Limpopo-based copper miner Palabora Mining Company (PMC), has taken delivery of a new heavy-duty TCM 13.5 t tyre handler forklift truck, designed for demanding materials handling tasks on mines, from equipment supplier Criterion Equipment – a wholly owned subsidiary of Invicta Holdings Limited.

Typical applications of this robust machine, which was delivered in the beginning of the year, include the removal and fitment of large loader and dump truck tyres.

“This new tyre handler forklift truck enhances the services of the fleet of forklift trucks supplied to PMC last year, which is used to lift, carry and position raw materials and end products,” says Criterion Equipment MD Brenton Kemp.

“These tough machines have been modified by Criterion Equipment in accordance with pristine TCM brand standards, to meet exact handling requirements at the mine and to ensure safe operation.”

Special modifications of the new FD-135-3 tyre handler include the AMS 2000 management system – with a driver identification tag and bump sensor alert. A standard lock-out switch also cuts off all power supplies, an important safety feature when people are working on the machine. Other modifications include a jump-start receptacle and anticorrosion paint for enhanced protection in arduous conditions.

He notes that further features include an epoxy seal on electrical connections for greater protection, belly plates and safety doors. Light-emitting diode lights on the instrument panel provide excellent visibility and provide longer service life than standard bulbs.

“This forklift truck has a hydraulic scale, with a clear display, that enables the operator to track and download the weight of a specific load, or to calculate the total weight of several loads. As a result, there is accurate loading of trucks and reliable measurement of productivity is ensured,” states Kemp.

This machine can also be fitted with various attachments for different tasks, including rotating clamps, fork extension sleeves, hinged and long forks, as well as load grabs.

Less nitrogen oxides and particulate matter than standard engines makes the forklift truck, which complies with the latest emissions control regulations, environment friendly, Kemp highlights.

He points out that these diesel engines, with a turbocharger and intercooler, provide a high rated output and an increased torque, to ensure greater productivity. The rated speed of 2 000 rotations a minute enhances the durability of this machine.

A large capacity 250 ℓ fuel tank ensures extended working hours, which significantly improves operating efficiency.

Another important feature is low noise levels – 85 dB at the operator’s ear, according to International Organisation for Standardisation specifications.

TCM machines also offer quick and efficient lifting, and forward and upward visibility for the operator, notes Kemp, adding that automatic transmission provides reliable travel control facilitated by a low-effort single electronic control lever. A fully hydraulic power brake system with a master cylinder ensures reliable braking response and a stable braking force.

“For enhanced safety, the parking brake can be turned on and off, by simply pressing a switch. When the engine is shut off, the parking brake is automatically applied – this prevents the truck from accidentally being left unattended without the parking brake set,” he states.

Criterion Equipment, the exclusive distributor in Southern Africa of TCM forklifts and reach trucks, provides a maintenance and repair service to ensure increased performance, enhanced safety, low maintenance and extended service life of every machine delivered to PMC.