Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose machinery that could be utilized outdoors and indoors. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Of the 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application as they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These types of forklifts could be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You will seldom find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be divided into 4 lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The forklift operator 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, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and utilized in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces too. The operator for class 3 either walks behind the device or stands, 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 commonly used in warehouses. There are some advantages and disadvantages to utilizing electrical models. For start, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not function well outdoors in bad climate and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.