History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily transport heavy or bulky items across short distances. Forklifts are commonly used in the daily operations of various kinds of businesses. Forklift design is always going through improvement as technology advances.
In the early part of the 20th century, at the beginning of the industrial period in America, the forklift was invented. A company known as Clark made the very first truck tracker during the year 1917. It was developed for use inside Clark's very own plant, but when other individuals saw it they were impressed with this lifting equipment, even though it could only lift loads a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark started to promote the trucks widely.
The first kinds of forklifts were only the basics. By the year 1920, hydraulics was integrated into the design. During the year 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system which cost a lot less to utilize. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to move materials. This permitted larger loads to be moved.
In order to handle the increased demand, more businesses moved into the material handling industry during WWII. Businesses, like Hyster, went from making other kinds of equipment to manufacturing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the purpose of transporting military materials to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models led to the development of forklifts which could last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed significantly through the course of their history. Industries all over the world require forklifts to increase production and reduce costs. Modern trucks are safer, more comfortable and more productive than their predecessors.