Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that can be utilized outdoors and indoors. They can function on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only needs to be utilized on surfaces which are flat for the majority of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more often in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts that are utilized to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These kinds of forklifts can be used indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You will rarely find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be divided 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, the forklift operator sits down. To be able 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 utilize pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These kinds of forklifts are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are perfect 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. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models could raise pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used inside warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. To begin with, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.