Types of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that can be utilized indoors and outdoors. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found in warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift normally just needs to be used on surfaces which are flat for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are utilized more often in outdoor applications 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 typically describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor application because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion power. These models could be used indoors but because of the fumes they make, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four subcategories or lift codes. 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. 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.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can fit into tighter spaces too. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the particular type of forklift. Lift models can raise loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Most commonly, electrical forklifts are utilized inside warehouses rather than IC or internal combustion engine forklifts. There are disadvantages and advantages to utilizing electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They are less expensive to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.