Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even now, this particular type of machine is found in every warehouse operation all around the globe.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower that ed to the creation of the very first forklifts. Companies like for instance Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine that utilized powered lift tractors inside their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
It was during the 1920s that the forklift design changed from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machine that was 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 different armies throughout the globe. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck within the material handling industry.
When WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This 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 various options you could use to power a forklift these days. These include diesel, electrical battery, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular model consumes 39 percent less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less than those forklift models which are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.