Classification of Forklift Trucks
For less than a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even today, this kind of machinery is found in every warehouse operation all over the world.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower that resulted in the creation of the very first forklifts. Companies like for example Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment which utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
It was during the 1920s that the design of forklifts changed from a basic 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 role during this time in the handling of materials for various armies all over the world. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling industry.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop when the Second World War ended. During the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized kinds of forklifts introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This type was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are numerous options you could use to power a forklift nowadays. These comprise electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This type uses 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less compared to those forklift models which are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.