Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even now, this kind of machine is found in every warehouse operation all over the globe.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower that resulted in the construction of the very first forklifts. Businesses like for example Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment that utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and began selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the forklift design changed during the 1920s, to a dedicated equipment equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played an important role during this time in the handling of materials for different armies all over the world. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling business.
As soon as the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, battery driven forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular model was made by the Raymond Corporation. During 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 many options you could utilize to power a forklift these days. These consist of diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This type utilizes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less compared to those forklift models which are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.