Forklifts have undergone a major evolution ever since their launch to the market during the 1920s. These machines are now a lot smarter and stronger. They have changed the material handling world and have become irreplaceable workhorses within our distribution and warehouse facilities all over the globe.
Initially, during their launch roughly 100 years ago, forklifts were very simple pieces of motorized equipment made to move pallet loads from one place to another. Today, extremely sophisticated models flood the marketplace. These models are offered in different weight capacities, different designs and numerous lifting heights. Additionally, these types of machines are available with different ergonomic designs to enhance operator comfort and numerous new safety features. Keeping the driver as comfy as possible can greatly increase the overall efficiency accomplished during a shift.
Amongst the only remaining universal features that are on the huge variety of lift trucks available today are the tires that move the machine and the forks which are used to lift loads. The basic design and application of different types of lift trucks utilized in warehousing applications, manufacturing centers and distribution centers is included in this article.
Counterbalanced Lift Trucks
Counterbalanced Lift Trucks comprise: Internal Combustion or IC models, as well as Electric Trucks.
Narrow-Aisle Lift Trucks
Narrow Aisle Forklifts consist of: Reach Trucks, Order Pickers and Turret Trucks.
Low Lift Pallet Jacks or Pallet Trucks
In this particular class, Electric-Powered Pallet Trucks are included, as are Non-Powered Pallet Trucks.
Counterbalanced Forklift Trucks
The most common kind of forklift is the counterbalanced sit-down version of the forklift. A weight found in the rear of this machine is responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the load. The counterbalance is what prevents the forklift the truck from tipping over.
Counterbalanced lift trucks would normally have lifting heights of about 16 feet, or 189 inches. Also, these models are capable of lifting a range between 4,000 to 6,500 pounds. Counterbalanced lift trucks are available with backup alarms and different other kinds of safety features such as lights.
Approximately 60% percent are electric units and roughly 40% percent are IC units. Each type of forklift has a specific place and is best to complete many different jobs. Depending on whether or not you would be utilizing the machinery outside or inside and what particular kinds of loads you will be using as well as what type of surfaces and terrain you will be operating on determines the kind of forklift that you would select.