Hydro relies on HUBTEX for safe handling of aluminium profiles
When Hydro Building Systems (HBS) planned its new forklift fleet in Tewkesbury, UK, safety was the central priority. The company, part of the Norwegian Hydro Group with 33,000 employees worldwide, distributes low-carbon aluminium windows, doors, and façades under the TECHNAL and WICONA brands. To transport aluminium profiles up to seven metres long safely and efficiently, HBS partnered with HUBTEX.
THE NEW fleet consists of six electric multidirectional forklifts – three MQ 35s and three MQ 40s from the Phoenix series. These trucks ensure safe and agile handling of long, heavy, and bulky loads both indoors and outdoors. Their ergonomic crosswise cabins offer optimal visibility, generous space, and a quiet working environment, enabling fatigue-free operation.
Safety as the foundation
Together, Hydro and HUBTEX defined strict requirements for the fleet. Key features include a damping system for gently lowering long aluminium profiles, preventing damage to goods and racks. A load detector ensures that trucks only move when loads are secured correctly. The personal protection system halts the forklift automatically if someone enters a three-metre safety zone. Additional measures such as high-resolution cameras, aisle steering locks, and a height safety lock further enhance operator and site safety.
These innovations have contributed to more than five years of accident-free operations at the Tewkesbury site, which has also been recognised internally with Hydro’s “Safe Site Award”.
Sustainable and efficient operations
Sustainability also played a major role in selecting the new fleet. Former gas-powered models were replaced with electric multidirectional forklifts, significantly reducing emissions and energy consumption. Indoors, wire guidance combined with HUBTEX’s energy-efficient servo drives ensures precise vehicle control, preventing damage to racks and loads.
Efficiency is also increased through features such as 360°HX steering, which enables a smooth change of direction without stopping. This reduces manoeuvring, saves time, and lowers wear on wheels and floors. Generous ground clearance provides additional flexibility for handling long loads across different parts of the site.
Long-term partnership
The collaboration between Hydro and HUBTEX spans more than twelve years. The latest forklift fleet highlights the strength of this partnership, combining advanced safety systems, sustainable technology, and efficient handling solutions.
Hydro benefits from improved workplace safety, reduced environmental impact, and higher productivity – making the site well-equipped for future demands.
Further details on HUBTEX’s electric multidirectional forklifts can be found at hubtex.com.
