"At first glance, many users don't even notice that it's an Ex device," reports Elke Karnarski, Product Manager Ex-proof Trucks at Linde Material Handling. "And that is precisely our aim. Convenience and operation are identical to the series devices, structural differences are only noticeable on closer inspection and have no impact on performance and efficiency." All electrical equipment that could cause a spark is protected in accordance with the relevant type of protection. Mechanical equipment such as brakes or forks are protected by design measures. The electronically controlled temperature monitoring system ensures that no components overheat, even under the most extreme operating conditions.

To prevent the risk of sparks from electrical charges, the armrest, seat, floor mat and plastic parts are antistatic. All modifications comply with the requirement to prevent the formation of any ignition sources in atmospheres with combustible dusts, gases, vapors or mists, such as those found in the chemical or pharmaceutical industries, as well as in food and beverage production.

At the same time, the new explosion-protected reach trucks benefit from the functions and options of the current reach truck generation. These include lift height preselection, the Dynamic Mast Control assistance system, camera systems with color monitor and split screen or the "connect" fleet management system. The new "VertiLight" lighting solution also ensures better working conditions and greater safety. This involves two work lights with semi-circular LEDs, which are mounted diagonally offset on the lift mast and illuminate the work area from the ground to the lifting height evenly and without glare.

The new models consist of the explosion-protected heavy-duty (HD) reach trucks Linde R14 HD to R20 HD with load capacities of 1.4 to 2.0 tons and the standard trucks Linde R20 to R25 EX with load capacities of 2.0 and 2.5 tons. The HD versions are designed for particularly tough applications and have a very robust mast with a higher residual load capacity. This means that heavier loads can be stored at a higher lifting height. All explosion-protected reach trucks bear the manufacturer's CE mark and comply with all regulations for the prevention of ignition sources in accordance with EN 1755 and ATEX 2014/34/EU.

Equally important for all operators: when it comes to maintenance and repair of the explosion-protected vehicles, they can rely on specially qualified service technicians from Linde's network partners, who ensure that the equipment is maintained and repaired in accordance with legal regulations.