A new generation of forklifts, container handlers and reachstackers has been launched by Hyster with low-emissions power from Cummins Inc. achieving up to 15% improved fuel efficiency. The 16- to 48-tonne capacity Hyster ‘Big Truck' range features Cummins QSL9 and QSB6.7 engines with an integrated air-intake-to-exhaust aftertreatment system meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Interim and EU Stage IIIB regulations taking effect Jan. 1, 2011.
While achieving a major reduction in fuel consumption and a lower carbon footprint, the QSL9- and QSB6.7-powered trucks provide the same lift capacity, lift speed and travel speed as the equivalent Tier 3/Stage IIIA trucks with larger displacement engines.
These major advances in power density and productivity are realized due to Tier 4 technology enhancements, including Cummins Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) enabling faster transient response across the rpm band. Cleaner, more efficient combustion is delivered by Cummins Xtra-High Pressure Injection (XPI) on the QSL9 engine and High Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) fuel system on the QSB6.7 engine.
Peak power output for the QSL9-powered Hyster trucks is 370 hp (276 kW) and 270 hp (201 kW) for the QSB6.7-powered trucks, both well within the maximum power capability of the Tier 4 Interim engine platforms. Close collaboration between Hyster and Cummins application engineers has resulted in highly efficient engine calibrations aligned with the new ECO-eLo "fuel efficiency" or HiP "high performance" truck operating modes.
"Cummins is delighted to be the exclusive engine partner for the Hyster Big Truck range, representing one of the first full product lines in the industry launched ready for Tier 4 Interim," said Hugh Foden, Executive Director - Cummins Off-Highway Business.
"Cummins has a proud, long-standing power association with Hyster high-capacity trucks, recognized worldwide for outstanding productivity. Powered by our Tier 4 Interim QSL9 and QSB6.7 engines, the new range of trucks are cleaner, quieter, far more fuel efficient, and yet achieve the same power performance as our larger Tier 3 engines."
"Excellent performance optimization work by Hyster, such as cooling on demand and load- sensing hydraulics, has helped realize the full potential of Cummins Tier 4 technology to take the trucks to new heights of productivity," added Foden.
Antoon Cooijmans, Product Manager - Hyster Big Trucks, said, "With the new trucks, we have improved fuel efficiency and enhanced productivity, thanks to faster engine response. We worked very closely with the Cummins application engineers to achieve in the region of 15% better fuel consumption compared to the previous models, depending on rating, duty cycle and application."
"Our customers at ports, terminals and other material handling operations are taking a keen interest in the Tier 4 Interim Big Trucks, attracted by the prospect of achieving low-emissions standards together with a major reduction in operating costs," added Cooijmans.
Air-Intake-To-Exhaust Aftertreatment
Cummins ability to supply a complete Tier 4 engine and system from air-intake-to-exhaust aftertreatment offered an attractive solution to Hyster, with the benefit of packaging efficiency, easier machine integration and inherently higher reliability. This enabled Hyster to undertake an early start with the development of the Tier 4 Big Truck range, and then complete extensive performance validation work ahead of launch.
The Cummins Particulate Filter replaces the muffler and removes over 95% of all Particulate Matter (PM) emissions from the exhaust. With over 600,000 Cummins Particulate Filters currently in-service, the technology represents a proven and highly efficient solution. Field test work with Hyster has demonstrated that the filter operates up to 99% of the time in passive regeneration mode. On infrequent occasions when active regeneration is required, this does not affect lift truck operation.
Specifically developed for Tier 4 installations, Cummins Direct Flow air cleaner reduces installation space claim and provides improved air flow to the engine. Filter element service change intervals can be extended compared to those with typical Tier 3 air cleaners. Further information about Tier 4 technology can be found at www.tier4.info.