Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for roughly 100 years now. Even today, this particular kind of equipment is found in every warehouse operation all over the globe.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower which ed to the creation of the very first forklifts. Businesses like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment that used powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and started selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved during 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 part during this time in the handling of supplies for various armies all over the world. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling business.
Once the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. 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 type 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.
There are numerous options you can utilize to power a forklift today. These consist of diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This kind utilizes 39 percent less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are about 14.6 tons less compared to those forklift models which are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.