SubscribeMoffett Engineering Limited, world leader in the manufacture of truck-mounted forklifts, will complete an 8.2 million Euro investment programme to its factory in Dundalk by June 2005.
It follows a 24-month period, which has seen the company increase production by 20% per annum with an average 2,600 machines now being produced, of which 98% are exported, produced by a team of 260 people.
Moffett in Dundalk manufactures all moving mast machines in the joint truck-mounted forklift range, including top-selling models such as the M5, M8 and M9. Ireland is also responsible for pre-sales, after sales, marketing and training facilities for both Dundalk and its other production facility in Holland. A team of more than 30 engineers is committed to a research and development programme geared towards continuous improvement, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence.
Powdered parts entering the main oven on the power-free conveyor system
Investment has been made in three key areas. Some €1.6 million has been made in a truck mounted forklift component centre with robotic welding technology. Initially this will produce masts for Moffett Engineering Ltd, Moffett-Kooi bv and Princeton truck-mounted forklifts in the USA, along with machine frames for several models in the range.
Mr Keith Quigley Managing Director
The new facility will produce 4000-4500 masts per annum. Improved profitability will be achieved through the consolidation of functions, standardisation of components and greater production efficiencies through automation.
A further investment of €3.3 million has also been made in the installation of a new Powder Paint Line at the production centre. This is a fully pressurised paint system guaranteeing a clean and dust free working environment. It is .an automotive standard of pre-treatment powder painting, increasing the quality, durability and consistency of the product.
Part of the power free conveyor system which covers a 400m2 area.
The new paint plant will ensure a quicker process giving greater efficiency, considerable cost savings, the ability to spray 4 complete frames and a range of components and masts per hour along with the option to spray any colour combination of forklifts.
The system will meet all European Environmental Legislation: reducing water usage, decreasing zinc effluent discharge and recycling all grey powder. All standards of European Health and Safety Legislation will be satisfied with new conveyor drop sections eliminating heavy manual lifting.
The final phase of investment is a new look assembly process costing approx €1.0m. This investment will be completed by June 2005.