Linde Material Handling Introduces New VNA Trucks

Linde’s new K Series VNA trucks take pallet handling and order picking in narrow aisles literally to a new level. The innovative new trucks can work higher, faster and with more operator comfort than before while improving safety levels at the same time.

The new K series VNA trucks from Linde Material Handling have lifting heights of up to 18 metres with improved operator ergonomics, while simultaneously offering significantly enhanced performance and safety. Linde’s innovative Dynamic Reach Control system, which effectively compensates for pendulum movements of the mast is key to the new performance benchmarks.

Increasing storage requirements and rising real estate prices mean that companies from a wide range of industries are confronted with the question of how to optimally utilize valuable storage space. When searching for an answer, the logistics specialists’ gaze is moving ever higher, above the “magical” 17-metre mark. As a result, the demands placed on warehouse equipment are growing due to the fact that warehouse operators must be able to definitely rely on ergonomics, efficiency, and safety, particularly when working at great lifting heights. This is exactly where Linde’s new very-narrow-aisle combi trucks come in.

The proven K series has been decisively improved in many respects. The new generation of K trucks offers considerable added value in terms of performance. The main lift for the driver’s cab and the secondary lift for the fork can be raised and lowered simultaneously. Driver and forks reach the desired shelving position faster, which significantly increases productivity. In addition, the new Linde VNA combi trucks can now operate at heights of up to 18 metres. Linde Dynamic Reach Control (DRC) technology allows this to be achieved with maximum safety.

An electrical drive with rapid reaction capabilities compensates for mast oscillations by means of targeted counter-movements. The driver does not have to wait for the mast to stop swinging when picking or handling pallets, and can therefore place the load on the shelving faster and more precisely. The Dynamic Reach Control system has been shown to increase warehouse throughput by up to 25% compared to a system without optional sensors for load recognition.

The driver’s cab, which is now 50 millimetres lower than in previous models, provides lower entry height and noticeably more leg room and freedom of movement even for taller drivers. There are also numerous storage compartments for personal items and a holder for 1.5-litre bottles on board. The front windshield, which has been enlarged by 80 millimetres downwards, provides better visibility (+20%) of the forks and cargo. This helps to effectively prevent damage to shelving and goods.

Another new feature in the driver’s cab is the digital control panel where a clearly arranged control unit displays all relevant data on a fully graphical display – from travel speed or lifting height to information provided by important safety sensors. It also integrates two hand sensors and a large dead-man’s switch at the bottom, which the driver must touch in order to be able to move the truck.

The optional “Rescue Alarm” function provides additional security. If various sensors on the device perceive unusual behavior of the driver (e.g. remaining in the same position at great lifting height over a lengthy period), the system triggers a two-stage visual and audible alarm. Since no two warehouses are alike, Linde relies on maximum modularity in its latest generation of VNA trucks. Customers have a choice of 64 different lift mast variations or can select one of ten cabin widths in two different versions – depending on the individual requirements to be met on site. No other manufacturer is currently offering a comparable variety of options in this segment.