Warehouse Forklift Types
Forklifts are multi-purpose equipment which could 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 in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually only needs to be used on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are used in warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
Among 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts which are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they use electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC engine. These kinds of forklifts could be used indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You will seldom find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts could be divided into 4 subcategories or lift codes. 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. In order to differentiate between the latter three, lift code 4 forklifts have 3 wheels, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts utilize pneumatic tires.
A term used for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These types of forklifts are operated by a standing rider and utilized in tight spaces. They are great for spaces that are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either walks behind the device or stands, depending on the specific kind of forklift. Lift models can raise pallets and loads several feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used in warehouses. There are some disadvantages and advantages to utilizing electrical models. To start with, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to operate and cut down significantly on noise pollution. On the downside, they are more expensive up front, do not operate well outdoors in bad weather and nearly all models require charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.