Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines that could be utilized indoors and outdoors. They could operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally just has to be utilized on surfaces which are flat for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more frequently in outdoor operation.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion engine. These models are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You would seldom find these models in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be divided into 4 lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the particular type of forklift. Lift models could lift pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are utilized in warehouses as opposed to IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are some disadvantages and advantages to utilizing electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great choice for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.