Selection, Purchase & Maintenance of Forklifts

Feb 26, 2021

Selecting the Right Forklift: A Key Investment Decision

Forklifts are essential in materials handling, and choosing the most productive, cost-effective forklift requires specialised insight. Factors such as environment, application, power source, and long-term cost impact should be considered. Jozua Coetzee, Business Development Manager at Eazi Access, stresses the importance of choosing a forklift suited to the specific job and environment, whether the power source is diesel, LPG, natural gas, lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries, or even hydrogen. Eazi Access’s Linde Material Handling range includes 77 series with 382 model variants and around 10,000 equipment options, offering tailored solutions for warehousing, order picking, heavy-duty applications, and explosion-proof environments.

Rent or Purchase?
Coetzee advises that light-use forklifts may be better purchased, as they have a longer lifespan. However, if flexibility is needed, renting may be ideal. JCB rough terrain forklifts (RTFL) in Eazi Access’s rental range offer options with various capacities, transmission types, and attachments. The JCB RTFL 930, RTFL 940-4, and RTFL 950-4 have lift capacities of 3000, 4000, and 5000 kg respectively, suited for re-handling applications from docks to forestry.

Fork Maintenance Essentials
Fork attachments wear out over time, reducing load capacity and safety. Heinrich Frederick, Pretoria branch manager at Criterion Equipment, advises regular inspections for abrasion, wear, or deformation. Just 10% wear can reduce load capacity by 20%, necessitating replacement. Key inspection tools include a measuring card for thickness, a fork calliper for angle and thickness, and a Vernier calliper.

Key Tips:

** • Ensure proper fit and wait for custom manufacturing if needed.**
** • Inspect forks frequently for wear, cracks, and angle limits (93° outwards, 87° inwards).**
** • Latches** attaching forks to the carriage must be secure to avoid movement while operating.

Conclusion

Selecting and maintaining the right forklift can be a valuable investment. Whether through purchasing or renting, working with companies like Eazi Access can ensure equipment is aligned with international safety standards and maintained by qualified technicians.