Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for about 100 years now. Even now, this kind of machinery is found in each and every warehouse operation all around the world.
Because of WWI, there were shortages of manpower which resulted in the construction of the very first forklifts. Businesses such as Yale & Town and Clark introduced the material handling machine that utilized powered lift tractors inside their plants. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these machines and started selling them.
From a simple tractor with an attachment, the design of forklifts evolved during the 1920s, to a dedicated machine equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with WWII. The forklift played a key part during this time in the handling of materials for various armies all over the globe. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced that proved the need for the lift truck in the material handling industry.
When WWII ended, the forklift gained momentum and continued to develop. In the 1950s, battery operated forklifts made an appearance. There were other more specialized forklift models introduced such as the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This particular kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. In the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made in the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and businesses were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift can be powered by various fuel options such as electric battery, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas, gasoline, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently runs on lithium ion and diesel battery. This particular type utilizes 39 percent less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics show that its carbon dioxide emissions are roughly 14.6 tons less compared to those kinds of forklifts that are powered by IC or internal combustion engines.