Attention to detail - Raymond's models

Forklift manufacturer Raymond Corp has released scale models of two of its products. It is offering scale versions of its 7400 reach-fork truck and its 8400 pallet truck.

The offerings are the first die-cast scale models from Greene-based Raymond.

Each model is replicated on a one-12th scale and features moving parts.

"Great care was taken to ensure the models would represent the real lift trucks in thorough detail," says Richard Baker, Raymond manager of marketing communications.

The working parts on the model 7400 include a three-stage mast and pantograph mechanism and a pivoting door that opens to reveal the motor.

The model 8400 has a swiveling handle and drive unit and a rotating handle. Wheels turn, and caster wheels swivel. Removing the cover displays the motor compartment.

Vaccaro Design LLC of West Chester, Pennsylvania manufactured the scale models.

Meanwhile, European manufacturer TVH has launched a model forklift website.

The site boasts over 200 scale models for sale and has 598 models on display from Caterpillar to Ghel and Hyster to Yale. The collection of forklift scale models belongs to the Thermote and Vanhalst families, the founders of TVH Group.

The site has had almost 10,000 hits since January this year.

Buyers can find scale models of other materials handling equipment including telescopic forklifts, aerial platforms, earth-moving machinery, hand pallet trucks and compact loaders.

A TVH spokesperson says the size of the collection is special. "The number of brands, the number of models and the fact that all these models are actually in our possession makes the collection unique".

To view the collection, visit the website.