The launch of the Baumann EGX X-Plus Series is set to revolutionize the electric sideloader market by introducing a host of ground-breaking features and capabilities. With an impressive capacity of up to eight tonnes, this newly unveiled model not only surpasses all previous electric sideloaders but also outperforms conventional IC trucks in terms of durability, efficiency, safety, and ergonomics.
One of the standout features of the EGX X-Plus series is the award-winning Archimedes outreach system, which offers enhanced control and handling capabilities. Refined over the past five years, the system was initially developed for engine models, now standard for the first time on an electric.
Additionally, the inclusion of energy-efficient motors and load-sensing hydraulics further enhances the overall performance of the sideloader. Baumann has also introduced lithium-ion battery options, extended reach, and the innovative SafeLoad Assistance safety system, ensuring that operators can experience heightened confidence and a significant reduction in potential accidents.
Introducing the 2023 Baumann EGX Series
As leaders in the field, Baumann is the sole sideloader manufacturer to offer 120-volt technology, a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation. According to Tony Benson, Baumann's global marketing manager, the majority of customers now view electric power as the default option for safer long load handling. The EGX X-Plus series is the flagship electric model, ideally suited for multi-shift applications and equipped with cutting-edge technology that exceeds customer expectations.
Said Tony: “We are very excited by the extended runtimes, the re-distribution of weight, and the excellent levels of performance that our customers expect and demand. Whilst every application is different, we believe that as customers experience the additional run hours and higher levels of efficiency it will re-set the dial on what’s considered possible.”
The development of the SafeLoad Assistance system, which calculates the stability limit of the truck based on load weight, position, and other factors, provides operators with an advanced safety measure and instills a greater level of confidence.
When it comes to load handling equipment, understanding the load centre is crucial for ensuring operator safety. Baumann sideloaders are rated at 600mm or 700mm load centres, and their nominal capacities ensure safe operation within these parameters. To overcome the challenges of determining load centres, SafeLoad Assistance utilizes sensors in the truck chassis to monitor forces and calculate the relative tipping point of the truck accurately. This eliminates the need for operators to manually determine load centres, providing a more accurate and reliable guide for safe operations. Even the best trained and most capable operator cannot know the exact load centre in every case, perhaps until it is too late.
To overcome this issue, there are usually two options - using a larger capacity machine with a greater margin for error – this comes at a price as they are typically larger and more expensive. The second option implemented by major forklift manufacturers are measures to minimise risk.
Some use sensors at the top of the mast to detect any oscillation. Built in weigh scales determine the current lift height and the load weight, a central controller unit processes all the data and sends control signals to the mast’s drive motor to take specific counter-movements.
Others restrict the mast travel speed and angle to minimise sway and combine it with counter measures in the axle to reduce the tipping effects. Depending on your point of view, these give operators either a greater level of confidence, or a false sense of security.
In truth, none calculate the exact load centre. The load centre is a difficult concept to factor-in when working in the real world, so these systems are inelegant solutions to a difficult problem.
Baumann sideloaders are rated at 600mm or 700mm load centres. The nominal capacities mean that every load below the capacity can be safely carried when the load centre is respected.
“When we calculate the capacities of our trucks, like reach truck manufacturers, we also must factor-in the lifting height and outreach of the mast,” says sales director, Fabio Bernieri. “We also add body tilt, tilting carriages, pantographs and many additional factors into the equation.”
Despite the careful calculations, lifting a load at the fork tip or just not realising it exceeds the truck capacity can lead to a dangerous situation.
Adds Fabio: “For much of the past decade we have sought a solution and tried many different methods of determining how to help operators respect the load centre. Today, we have found the answer, with SafeLoad Assistance.”
SafeLoad Assistance uses sensors in the truck chassis to monitor the forces acting on the front and rear axles to determine the level of safety. Software in the cabin processes the forces and calculates the relative tipping point of the truck in relation to these forces.
It therefore by-passes the load centre problem and provides a more accurate and reliable guide to the safe operating level. A simple screen in the cabin shows the safety levels relative to the truck’s tipping point.
Operators can respond instantly to the warning to prevent dangerous situations occurring. Costly or harmful levels of damage to products, building infrastructure, machines, operators and pedestrians can be dramatically reduced.
Furthermore, the machine can measure the number of times the safe level is exceeded, and managers can assess operator capabilities and machine suitability.
“This is a game changer,” says managing director, Klaus Pirpamer. “A decade ago, this is something we could have only dreamed about. We have spent many years looking at this. The technology has evolved to allow us to find the right way to answer the load centre question, to give the accurate levels of safety the market has always desired.”
“The biggest challenge was finding the best way to take into account all the many variables at play,” adds technical director, Riccardo Bove. “We have tried different methods, some were extremely promising in accurately predicting the tipping point, but because it is a crucial safety measurement, the system must be infallible. That is perhaps the reason why no company has been able to solve the problem, until now.”
In addition to addressing load centre challenges, Baumann has implemented advancements in battery technology. The EGX X-Plus series utilizes lithium-ion batteries that offer long operating times and fast charging, resulting in efficient use of time and resources. The higher voltage, high-efficiency inverters, and redistributed chassis weight contribute to improved energy delivery to the motors and regenerative braking, surprising even Baumann's R&D team.
Baumann's success in developing highly respected and durable machines, initially for the timber industry, has helped grow the sideloader market and expand its applications. Sideloader usage has expanded across various sectors, including metals, concrete, plastics, energy, and manufacturing. The company has witnessed rapid market development in recent years, with electric power becoming increasingly embraced, resulting in record levels of orders and interest even during challenging times.
Overall, the Baumann EGX X-Plus Series sets a new standard in the electric sideloader market, delivering exceptional performance, safety, and efficiency. Baumann's commitment to innovation, operator safety, and customer satisfaction is evident in their continuous pursuit of cutting-edge technology and ground-breaking features like the Archimedes outreach system and the SafeLoad Assistance system. As the leader in the electric sideloader market, Baumann has once again proven why they are at the forefront of the industry.
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