Energy consumption of forklift versus standards, effects of their use and expectations

Abstract

the paper concerns the search for a reasonable calculation method to determine the energy consumption of a forklift. The effects of alternative pathways for determining energy consumption are summarised, including: VDI 2198, ISO 50001, MTM - and proprietary PZM test cycle. These tools are used to determine the energy consumption of logistical transport and storage systems. A single forklift is rarely operated; they more often occur in the form of “fleets”. Therefore, assuming the effect of scale, the precise determination of energy consumption gives a chance to significantly reduce emissions and operating costs, by defining in the next step precise costs (e.g. logistic costs); another aspect is optimum fleet and people management, as well as battery charging/refuelling. In addition to the traditional “pathways” of determining energy consumption (mentioned above) - the paper discusses a new PZM cycle (Pawel Zajac Method). The energy consumption in the PZM work cycle was verified in logistics centres and compared with the simulation results. Additionally, the results of energy consumption from computer simulations made for “economic” speed are included.