Author Archive: pennwesthost

Winter in western Pennsylvania can be harsh and it can wreak havoc on forklift batteries. Did you know that cold weather reduces battery capacity and can shorten lifespan?

Fortunately, you can optimize battery performance, capacity, and lifespan year-round with just a few strategies.

What happens to forklift batteries in winter?  

In cold weather batteries are not as responsive even if the forklifts are used in indoor warehouses, as they often are not heated much or at all, so the cold weather will still affect the battery. Batteries power the forklift through producing electricity through a chemical reaction between lead and acid. The cold will cause this process to slow down and produce less power. Much like how your car won’t start on a winter morning because it can’t turn over, this is because the battery [...]

When investing in a new or used commercial ride-on or walk-behind sweeper or scrubber, there are many things to consider. Gas or electric? Ride-on or walk-behind? Sweeper or scrubber? How clean do the floors need to be? In this overview, we’ll present you with helpful information that can assist you with your decision.

Sweeping PositivesNegativesLow cost of ownership
Low maintenance
Good for light to heavy debrisFloor doesn’t appear as clean
Less light reflection
Safety issues if silica present

In some cases it may be necessary to choose scrubbing over sweeping due to the current floor conditions and the amount of debris that accumulates during a normal day. To what extent does the dust and dirt affect the manufacturing process and the finished product? What type of appearance do you wish to present to employees and also to prospective customers? Both Sweepers [...]

Winterizing your fleet and facilities is no small task and it can have serious long-term impact if you don’t take the right forklift weather protection steps before snow piles up. So where to start? The forklift experts at Toyota Material Handling have provided a few tips

Forklift Technician Careers FORKLIFT TECHNICIAN: WORK ENVIRONMENT Enjoy working directly with the customer, or behind the scenes? Prefer a variety of troubleshooting, or scheduled service jobs with known diagnosis? Like to work independently, or have daily interaction with other technicians and internal support teams? Feel more comfortable with a consistent work station, or prefer visiting customer sites for their onsite service? As a forklift technician, you are the person to help customers get their forklifts running or keep it operating efficiently with routine maintenance. When you show up, people are happy to see you! Features of a Shop Forklift Technician: Familiarity of working in the same place everyday Help from other technicians and management readily available Have visibility to upcoming projects Keep all of your work tools organized Work on large, high-priority projects (full engine rebuilds, etc.) Camaraderie with fellow Shop Techs and office staff Features of a Field Forklift Technician: Local travel position; home every night Different place to work everyday Independence; nobody looking over your shoulder Manage your own time Meet new people and busine [...]

Toyota Advanced Logistics

The future of material handling is the delivery of integrated solutions, and Toyota Material Handling recognizes the need for revolutionary thinking for your end-to-end supply chain needs.

That’s why we’ve forged a strong partnership with Toyota Advanced Logistics (TAL). A leader in industrial technology and advanced automated material handling solutions, TAL offers Toyota Material Handling customers a route to meet complex challenges with the intelligent integration of forklifts and advanced logistics. From forward-looking warehouse design that accommodates automation to integrated industrial robotics, from fully automated facility construction to advanced product tracking, Toyota Material Handling’s partnership with TAL can help our customers stay ahead of the competition by understanding the cutting-edge of technology.

TAL is growing every day, evolving to meet your needs. Already acquiring one of the largest automation companies servicing North America, Bastian Solutions [...]

Kärcher's customizable mobile pressure washer trailer is a rugged and convenient solution for on-site cleaning. Kärcher pressure washer trailer models are certified by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) to meet requirements determined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). They provide a large water tank on-board, and all Kärcher hot water power washers are certified to UL and CSA safety standards.

Kärcher's hot water generators provide on-demand hot water – perfect for removing grease, grime and oil. All cabinets are electric powered, and most models are ideal for indoor use when users need a heated pressure washer. Kärcher models are certified to UL and CSA safety standards.