Kinds of Warehouse Forklifts
Forklifts are multi-purpose machinery which can be used outdoors and indoors. They are capable of working on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just has to be utilized on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
There are different classes of forklifts. Lower classes of forklifts are utilized inside warehouses and higher classes are considered to be sturdier and used more frequently in outdoor applications.
Classes of Forklifts
There are 4 kinds of warehouse forklift types among the 7 forklift classes. The classes 5 to 7 typically describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use since they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion engine. These kinds of forklifts are able to be used indoors but due to the fumes they make, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You would seldom find these types of forklifts in strictly indoor environments.
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 forklift operator 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, whereas lift code 5 forklifts have cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts have pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These models are utilized in tight spaces and operated by a standing rider. They are great for spaces which are very small for a sit-down rider forklift. Electric hand trucks or class 3 forklifts can also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either walks behind the machine or stands, depending on the specific model. Lift models are able to lift loads and pallets a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Instead of using IC or internal combustion engine forklifts, electric forklifts are usually utilized inside warehouses. There are disadvantages and advantages to using electrical models. To begin with, they are environmentally friendly and could last longer. 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 weather conditions and most models require charging every 6 hours. For obvious reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are a great alternative for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.