Dual-purpose machine ups efficiency

The introduction of a firstof-

its-kind machine to its

operations in Cape Town

will not only increase

internal lifting capacity in the

yard but also go a long way in

improving efficiency for SACD

Freight.

The new Kalmar DCF520 was

delivered to SACD in October

and will be commissioned as

soon as driver training has been

completed. Specialised driver

training is required for the

machine as it is a dual function

piece of equipment operating

as both a forklift and a reach

stacker.

“This machine is a first for

SACD and we are very excited

about what can be achieved with

it,” said Nic Winfield, SACD Cape

Town operations manager.

The company took the decision

to not just purchase another reach

stacker when it became necessary

to replace machinery, but to

invest in equipment that rather

had a dual function.

“Handling heavy, out-of-gauge

cargo requires certain flexibility

in equipment. This machine is

ultimately a forklift but thanks

to a spreader attachment can lift

containers. It gives us versatility

and flexibility in our operations

that we have not had to date,” said

Winfield. “It will ultimately allow

us to improve our service offering

to existing and new clients.”

With 4-ton lifting capacity, the

machine can handle both 6- and

12-metre containers.

“Because it’s both a forklift

and a top loader it will give us

the efficiency to deliver a valueadded

service to our customers

as it allows for the packing of a

container and then immediate

loading onto the truck.”

Winfield said it was aimed at

introducing further reliability,

flexibility and precision to

operations.

CAPTION

Joy Robertson and Nic Winfield of SACD Freight

with the new piece of equipment that is both a

forklift and reach stacker.