Yale has dedicated machines for the paper industry

Yale is actively chasing the growing paper industry with a number of truck adaptations specifically for the sector.

The forklift maker notes that paper applications are changing. According to Josie Burrell, industry solutions group manager for Yale, "Recycling is growing, and the demand for quality and specialist paper is also on the increase. By understanding the industry trends, we are able to better cater for the materials handling requirements of our customers.

"Around 20% of paper costs are attributed to handling and shipping - this is a huge proportion; therefore, it is imperative that our clients can trust the solutions we provide."

Among the machines currently deployed among paper customers is the Yale Veracitor VX, with automated flushing of debris from the engine compartment, which keeps the vehicle running for longer between clean-outs. Combi-Cooler radiators cool both engine coolant and transmission oil, and a load weight display provides real-time feedback to the operator of the load weight being lifted.

Also featured is an underbody belly pan to prevent material entering the engine area and causing clogging and overheating, while drive-axle rubber guards minimise debris falling between the mast and the chassis. Protective elements include a radiator screen, powertrain protection, a sealed chassis, exhaust wraps, as well as tilt and steer cylinders being shielded by ballistic nylon covers.

For extreme operating applications, Yale has developed the GDP50VX Counterbalance 'Cool Truck' package. Designed to overcome the difficult environments found in the paper supply chain, the Cool Truck features a hydraulic fan with a self-cleaning reversing function, a fully enclosed frame to minimise the volume of paper debris drawn into the engine compartment, and high temperature hydraulic oil.

"When operating standard forklift trucks in the paper industry, the radiators can easily get clogged up, causing unnecessary downtime," says Burrell. "This is not only frustrating; it costs businesses money in lost production and can lead to other problems. This is where our clever Combi-Cooler radiator comes into its own, with the fan changing direction for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to blow out any unwanted dust and debris."