The new Cascade clamp moves a bale of recycled material.

Forklift attachments maker Cascade Corp has designed improved clamps suitable for forklifts typically operating in seaports, paper-producing mills and warehouses.

The new clamps target applications requiring capacities of about 14,000-16,000 lb. (6,300-7,200 kg).

For about a year, Cascade worked closely with customers to field-test the new product designs versus previous comparable Cascade equipment. Cascade conducted trials involving pulp and recycling applications in the US, Portugal, Germany and Sweden, according to Brad Vandehey, product manager.

The new Cascade model 120G and 140G bale clamps entered the US commercial market in June. The 140G series replaces 140D models, and the 120G series bridges a gap between the 140G and smaller models in the product line.

Fairview-based Cascade says the clamps can hold baled synthetic textiles, hay and recycled items including clothing and paper and pulp products.

Hardened wear strips protect the frame and arms from ground contact. A bumper is standard on recycling clamp models and optional on pulp bale models.

The clamps have full-width UHMW bearings, integrated hydraulics and an optional pin-less articulating arm.

Initially, Cascade manufactures the clamps at plants in Springfield, Ohio and Verona, Italy.