Classification of Forklift Trucks
For little under a century, the forklift truck has been working its magic. Even now, this particular piece of equipment is found in each and every warehouse operation throughout the world.
The very first forklifts were made because of manpower shortages which were caused by WWI. Companies like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling machine that utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machinery and started selling them.
It was during the 1920s that the design of forklifts changed from a basic tractor with an attachment to a dedicated machinery that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played a key role during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies throughout the globe. It was also during this time that the introduction of the wooden pallet solidified the need for the forklift within the material handling business.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as World War II ended. In the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced like the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This type 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 use to power a forklift nowadays. These consist of electric battery, diesel, gasoline, CNG or compressed natural gas, LPG or liquid propane gas. The very first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It now operates on lithium ion and diesel battery. This kind consumes 39% less fuel than existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are about 14.6 tons less compared to those types of forklifts that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.