Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for around 100 years now. Even today, this particular piece of machine is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the globe.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower that ed to the construction of the very first forklifts. Companies such as 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 started selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the forklift design changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated machinery equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played an essential part during this time in the handling of materials for various armies all around the globe. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced that proved the need for the forklift 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 kind 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 many options you can use to power a forklift these days. These comprise diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, compressed natural gas or CNG, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently runs on diesel battery and lithium ion. This particular type utilizes 39 percent less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts which are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.