Warehouse Forklift Types
The kind of multi-purpose machinery which can be utilized both outdoors and indoors are forklifts. They are capable of functioning on rough terrain and are a common piece of industrial machines found on construction sites or in warehouses. Any warehouse forklift usually just needs to be used on flat surfaces for most of their work scopes.
Forklifts have various classes. Lower classes of forklifts are used inside warehouses and higher classes are used more frequently in outdoor operation and are considered to be sturdier.
Classes of Forklifts
Amongst 7 classes of forklifts, there are 4 kinds of warehouse forklifts. The classes 5 to 7 normally describe forklifts that operate outside on rough surfaces or are used to tow heavy loads. Classes 1 to 3 are ideal for indoor use because they utilize electric propulsion. Class 4 forklifts depend on internal combustion or IC power. These kinds of forklifts could be utilized indoors but because of the fumes they create, are better suited for open air warehouse operation. You will rarely 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, while lift code 5 forklifts use cushion tires. Lift code 6 forklifts use pneumatic tires.
A term utilized for Class 2 forklifts is narrow aisle forklifts. These types of forklifts 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 also fit into tighter spaces. Class 3 operator either stands or walks behind the device, depending on the specific model. Lift models are able to lift pallets and loads a few feet off of the ground.
Electrical Forklifts
Rather than utilizing internal combustion or IC engine forklifts, electric forklifts are commonly used in warehouses. There are advantages and disadvantages to utilizing electrical models. For start, they can last longer and are environmentally friendly. They cost less to run and cut down greatly on noise pollution. On the downside, they do not function well outdoors in bad weather conditions, are more expensive up front and most models need charging every 6 hours. For apparent reasons, electrical-powered forklifts are an ideal choice for warehouses and indoor areas most of the time.