Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines that could be utilized indoors and outdoors. They could operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are utilized more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use because they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These models can be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You will rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts utilize cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific model. Lift models can lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used inside warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions and most models need charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.