Konecranes, a leading global manufacturer of lifting equipment, has been providing heavy material handling solutions to the steel industry since the 1950’s. Konecranes advanced lifting technologies have made them a preferred supplier in steel mills and steel service centers worldwide. The company manufactures a broad spectrum of productivity-enhancing equipment for steel manufacturers ranging from hot metal cranes to heavy lift trucks.
Konecranes extensive forklift offering for the steel industry reflects the company’s long history in building lift trucks for specialized steel handling needs. An emphasis on research and development has resulted in a range of efficient forklift options in capacities from 10 to 65 metric tons, suitable for handling all types of steel products, including coils, slabs, blooms, bars and pipe. Eco-efficient and economic to operate, Konecranes light range forklifts have a tight turning circle and excellent maneuverability, combined with a strong lifting mast and easily adaptable, heavy-duty forks. Since no two steel mills or aluminum production facilities are alike, Konecranes various forklift models can be customized to meet individual customer requirements. For example, forklifts handling hot steel slabs, blooms and billets with temperatures up to 800 degrees have reinforced lifting equipment and heat protection. Other options include a quick-change system that allows operators to swap between various forks, coil rams and other attachments very quickly. “In addition to efficiency, our technology contributes to a safer working environment, and improves process efficiency,” says Konecranes Phil Stevens, North America region director, lift trucks. “The formula for our long-term success is to deliver all of the above, with the lowest possible cost of ownership.”