Whatever the company, from the smallest enterprise to the largest chemical plant, the most commonly used ‘truck’ in logistics warehouses is the hand pallet truck.
History of lifting machines
They first appeared at the end of the 19th century, during the Industrial Revolution. On February 12th 1867, the first portable, rough and elementary lift was registered (see picture).
20 years later, in 1887, the first fixed-axle stacker capable of raising its platform about an inch off the ground was born, and it was suitable for small movements only (back and forth).
In 1909, a new version of the same was made of steel that guaranteed minimal lifting and moving.
These early forklifts had no forks but were equipped with platforms and were therefore used for goods only.
In 1913, the first electrically powered crane on wheels suitable for use by a single workman, was patented.
It was around 1918 that pallet trucks began to resemble the forklifts we know today, and progressively since then, they have evolved into more and more complex models.
The hydraulic pallet truck remained blocked by patents and legal problems until November 7th 1939 when Sr George Raymond and Bill House ‘officially invented’ the hand pallet truck we know today.
Nowadays
Transpallets (and other manual machines in general) represent the ideal non-motorised solutions for handling, moving, lifting and some of the production functions in a practical, safe and simple way, as they do not require specific training and a licence (however personnel must always be adequately trained); furthermore, purchase and maintenance costs are convenient.
Outstanding working tools, they are suitable for all operators who need to lift small weights to reasonable heights; comfortable, fast-use, easily transportable and always ready for usage.
They are suitable for short distances and can be fitted with an additional brake to increase safety. Depending on the environmental conditions in which they are intended, there are models in galvanised or stainless-steel versions (typical of the food or chemical sector for humid and/or corrosive environments).
Manual machines
We identify in this category, three types of machines.
First is the hand pallet trucks. It can be simple, weighing or scissor-lift type and with different capacities and dimensions, for specific cargo weights and/or fork lengths.
There are versions with 2 or 4 rollers; while models with 2 rollers are suitable for particularly smooth and even surfaces, those with 4 rollers provide greater stability on rough surfaces.
On the other hand, manual stackers with tiller are the ideal solution for loading and unloading pallets, for handling goods on shelves and in aisles of storages and retrieval facilities at low heights. The stackers offer great versatility and help limit repetitive bending and stretching by the operator.
They can be equipped with standard and/or adjustable forks, platform, loading plates, or be used to lift reels, or turning drums using special equipment.
Last, but not least, manual hydraulic cranes move heavy and difficult-to-access cargos by means of a hydraulic lifting mechanism. The lifting arm may be fixed or adjustable (with extension), and the hooks generally rotatable through 360°.
The crane can be fixed or fitted with castor wheels that allow it either to lift or to move heavy cargos; or it can be installed on light vehicles (pick-ups and vans).
No matter what type, model or brand your manual machine is, EXCEN can convert and certify it according to the ATEX Standard, ensuring its suitability for use in classified areas as potentially explosive.
Alternatively, you can choose from our wide range of manual machines with various options, including those with capacities up to 3 tons, stainless steel frame and models with pantograph lift, all suitable for use in classified areas with presence of Group IIA/IIB gases and combustible dusts.
On request we can supply models suitable for classified areas with the presence of Group IIC gases (hydrogen and acetylene).
Special versions suitable for handling drums or products with special dimensions, on demand.
Sources
Photo from Popular Science – December 1918:
"This New Truck Gets Under The Load And Lifts It" (Scan by Google Books). Popular Science Monthly. Vol. 93, no. 6. Modern Publishing Company (Bonnier Corporation). December 1918. p. 54. ISSN 0161-7370. Retrieved
Comments