Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machinery that can be used outdoors and indoors. They are capable of functioning 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 used on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have different classes. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are used more frequently in outdoor applications and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion or IC power. These kinds of forklifts can be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse operation. You will seldom find these kinds of forklifts in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 could be divided into four subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as six, five, four and one. The forklift operator stands up in a lift code 1 forklift. In lift codes 4 through 6, he sits down. To be able to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, while lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are used in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks can fit into tighter spaces also. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the machine, depending on the particular model. Lift models could lift loads and pallets several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used inside warehouses. There are disadvantages and advantages to electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and can last longer. They are less expensive to run and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.