Classification of Forklift Trucks
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this kind of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation all over the globe.
Because of World War I, there were shortages of manpower which resulted in the construction of the very first forklifts. Companies such as Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling equipment which used powered lift tractors in their factories. In the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts changed in the 1920s, to a dedicated machine equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more sophisticated with the Second World War. The forklift played an essential part during this time in the handling of materials for various armies throughout the world. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling business.
Once the Second World War ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. During the 1950s, forklifts that use batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular 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.
Nowadays, the forklift can be powered by numerous fuel options like electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This particular model uses 39 percent less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are about 14.6 tons less than those forklift models that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.