SCHOLPP has been using a very special type of forklift truck at the Chemnitz and Dresden sites for more than two decades. It is compact, has plenty of lifting power and can be used universally.

Normally, even a forklift truck is subject to the ravages of time. After many years of operation, sooner or later signs of wear and tear appear, making expensive repairs necessary. Normally, such a forklift truck is therefore replaced after ten years at the latest. Normally. But SCHOLPP makes an exception for the CLARK brand CGP 50 H forklift truck. Because ‘this type of forklift truck can be used in a variety of ways thanks to its compact design,’ explains Eric Ackermann, Head of Materials Management. ‘We have been using these all-rounders since 1998 and they have long since become a little secret weapon.’

Two plates for six tonnes load capacity and a wide range of operations

To increase the load capacity of the forklift truck from five to six tonnes, SCHOLPP placed two heavy, duty plates on the robust chassis. The upgrade – a kind of counterweight for heavier loads – was carried out in collaboration with the forklift manufacturer. ‘The power is enormous for the size of the forklift,’ explains Eric Ackermann. With an overall length of 4.45 metres, a width of just 1.45 metres and a height of 2.36 metres, the truck is significantly smaller than other models that can lift six tonnes.

A huge advantage for SCHOLPP. With the gas-powered forklift truck, SCHOLPP can easily move medium-heavy equipment and other components through production halls with narrow aisles and low door heights. ‘The size and manoeuvrability of the forklift is perfectly shifted for such tasks. And to ensure that its weight does not leave any marks on sensitive floor coverings, it is operated in production halls on light and abrasion-resistant tyres,’ says Eric Ackermann.

However, everyday tasks such as loading a lorry or hoisting loads onto a platform or to an upper floor are other areas of operation. Smaller crane jobs can be carried out by attaching a crane arm, and even the dismantling and assembly of escalators can be realised. Another plus is the maximum lifting height of 4.53 metres thanks to the triplex mast with free lift. The forks or load are lifted without the lift mast being extended. This function is particularly useful when a certain lifting height is required despite the low ceiling height, e.g. when driving through low entrances.

Oldtimer among the forklifts

As there is not any comparable model of this type available to buy or hire on the market today, SCHOLPP employees look after their forklift trucks like classic cars. The UVV (Accident prevention)inspection takes place annually, a kind of forklift truck MOT (Safety inspection), in which attachments and the associated safety equipment as well as functionality and usability are checked. The branch in Chemnitz still has two forklift trucks with this special configuration, and there is another one at the Dresden site – three classics on wheels that will certainly be maintained at SCHOLPP for years to come.