Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this particular kind of machine is found in every warehouse operation all around the world.
The first forklifts were made because of manpower shortages which were caused by World War I. Businesses such as Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine that used powered lift tractors inside their plants. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and started selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the forklift design changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with World War II. The forklift played a vital part during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies all over the globe. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the lift truck in the material handling business.
As soon as WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, forklifts that utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are many options you can utilize to power a forklift today. These consist of diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This type utilizes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.