Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment that can be utilized outdoors and indoors. 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 that are flat for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and utilized more frequently in outdoor operation.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use as they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These types of forklifts can be used indoors but because of the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You would rarely find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 can be divided into four lift codes or subcategories. 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.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are perfect for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models are able to lift loads and pallets a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually utilized in warehouses. There are several advantages and disadvantages to utilizing electrical models. For start, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather conditions and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great option for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.