Lift trucks have gone through a major evolution since their launch to the market in the 1920s. These machines are now much smarter and stronger. These kinds of machinery have changed the material handling arena and have become irreplaceable workhorses within our distribution and warehouse facilities all over the world.
The first forklifts about 100 years ago, began as really simple pieces of motorized equipment that were just capable of transporting pallet loads from one place to another. Today, very advanced units are offered in the marketplace. These models are available in various weight capacities, various designs and numerous lifting heights. Additionally, these machinery are available with different ergonomic designs to enhance operator comfort and numerous new safety features. Keeping the operator as comfortable as possible can greatly add to the overall production accomplished during a shift.
Among the only remaining universal features that are on the huge range of lift trucks available these days are the tires that move the machinery and the forks which are utilized to lift loads. The basic design and application of various kinds of forklifts utilized in distribution facilities, warehousing applications and manufacturing centers is included in this particular article.
Counterbalanced Lift Trucks
Counterbalanced Forklifts include: Electric forklift models and IC or Internal Combustion units.
Narrow-Aisle Lift Trucks
Narrow Aisle Lift Trucks include: Order-Pickers, Turret Trucks and Reach Trucks.
Low Lift Pallet Jacks or Pallet Trucks
In this particular category, Electric-Powered Pallet Trucks are included, as are Non-Powered Pallet Trucks.
Counterbalanced Forklift Trucks
The most common kind of forklift is the sit-down counterbalanced type of the lift truck. A weight situated in the equipment's back is responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the load. The counterbalance is what prevents the forklift the truck from tipping over.
Counterbalanced lift trucks would usually have lifting heights of around 16 feet, or 189 inches. Moreover, these models can lift a range between 4,000 to 6,500 pounds. Counterbalanced forklifts come equipped with backup alarms and other safety features like for instance lights.
Approximately 60% percent are electric units and around 40% percent are IC models. Every type of lift truck has a specific place and is suited to accomplish lots of various tasks. Depending on whether or not you will be using the machine outside or inside and what specific types of loads you would be utilizing as well as what kind of terrain and surfaces you would be operating on determines the type of forklift that you will pick.