Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for about 100 years now. Even today, this particular kind of equipment is found in every warehouse operation throughout the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower which ed to the construction of the very first forklifts. Businesses like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment that utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and began selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the forklift design changed from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated equipment that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with the Second World War. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of materials for various armies throughout the world. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling industry.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as World War II ended. During the 1950s, forklifts which utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for example the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Nowadays, the forklift could be powered by numerous fuel options such as electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, liquid propane gas or LPG. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular kind consumes 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are about 14.6 tons less compared to those forklift models that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.