Capital Equipment News January 2018

MATERIALS HANDLING

More features For increased versatility, different machine hitches are offered for all models in the new generation of Liebherr telescopic handler models ex-works. In addition to the Liebherr quick coupler, several other quick couplers compatible with machine hitches from other OEMs, including Claas, Manitou, Kramer, JCB and Volvo, are also available. “This means that customers can also use their existing tool attachments from other manufacturers on the Liebherr telescopic handlers,” says Längle. In line with today’s machine designs where feedback from customers informs the design process, Liebherr says applica- tion-specific user requirements were used as crucial design cri- teria for its new generation of telehandlers. Greater visibility, as well as intuitive and convenient operation, were particularly of special focus during the design process. “The machines’ de- sign guarantees ideal visibility of the load to the front, as well as to the side and the rear. This helps with high machine pro- ductivity and ensures optimum safety,” says Längle. Visibility is particularly achieved through the very low linkage point of the telescopic boom and by the edges, which slope out- wards, and therefore the engine bonnet which follows the line of sight. With an all-round windscreen and the narrow internal ROPS/FOPS guard which is adapted to the line of sight, the cab contributes to providing the best view of the load. Based on Liebherr’s understanding that a comfortable oper- ator is a productive one, several design aspects pay attention to intuitive operation, comfort and ergonomics. “The 5-in-1 joystick installed in the value models, or the multifunctional joystick integrated into the S models, enables all essential op- erating functions to be carried out using single-arm operation to allow the driver to focus on the steering wheel at all times,” says Längle, adding that this significantly contributes to effi- cient and safe working. These features were recently recognised when the new T46-7 model was awarded two design prizes even before its official market launch. The German Design Council named the model as the winner of the renowned “German Design Award 2018” in the transportation category, especially for its ideal visibility and dynamic appearance. It also won the “Red Dot Product Design Award 2017”. Meanwhile, a wide range of options allows the new tele- scopic handlers to be configured for specific applications. For example, Liebherr offers ex-works a reversible fan for cleaning the radiator and additional safety guards or covers for the travel drive and main frame. This is complemented by several other features such as the automatic pressure relief of the working hydraulics to make replacing tool attachments simple; an ad- ditional hydraulic circuit for actuating further functions on the boom head; as well as a separate control option for the hydrau- lic oil flow rate in the working hydraulics. Strategic partnership Liebherr also entered into strategic sales partnership to further increase its telehandler market reach. In March 2015, Liebherr entered into an OEM partnership with the Claas Group. The collaboration entails the development, production and supply of significant quantities of telescopic handlers through the Claas distribution network. Längle says the agreement with Claas expands the OEM’s sales potential, especially into the agricultural sector, in addi- tion to its traditional target segments of the construction sector. “The first telehandlers of the new generation will be delivered to Claas in January 2018,” concludes Längle. b

Liebherr will offer telescopic handlers in emission Stage IIIa for markets that are barely regulated, or are not regulated at all, staggered over time.

Available in two model lines, the new range of Liebherr’s telescopic handlers will offer lifting heights from 6m to 10 m.

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