Since their introduction in the material handling business in the 1920s, forklifts have undergone a huge change. Nowadays, these machines are much smarter and stronger. These types of machinery have changed the material handling arena and have become exceptional workhorses in our warehouse and distribution facilities all over the globe.
Initially, during their introduction about 100 years ago, forklifts were very simple pieces of motorized machines made to transport pallet loads from one place to another. Nowadays, very sophisticated models flood the marketplace. These models are offered in different weight capacities, different designs and numerous lifting heights. In addition, these machines are offered with different ergonomic designs to enhance operator comfort and numerous new safety features. Keeping the operator as comfortable as possible could greatly increase the overall production accomplished during a shift.
Amongst the only remaining universal features which are on the wide variety of lift trucks available today are the tires which move the machinery and the forks which are utilized to lift loads. The basic design and application of various types of forklifts utilized in manufacturing facilities, distribution centers and warehousing operations is included in this specific article.
Counterbalanced Lift Trucks
Counterbalanced Lift Trucks include: Electric forklift units and IC or Internal Combustion units.
Narrow-Aisle Forklifts
Narrow Aisle Lift Trucks comprise: Reach Trucks, Order Pickers and Turret Trucks.
Low Lift Pallet Jacks or Pallet Trucks
Pallets Jacks consist of Electric-Powered Pallet Trucks as well as Non-Powered Pallet Trucks.
Counterbalanced Forklift Trucks
The most common kind of lift truck is the sit-down counterbalanced type of the forklift. A weight found in the rear of this machinery is responsible for counterbalancing the load's weight. The counterbalance is what prevents the forklift the truck from tipping over.
Usually, a counterbalanced forklift has a lifting height of around 16 feet, 189 inches is the most popular. As well, these models are capable of lifting a range between 4,000 to 6,500 pounds. Counterbalanced lift trucks come outfitted with backup alarms and other safety features such as lights.
The forklift market is presently divided into approximately 60% electric models, with 40% Internal Combustion units. Each and every type of lift truck has a specific place and is ideal to accomplish lots of different tasks. Depending on whether or not you would be using the machine outside or indoors and what specific types of loads you will be utilizing as well as what type of terrain and surfaces you would be operating on determines the type of lift truck which you would choose.