Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machinery which could be used outdoors and indoors. They could function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually only needs to be utilized on surfaces which are flat for the majority of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are utilized more often in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types amongst the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These types of forklifts could be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would rarely find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The operator of the forklift stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, the forklift operator 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 utilize pneumatic tires.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces too. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific model. Lift models can lift loads and pallets a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of utilizing IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used in warehouses. There are several disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. For start, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions and most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.