Pace and power for pallet trucks

Crown’s design concept focuses on delivering fast, safe and efficient performance from loading dock to warehouse aisle. Ergonomics that optimise operator productivity are a key feature of the new RT 4000 Series which combines agile and robust truck technology with safety features, such as the Entry Bar Safety Switch that deactivates travel when the operator places a foot outside the truck perimeter.

"The RT 4000 Series combines Crown’s experience in developing and manufacturing reliable warehouse solutions with a design concept that puts operators at the heart of the development process,” explains Jim Kraimer, director industrial design, Crown. "The result is a high-performance product that retains its value and helps improve productivity and safety in the warehouse while simultaneously cutting costs.”

Developed and manufactured by Crown, the AC motors fitted to the RT Series are capable of powerful acceleration at speeds to 12.5km/h. The motors are said to run longer, stay cooler and to continue to operate reliably and efficiently in the toughest conditions. Pallet entry and exit rollers are fitted to the new models as standard, so the load arms can easily traverse pallet bottom boards regardless of whether the pallets are empty or full. The electronic steering system further boosts the truck’s manoeuvrability and responsiveness.

In the stand-up model, ride comfort is enhanced by a suspended floorboard that reduces shocks from dock boards and rough floors, plus a wraparound, soft-foam lean pad. The stand-up model can be configured with right-hand or left-hand steering, as preferred. For intuitive ease of use, the truck’s traction and lift/lower controls are arranged so they align with the direction of operation. And with a chassis only 780mm wide, this model is suitable for moving product into and out of lorries, as well as working in confined storage areas where block stacking is the norm.

The sit-down version is fitted with a low entry step for convenient entry and exit. Two other key features help boost the driving experience in sit-down models: a height-adjustable floorboard with 60mm of travel, so operators can choose the sitting position that is most comfortable for them, plus a durable, ergonomic seat that can easily be adjusted to accommodate each operator’s weight and leg length. Complete with spinner knob, the steering wheel is sized and positioned to minimise shoulder and arm stress even in the most demanding conditions.