Sichelschmidt: Offshore Reach Truck for Extreme Environments
23.02.2012 + + + Forklift trucks are vital pieces of equipment on most offshore drilling platforms, where they operate under extremely harsh conditions. They need to conform to stringent explosion proof directives due to an environment rife with combustible elements, and the prevailing sea water and damp salty air means that they are operating at the higher end of the most exacting corrosion protection standard: the salt spray test DIN EN ISO 9227.
Sichelschmidt’s offshore forklifts, designed and developed according to the requirements of drilling platform operators, have been the tried and tested solution to these extreme conditions on a global basis for thirty years. The most popular models for these applications, produced in the manufacturing facility in Wetter/ Germany are generally three or four wheel counterbalance
trucks.
A recent customer order bucked this trend however by specifying a reach truck with a transverse seat – and with good reason: the ability of this compact model to work in narrow aisles enables optimum use of the very limited space on platforms designated for the storage of
materials.
The design of the required machine was based on Sichelschmidt’s M 1200 Ex series available with lift capacities from 1,250 to 2,500kg. With a free view triplex mast with 4800mm lift height and 2,500kg capacity, the machine is fully compliant with the gas ex-protection requirements of the Zone 2/ ATEX guidelines. The telescopic fork arms, also ex-protected, increase the reach of the truck when picking or depositing
loads.
Furthermore, all components, and in particular their surfaces, have been treated to withstand long term exposure to the salty atmosphere. All coated parts for example benefit from salt water resistant base coat and high grade finish to a specified density and the pistons of all the hydraulic cylinders are nickel and chromium plated. Components such as hydraulic valves, handbrake and operator controls are protected from sea water permeation by special
seals.
Sichelschmidt has also addressed the issue of battery charging in its offshore electric trucks, which in contrast to operations in the chemical sector for example, needs to be carried out in gas ex-zones. The company has developed a charging box which protects the connection between the battery and the charging unit from the surrounding environment for enhanced safety. Should the box be opened during charging, the process is immediately
interrupted.
The free view mast also contributes to safer operation as it affords excellent visibility of both the load and the forks. From his position in the transverse seat the driver has an unimpeded view when traveling in either direction, a further plus when space is tight.
Sichelschmidt GmbH
Im Hilingschen 32
D 58300 Wetter
Germany
Tel: + 49 2335 63090
info@sichelschmidt.de
www.sichelschmidt.de
For any enquiries please contact:
Ralf Sichelschmidt
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