Mobicon container handlers are gaining popularity in the global mining sector as a swift, safe and cost-efficient means to handle heavy and awkward loads.
Robust Mobicon straddle carriers – key machines in BLT WORLD’s extensive range of materials handling equipment – are designed for lifting containers and goods securely on and off trucks and moving loads around sites, significantly reducing onsite congestion and creating a safer workplace.
“These lightweight mobile container handlers boast the lowest axle loading of any straddles on the market, which means these machines can operate efficiently on unsealed yard surfaces, with no need for the construction or repair of pavements for container handling operations,” explains Ken Mouritzen, BLT WORLD.
“Mobicon straddle carriers have excellent manoeuvrability and can move loads through warehouse doors, operating safely indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, effectively taking the container to the stack or receiving point.
“Other advantages include easy handling of ramps and speed bumps, faster container handling times and minimal damage to goods that can be caused during long lift truck runs. These versatile container handlers increase operational efficiency and reduce demurrage costs, with less wait time for trucks to be loaded and unloaded.
“Apart from offering users a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) than traditional heavy counterbalanced container handlers, Mobicon machines are also known for ensuring greater safety on site. The Mobicon design team understands the potential risks during materials handling procedures – which include injuries caused by collisions, incorrectly supported and uneven loads, unstable work surfaces and operators braking too hard or accelerating too quickly.
“Mobicon straddle handlers ensure complete stability, even on uneven or unsealed surfaces, so tipping over is not an option. Stability of these machines is guaranteed, as lightweight straddle carriers are over the load, rather than being offset with a counterweight, enhanced by a symmetrical wheelbase and 4-axles.
“Pivoting bogeys and hydraulic levelling systems accommodate undulations in work surfaces, ensuring a safe and smooth ride in all environments, including arduous mining terrain.
“Unlike other straddle carriers on the market, the Mobicon does not use wire ropes for the lifting of containers, therefore eliminating the risk of a swinging load or rope breakages. The locking and hydraulic lifting systems used on these machines hold the container in place, keeping it rigid at any height when the machine is in motion.”
In addition, the remote lock twist system allows the operator to remain in the cabin and by using external CCTV cameras and the cabin mounted monitor, it is easy to engage the twist-locks into the container, reducing foot traffic around the machine and minimising the risk of collisions.
Mobicon Systems has ensured that the operator has an unimpeded view by positioning the engine down low, providing greater visibility when reversing and during the placement of the container, whilst multiple cameras provide a 360-degree view around the machine.
Other safety features include a motion detector camera system, automatic speed reduction when the container is at height and a steering angle that is automatically reduced when driving at speed. A dead-man switch immediately shuts down operation of the drive system in an emergency situation and door switches ensures the machine remains inoperative if a non-secured door is detected. An emergency stop button in the cabin halts operation immediately.
BLT WORLD’s Mobicon machines also improve safety for those working at heights. The operator is able to decide exactly where and at what height, to pack or unpack the container. Within minutes the container is lifted off the back of a truck and is transported directly to where it is required – either inside or outside the warehouse, in all weather conditions.
Containers can be packed or unpacked on the ground, rather than at trailer height, which reduces the risk of falls or damage. This system also eliminates the need for loading docks or slippery loading ramps.
BLT WORLD’s Mobicon container carriers are also suitable for use in many other industries, including transport and logistics, food and beverage production, general industry, agriculture and warehousing.
Mobicon straddle carriers are available exclusively throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands from BLT WORLD as rental equipment, or for purchase. The company offers a technical advisory, parts and support service.
