At bauma in April, Combilift, an Irish material handling equipment manufacturer, unveiled its newest innovation — a self-propelled inloader called the COMBi-SPI. This launch marks a significant milestone in the transport of high loads, such as precast concrete, wall panels or glass A-frames, within production facilities and yard environments.
The COMBi-SPI is an efficient, maneuverable and cost-effective alternative to expensive trailers and trucks. The objective during the design inception in 2022 was clear: to create a versatile solution capable of handling 30-ton loads on industry standard Inloader Pallets with superior visibility, agility, and ease of operation.
The collaboration with Spaansen, a specialist in precast concrete, influenced the design through to the final stages. Early prototypes focused on reducing overall length and width and enhancing maneuverability for working in busy production facilities. However, the project took a significant turn when Spaansen opted for a fully electric model mid-development. This shift required a complete redesign to integrate the electric wheel motors as well as fit the interchangeable batteries into the legs of the machine.
Although electrics can power the machine, hydraulics are crucial to the safe holding of the load. Six hydraulic cylinders are used in a master/slave arrangement, with three cylinders used on each side to synchronize the lift. The weight limit for the cylinders is 40 ton, far surpassing the required weight of 30 ton required by the machine. The cylinders are integral to sliding load supports, which are easily adjusted manually to their required position in support of various load dimensions. These load supports can also operate individually or simultaneously, thanks to cylinder control from within the cab.
Check valves help provide the clamping action required of the cylinders. Hydraulic cylinders are also used in the steering system, ensuring safe and precise control. Additionally, a hydraulic lifting platform smoothly raises the load into position quickly and accurately, and ensures quick set-down as well.
An engineering spokesperson said the 30-ton design is standard for now, “but at Combilift, our innovation is driven by our customer requirement, so if a future customer requires higher capacity, then we will look at providing a solution for them.”
Other key features include:
- Side-facing cab: Provides operators with a clear, panoramic view of both the load and direction of travel, ensuring enhanced safety and precision.
- Pivoting front dual-wheel configuration: Eliminates the need for suspension, optimizes stability and gives a tighter turning circle.
- 300-mm ground clearance: Designed for both concrete and gravel yards, offering reliability across diverse work environments.
- Power options: Available in electric (with interchangeable battery system), diesel, and LPG, catering to different operational needs.
- Compact yet powerful: The short chassis enhances load support, maintains a low center of gravity and offers more maneuverability, especially while operating within production facilities.
With unmatched maneuverability and faster operational speed, the Self-Propelled Inloader transforms yard-based logistics by eliminating the reliance on multiple trailers and shunters, significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs for businesses handling oversized, high loads.
“This project showcases Combilift’s commitment to innovation and customer-driven design,” said Josh Moffett – Heavy Equipment Manager at Combilift. “We’ve leveraged decades of expertise in specialised transport machinery to develop a state-of-the-art solution that meets the evolving needs of the concrete and glass industries.”
Combilift
combilift.com/spi
