Classification of Forklift Trucks
For less than a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this type of equipment is found in every warehouse operation throughout the globe.
The very first forklifts were built as a result of manpower shortages which were caused by World War I. Businesses like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors inside their factories. In 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and began 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 sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played an essential role during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies all over the globe. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the forklift within the material handling industry.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as the Second World War ended. In the 1950s, forklifts which utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
Nowadays, the forklift could be powered by various fuel options such as diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This type consumes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less than those forklift models which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.