Kalmar Industries, part of Cargotec Corporation, continues to reduce the environmental impact and address the total lifetime cost of its equipment with the launch of its ECF50-90 series electric forklift featuring the latest in AC power technology. Every aspect of the new machine, totally free of fossil fuels, has been examined to produce one of the world’s most productive, cost-effective and environmentally friendly lifting solutions. This all-electric forklift series, which is capable of handling loads from 5 to 9 tones, joins Kalmar’s already long list of Pro Future solutions, a new concept encompassing all of its environmentally friendly equipment.
The Kalmar ECF50-90 uses two compact AC traction motors, the speed of which can be controlled individually. An electronic control system produces excellent driving characteristics, with rapid response to the driver’s actions and smooth transitions when accelerating, decelerating, starting and stopping. Using new AC technology has a number of advantages. The motors and pumps are more responsive, producing improved driveability. There are fewer mechanical parts and no carbon brushes or contactors for directional switching or the regenerative systems, further reducing the need for maintenance and replacement parts. Better control systems mean operators gain economic efficiency. Overall, AC contributes to enhanced productivity and a longer battery life while also reducing energy consumption and the need for maintenance.
The vehicle uses the latest technology to maximize battery power and usage, extend intervals between charges and produce significant improvements in electricity consumption. Being electrically powered, there are no harmful emissions at the point of use, and the machine’s efficiency means it uses less electricity and thereby reduces the demand for power generation. Regenerative systems enable the battery charge to be replenished when the vehicle is decelerating and when braking. The new machine is quieter, reducing noise pollution and providing a better work environment for the driver. Components have been carefully placed to optimize heat dissipation and for easy access. The battery is located behind the cab, where it can be fixed or, optionally, it can slide out or be removed using fork pockets.
The Kalmar Control System (KCS), a well-proven innovation from Kalmar Industries, displays operational, diagnostic and alarm information via a steering wheel panel and can be used to customize truck functions. The KCS also features a CAN-bus interface using the international CAN-open standard, using less wiring and providing more precise diagnostic measurements. Kalmar is well-known for the durability and reliability of its products, and the ECF50-90 series is no exception. The new machine uses an ergonomically-designed cab with improved visibility, providing an improved working environment carefully planned to raise the levels of performance.
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