For businesses which raise and transport heavy supplies and goods regularly, there is probably no more effective or valuable equipment as the lift truck. Lift trucks are a popular site in manufacturing plants, dockyards, distribution depots, lumber yards, warehouses and shipping and receiving, agriculture and other work places that need to handle loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus pounds.
The lift truck is used most frequently to keep the flow of operations working as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Even though lift trucks are a large investment, the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting and the amount of man hours they could save can make the purchase pay for itself in little time.
Available on the market today are a lot of different models from a lot of different manufacturers. These various models are designed specifically to handle certain particular jobs. So as to make sure that you don't purchase the wrong type of machinery or purchase more than you require, it is important to assess the requirements of your business and compare to the various units on the market. Speaking with a certified forklift distributor is a very great idea and so is doing your own research on the internet.
When looking at lift trucks by the kind of fuel, the following types are available:
Electric: The electric forklift is powered by lead-acid based rechargeable batteries. These large and heavy batteries can run a machine for more than 5 or 6 straight hours. Electric models are best suited for indoor use because of their lack of emissions. They are a common choice for retail spaces and warehouses because they put zero emissions into the air where individuals are working and provide a fairly low cost per hour of operation.
Internal Combustion: The internal combustion engine operates on a range of different fuels like CNG or compressed natural gas, others take diesel, LP or liquid propane or gasoline. When compared to electric forklifts, the IC or internal combustion units can carry heavier loads, are easier to refuel and accelerate faster. These units are usually more expensive to use compared to their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: Hydrogen fuel cell forklifts are the latest in lift truck technology. These units provide the fast refueling capability of an internal combustion model but offer the quietness and zero emissions of electric forklifts.
Nissan's outdoor units would provide synchronized steering. This particular feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically following completing a turn. Equipped with solid pneumatic tires to provide a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to both damage and wear.