Plant Engineering editor Bob Vavra, Yale representative Julia Boisvert and CFE Media publisher Jim Langhenry

Two NACCO Materials Handling Group products have picked up major accolades in the Plant Engineering Product of the Year awards.

Yale Materials Handling Corporation won the 2013 Gold Product of the Year award for its MO25 multi-level order selector, while Hyster's B60-80Z end rider lift truck picked up a silver award.

"The MO25 lift truck was a major introduction for us last year, and end-users continue to be thrilled by the functionality and productivity that the product delivers," says Brett Schemerhorn, vice president of marketing for Yale. "The multi-level order selector can increase inventory pick areas by up to 400% without increasing the size of the facility."

Meanwhile, the Hyster B60-80Z end rider series addresses a multitude of tough operating conditions and tackles some of the industry's most demanding applications, Schemerhorn adds.

"Engineered for heavy-duty applications in a range of operating conditions, the B60-80Z series 6,000 lb. (2,721.55 kg) and 8,000 lb. (3,628.74 kg) electric end rider pallet trucks provide the confidence to get the job done," he explains. They feature an enhanced fork frame and heavy-duty linkage for greater strength and steadier load handling. To maximise durability, the forks are reinforced with 25% more steel, while fork tips are specifically designed for smooth pallet entry.

The bronze award went to Toyota Industrial Equipment Mfg. Inc for its 8-Series forklift range. The 8-Series features Toyota's System of Active Stability monitor and control system and innovative ergonomic design.

In its 26th year, the Plant Engineering Product of the Year award competition asks readers to select the outstanding new products that help them do their jobs smarter, safer, more efficiently and more productively.