Warehouse Forklift Types
The type of multi-purpose machinery that could be used both indoors and outdoors are forklifts. They can operate 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 flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are used more often in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
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 operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC power. These models could be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You will seldom find these models in strictly indoor environments.
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, he sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts utilize cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These types of forklifts are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts could also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the particular model. Lift models could lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used inside warehouses. There are some advantages and disadvantages to utilizing electrical models. To start with, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They are less expensive to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.