Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that could be utilized indoors and outdoors. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally just has to be used on surfaces which are flat for most of their work scopes.
There are various classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor operation.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types out of the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts which operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use as they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion power. These models are able to be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You will seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts which belong to Class 1 could be divided into four lift codes or subcategories. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. The forklift operator stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks 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
Rather than utilizing IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used inside warehouses. There are some advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to operate and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.