Press Release

Ref: PRCSH69
Date: 11 Nov 2013

New hybrid reach stacker in the running for two FLTA awards

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A new hybrid powered container handling reach stacker distributed by Cooper SH is in the running for two prestigious industry awards.

The Konecranes reach stacker, which was launched earlier this year, has been shortlisted in both the Environment and Innovation categories at the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) Awards for Excellence 2014.

Tony Rooney, Director of Cooper SH expressed his delight that this new technology has impressed the judging panel and has been put through to the voting phase for the awards. "It is an honour that the hybrid reach stacker has been put forward in both Environment and Innovation categories as these are the two aspects that are at the core of this new technology.

"From a technical perspective, whilst hybrid technology is not new, to achieve electrification on such a large scale is a huge step forward and is arguably the most significant introduction in mobile container handling equipment since the reach stacker was first introduced over 30 years ago."

The machine is believed to be the largest ever electrified handling machine using a counter-balanced principle. With a lift capacity of 45 tonne the machine weighs-in, fully laden, at over 120 tonnes. The new concept incorporates a diesel-electric driveline, an electrified hydraulic lifting system and a super capacitor based regenerative system thatstores energy for ensuing traction and lifting needs.

In addition, a constant-speed engine eliminates operator variances which more than halves fuel consumption with consequential savings in carbon emissions.

"Conventional machines can burn anything from 20 to 26 litres per hour so now that can be reduced to 8 to 10 litres per hour, cost and environmental benefits will be huge," Tony explained.

It is estimated that the savings can amount to over £220 000 in fuel alone which is equivalent to 70% of the cost of a new machine.

"It would have been great if the machine could actually pay for its total capital investment but paying for 70% of a conventional machine with the saving the technology makes, is impressive enough and we are pleased the FLTA judging panel has recognised this," added Tony.

The FLTA 2014 Awards will be held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on 1st February 2014.

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Editor's Notes

Cooper Specialised Handling Ltd

Cooper SH is the UK's sole national distributor of Konecranes Lift trucks and Mantsinen operating across the UK and Republic of Ireland. Independently owned, the company offers total solutions for forklifts from 6 to 60 metric tonnes and a complete range of hydraulic cranes for solid and bulk handling. It provides strong products and a reliable service to customers who operate in the toughest applications across freight, ports, inter-modal terminals and other heavy lifting industries.

Media contact: 

David Cooper

Managing Director

Cooper SH Limited
Holly Farm Business Park
Honiley
Kenilworth
Warwickshire
CV8 1NP
United Kingdom

Tel: 01926 484633
email:david@coopersh.com

W:www.coopersh.com