Classification of Forklift Trucks
For less than a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even today, this particular kind of machine is found in each and every warehouse operation all over the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower that resulted in the creation of the first forklifts. Businesses like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the forklift design evolved from a tractor with an attachment to a dedicated equipment that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played a vital part during this time in the handling of materials for different armies throughout the globe. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced that proved the need for the lift truck within the material handling business.
When the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, forklifts which utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized types of forklifts introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This model was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are numerous options you can use to power a forklift today. These consist of electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It presently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular kind utilizes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less compared to those types of forklifts that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.