SPAN, Jungheinrich’s regional partner for Material Handling Equipment (MHE), has recently introduced the next generation of the EKS medium to high level order pickers. As a result of numerous new developments, the truck is not only optimal for utilization within high density storage areas, but is also one of the fastest trucks that can operate at heights of over 14 meters making it an ideal option for use in high-bay warehouses as well.
The EKS is equipped with a novel staging-free triplex telescopic mast, which is unique in its class. At more than 14 meters, the EKS offers the largest order picking height among all vertical order pickers on the market. With a lifting speed of 0.5 meters per second, the EKS 412s is 25 percent faster than its predecessor, which is currently the fastest vertical order picker.
Other than increasing the picking performance, the new EKS 412s combines performance and energy efficiency. By using the efficient synchronous reluctance motors, Jungheinrich has halved the energy losses on the motors’ side and increased their efficiency. In addition, the weight of the EKS has been significantly reduced. Combined, this results in energy savings of more than 10 percent. The EKS 412s has two battery options: proven lead-acid batteries and modern lithium-ion technology. The lead-acid battery powered EKS is guaranteed to cover two shifts with just one battery charge. This saves time and reduces operating costs. The use of lithium-ion technology guarantees high performance and maintenance freedom, fast charging time and a particularly long service life.
A special importance was attached to the needs of the driver over the development of the EKS. The transition-free strokes of the new telescopic mast avoid shock impacts and enable comfortable and at the same time high-performance operation. Thanks to the optimised operating concept with all functions within reach, handling the EKS 412s is particularly easy. All relevant information can be captured at a glance by the operator’s large colour display. With its barely noticeable actuation force, the new presence button is particularly user-friendly. Additional windows in the cabin rear wall ensure significantly improved all-round visibility.
Moreover growing dynamics in the warehouse are creating ever more potential dangers. Another focus of the new EKS 412s was the issue of safety. Intelligent assistance systems ensure maximum safety combined with high travel dynamics and performance. These include a mobile personal protection and collision protection system, which thanks to obstacle detection by laser scanners ensures that the EKS complies with the necessary safety clearances and enables the use of multiple trucks in a narrow aisle.
Finally, the Jungheinrich warehouse NAVIGATION system allows for an additional increase in performance and efficiency. Using the Jungheinrich Logistics Interface software, the truck can be easily and safely integrated into the IT system landscape available to the customer. Using RFID transponders in the ground, the truck detects its current position within the aisle. The operator simply has to give the travel command and the truck approaches the pallet location automatically in a diagonal travel mode.
‘SPAN is continuously working closely with our clients to understand their changing requirements,’ commented Samir Azar, SPAN’s Product Manager. ‘The EKS 412s was a perfect fit as a majority of our clients were looking for methods to adapt to the evolving market conditions where space was becoming tighter and piece handling was becoming the norm.’ The EKS now provides optimal performance at heights in excess of 14 meters with enhanced visibility & increased safety. These advantages are aimed to increase the machine’s operating hours and the driver’s performance while ensuring a more efficient operation with improved productivity allowing our clients to continuously adapt to the changing market requirements.
