Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this particular kind of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the world.
The very first forklifts were made because of manpower shortages which were caused by WWI. Companies such as Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment that used powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the forklift design changed from a tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machine which was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with the Second World War. The forklift played an essential role during this time in the handling of materials for different armies all around the globe. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet solidified the need for the forklift within the material handling industry.
Once WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, forklifts which utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular type 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 businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are various options you could use to power a forklift these days. These comprise electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This particular kind utilizes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less compared to those types of forklifts which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.