On 24–25th November 2026 at Exhibition Centre Liverpool, LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association) will host LiftEx 2026. The annual, free-to-attend two-day exhibition and conference puts the people who design lifting equipment in the same room as the those who rely on it in industries such as Manufacturing, Engineering, Construction, Oil & Gas, Offshore, Logistics, Defence, Utilities and Entertainment.

Inspectors and engineers can get hands-on with the latest equipment and talk directly to the people who make it. Buyers and procurement teams can meet suppliers, compare options and build relationships. Managers and team leaders can get up to speed on how standards and regulations are changing. It is the place to meet experienced trainers, get expert advice and leave with a clear plan for the right training, which reduces accidents, prevents injuries and protects people. And, on the evening of Tuesday 24th November 2026, the prestigious LEEA Awards Dinner at the Rum Warehouse, located near to LiftEx in Liverpool, offers a great networking opportunity. Guest speaker is astronaut Tim Peake.

The latest lifting innovations

The LiftEx show floor will be packed with leading manufacturers and suppliers of lifting solutions. A broad array of lifting equipment will be exhibited by AP Lifting Gear Company, Atlas Winch & Hoist Services, Cromox, Delta Hoisting Equipment, Ganser Liftsysteme, George Taylor Lifting Gear, GGR Group, Hird Ltd, Lifting Material Supplies, Liftket UK, Modulift UK, Niko Crane Systems, Rainbird Crane & Machinery Movement Specialists, Reid Lifting, SGM Magnetics, Tiger Lifting, TTC Lifting and Turbo Vacuumentation. There will be materials handling equipment on display from Aconda Industrial Carriers, Probst and engineering and manufacturing services from Wirop Industrial Co and Worlifts.

Chains, ropes, slings, rigging and accessories will be shown by Aberdeen Web, Bekaert, Carcano, CODIPRO, Dolezych, GIS – Lift Turn Move, Green Pin (Royal Van Beest), Island Ropes & Rigging, JDT, Latch and Batchelor, Marlow Ropes, pewag UK, Petersen Stainless Rigging, Rope and Sling Specialists (RSS), RUD Chains, Sahm Splice, Talurit and YOKE Industrial Corp, which has over 40 years of experience in manufacturing lifting fittings and is Gold Sponsor at LiftEx 2026.

Visitors will find height safety equipment and services from Ridgegear, Safehold, SafetyLiftinGear and SpanSet. There will be load monitoring equipment from Dynamic Load Monitoring (DLM), Load Monitoring Systems (LMS) and Red Rooster Lifting and IT solutions from Core Inspection Software, coreRFID, Engineering Reporting, JCM Load Monitoring, Motion Software, Papertrail and RiConnect Inc, which is Headline Sponsor for LiftEx 2026. It offers powerful software known as RiConnect, designed to streamline equipment management and ensure regulatory compliance and traceability. There will also be Test machinery from Tensology.

Learn about Lifting and safety training on the stands of Carl Stahl Evita, Elevation Training & Development and Qualitrain. Trade media will be represented including Lifting Africa.  LEEA will have its prominent stand for visitors to drop by and meet the Association’s team for lifting advice, to learn about training or to hear about the many benefits of becoming a LEEA member.

This year at LiftEx the spotlight falls on Proficiency Testing, created by LEEA to give lifting professionals the opportunity to demonstrate how they approach a real-world inspection. Visitors can put their skills to the test in the Inspection Challenge and the Proficiency Testing stage is well worth a visit to talk one-to-one with the team.

Knowledge centre

A Showcase Stage at the show floor’s centre will host a two-day programme of live demonstration, technical talks and product presentations from trusted LEEA members, whose expertise, safety focus and innovation is driving the Lifting Industry forward.

Ross Moloney, LEEA CEO will kick off proceedings explaining how members can contribute to LEEA’s future by getting involved in its Board and Committees, helping shape the Lifting Industry and support the Association’s work.

Rob Whitehurst-Maiden, Sales Director at RiConnect UK will discuss how RiConnect’s Digital Product Passport provides a trusted digital identity for lifting products, supporting traceability and compliance with the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).

Chris McCartney, Sales & Marketing, at CoreRFID and David Cain, Sales Account Manager at SpanSet UK will demonstrate tracking and tagging of SpanSet’s lifting chains with CoreRFID’s CheckedOK. SpanSet UK brings its newly launched Exoset Grade 10 Chain Sling range to the LiftEx stage. Then watch CoreRFID fit an aftermarket RFID tag and pull up manufacturer guides, inspection history and pre-use checks with a single tap on CheckedOK.

Martin Halford, Chairman of DLM will be speaking with Mason Chant, Director of Special Projects for Chant Engineering, and Andrew Chant, General Manager of Forged Fiber, to discover how DLM has instrumented its load pin technology within a new Dyneema fibre Hybrid Lifting Shackle, making lifting safer, lighter and easier.

Malcolm Peacock, Group Business Development Manager at pewag will showcase the first G12+ chains on the market, along with the first hydraulically driven Load Balancer and Compensator, the new levo automated hook.

Graham Macpherson, Head of Product at Motion Software will explore how 'Hindsight', Motion’s new inspection insight tool, uses AI to turn an asset’s historical inspection data into a concise, actionable summary – delivered before the engineer even begins their inspection.

Adam Chipperfield, Project Manager at LEEA will conduct a live walkthrough of LEEA’s new Member Assessment before the session concludes with the chance to ask the team anything about the Membership Assessment.

Day 2 will explore practical inspection techniques. Ryan Hillyer, Student Support Officer at LEEA will examine the most commonly missed defects during inspection before discussing what makes an inspection report clear, accurate and effective.

Scott Barnes, Senior Learning and Development Specialist at LEEA, will take a look at key factors behind making sound, defensible inspection decisions before explaining how the LEEA PDCA Inspection Model can support effective inspections.

If your work in anyway involves lifting operations, why not visit LiftEx, see what’s new, ask those important questions and take something useful back to your business? It could not be easier – just go to events.leeaint.com/liftex-2026 for more information on the speaker programme, details of exhibitors, how you get there and to register for your free ticket.

Lisa Fitzpatrick, Senior Manager, Safety and Environment Europe

Every organisation shares the same fundamental goal: helping to ensure team members go home safely at the end of the day.

Yet even when teams believe they have done everything right, incidents can still occur. In environments where risks such as working at height exist, even strong safety systems can be tested.

Reporting plays a vital role in identifying opportunities to proactively reduce injuries and incidents.  The true value of reporting is realised when reports are translated into meaningful safety improvements.

For engineering and maintenance professionals, turning incident data into action requires a structured approach built on open reporting, thorough analysis, effective prevention strategies and a strong safety culture.

Open Reporting

Open reporting leans on a culture of learning and improvement, encouraging workers to actively identify and report issues to enable organisations to understand what happened, the true root causes and implement effective controls to prevent recurrence.

Alongside this culture, reporting tools should be simple, accessible and easy to understand to reduce barriers and encourage consistent reporting.

The easier it is to report incidents or near misses, the more complete and valuable the safety data becomes.

Accident Analysis

Investigating incidents thoroughly is essential to identifying the true root cause. Without proper analysis, corrective actions may only address symptoms, leaving underlying risks in place and increasing the likelihood of recurrence.

Common and effective tools include the 5 Whys technique and fishbone (Ishikawa) diagrams, which systematically explores underlying causes until the root cause is identified. Fishbone diagrams help teams examine contributing factors across categories such as materials, methods, processes, people, environment and equipment.

According to HSE data, working at height remains one of the biggest causes of fatalities and major injuries.¹ Applying structured investigation and analysis methods can significantly 

improve the selection of effective control measure to help reduce the risk of future incidents.

Prevention Strategies

When planning any task, the first question should be: Is there an alternative way to do this?

HSE guidance is clear: if work at height can be avoided, it should be. Where it cannot be eliminated, controls should follow the recognised hierarchy: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Engineering and collective safety measures should form the foundation of any prevention plan, supported by policies, procedures and training whenever elimination isn’t possible.

This principle is reflected in the design of JLG Power Towers' low-level access equipment, which is engineered to help reduce risk at source through features including fully guarded platforms and stable working platforms. By prioritising safety from the outset, such equipment may support safe working practices when tasks at height cannot be avoided.

Fostering a Safety Culture

Strong safety systems are built on people feeling responsible, supported and empowered.

When employees feel confident to report concerns and contribute ideas, organisations move from reactive safety management to proactive risk prevention.

When supported by open reporting, thorough analysis, preventative planning and a strong safety culture, they can become one of the most powerful tools in supporting risk reduction and protecting people.

Introduction to working at height safely - HSE

Landia has secured an order to supply its acclaimed GasMix Biogas digester mixing system to one of India’s largest distilleries, where wastewater will be utilised for the site’s biogas plant.

The Landia GasMix, which already has over 1,700 installations worldwide, is designed so that everything can be easily accessed from outside the tank. As part of the GaxMix system with its venturi nozzles, 30kW, 1500rpm Landia Chopper Pumps will break down solids from the distillery’s waste stream and keep them in suspension to maximise the mixing process and gas yields.

Producing some of India’s biggest selling whiskies, gins, vodkas, rums and brandies, the distillery has already reduced its dependence on the national grid by 60%, thanks to a new high-pressure turbine. By effectively recycling a mixture of liquid and biogas at the new AD plant, the Landia GasMix will make the distillery even more self-sufficient.

This latest order for Landia follows its work at the Rosemaund Farm Distillery in England, where a new premium single malt whisky is being produced, with a Landia pump playing a key role in the handling of the site’s wastewater.

Guy Ritchie, Creator of the Netflix series, The Gentlemen, is an early backer, shareholder & creative collaborator at Rosemaund, who have recently announced their third release; a whisky made with Maris Otter barley, distilled and aged among apple orchards on the family farm in Herefordshire.

www.landiaworld.com

Digital service tools are helping maintenance teams identify components, troubleshoot faults and plan maintenance more efficiently, supporting greater equipment availability and productivity.

For maintenance teams working to minimise unplanned downtime and extend equipment life, having the right technical information readily available can make a significant difference. As hydraulic systems become increasingly sophisticated, finding the correct documentation, identifying components and diagnosing faults quickly are essential to keeping machinery running efficiently.

Bosch Rexroth’s Hydraulic Hub is a digital platform designed to simplify and accelerate hydraulic service and maintenance by bringing together product information, technical expertise and troubleshooting tools in one accessible place.

Available through a web browser on computers, tablets and smartphones, the platform gives service and maintenance personnel access to information around the clock. It enables users to identify almost half a million Rexroth industrial hydraulic components and retrieve relevant resources, including data sheets, service manuals, diagnostic tools, spare parts information and product lifecycle recommendations.

From reactive repairs to proactive maintenance

When a fault occurs, time spent searching for documentation or identifying the correct component can delay diagnosis and repair. Hydraulic Hub helps maintenance personnel access relevant information more quickly, supporting a more focused approach to troubleshooting and reducing unnecessary delays.

The platform also supports proactive maintenance planning. Teams can create maintenance plans and checklists, helping them structure servicing activities and address potential issues before they develop into more disruptive problems.

This approach can help organisations make better use of maintenance resources, improve consistency across teams and support the reliable operation of hydraulic equipment throughout its working life.

AI-assisted troubleshooting

Artificial intelligence is also being applied to help service personnel find answers and diagnose faults. Hydraulic Hub includes a Smart Assistant that allows users to ask product-related questions interactively, while Smart Diagnosis helps identify possible faults from a description of symptoms or an entered error code.

The tools provide tailored information and suggested solutions to support faster troubleshooting. They can be particularly useful when personnel need to investigate an unfamiliar issue or locate specific technical guidance during a service task.

By making service knowledge more accessible, digital tools can also support less experienced technicians while helping established maintenance teams work more efficiently. 

Supporting maintenance performance

Digital tools are most effective when combined with sound maintenance practices and the expertise of experienced engineers. By bringing product information, diagnostic support and maintenance planning together, Hydraulic Hub gives teams another way to make informed decisions, respond to problems and plan servicing activities.

For manufacturers looking to improve equipment availability, reduce avoidable downtime and get more value from existing machinery, making technical knowledge easier to access is an important step towards smarter maintenance.

To find out more about Bosch Rexroth’s Hydraulic Hub and service offering, visit www.boschrexroth.co.uk

Following a successful two-month trial, a new Borger rotary lobe pump has replaced a piston diaphragm pump that was struggling with a very challenging application at a manufacturer of paints, varnishes and speciality chemicals.

The capacity of the existing piston diaphragm pump dropped rapidly with the increasing viscosity of an adhesive that is made for tiles and parquet floors. The pump also generated progressively high energy costs.

To ensure that the adhesive is consistently transferred from a mixer into a storage tank or bottling process, the new pump is pressurized with Borger’s thermosyphon system, which creates a continuous circulation loop. Borger also provided its rotary lobe pump with a double-acting mechanical seal.

During the transfer of the adhesive to bottling, the very low pulsation of the Borger pump has ensured than an even transfer is constantly maintained.

As well as dramatically reducing energy costs, the new Borger pump has also boosted capacity by more than 100%.

Borger UK

01902 798 977

www.boerger.com

Line Vacs convey bulk material through hose or pipe in a high velocity, turbulent airflow. This means the material can have a lot of momentum at the point of discharge. If the particulate is very small (fine granules or powder), then there’s a high potential for significant dust-up at the point of discharge. If it’s larger particles (pellets or slugs), then they can come out at a high velocity.

During this webinar we will discuss and demonstrate methods to mitigate these challenges:

1. Powders and dusty materials:
   1. Convey into a covered receptacle that’s vented through filtration media.
   2. Use a cyclonic separator
2. Bulky, dense solids: Aspirate the conveyance hose, close to the end of the line, to exhaust the conveyance airflow, lowering the velocity & turbulence.

Register now to learn more on how to optimize material handling https://exair.co/190-fweb26pr

EXAIR is offering a special right now on all of their Line Vacs. Learn more at https://exair.co/190-lvpromo

AI is changing how maintenance teams monitor assets, predict failures, improve reliability, and optimise maintenance activities. AI can process vast amounts of equipment data faster than any human.

Yet one reality remains unchanged: maintenance is not a video game, and there is no reset button when things go wrong.

Industrial environments are full of hazards. Decision-makers carry responsibility, and every decision has consequences. Responsibility cannot and must not be delegated to AI.

If data does not become actionable information, it has no value.

In vibration-based condition monitoring, AI processes far more data than a human expert—but often produces far more findings for the expert to review. This burdens already limited expert resources.

The objective should not be to generate more alarms, but to filter out those that do not require expert attention.

While machine-learning systems can recognise patterns in machine behaviour, they do not understand failure mechanisms the same way as experienced, certified vibration experts with hands-on field experience. Experts also understand how proactive actions, such as lubrication and load reduction, prevent repairs.

Data can reveal developing issues, but converting those findings into effective maintenance actions requires human expertise. Automation should help experts focus on the findings that matter most, not create more alerts to investigate.

AI loves continuous data, but data quality matters more than quantity.

Too often, data volume substitutes for data quality. AI benefits from continuous data, so IoT technology is added, data streams grow, and the focus shifts from making an impact to reviewing alerts.

For many plants, route-based measurements remain one of the most cost-effective and comprehensive approaches.

If route-based measurement cannot produce high-quality input data for AI, adding more sensors will not solve the problem.

At Asensiot, automation and people screen maintenance actions—not just data.

Asensiot combines high-quality monthly route-based vibration measurement with your existing field routines and applications. Where needed, we add online measurements or support existing online data.

This enables plant-wide coverage of all assets, not just critical equipment. Combining vibration measurements with existing field routines improves overall impact efficiency.

Without an expert layer, data remains just data. Expert screening transforms data into actionable information that guides maintenance decisions by defining what needs attention, what action(s) to take, and when to act. Real value is created when actions are verified, outcomes are measured, and root causes are understood. This is the foundation of MyAsensiot Condition Screening®.

Our ISO-certified vibration experts review reliable automated highlights and refine them into clear, prioritised maintenance actions. We help maintenance and reliability teams focus on performance improvement, rather than sorting through large volumes of data and alerts.

Asensiot’s new MyAsensiot RDC (Route Data Collector) connects your field applications and routines with high-end vibration measurement.

The new MyAsensiot RDC is a lightweight field device designed to work alongside existing field applications, including inspection checklists and safety observations. It enables fast, high-quality vibration measurement collection as part of normal monthly routines and existing field workflows.

The challenge in maintenance is rarely collecting more data. The real challenge is collecting relative data and turning data into actionable information that supports better maintenance decisions. This principle is at the core of Asensiot's approach. In maintenance, the goal is not more data. The goal is better decisions.

When components must assemble properly, dimensional accuracy cannot be judged from individual parts alone. A shaft or mating plate can satisfy its drawing yet fail because feature relationships shift within permitted limits. Designing and manufacturing precision machined parts therefore requires an assembly-level view of datums, interfaces, fits, geometric tolerances, and accumulated variation. This requires tracing each critical feature from design intent through machining, inspection, and the assembled condition under mating constraints.

Mating Parts Must Be Evaluated as a Functional Assembly

When it comes to CNC aluminum machining, the primary consideration of each feature in an assembly is what role each feature plays in assembly. In other words, does a locating hole define position? Does a shoulder define axial seating? And does a flat surface define where two components will make contact? The tolerance of mating parts must therefore be analyzed collectively; not separately.

The fit between two mating parts is also important. Even if both parts meet all of their respective size tolerances, they could still have too much clearance or too little

clearance to properly function. Similarly, even if bolt holes on two mating parts align at one point in space, they may still not align after positional tolerancing has been added. Therefore, Wayken's use of functional analysis identifies which dimensions in an assembly create the "chain" of assembly and which surfaces provide location, sealing or restrict motion.

WayKen uses this method of analysis to evaluate parts with many functional features. WayKen's precision machined part service provides datums and references hole axis locations and surface relationships using geometric tolerances to create a base reference system for inspection.

Datums and Interfaces Control Critical Feature Relationships

A datum scheme determines how critical features are located and measured. If a mounting face establishes Datum A, hole positions, parallelism, or perpendicularity may reference that surface. Measuring from a different surface can hide an assembly error.

Mating interfaces also require appropriate geometric controls. Flatness affects surface contact; parallelism can influence sliding or clamping; perpendicularity can affect shafts and fasteners; position controls the relationship of holes to their pattern.

WayKen’s precision-part machining example used a hole axis as Datum A and a plane

as Datum B, with perpendicularity requirements of 0.02 mm. The project included concentricity and runout controls. For precision machined parts, these controls provide a common reference between machining and inspection.

Aluminum adds another consideration. Thin sections and uneven material removal can deform, shifting interfaces after clamping is released. Toolpath strategy, workholding, and machining sequence therefore need to be considered alongside drawing tolerances.

How WayKen Manages Tolerance Stack-Up from Machining to Inspection

Tolerance stack-up refers to the cumulative effect of the allowable variations in several dimensions or parts. A thorough analysis considers the following: where the datum is established, sizes of features, position of holes, mating thickness, clearance and fit of the part. It is helpful to make a worst case assessment to establish limits.

This issue is approached by WayKen through precise planning and controlling. WayKen uses special fixtures during the production process to establish proper positioning of parts. One particular aluminum project included using custom fixtures aligning three parts by the reference surfaces and then conducting first article and in-process inspection.

The inspection should be consistent with the reference system. CMM can evaluate positioning of features, geometrical tolerances and relationship between datums.

CMM inspection is applied by WayKen to assess critical dimensions, tolerances, and positional accuracy of parts. WayKen also takes into account the effect of finishing operations on dimensions of the CNC aluminum machining parts when conducting an inspection of certain conditions at the joint locations.

Overall, the idea is to create a closed loop that includes: establishing functional datums, defining mating interfaces, calculating the tolerance stack-up, selecting CNC aluminum machining and fixture technology, evaluating positioning of parts. Thus, this will avoid a situation where one measurement does not detect assembly issues.

Conclusion

Assembly performance depends on relationships between features, not isolated dimensions. Functional datums establish references, mating interfaces define contact and fit, geometric tolerances control orientation and position, and tolerance stack-up determines whether those relationships remain usable. Linking design intent with machining and inspection helps precision machined parts maintain predictable assembly behavior. This approach benefits where deformation and finishing can affect interfaces.

When errors occur in industrial processes, the cause is rarely found in the machines themselves. Often it is inconsistent processes and data disconnects in the communication chains that hinder efficiency. Tablets designed specifically for industrial use can bridge these digital gaps. They enable digitalization and, as a result, a noticeable optimization of production and logistics processes. However, this requires thorough specification and customization of the hardware and software to fit the specific work environment.

The path to a truly smart factory inevitably involves the consistent digitalization of processes directly on the shop floor. Modern wireless technologies make data and processes accessible and visible in a decentralized manner. However, consumer hardware quickly reaches its limits in this context. What is needed are devices that combine a large screen size and high processing power with the necessary ruggedness to withstand dust, moisture, drops, and vibrations to ensure reliability. Industrial-grade tablets offer decisive business and operational advantages in this demanding environment:

Accurate data capture: Thanks to scan modules, modern camera systems, and AI analysis, data can be captured quickly and, above all, accurately in many situations, thereby significantly improving data quality within the company.

Error reduction through AR/VR: By displaying live overlays of the components requiring maintenance, potentially in conjunction with AR glasses, the error rate can be significantly reduced and productivity increased.

Mobile ERP and MES integration: Tablets running Windows as operating system can execute standard software and can therefore be easily integrated into existing ERP, WMS, and MES infrastructures. This eliminates the need for a subsequent, error-prone transfer of information from paper to IT systems.

On-site documentation: Work order management and the documentation of completed tasks, including photos, can be carried out directly on-site. This ensures that all systems are always up to date. Companies can also maintain audit-proof records of which activities were performed.

Secure internet communication: Thanks to biometric authentication, NFC readers beneath the display, 5G, Wi-Fi communication, and comprehensive encryption—both for data storage and information transmission—tablets are perfectly equipped to meet all security-related requirements.

Industrial-grade tablets from Pepperl+Fuchs

To successfully implement such mobile strategies, companies are increasingly turning to specialized manufacturers. Pepperl+Fuchs is a prime example of this approach. With the Tab-IND series, developed specifically for demanding outdoor use, the company addresses the unique challenges of industrial environments. The advantage of in-house development lies in its adaptability: components can be flexibly modified, for example, using so-called SmartBacks. For certain minimum order quantities, the production of customer-specific extensions is also possible. For the end user, this means a high level of investment security as well as fewer interfaces, since hardware support and system integration come from a single source.

The Tab-IND series exemplifies the modular approach of modern industrial hardware. Application-specific modules can be added via rear interfaces, including infrared barcode scanners, power packs for shift operation, or specialized adapters for machine and vehicle fitting. Available in 8- and 10-inch models with Android or Windows operating systems, they enable use even under extreme conditions thanks to brightness levels of up to 700 cd/m² and a wide temperature range (-20° to +50° Celsius). Operation remains precise even when wearing work gloves or in wet conditions. The tablets natively support all current wireless communication standards (Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 BLE, 5G, or LTE). They feature a built-in NFC reader beneath the front screen for convenient authentication.

In industrial settings, the mobile portfolio is often supplemented by stationary units. Pepperl+Fuchs offers kiosk terminals (15- and 22-inch, Android 15) for this purpose, which are ideal for access control, as information dashboards, or for interactive workflows at central hubs.

Typical use case: on the production line

In modern manufacturing environments, tablets are increasingly complementing permanently installed HMI terminals at individual workstations. The resulting mobility enables new process steps: components or car bodies equipped with RFID or UWB tags can be scanned directly on the assembly line. The tablet synchronizes immediately with the work order management system and provides the worker with context-sensitive tasks.

The added value is also evident in maintenance. Maintenance technicians use mobile devices to read machine data on-site and proactively initiate tool changes via predictive maintenance applications. A key driver of efficiency here is the interaction between the tablets and the sensors installed in the facility. Not only can sensor data be securely retrieved via the device, but the sensors can also be configured directly and used for diagnostic purposes.

Typical use case: warehouse management

Intralogistics requires the highest levels of speed and precision, such as when transporting goods via industrial trucks. Modern industrial tablets support the process right from the moment the operator gets on board: The operator is authenticated contactless via the integrated NFC reader. The system ensures that only authorized personnel operate the vehicle, automatically provides digital work packages, and simultaneously regulates the approved routes.

During operation, the tablet serves as the central navigation and control unit. Through integration with inventory management and ERP systems (e.g., SAP), inventory levels can be scanned and reconciled in real time, either via the built-in camera, connected handheld scanners, or RFID bulk capture that takes just seconds. The system calculates route-optimized paths for the forklift and automatically documents transport orders. Switching between the vehicle dock (including a charging function) and mobile handheld use is ergonomic and can be done in a single motion.

Typical use case: logistics support

Similar opportunities exist in traditional logistics, particularly in order picking. Industrial-grade tablets combine picking, scanning, and shipping operations in a single device or in combination with a handheld scanner. To account for physical strain, ergonomic carrying and strap systems are essential.

In addition, the hardware already offers the performance reserves needed for future AI-supported applications. For example, camera-based systems will be able to automatically verify whether the correct component has been removed from a bulk goods bin. In conjunction with current mobile communication standards, the tablet remains permanently connected to the central IT infrastructure, which significantly accelerates inventory processes.

A comprehensive solution

A rugged tablet for industrial environments—one that can be configured and expanded modularly and puts an end to the paper-based processes of the past—can significantly boost productivity in companies and increase employee satisfaction. As a one-stop system solution provider, Pepperl+Fuchs not only has the right hardware and software but, thanks to decades of industrial experience, also possesses the expertise to offer solutions optimally tailored to the customer’s needs or to develop them upon request.

https://www.pepperl-fuchs.com/

From odours and fumes to repetitive movements, heavy vibration and loud noise, operations have their work cut out for them supporting workers in tough conditions.

When working between both indoor and outdoor spaces, having the right systems and solutions can help alleviate these day-to-day physical challenges, reduce risk of injuries or accidents, and keep operations moving. From the facilities and storage yards of building materials distributors, and manufacturers to docks and terminals, the right solutions prepare teams to reduce risk, increase comfort, and enhance productivity.

1. LIGHTING TRANSITIONS

Switching from bright outdoors to dimmer indoor spaces, can cause visibility issues that raise the risk of mistakes or slowdowns. Lights can be mounted on the forklift cab or directly on the mast to avoid casting shadows that interfere with the operator’s view.

2. VARIED GROUND AND DEBRIS

Moving from pavement to gravel to flat flooring, and over ramps, thresholds like steel plates or scattered debris, can risk operator discomfort. Forklifts with increased ground clearance can help operators clear difficult terrain. Belly pans can be bolted onto the undercarriage to help prevent debris from flying up into the truck.

A full- or semi-suspension seat can help minimise body vibration to reduce operator fatigue, and hydraulic accumulators can act as a shock absorber, reducing vibration experienced by the operator.

3. UNPREDICTABLE ENVIRONMENTS

Different environmental factors like tractor-trailer diesel fumes, temperature shifts, wind and moisture can take a toll on operators and equipment. Windshield wipers can help clear away rain and debris for greater operator visibility. An overhead guard cover, either shaded or UV-protected, provides coverage from the sun. Enclosed cabs can keep sun, rain and snow off operators while enabling temperature control and helping to block out harsh smells.

4. UNUSUAL LOADS

In many facilities, particularly in the manufacturing and logistics industries, loads can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and weights. Forklift attachments like side-shifting fork positioners can help reduce effort and increase operator confidence handling a wide range of pallets and loads.

5. NOISE

Operators are already busy managing heavy equipment and staying alert in fast-paced settings. Sudden changes in noise, like from a loud facility to a quiet yard, can disrupt their focus. Many forklifts can be equipped with sound absorbing material in the underside of the floor plate, inside the dash covers, inside the side panels and inside or under the hood. Electric-powered forklifts generally run quieter than their internal combustion counterparts, cutting down on noise around the operator.

6. TIGHT SPACES

Close quarters inside the back of trailers can make it difficult for operators to manoeuvre equipment, get clear sightlines, and handle loads efficiently. Short forklift masts can give operators a clearer view over the top to limit the need to crane their necks and can help reduce risk of the mast striking the top of the trailer. Swivel seats can help operators pivot and get a better view of their surroundings without constant neck craning.

To learn more, contact your local Hyster dealer or visit www.hyster.com