For businesses which lift and move heavy materials and merchandise on a regular basis, there is probably no more effective or valuable equipment as the forklift. Forklifts are a popular site in dockyards, manufacturing plants, distribution depots, lumber yards, warehouses and shipping and receiving, agriculture and other work places which need to handle loads ranging from 3000 to 30,000 plus lbs.
Fork trucks are normally used to keep these operations running efficiently and smoothly. Even though forklifts are a big investment, the amount of man hours they can save and the injuries they reduce from heavy lifting could make the purchase pay for itself eventually.
There are numerous different units and manufacturers of forklifts available on the market. Various models are made to accomplish various tasks. In order to make sure that you don't buy the wrong kind of machine or purchase more than you require, it is essential to evaluate your company's needs and compare to the different units available on the market. Talking to a certified forklift distributor is a very great idea and so is doing your own research on the World Wide Web.
When looking at lift trucks by fuel type, the following kinds are available:
Electric: Electric forklifts utilize heavy, large, rechargeable batteries that are lead-acid based. These batteries could run for approximately 5 or 6 hours straight. Electric models are best suited for indoor applications because of their lack of emissions. They are a common choice for warehouses and retail spaces since they provide a relatively low cost per hour of operation and put zero emissions into the air where individuals are working.
Internal Combustion: Internal combustion lift trucks work with a range of fuels. Some units take compressed natural gas or CNG, others take diesel, liquid propane or LP or gasoline. When compared to electric forklifts, the IC or internal combustion models accelerate faster, are easier to refuel and can carry heavier loads. These units are typically more expensive to operate than their electric counterparts.
Fuel Cell: The newest in lift truck technology is the Hydrogen fuel cell. These units provide the fast refueling capability of an internal combustion model but offer the zero emissions and quietness of electric forklifts.
Nissan's outdoor models would provide synchronized steering. This specific feature returns the wheel knob to the original position automatically following completing a turn. Outfitted with solid pneumatic tires to offer a comfortable ride both outdoors and indoors, these tires are more resistant to both wear and damage.