Big Blue lifts output at ancient Rye
Situated in the ancient port of Rye UK, Rastrum Ltd has been a major force in the re-development of Rye wharf, with the company now occupying almost 24,000 m2 of storage and office space at the facility.
However, with prospects of an increase in the amount of bagged and bulk cargo passing through the port, the company recently invested in a newly released Terex Fuchs MHL360E series material handler from the Blue Group.
The new unit has been chosen for a number of features, including the hydraulically adjustable operator’s cabin. Lifting the operator’s eye line to 6.10m above the ground and forward by almost 2m enables bulk cargoes to be placed precisely into the ships’ hulls, negating the need for prolonged load trimming prior to sailing.
Comfort is a major plus point, the machine has an orthopaedically supportive air seat, automatic air conditioning, full colour user friendly display panel, and has all controls ergonomically placed to relieve stress.
It is powered by an economic Tier 4 Deutz diesel engine delivering 249hp/190kw with precise, load sensing hydraulics. This new engine configuration has improved production capabilities by 20% on the MHL 360E. The outreach comprises of a 9.7m universal boom coupled to a 7.8m dipper stick, giving a pin height and reach of 19m and a depth of 8.4m.
Stability when operating at full reach is of paramount importance, especially when handling eight, 1 tonne bulk bags full of material. So, the unit has a wide stance of 6m by 5m, aided by four point hydraulic stabilizers.
Rod Chapman, Rastrums MD, said that beyond speed and accuracy, “the machine is also very quiet, something which is important to us as we have to accommodate vessels at any time of the day or night.” He added that the workers are benefitting from better comfort while the company is gaining from improved fuel consumption.
He went on to say, “We have had a couple of minor issues with the air conditioning system but the timely way in which Blue responded and with their large stock of parts readily available, makes us confident that should anything serious happen in the future, we need not worry about any prolonged length of downtime.”
He added the performance of the MHL360E has already provoked the idea of taking a second machine.
