Forklift trucks are required to efficiently lift, lower and transport heavy loads in many high-pressure industries and it is critical that materials handling equipment optimises operational efficiencies and complies with stringent safety regulations.
It is common that businesses run many shifts in a 24 hour period, with multiple drivers of varying experience, operating the fleet of forklifts. This is why features like automatic parking brakes and transmission are important.
Criterion Equipment’s new TCM NT-series internal combustion forklift trucks have been engineered with these critical benefits – integrated safety, precision control and automatic transmission.
TCM F(G)(D)M40–55(C) NT-series internal combustion solid-tyre forklift trucks meet local demand for high-capacity forklifts that perform reliably in challenging conditions, while maintaining operator safety.
advanced features
“The automatic transmission and synchronised steering of these versatile machines simplify handling and help maintain consistent performance, even in challenging applications,” states Brenton Kemp, Managing Director of Criterion Equipment, exclusive distributors of TCM forklift trucks in Southern Africa. “The integrated system of the NT-series locks all hydraulic and travel operations when the operator leaves the seat, automatically engaging the parking brake to prevent unintended movement. This eliminates the rollaway risk common in machines with conventional manual-brake designs. Travel-lock and mast-lock functions work together to ensure stability during operation and parking.”
Performance and Capacity Range
The NT-series – which covers the 4.0 to 5.5 tonne capacity range, at load centres of 500 mm or 600 mm – combines automatic transmission, with integrated safety and control systems, to ensure consistent performance. Maximum gradeability reaches 45.8 % and loaded travel speed is 22 km/hr.
Engine Options and Transmission Efficiency
These robust machines are available from Criterion Equipment in diesel, petrol and LPG engine configurations, allowing users to match fuel type and performance to site requirements. Each model incorporates a torque-converter automatic transmission with two forward speeds and one reverse speed. Gear changes occur automatically while travelling, eliminating manual shifting and allowing operators to focus on load handling, rather than transmission control. This is important in situations where many drivers share equipment throughout shifts.
Steering Precision and Operator Control
Full hydraulic power steering with a synchroniser allows precise manoeuvring in confined spaces and reduces operator fatigue during long shifts. The synchroniser keeps the steering wheel aligned with the drive direction, improving control when entering aisles or loading areas. Positive feedback from operators is they are able to reverse safely out of a loading bay, without having to correct the wheel position.
Real-Time Monitoring and Digital Display Insights
A multi-functional digital display provides real-time monitoring of travel speed, load weight and engine temperature. Operators can identify developing issues, like overheating, overloading and excessive speed, before they cause unplanned downtime.
Outdoor Traction and Turning Radius Stability
The solid-tyre configuration provides the traction and ride stability required for outdoor operations on uneven surfaces in timber yards, construction sites and logistics depots. An important feature of these machines is the 2.58 m – 2.94 m turning radius needed for tight areas in yard stacking.
Terrain Capability and Gradeability Strength
The chassis is engineered for working on sloped terrain and extreme site conditions. The FDM50CNT model copes efficiently with grades up to 45.8 % when loaded, which is critical for timber yards and quarry operations. Drawbar pull power provides the traction needed to move loaded trailers and navigate soft ground.
Engine Selection for Different Work Environments
Diesel units are recommended for heavy outdoor applications requiring sustained drawbar pull and extended runtime. Petrol and LPG versions offer cleaner combustion and smooth throttle response for warehouse and manufacturing environments, where low emissions and reduced noise levels are important.
exceptional support
To ensure Total Cost of Ownership, Criterion Equipment specialists offer fit for purpose, customised forklift trucks, which are enhanced by the team’s technical support. Services include selection of the correct forklift truck for specific requirements, assistance with optimising operator productivity, warehouse efficiency and space utilisation, as well as the implementation of regular forklift maintenance.
Criterion Equipment supplies and supports the full range TCM forklift trucks, covering most forklift classes. Machines include electric counter-balance trucks, reach trucks and powered pallet trucks, as well as Internal Combustion (IC) counter-balance trucks.