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Introduction
This article will take an in-depth look at pallet stackers.
The article will bring more detail on topics such as:
Principle of Pallet Stackers
Types of Pallet Stackers
Applications and Advantages of Pallet Stackers
And Much More…
Chapter 1: Principle of Pallet Stackers
This chapter will discuss what pallets stackers are and their function.
What is a Pallet Stacker?
A pallet stacker is a machine designed to assist the user in lifting, moving and handling palletized materials with ease. A pallet itself is a flat and horizontal structure used to support goods in a sturdy fashion.
How Pallet Stackers Function
Manual pallet stackers make use of a hydraulic system to lift pallets around. Pallet stackers aid product distribution by allowing people to easily lift, handle, and carry palletized products. In effect, it combines the capability of a standard pallet jack with the convenience of a motorized lifting vehicle.
Many newer models are powered by electric batteries, allowing businesses to be more environmentally conscious, save money, and improve team efficiency. Pallet stackers are dragged behind the user like a cart or controlled on foot where operators would traditionally sit in a cage or high platform. The electrically powered pallet stackers make use of the hydraulic system in combination with motors for the mobility and lifting of the pallets.
Considerations when Selecting Pallet Stackers
Pallet stackers are common in operations that deal with high-volume or mid-sized commodities. Selecting a stacker means sifting through a plethora of options that include but are not limited to the following:
Whether or not you have qualified staff to facilitate all of the loading and unloading of merchandise from the machines.
Mini stackers, for example, are better suited to high-volume operations with lighter loads. Others include tilting capabilities to help load and unload bulkier or unpalletized products or choosing a straddle design to save space while hauling tall or stacked loads.
Weight of the goods: Stackers are often used for small to medium-sized goods weighing between 600 and 2000 kilos. This is combined with their ability to move quickly and precisely, allowing for a quick, safe pace and a steady walk, reducing employee effort and utilizing current technology to reduce workplace stress.
The work environment in which the pallet stacker will be operated. The pallet stackers are made to cater for different spaces, for example you might need to stack pallets at the height of 4 meters. This would require a pallet stacker that can cater for that height.
The size of your company, the number of pallets you need to move per day, whether or not you plan to expand in the future, and, of course, your budget. Before you start looking for an electric stacker, make sure you know what load the truck will have to carry and how long the battery will need to endure.
Chapter 2: Types of Pallet Stackers
Pallet stackers are divided into the following main categories: manual, semi electric, and electric.
Manual Pallet Stacker
Manual pallet stackers use a hydraulic system to lift pallets. The hydraulic system uses oil under pressure as the working medium to transfer power through the pressure inside the oil. When mechanical energy is dissipated using the handle, it is transferred to the hydraulic pump. In the hydraulic pump, oil is moved through a system of valves and hoses to lift the pallet forks.
The non-compressibility characteristic of oil is the one which is mainly at play to ensure goods on pallets would never overpower the machine as long as they are within the specified weight range. The other characteristic of oil that is applied in pallet stackers is lubricity, which is regarded as the ability of an oil to maintain a certain protective thick film on metal surfaces. Lubricity protects the manual pallet stacker from friction which can cause excessive wear and heat generation.
When operating the pallet stacker, you first insert the forks into the pallet and push the control lever on the handle down. Pushing the control lever down activates the hydraulic system. As soon as the user starts cranking the tiller which is also known as the handle, oil flows to the forks and pushes them up in response to the cranking of the handle. You pull the control lever up to drop the pallet down.
The non-compressibility characteristic of hydraulic oil is the one which is mainly at play to ensure goods on pallets would never overpower the machine as long as they are within the specified weight range. The other characteristic of oil that is applied in pallet stackers is lubricity, which is regarded as the ability of an oil to maintain a certain protective thick film on metal surfaces. Lubricity protects the manual pallet stacker from friction which can cause excessive wear and heat generation.
When operating the pallet stacker, you first insert the forks into the pallet and push the control lever on the handle down. Pushing the lever down activates the hydraulic system. As soon as the user starts cranking the tiller, known as the handle, oil flows to the forks and pushes them up in response to the cranking of the handle. Pulling the control lever on the handle releases the pressure in the hydraulic system and the forks slowly lower.
The pallet stacker has two wheels in its legs and two in the back that allow it to swivel and turn. The wheels of the machines are usually made from nylon, polyurethane or rubber material, which are used because they enable smooth movement, have a good load capacity, can withstand rough surfaces, and have low noise levels.
Manual Straddle Pallet Stacker
The manual straddle stacker comes with a foot gear that is used to pump up the hydraulic system which in turn raises the forks.
The manual straddle stacker can lift pallets up to a height of 3m and can carry a weight of up to 1000kg.
Semi-Electric Pallet Stackers
Semi-electric pallet stacker is a unique machine that utilizes both manual and electric features. It alludes to a wide range of wheeled machines taking care of stacking and short distance transportation of goods.
The machine utilizes batteries to power the hydraulic power unit and the hydraulic cylinder has a lift chain which lifts the forks. To save battery power the machine drops down the forks without using the motor. The machine has controls that are used to lift the forks up and down. Upon insertion of the forks into the pallet, a gear lever is pushed and released when the required height is achieved. The decision of electric stacker trucks relies upon the load and height at which the goods are to be stored.
The manual aspect of the machine is its mobility. The operator has to manually pull or push the machine. The load of the pallet stacker is for the most part 1 ton, 1.5 ton, 2 tons, and so forth, but the limit of the public standard is 2 tons. The significant boundaries of the stacker truck are motor and entry frame. The semi electric pallet stackers can be raised up to 6.5 meters and the regularly utilized height is 4.5 meters.
Batteries are additionally a significant piece of the stacking machine, with a functionality of 8 - 12 hours generally. The batteries are rechargeable and display the battery level. In a word, the width of entries between racks and the shape of the pallet are the fundamental variables influencing the choice of electric pallet stacker. The wheels of the machine are made from either nylon or polyurethane. The materials are chosen for wear obstruction, which enjoys the benefits of strain opposition, quietness, manual control, adaptable, and versatile activity.
The guiding control handle of a semi-electric pallet stacker follows up on the controlling wheels on the two sides through the directing component which is the wheel attached to the handle. It is more versatile and adaptable while turning. The semi-electric pallet stacker works by foot brake. The brake is directly applied to the main wheel and immediately stops the machine.
Electric Pallet Stacker
The electric pallet stacker operates on a rather simple principle. The electric stacker is commonly referred to as an all-electric stacker. The electric stacker operates on the concept that the battery gives electric energy to the electric motor, transforming the motor. The energy is transformed to kinetic energy, which is then used to power a hydraulic pump (or called a hydraulic station). The piston rod and piston are propelled by the hydraulic pump using hydraulic principles.
The fork is mounted on the lifting frame, and the rod lifts the lifting frame, causing the fork to rise immediately; the fork drop is easier and relieves pressure. This is the electric stacker vehicle lifting principle; the electric walking process is more clearly defined, and the electric walking wheel is T-shaped. The motor provides electric energy to the driving wheels, which are the wheels at the back, and the operator drives the machine. It has the ability to move. A fully electric stacker typically has two motors: one for lifting and the other for driving.
The distinction between an electric stacker and an electric pallet truck is clear. Electric stackers are usually strolling electric stackers or station-driven electric overhead trucks, according to market calls, whereas electric forklifts are controlled electric stackers. The obvious distinction is that the electric pallet truck has a comfortable cab, but the following one is powered. Electric stackers typically weigh less than 3 tons. Stacker trucks are powered by lithium ion batteries and standard lead acid batteries. They are efficient, convenient, and eliminate the need for physical labor. These are superior to regular forklifts and human stackers in terms of maneuverability in tight locations.
Pallets might vary in shape and size depending on the country of origin, so make sure you know where you'll be getting your pallets before investing in an electric stacker truck. Electric stackers use standard lead batteries and lithium ion batteries to save money on fuels like gasoline and diesel.
The electric stacker's charger comes in two varieties: built-in and external, and its interior and external layouts are well-balanced in terms of planning and functions. The charger has the following advantages: the stacker is smaller, the body parts are lighter, the stack has better motor functions, and the running time is extended.
The charger is typically used for charging panel planning, and the charger can be plugged in. The panel is connected to the power supply when the charger is charging; the built-in charger, which has the highest power, is handy for charging, requires no charger, and can be powered anywhere. The drawback is that it adds weight to the body and is more about body planning. Compact PLA It's more difficult to replace the built-in charger when it's broken.
When filled, the electric stacker can be utilized for around 4 hours after charging once. If it is not fully filled, it can be used for roughly 8 hours. Of course, the battery's quality and capacity are inextricably linked. We refer to the 24V210AH battery stacker as space front equipment. The high charge of electric reactors could be due to two factors: The charger, for starters, is faulty. This circumstance is no longer relevant because most clients will face the same issue and mean the state of chargers is deteriorating.
Charging has evolved into smart charging. Monitoring charging time and unplugging the charger when it is finished charging helps to extend the charger's life. Secondly, if the battery is not properly maintained, it will result in the battery being discarded. Despite the fact that home batteries have been introduced, they have failed to gain widespread acceptance. As a result, lead-acid batteries are mostly employed in domestic electric stackers and electric vehicles. The settlement is more visible, meaning distilled water is frequently supplied to keep it well, and battery trash must locate a lithium pallet truck supplier to supply matching battery replacement.
Compact PLA It's more difficult to replace the built-in charger when it's broken. When completely filled, the electric stacker can be utilized for around 4 hours after being charged once. If it is not fully filled, it can be used for roughly 8 hours. Of course, the battery's quality and capacity are inextricably linked. We refer to the 24V210AH battery stacker as space front equipment. The high charge of electric reactors could be due to two factors: The charger, for starters, is faulty. This circumstance is no longer relevant because the majority of clients will face the same issue. The state of chargers is deteriorating.
Counterbalance Stackers
Counterbalance stackers are ideal for tiny and medium loads where space for a lift truck is limited. They're also useful in situations where an electric forklift isn't practical. These are a wonderful alternative when space is limited or forklifts are unable to maneuver.
Mono Mast Stacker
A mono mast stacker truck is an electric stacker truck that is much lighter and optimized for smaller locations and loads than standard electric stackers. These trucks are used to raise products to eye level so that personnel and customers may inspect and adjust the contents of the pallet. They don't have a great lifting capacity (about 1200kg), but if you run a small business or deal with lightweight items, this could be ideal.
Ride-On Pallet Stacker
Pallets may need to be moved over long distances if your warehouse is large. That's where the pallet stacker on wheels comes in. This machine has a reasonable speed and allows you to ride in the carriage. It can transport pallets at a respectable speed, allowing you to quickly move inventory from one end of the warehouse to the other. These machines usually come with a collapsible platform that gives you more access and versatility.
Chapter 3: Applications & Advantages of Pallet Stackers
This chapter will discuss the applications and benefits of pallet stackers.
Applications of Pallet Stackers
The industries where pallet stackers are applied include:
Manufacturing plants
Retail stores
Factory floors
Warehouse facilities etc.
Pallet stackers are particularly used in warehouses that handle high-volume or mid-sized commodities. A stacker's modest physical footprint allows it to be maneuvered into a variety of configurations quickly and intuitively. This greatly expands their functionality and makes them a valuable tool in a wide range of professional situations.
If you want to get the most out of your stacker, be sure it's being used by trained employees who are following all OSHA regulations. Stackers are effective over a wide range of transport distances, making small jobs swift and efficient while also reducing the work required for longer runs. They're especially excellent for operations that require more loading and maneuvering time with larger, more complex vehicles. They're especially effective for operations that demand more loading and maneuvering time with larger, heavier forklifts or non-motorized pallet carts that require human assistance.
Stackers are often used for small to medium-sized goods weighing between 600 and 2000 kilos. This is combined with their ability to move quickly and precisely, allowing for a quick, safe pace and a steady walk, reducing employee effort and utilizing current technology to reduce workplace stress.
Pallet stackers can be a terrific addition to your organization, and quality providers will have a variety of solutions to fit your specific requirements. Big-duty stackers for lifting heavy materials or nimble stackers for volume work, both enable your workers to go beyond what would be physically or safely achievable with traditional equipment.
Advantages of Using Pallet Stackers
The advantages of using pallet stackers include:
Pallet stackers have a low entrance barrier since they are designed to be simple to operate. Larger mechanical items will require specialized training to operate, whereas a stacker operator can be trained by other employees or by a dedicated in-house team. Users can be trained in a single session, eliminating knowledge loss due to staff turnover.
Adaptable and efficient: Stackers are designed to be nimble and can be employed in a wide range of professional settings. This means they'll be able to stay on if your company pivots or deals with a wide range of items. Pallet stackers are thus virtually future-proof, and an investment in one can reap advantages for many years to come.
Pallet stackers are one of the most cost-effective warehouse products, sitting halfway between a flat jack and a larger forklift. They are inexpensive to add to your transportation network. They also help to improve efficiencies throughout your supply chain, and they're a lot less expensive than buying more complex machinery.
Simple chores like lifting and sorting things take a long time in warehouses or factories. Time is saved, and heavy goods are efficiently carried and organized, thanks to high-quality pallet trucks in various sizes and weight carrying capacities.
Pallet trucks (also known as walkies or walk behind trucks) are useful in warehouses where there isn't enough space for larger material handling equipment or forklifts. Their hydraulic system offers the following features: manual or battery operation and built-in safety features.
Environmentally friendly and cost-effective: Electric stackers are particularly environmentally beneficial because they do not use fossil fuels such as diesel or gasoline. Lithium-ion vehicles outperform lead-acid vehicles. They have lightweight batteries that don't need to be maintained and charge quickly, allowing you to save even more money on your power bills.
It is also used as transportation: Some stacker versions let the operator travel in a carriage on them. This means they can move rapidly and efficiently around the warehouse, storeroom, or factory floor. The pace at which these trucks may move is determined on the type, the cargo they are transporting, and the area they are in. In a crowded workplace, you'll need to move at a different pace than in a large yard. Trucks can travel at speeds ranging from 2 to 26 miles per hour.
Physical labor is reduced, and there are fewer safety risks: You run the danger of injury if you use a manual hydraulic pallet lifter. Using one of these machines can put pressure on your back, shoulders, legs, arms, spine, joints, and perhaps cause major injury. All of these difficulties are eliminated with an electric stacker, which means your workers are less likely to be injured and you are less likely to face costly lawsuits. Pallet stackers are great time savers. Stacking a large number of pallets with manual equipment such as pulleys to convey pallets and hydraulic lifters to stack takes much longer than utilizing a battery-powered electric lifter.
Maneuverability: Stacker trucks are more maneuverable than forklift trucks, making them perfect for tight situations. They're ideal for lifting difficult-to-lift things in crowded warehouses.
Disadvantages of Using Pallet Stackers
The disadvantages of pallet stackers include:
While pallet stackers involve mechanical components, all high-quality models are designed to be simple to maintain. Ongoing inspections are straightforward, and parts are frequently inexpensive or easy to obtain and replace. This is especially true when it comes to forklift trucks, which require more consistent maintenance and have a shorter shelf life than pallet stackers.
Initial coat: Pallet stackers combine cost effectiveness and convenience, but they still require a large investment. Finding the proper model for your needs is critical, and although conducting due diligence on your organization is a common procedure, finding the right stacker takes a bit more effort. This can be time-consuming and requires you to review and change your current working practices – which can be costly at first – so engaging with a reputable company to assist you on an appropriate model is beneficial.
Pallet stackers are relatively simple to use, but they will still require training for your employees to deploy them in an OSHA-compliant manner. Pallet stackers employ electric motors to save weight and allow for faster movement, which can make them difficult to stop and cause them to gain momentum when hauling huge things. This can be risky to other employees and create risk factors that should be considered before making a purchase.
However, the advantages of using pallet stackers far outweigh the disadvantages of pallet stackers.
How to Maintain Pallet Stackers
When maintaining and keeping pallet stackers at optimum performance, the following considerations are important:
Check and Refill the Pallet Truck’s Oil
Your pallet truck's oil level should be checked every six months, and oil should be filled up or replenished at least once a year. Pallet trucks should be lubricated using hydraulic oil. At 40°C, the oil must have a viscosity of 30cSt and a total volume of around 0.4 liters (ISO VG32). If a different oil is used, the pallet truck may be difficult to pump up since the oil will be excessively thick.
To top off the oil in your pallet truck, follow the steps below:
Turn the pallet truck on its side and lower the forks to the lowest position.
The drain plus of the hydraulic cylinder should be placed at the top.
Disconnect the screw plug.
Fill the filler aperture with hydraulic oil until the level touches the bottom.
Screw in the screw plug and stand the device up.
The forks may rise while the lever is in the raised position while pumping. This could be a result of transport-induced air bubbles present in the hydraulic fluid. It can also be due to pushing the tiller while the pallet truck is not upright.
The best way to bleed the circuit is to move the tiller handle up and down a few times while keeping the controlling lever in the lower position. This will force the air out, allowing the forks to elevate normally when pumping again.
Regular Lubrication
The manufacturer would have used a long-life grease to lube all bearings and axles. Lubricate the pallet truck with long-life grease on the lubrication points, such as the wheels, axles, and grease fittings, on a monthly basis and/or after each cleaning.
Pallet Truck Wheel Protection
Working in a clean environment is more enjoyable. The pallet trucks' wheels are particularly sensitive to the surface on which they are utilized. All kinds of debris and wiring can become lodged between the wheels, causing them to wear out much more quickly. This can be readily avoided by washing the wheels on a regular basis and removing the dirt before utilizing the pallet truck. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for curbs and steps.
A quick cut may appear to be a smart idea, but your wheels may disagree. Instead, take a detour to avoid shattering your wheels in this way. Overloading your pallet truck can potentially result in catastrophic wheel damage. Even if it takes a little longer, it is preferable to take two journeys rather than all at once. You keep the wheels from producing a flat spot, allowing you to utilize them for extended periods of time.
Checking Chain Positioning
Check to see that your pallet truck's chain is still in the correct position on a frequent basis. This is most noticeable when the forks are no longer lower when the lowering valve is operated. Reattaching the chain to the lever is a simple solution.
Adjusting Lowering Value
The lowering valve is most likely to blame when the pallet truck's forks no longer pump or lower. You'll need to adjust the lowering valve in this scenario so you can pump or lower the forks again. If pumping does not work, loosen the lowering valve screw slightly. If the pallet truck's forks no longer descend, screw the lowering valve screw in slightly. After using the pallet truck, keep it unloaded and in the lowest position possible.
Pallet Truck Safety
The pallet truck will last longer if the following three tips are followed:
Don't operate the pallet truck on a hill since it can reverse and hit something if you let go.
Set the operating lever to the drive position to move the pallet truck. As a result, the drawbar travels more freely, and the hydraulic pump section's pressure drops. This safeguards the valve's hydraulic seals and other components. This guarantees a longer life expectancy.
Never overburden the pallet truck; follow the manufacturer's recommended lifting capacity.
Conclusion
A pallet stacker is a machine designed to assist the user in lifting, moving and handling palletized materials with ease. A pallet itself is a flat and horizontal structure used to support goods in a sturdy fashion. Pallet stackers aid product distribution by allowing people to easily lift, handle, and carry palletized products. In effect, it combines the capability of a standard pallet jack with the convenience of a motorized lifting vehicle. It is critical to understand each type of pallet stacker and its advantages for use in different applications and industries.
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