12 January 2016

Warehouse square meters are expensive. In logistics and materials handling, where margins are often small, it is particularly important to utilize space optimally and the benefit of a compact and manoeuvrable forklift truck is indispensable. However, warehouse managers often face a dilemma: do we choose manoeuvrability, or do we buy the larger yet more powerful forklift?

Of course, manufacturers are constantly looking to combine these two opposing requirements (agility vs. strength) when it comes to materials handling. Although factors like design, construction and dimensions of a forklift can make a difference, it is also the inclusion of ingenious solutions that contribute to maximum manoeuvrability and therefore to optimal warehouse space utilization. Smart solutions also help to increase productivity even further and dual drive is a good example.

Dual drive

In a double drive system, also known as dual drive, the front axle of the forklift truck is equipped with two separate drive motors - one for each wheel. The drive motors can spin the wheels in the same direction. Whilst this is normal for most forklifts, the genius lies in the ability to spin the front wheels in opposite directions. This makes precision positioning and manoeuvring in tight warehouse spaces possible. Furthermore, the forklift does not push back when side turning which reduces the turning radius even further and minimizes the risk of damage.

Smooth and manoeuvrable

A four-wheel lift truck with dual drive capability practically becomes as manoeuvrable as a three-wheel forklift truck. It can virtually spin around its axis. When this is combined with a rear axle rotation of more than 100 degrees, you get very tight turns making it ideal for maximising warehouse space utilization. Driving also becomes even smoother and more enjoyable around the warehouse as the forklift assists the driver with automatic and progressive speed reduction in cornering situations.

Additional benefits

Further to those mentioned above, the dual drive concept provides some additional advantages. Firstly, the principle guarantees maximum traction of the forklift and therefore better safety when performing materials handling tasks. Secondly, a warehouse manager can also expect a longer tire life than on forklift trucks with a conventional drive, leading to cost savings. So, when looking at forklift trucks for optimising warehouse space utilization, the advantages of this concept have even more than tripled!

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