Classification of Forklift Trucks
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this kind of machinery is found in each and every warehouse operation all over the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower that ed to the creation of the first forklifts. Companies like for example Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine that utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved in the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played a key role during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies all over the globe. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced which proved the need for the lift truck within the material handling industry.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as the Second World War ended. In the 1950s, forklifts which use batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This type 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 numerous options you could use to power a forklift these days. These include electric battery, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular kind utilizes 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less than those types of forklifts that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.