Classification of Forklift Trucks
For little under 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 around the globe.
The first forklifts were made as a result of manpower shortages which were caused by World War I. Companies like Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine which utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. In 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the forklift design changed from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machinery that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with World War II. The forklift played a key role during this time in the handling of supplies for various armies throughout the world. It was also at this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet proved the need for the forklift within the material handling business.
Once the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This type was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are various options you can use to power a forklift nowadays. These consist of diesel, electrical battery, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular type consumes thirty nine percent less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less than those forklift models that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.