Choosing the right electric forklift for a food processing operation requires careful consideration. Materials handling in the food industry presents its own set of challenges. One type of battery-powered forklift may not suit every type of operation.
Here are some questions to help when selecting an electric lift truck to suit your operation.
Which forklifts are suited to clean or hygienic food processing environments?
Arguably the most important question when choosing a forklift for your food processing operation: can it be used in a clean and hygienic facility? Cleanliness and hygiene are imperative in any food processing operation, from handling the raw ingredients to moving the finished product.
One of the big risks in food processing operations is contamination, which could lead to product recalls and could have severe consequences. Any materials handling equipment used in a food manufacturing operation could present the risk of contamination, through things like acid fumes or spills from lead acid batteries, or the lubricants used, for example.
One solution is to use lithium-ion forklifts, such as the Yale MXLG electric lift trucks. These models feature a lithium-ion battery which doesn't produce any harmful exhaust emissions during operation, helping to reduce the contamination risk. All while contributing to minimising your operation's environmental impact.
Your local Yale dealer can also advise about selecting food-grade lubricants for forklift trucks, which can also help to lower your risk of contamination.
With an IPX4 waterproof rating, the Yale MXLG series of forklift trucks, can also be used to operate in wet food processing conditions. That includes wet production areas, or when transporting goods or ingredients in outdoor areas. This level of protection may also be helpful if your material handling equipment requires washdown packages. For environments with a high risk of bacteria spreading, for example.
How versatile is the electric forklift for different food processing operation tasks?
Electric forklifts are the go-to for many food processing operations, often because they are operating indoors for the majority of the time. However, many operations also include an outdoor component. Electric forklifts might be required to unload raw ingredients lorries outdoors, for example. Choosing multipurpose equipment that is reliable for both indoor and outdoor operation is therefore imperative. The proven and tested structural design of the Yale MXLG electric forklift series is ideal for “in/out” operations, where there are fewer space concerns.
This also helps operations to streamline their forklift fleet. There is no need to have a dedicated outdoor forklift and indoor electric forklift truck. With the Yale MXLG electric forklift series, the same lift truck can operate efficiently in both environments.
Every food processing application is unique, so some may include tasks that require specialist attachments. Sometimes to handle uniquely shaped or fragile loads. Ask a Yale dealer about special attachments and specially engineered add-ons that can be fitted to Yale MXLG electric forklifts.
Can this forklift keep up with the demands of my food production line?
The Yale MXLG electric forklift series is designed to deliver reliability and durability. It has undergone intensive environmental testing during the design process to enable this.
Another important way to keep electric lift trucks operating is opportunity battery charging. The lithium-ion batteries of Yale MXLG electric forklift trucks can be topped up with charge quickly during breaks, or between shift handovers. This helps to minimise downtime for battery charging, while also removing battery fumes and acid from clean environments..
Simple, innovative side charging also minimises the need to open the battery compartment, helping operations remain seamless and uninterrupted.
Does the forklift provide the ergonomic features my operators need?
Why is ergonomic design so important in a forklift truck? When lift truck operators are comfortable and feel well equipped to confidently carry out their tasks, they are often more productive and efficient.
Choosing an ergonomically designed forklift, such as a model from the Yale ERP2.0-7.0MXLG electric forklift series, can help improve the driving experience for your operators. These lithium-ion powered electric forklifts feature a spacious cabin, multiple seat options, and a smooth steering system. The wide view mast featured on the Yale MXLG electric lift trucks also provides good forward visibility through the mast to help operators move goods confidently.
The large tyre size and high ground clearance featured on the Yale MXLG forklifts help equip operations for use outdoors, and they also help provide a comfortable ride, on uneven ground. What’s more, the truck's drive train is designed to operate quietly, further contributing to a pleasant working environment for the operator.
What forklift capacity do I need for my food processing operation?
It is important to match the right lift capacity to your operation and the tasks the truck will be doing.
If your load sizes fluctuate, always select based on the highest capacity needed. Different models can support the same load weights but be designed with different sizes. Pay attention to the footprint of the truck when selecting the right option. This is where it is best to seek advice from an expert, such as a Yale dealer.
Loads in food processing can range from smaller pallets of finished items to larger loads of raw materials. The Yale MXLG electric forklift truck series ranges from 2.0 tonne capacity options, right up to 7.0 tonne lift capacity. This makes it simple to select a model that caters to the individual needs of your food processing operations.
What after‑sales support and maintenance can I expect from the lift truck supplier?
The global network of local, entrepreneurial, Yale dealers provides an excellent level of service and supports parts and maintenance for all Yale lift trucks.
With excellent industry-specific expertise, combined with local market knowledge, they are fully committed to helping match the right solutions to your food processing operation’s materials handling needs.
Being strategically located also means they can offer a responsive and reliable service to keep operations running smoothly. They understand that one of the most important factors for any food processing application is to minimise downtime as much as possible.
Find your local Yale Dealer
Contact your local Yale dealer to identify the right electric forklift choice for your food processing operation. Ask about Yale MXLG lift trucks.
