Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for roughly 100 years now. Even today, this particular type of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the world.
The first forklifts were made as a result of manpower shortages which were caused by WWI. Companies like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine which used powered lift tractors inside their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts 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 role during this time in the handling of materials for various armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced which proved the need for the forklift within the material handling industry.
When World War II ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, forklifts which use batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized kinds of forklifts introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This model was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are various options you could utilize to power a forklift these days. These comprise diesel, electrical battery, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This kind consumes thirty nine percent less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less than those kinds of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.