Types of Warehouse Forklifts
The kind of multi-purpose machine which can be used both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They can operate on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial equipment found on construction sites or inside warehouses. Any warehouse forklift normally only has to be used on flat surfaces for the majority of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are utilized more frequently in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 types of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 usually describe forklifts that are used to tow heavy loads or operate outside on rough surfaces. Classes 1 to 3 are great for indoor application since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC power. These models are able to be utilized indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse applications. You would rarely find these models in strictly indoor setting.
Class One Forklifts
Forklifts that belong to Class 1 could be divided into four lift codes or subcategories. 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, while lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are operated by a standing rider and used in tight spaces. They are great for spaces which are too small for a sit-down rider forklift. Class 3 forklifts or electric hand trucks could fit into tighter spaces too. Class 3 operator either walks behind the machine or stands, depending on the particular model. Lift models can raise loads and pallets a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than using internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually used in warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to electrical models. For start, they could last longer and are environmentally friendly. They are less expensive 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 climate and nearly all models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for indoor areas and warehouses most of the time.