Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machines which could be used indoors and outdoors. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found inside warehouses or on construction sites. Any warehouse forklift usually only needs to be used on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside 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 amongst the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are utilized to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts rely on internal combustion power. These models can be used indoors but due to the fumes they create, are suitable for open air warehouse applications. You would seldom find these models in strictly indoor environments.
Class One Forklifts
Class 1 forklifts can be broken down into 4 subcategories or lift codes. The lift codes are described as one, four, five and six. 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, whereas lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
Narrow aisle forklifts are a term for class 2 forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and utilized in tight spaces. They are great for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. The operator for class 3 either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific type of forklift. Lift models could lift loads and pallets a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly utilized in warehouses. There are some advantages and disadvantages to using electrical models. For start, 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 function well outdoors in bad weather and most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal option for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.