feature an exclusive steered idler wheel, eliminating caster snap, and full-time traction and steering.


The Raymond Corporation


Material handling workhorses

The 8000 Series pallet trucks are material handling workhorses that stand up to tough applications while maximizing productivity and contributing to sustainable operations. The design of the pallet trucks features increases in material strength, enabling them to meet heavy-duty application needs. With PowerSteer, the trucks reduce steering efforts by up to 90%and provide speed-sensitive steering for smooth control at all speeds. The trucks offer a number of user-friendly features including roomy operator compartments, accessory bars, large storage totes, and additional caster options.


The Raymond Corporation


Galvanized pallet trucks

Toyota Material Handling’s three models of ac electric pallet truck line and walkie rider feature a Galvanized Chassis option to protect the vehicles while operating in wet environments. The three models include the 8-Series ac electric walkie pallet truck, 8-Series end-control walkie rider, and 7-Series electric walkie pallet truck. The chassis is designed for users who move materials in and out of cold storage facilities, the chemical, salt and brine industries, or in areas where frequent wash-down is required. Other features include heavy-duty Teflon coated Polytube bushings; galvanized metal frames; corrosion-resistant linkage pins; and galvanized lower linkages, pull rods, and connecting links.

Toyota Material Handling USA Inc.