Previously, manufacturers of warehouse equipment focused mainly on the needs of large enterprises, but today this market also covers small firms. The presence of convenient, compact and maneuverable equipment relieves maintenance staff from daily routine work with the movement of goods. It is not necessary at all for the needs of a small store to purchase a lifting wheel assembly. Handling a hydraulic stacker in a suitable modification can handle the transport of small batches of products. This is an example of the most optimized design, which allows you to not only move goods and materials corresponding to the dimensions of the working platform, but also raise them to a certain height.
Design features
Hydraulic models are the simplest execution of this type of equipment. The basis of such machines is a trolley provided with small rollers or wheels. The other functional part is directly the hydraulic strut, which carries out the lifting of the load. In some versions, it is also assumed the presence of devices that facilitate soft and safe descent. In terms of operation, a manual hydraulic stacker has many advantages. Firstly, it is completely devoid of elements requiring power supply. That is, the cost of its maintenance is limited only by the purchase of spare parts. Secondly, the compact and ergonomic design allows you to conveniently use the unit even in the cramped conditions of small stores. But there is a significant design flaw - the fact is that the lack of drive mechanisms necessitated the use of muscular strength, so the operator must have appropriate physical training.
Key selection criteria
Initially, you should calculate the parameters of the workflow in which the stacker will participate. The key performance features of these models are lifting capacity and lifting height. In the initial segment, the manual stacker is represented by models that cope with 500 kg. This is the minimum weight indicator that this technique can work with. As for the upper limit, it can be 2 tons. But such models have a more massive structure, designed for high loads.
The models are quite diverse in terms of lifting capabilities. It is generally accepted that such machines are designed only for stacking cargo on single-tier racks. But it is not so. The maximum height to which the manual stacker can lift the load is 3 m. Modifications with such potential are suitable for warehouses and hangars. In store conditions, models with a lift of the order of 1.5-2 m are usually used.
What to consider in the chassis?
The supporting part is a trolley, which, in turn, rests on 2-4 rollers or wheels. In some versions, there are also brake mechanisms. Before choosing, you should evaluate the quality of the coating on which the stacker will be used. The choice of a set of wheels depends on this. According to experts, it is not so much the size that matters, as the material for the manufacture of movable elements. For a flat floor, for example, a manual stacker on polyurethane wheels with aluminum discs is suitable. This combination will provide good stability and optimum rolling resistance. For problematic coatings, rubber rollers or wheels should be preferred, which will cushion the floor errors. However, the rubber material has low rolling resistance and poor ability to withstand heavy loads.
How much does a manual stacker cost?
The cost of equipment directly depends on operational characteristics. Models from the budget segment can be purchased for 30-35 thousand rubles. These are units with a small power potential, therefore, they will not be suitable for moving massive cargo weighing more than 1 ton. In the middle category, you can find a more productive and functional manual stacker, the price of which will already be about 50 thousand. These modifications include European and American models that allow you to lift 2.5 m. The carrying capacity can be 1.5 tons. The top one units with maximum technical and operational capabilities represent the price level, including a 2-ton carrying capacity. Such models are available for 60-70 thousand.
Manufacturer's Reviews
Despite the dominance of the market by Chinese products, high-quality German, Japanese, and Polish machines are increasingly appearing in the warehouse equipment segment. In particular, the Lema manual stacker truck from the LM model line differs from Polish developers in an ergonomic design, high productivity and a long service life. Owners appreciate the models from the German company Pfaff Silberblau for the quality of the materials used and the small size, which at the same time does not reduce performance.
Many warehouse workers also praise Stocklift, Grost, and Eoslift. These brands include functional and easy-to-operate hydraulic manual stackers, the price of which varies from 40 to 70 thousand. Semi-electric units that have higher operational capabilities and require minimal application of muscular strength can also be found in the same lines.
Conclusion
For many start-up companies and private entrepreneurs, the issues of economy are quite acute. But, as practice shows, the costs of optimizing logistics processes quickly pay for themselves. For example, manual hydraulic stackers, the average price of which is 40-50 thousand, replace the work of several movers. Of course, it also requires a special person who will manage this equipment, but its function will save you from a lot of trouble with the movement of goods. Moreover, lifting tasks cannot always be realized by loaders without special devices.