Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this type of machine is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the globe.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower that ed to the creation of the very first forklifts. Companies such as Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine that used powered lift tractors inside their factories. During 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
From a basic tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved in the 1920s, to a dedicated machine equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with the Second World War. The forklift played an essential role during this time in the handling of materials for various armies all around the world. It was also during this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling industry.
Lift trucks gained momentum and continued to develop when WWII ended. In the 1950s, battery driven forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized types of forklifts introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts much more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
There are many options you could utilize to power a forklift today. These include electric battery, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG, gasoline, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This type consumes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are around 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.